Psychological defense refers to mental strategies that individuals use to cope with anxiety, stress, or uncomfortable emotions. These defenses help protect the mind from feelings of inadequacy or conflict, allowing a person to maintain a sense of self-esteem and emotional stability. Common examples include denial, where a person refuses to accept reality, and rationalization, where they justify their actions with logical reasons. These defense mechanisms are often unconscious and can vary in effectiveness. While some, like sublimation, can lead to positive outcomes by channeling negative emotions into constructive activities, others, such as projection, may distort reality and hinder personal growth.