into an undefended state. Additionally, it strands us in a narrow, impoverished experience of life. Over time a habitual 4F defense also “serves” to distract us from the nagging voice of the critic and the painful feelings that underlie it. Preoccupation with 4F behaviors dulls our awareness of our unresolved past trauma and the pain of our current alienation. This chart compares the harmful behaviors of each defensive structure. Real or imagined danger typically triggers us into these roles and behaviors when we are in an emotional flashback. DETRIMENTAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE 4F DEFENSES
