Compartmentalization is a defense mechanism in which people mentally separate conflicting thoughts, emotions, or experiences to avoid the discomfort of contradiction.

Compartmentalization is a psychological defense mechanism in which thoughts and feelings that seem to conflict are kept separated or isolated from each other in the mind. [1]

May 19, 2025 · In Psychology, compartmentalization means dividing mental contents into separate compartments in the mind. These mental contents could be thoughts, emotions, …

Aug 18, 2022 · Compartmentalization is a defense mechanism used by people to avoid dissonance and anxiety in everyday life, including at work, home, school, and in relationships.

Dec 23, 2022 · What does it mean to compartmentalize? Compartmentalization by definition is "the division of something into sections or categories," and in psychology, it refers to the …

May 22, 2024 · When you divide out certain thoughts and isolate them from others, it’s called compartmentalization. Like organizing similar items in different compartments of a desk, …

Apr 21, 2025 · This process—known as compartmentalization—can help people move through the world more smoothly. However, it can also prevent emotional growth when used to avoid …

Mar 21, 2025 · When you compartmentalize, you essentially divide your thoughts, emotions, or experiences into distinct mental "compartments" to manage them more efficiently. This …

Mar 25, 2025 · Compartmentalization is a psychological defense mechanism that involves separating thoughts, feelings, or memories into distinct mental “boxes” to manage them more …

If you find yourself consistently avoiding difficult emotions, disconnecting from your feelings, or struggling to address unresolved issues, you may be using compartmentalization as a form of …