Introject - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
An introject is a psychological term referring to unconsciously adopting another person’s attitudes, beliefs, or behaviors as one’s own, often from early caregivers or influential figures. It shapes personality and self-perception.
Definition:
To unconsciously adopt others' ideas or attitudes as one's own.
Synonyms:
internalize, absorb, adopt, assimilate
Part of Speech:
verb, noun
Antonyms:
reject, resist
Common Collocations:
parental introjects, cultural introjects, psychological introjects
Derivatives:
introjection, introjective
Usage Tips:
Use "introject" to describe absorbing beliefs unconsciously, often from authority figures or society.
Common Phrases:
"introject values, " "introject beliefs, " "introject norms"
Etymology:
From Latin "intro-" (within) + "iacere" (to throw), meaning to throw or project inward.
Examples:
- 1. She tends to introject her parents' opinions without questioning them.
- 2. Therapy helped him identify and challenge harmful introjects from childhood.
- 3. Children often introject societal norms as they grow up.
- 4. Her anxiety stemmed from an introjected fear of failure.