The child is alone only in the presence of someone - The role of the ego in the creation of destructive defence mechanisms in young offenders

Abstract

The aim of this paper was to explore the role of the ego in the creation of destructive defence mechanisms in young offenders. This was done by using thematic analysis utilising semi-structured interviews. Six participants who have had in the past or are currently working with young people were chosen for the interviews. Through these interviews the area of attachment and the relationship with others became the major themes of this paper. By examining the theory and the responses to the interview questions a clear link between the ego’s defences and early attachment was found. The role of the ego is to protect the infant from harm, this continues into adolescence.