Which defense mechanism involves attributing one's own unacceptable thoughts to others?

The defense mechanism that involves attributing one's own unacceptable thoughts, feelings, or impulses to someone else is known as projection. This mechanism serves to protect an individual's self-concept by allowing them to blame others for their own undesirable traits or feelings. For instance, if someone has feelings of hostility they want to deny, they may accuse others of being angry or aggressive instead. This projection helps to relieve the anxiety or guilt that may arise from acknowledging those feelings as one's own.

In contrast, denial involves refusing to accept reality or facts, displacement refers to redirecting emotions from one object or person to another less threatening one, and rationalization is the process of creating excuses or logical reasoning to justify behaviors or thoughts that are otherwise unacceptable. By understanding projection, individuals can better recognize how often they may be projecting their own traits onto others, allowing them a greater insight into their emotional responses and interpersonal relationships.