Tactical defence mechanisms

A number of tactical defence mechanisms have been identified that people use in sessions to avoid engagement with their emotions and/or the therapist.

Verbal


 * Vagueness and generality
 * Diversifiction
 * Sarcasm
 * Argumentativeness
 * Contradiction
 * Rate of Speech

Non-verbal


 * Avoiding eye contact
 * Arms and legs crossed
 * Smiling
 * Laughing
 * Weepiness
 * Temper tantrums