Defense Mechanisms and Stress Coping Among Deprived and Non-Deprived Adolescent Students

Abstract

Adolescents today are living in an increasingly stress-ridden atmosphere. They feel dissatisfied, unhappy and deprived of so many things in various situations. Using a descriptive quantitative approach, the present research investigated the relationship between Defense Mechanisms and Stress among deprived and non-deprived adolescent students. The sample was selected from the different secondary schools of Amritsar City affiliated to CBSE having sections for deprived students. It consisted of 200 students (100 deprived and 100 non- deprived) from classes IX and X. Defense Mechanism Scale and Stress Scale were used to assess Defense Mechanisms and Stress respectively. Results revealed a significant difference in the use of defense mechanisms and stress level between deprived and non- deprived adolescents. No significant gender differences were found. A mixed type of relationship between the usage of defense mechanism and stress was found among deprived and non- deprived students. Although every individual uses these mechanisms in constant struggle for survival in their environment but excessive use leads to feeling of inferiority, insecurity and lack of confidence, which cripples the individual in the long run. The judicious use of mature defense mechanisms may help to prepare them for the challenging social life at present and in future.