What term describes the act of falsely attributing one's own unacceptable feelings to others?

The term that describes the act of falsely attributing one's own unacceptable feelings to others is projection. This psychological defense mechanism involves individuals projecting their own undesirable traits, emotions, or impulses onto someone else, allowing them to avoid confronting those feelings within themselves. For example, a person who harbors feelings of anger might accuse others of being hostile or aggressive, thus deflecting attention from their own anger.

Understanding projection is vital in psychology because it illustrates how people can misinterpret their own emotions, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts in relationships. It highlights the complexity of human emotions and the need for self-awareness when processing feelings. The context of this term places it within the broader framework of other defense mechanisms, each serving different functions in how individuals cope with internal conflicts.