Multiculturalism and psychoanalytic psychology: The validation of a defense mechanisms measure in an Asian population

Abstract

At its inception, psychoanalysis was attacked for its radical views. Now it is often considered culturally parochial and antiquated. By evaluating the applicability of a well-established psychoanalytic construct (ego-defense mechanisms) in an Asian population, the multicultural and contemporary relevance of psychoanalytic psychology was explored. An established measure of ego-defense mechanisms (Life Style Index; H. R. Conte & A. Apter, 1995) was administered to a large Thai sample (N = 2,624). Exploratory factor analyses showed that 6 of the 8 original scales were suitable for use (Regression, Reaction Formation, Projection, Repression, Denial, and Compensation). Self-concept and Buddhist beliefs were significantly related to unconscious coping. Findings suggest that psychoanalytic theory can provide a meaningful framework for multicultural study.