The article discusses three psychological coping mechanisms that can help individuals reconcile their desires with religious and ethical norms: denial, compartmentalization, and rationalization. Denial is when an individual refuses to acknowledge their own desires, often because they conflict with their beliefs. Compartmentalization involves separating one's life into different sections, such as work life and personal life, to avoid feeling conflicted about actions taken in each area. Rationalization refers to justifying one's behavior based on logical reasoning rather than emotional impulses. These strategies may be helpful in managing conflicts between desire and morality but are not always effective long-term solutions.
Denial
Denial is a common defense mechanism used by many people who struggle with conflicts between their desires and their beliefs. This technique involves rejecting reality or facts that make them uncomfortable.
Someone raised in a conservative Christian family might deny their sexual urges or attraction towards members of the same sex, claiming that it is all "in their head" and doesn't exist. While this may seem like an easy way out, it can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and self-loathing.
Compartmentalization
Compartmentalizing one's life into separate sections can also be helpful for managing conflicts between desire and morality. An individual may choose to keep their work life separate from their personal life, only engaging in certain activities at home that they wouldn't do at work. This allows them to compartmentalize their desires so that they don't feel guilty or conflicted about what they're doing.
It can become difficult to maintain over time if these boundaries begin to blur together.
Rationalization
Rationalization is when individuals justify their actions based on logical reasoning rather than emotional impulses.
Someone may decide that having an affair is acceptable because it would benefit both parties involved emotionally or financially. While rationalization may help reduce guilt and shame, it does not address the underlying issue and can ultimately lead to more conflict down the line.
Despite the effectiveness of these coping mechanisms, it is essential to acknowledge that they are not long-term solutions to the conflict between desire and ethics. Individuals must confront their own beliefs and values to find a sustainable solution that aligns with who they are as a person. Seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor can provide additional support and guidance during this process.