What is the definition of projection in a psychological context?

In a psychological context, projection refers to the defense mechanism by which individuals attribute their own unwanted thoughts, feelings, or traits to others. This can occur when someone is unwilling to acknowledge certain aspects of themselves, such as negative emotions or characteristics, so they perceive those same traits in others instead. For example, if a person is feeling particularly angry but does not want to confront this emotion, they might accuse someone else of being hostile or difficult, projecting their feelings onto that individual.

This mechanism allows people to avoid confronting uncomfortable aspects of their own psyche by putting that discomfort onto someone else, thereby reducing their internal anxiety. Understanding projection can help in both personal development and improving interpersonal relationships, as individuals can recognize when they may be projecting their own traits and work towards greater self-awareness.