In Gestalt theory, what does 'introjection' refer to?

In Gestalt theory, what does 'introjection' refer to?

• A. Conscious integration of values through reflection
• B. Critical evaluation of external beliefs
• C. Rejection of external influences
• D. Acceptance of others' beliefs and standards without analysis

Answer: (C)

Introjection is the uncritical absorption of others' beliefs, values, and standards as if they were your own, without testing them against your own experience or goals. In Gestalt terms, this means taking external messages at face value and internalizing them automatically, rather than evaluating or choosing them consciously. So the best description is accepting others' beliefs and standards without analysis, rather than evaluating them, rejecting them, or consciously reflecting on them. A helpful way to see it is thinking about adopting a parent's or authority figure's rules wholesale, without checking whether they fit your own life.

Introjection is the uncritical absorption of others' beliefs, values, and standards as if they were your own, without testing them against your own experience or goals. In Gestalt terms, this means taking external messages at face value and internalizing them automatically, rather than evaluating or choosing them consciously. So the best description is accepting others' beliefs and standards without analysis, rather than evaluating them, rejecting them, or consciously reflecting on them. A helpful way to see it is thinking about adopting a parent's or authority figure's rules wholesale, without checking whether they fit your own life.