Deflection is one of the many defense mechanisms. When someone deflects, they are trying to feel less guilty, avoid negative consequences, and put the blame on others. It is a learned defense mechanism, typically starting from early childhood. Most people have heard children blame their siblings for something they did.
How do you know if someone is deflecting?
Here are some signs your partner may be deflecting responsibility for what goes wrong in your relationship.
- It's always your fault. ...
- They blame their actions on… well, everything else. ...
- They blame their reactions on everything else. ...
- They don't communicate their feelings… and get defensive when you do.
What does it mean when someone deflects in an argument?
Deflecting, attacking, projecting
This means they will use their toxic tactics to quickly shift attention from themselves and bring up something that you may or may not have said or done.
