How can Altruism be Used as a Defence Mechanism?

Old Stone House and River Landscape, Artist Unknown, Year Unknown

Altruism as a defence is a mature psychological strategy where individuals manage internal conflicts or distress by channeling their energy into helping others. Instead of avoiding difficult emotions, the person instead shifts their pain or anxiety into healthy action. In psychodynamic theory, this defence allows uncomfortable impulses or vulnerabilities to be expressed in a socially constructive way, and supports both personal growth and stronger interpersonal relationships.

This defence is based on the capacity to recognize and tolerate one’s own emotional states without becoming overwhelmed. When used maturely, altruism can help a patient find purpose and resilience in the face of suffering. For example, someone who has experienced grief may develop a strong commitment to supporting others going through similar loss. While this support can emerge from a genuine wish to connect and contribute, it also offers a way for processing one’s own unresolved feelings.

Altruism differs from self-sacrifice which is driven by guilt or avoidance, and instead maintains a balance: the individual gives without erasing themselves. In therapy, differentiating between a healthy impulse to care and a defence covering unmet emotional needs is crucial. Patients may discover that their giving nature is both genuine empathy and internal conflict, with each being deserving of further exploration.

The Assuaging of the Waters, Painting by John Martin, 1840

George Vaillant, in his work on defence mechanisms, identified altruism as one of the “mature defences,” emphasizing its capacity to convert internal discomfort into socially valuable behaviour. He highlighted that mature defences support healthy functioning by integrating reality and, emotional complexity. Through altruism, individuals not only protect themselves from psychological distress but also help their sense of purpose, belonging, self-esteem, and connection.

For psychodynamic therapy, understanding altruism involves acknowledging its strength while also examining its unconscious motivations. A patient’s caregiving or community involvement might show empathy and resilience, yet therapy can help ensure these impulses are not only compensating for unresolved conflicts or unmet needs.