Psychiatry Investig.  2019 Jul;16(7):484-490. 10.30773/pi.2018.11.07.

Mature Defense Mechanisms Affect Successful Adjustment in Young Adulthood-Adjustment to Military Service in South Korea

• Nam JW
• Ha JH
• Choi E
• Park DH
• Ryu SH

• KMID: 2454717
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.30773/pi.2018.11.07

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
A defense mechanism is an automatic psychological process necessary for successful adaptation. It reflects adaptive capacity. The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between the adaptation ability of individuals who face mandatory military service and the pattern of defense mechanisms.
METHODS
The subjects were 69 men (21.4±2.2 years) who expressed psychological difficulties in three military service situations. Control group was 36 men (24.0±1.4 years) who had successfully completed military service. We examined psychiatric history, the pattern of defense mechanisms, and depression and anxiety levels. Defense mechanisms were compared between two groups.
RESULTS
The maladjusted group used immature defenses more frequently than the control group did. There were no differences in the defense patterns according to diagnosis. The control group used more identification and rationalization, classified as immature defenses. The temporarily maladjusted group used more somatization, regression, and avoidance.
CONCLUSION
Using mature defense mechanisms helped young adults to adapt to a particular situation. The maturity of the defense is more valuable than the psychiatric diagnosis. Some immature defenses are also helpful to adapt. We cautiously assume that some defenses can be protective or risk factors in adapting to stressful situations by young adults.

Keyword

Young adulthood; Social adjustment; Military personnel; Defense mechanism

MeSH Terms

Anxiety
Defense Mechanisms*
Depression
Diagnosis
Humans
Korea*
Male
Mental Disorders
Military Personnel*
Rationalization
Risk Factors
Social Adjustment
Young Adult