Projection - a defense mechanism in which one attributes ("projects") to others, one’s own unacceptable or unwanted thoughts or/and emotions. Projection reduces anxiety by allowing the expression of the unwanted subconscious impulses/desires without letting the ego recognize them.

Displacement - a subconscious defense mechanism whereby the mind redirects affects from an object felt to be dangerous or unacceptable to an object felt to be safe or acceptable. For instance, some people punch cushions when angry at friends; a college student may snap at their roommate when upset about an exam grade.

Reaction Formation - a defense mechanism in which anxiety-producing or unacceptable emotions are replaced by their direct opposites. This mechanism is often characteristic of obsessional neuroses. When this mechanism is overused, especially during the formation of the ego, it can become a permanent character trait.

These three defense mechanisms have become a huge part in my pathology with women.  Yes, it’s a pathology at this point.  I always expend WAY too much energy into the wrong ones and then the ones I actually like, I clam up and treat them indifferently.  I give the absolutely WRONG ones the attention that I can’t bring myself to give to the RIGHT ones.  Then I end up feeling like half a jerk.

Sometimes it’s better to be turned down for a date, than to go out with someone who you end up feeling like crap after dealing with them.  Maybe my ego is too fragile, who knows, but I do know this, I don’t deal with lack of appreciation well.

I’m going to deal with this in full after my test, because I’m ready to seize the day!  Eff it!