Which of the following is considered an immature defense mechanism?

Introjection is considered an immature defense mechanism because it involves internalizing the attitudes, values, or beliefs of others rather than developing a personal identity or perspective. This mechanism often occurs unconsciously, where an individual adopts qualities or sentiments of another person as a way to deal with anxiety or insecurity. In contrast to more mature defense mechanisms, introjection may lead to a lack of individuality and difficulty in forming one's own opinions or separating oneself from those influences.

By adopting the traits of others, particularly authority figures or significant individuals, a person may avoid confronting their own inner conflicts, reflecting a dependency on external validation rather than fostering a robust sense of self. This reliance points to an emotional immaturity that can hinder personal growth and the development of a more authentic identity.