What does repression refer to in the context of defense mechanisms?

Repression is a psychological defense mechanism that involves the unconscious process of blocking awareness of unacceptable thoughts, feelings, or memories. This mechanism serves to protect the individual from emotional distress while keeping troubling feelings out of conscious awareness. In this context, repression acts as a shield, preventing uncomfortable or anxiety-provoking emotions from surfacing, thereby allowing a person to function without being overwhelmed by those feelings.

Repression can manifest in various ways, such as forgetting traumatic events or avoiding thoughts that provoke anxiety. By keeping these unacceptable feelings buried in the unconscious, the individual may avoid facing the emotional turmoil that would arise if they acknowledged those feelings. This process is crucial in understanding how individuals cope with distress and how it can influence behavior without the individual being consciously aware of its impact.

In contrast, the other options describe different defense mechanisms or psychological processes that do not align with the definition of repression. Turning feelings into actions relates to acting out, justifying feelings logically pertains to rationalization, and refusing to accept reality aligns more with denial. Each of these mechanisms has a distinct function, whereas repression specifically focuses on blocking awareness of unacceptable feelings.