What is difference between repression and regression?

Here's a breakdown of the differences between repression and regression:

Repression

• Definition: Repression is an unconscious defense mechanism where unacceptable or unpleasant thoughts, feelings, impulses, or memories are kept out of conscious awareness. It's a way of preventing disturbing content from reaching the surface of the mind.
• Mechanism: Repression involves pushing unwanted material into the unconscious, essentially "forgetting" about it on a conscious level.
• Focus: Represses anxiety-provoking thoughts, feelings, or memories to prevent them from entering awareness.
• Example: A person who was abused as a child may have no conscious memory of the abuse, yet still have difficulty forming relationships.

Regression

• Definition: Regression is a defense mechanism where an individual reverts to an earlier stage of development when faced with stress or anxiety.
• Mechanism: Regression involves retreating to behaviors, thoughts, or feelings that were comforting or effective in the past.
• Focus: Regresses to earlier developmental stages to cope with current stress or anxiety.
• Example: An adult throwing a tantrum when they don't get their way, or a child who is toilet-trained starting to wet the bed when a new sibling arrives.

Key Differences Summarized

Feature	Repression	Regression
Mechanism	Unconsciously pushing unwanted material out of conscious awareness.	Reverting to an earlier stage of development.
Goal	To prevent disturbing thoughts, feelings, or memories from becoming conscious.	To cope with stress or anxiety by returning to familiar and comforting behaviors.
Manifestation	"Forgetting" or being unaware of traumatic experiences.	Engaging in childlike behaviors or thinking patterns.