Sublimation involves channeling unwanted or disturbing thoughts, impulses or desires into something positive and constructive. This is one of several defense mechanisms proposed by Sigmund Freud (1905/2000).
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➡️ Introduction
Sublimation involves channeling unwanted or disturbing thoughts, impulses or desires into something positive and constructive. This is one of several defense mechanisms proposed by Sigmund Freud (1905/2000).
The premise is that confronting unwanted impulses produces intrapsychic conflict that must be attenuated by some means. One method of attenuation is to transform the energy from that internal conflict into an act or behavior that is socially acceptable.
In the paraphrasing of Freud’s words by Kim, Zeppenfeld and Cohen (2013):
“The unacceptable wishes provided the energy to be harnessed for productive or creative ends, and the unacceptable wishes could also be worked out or transmogrified into art, with the forbidden desires often taking a disguised or symbolic form, as they do in a dream” (p. 640).
As with most defense mechanisms, Freud identified this process as unconscious. The person is completely unaware that the beautiful art they have created, for example, is a result of an inner turmoil deep within their psyche.
However, a modern definition of sublimation may allow for both unconscious and conscious transformation of unwanted thoughts and feelings.
Sublimation in Psychology Examples
1. The Gardener
Individuals who experience stress or anxiety may find relief through gardening. By nurturing plants and creating beautiful landscapes, they channel their need for tranquility and control into a calming and productive activity. This sublimation provides a peaceful outlet for their emotions and enhances their living environment.
2. The Entrepreneur
Entrepreneurs frequently channel their inner restlessness and drive into building and running businesses. By focusing their energy on creating innovative products or services, they transform their need for achievement and control into successful enterprises. This sublimation not only provides personal fulfillment but also contributes to economic growth and job creation.
3. The Volunteer
People may sublimate their own feelings of guilt about not being of value to the world by engaging in volunteer work. By dedicating their time and energy to charitable causes, they transform their negative emotions into positive actions that benefit their community. This process provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
4. The Artist
Artists often use their creative work to sublimate complex emotions. By channeling feelings of sadness, anger, or confusion into painting, sculpting, or other art forms, they transform negative emotions into beautiful and meaningful creations. This process not only provides personal relief but also contributes to cultural and aesthetic enrichment.
5. The Writer
Writers frequently sublimate personal conflicts and deep-seated emotions through their storytelling. By creating characters and narratives that reflect their inner struggles, they turn their anxieties and unresolved issues into compelling literature. This not only offers them a therapeutic outlet but also engages and resonates with readers on a profound level.
6. The Athlete
Individuals with high levels of aggression or competitive drive may channel these impulses into physical exercise and sports. By focusing their energy on training and competition, they transform potentially destructive emotions into personal fitness and achievement. This sublimation promotes physical health and a sense of accomplishment.
7. The Hobbyist
People who experience boredom or lack of fulfillment in their daily lives may turn to hobbies like knitting, model building, or playing musical instruments. These activities allow them to channel their need for creativity and mental engagement into enjoyable pastimes. This sublimation helps them achieve a sense of satisfaction and relaxation.
8. Law Enforcement
Some individuals choose careers in law enforcement to sublimate their impulses to commit crime. Instead of engaging in criminal activities, they channel their energy into enforcing the law, aligning with societal values and contributing to a safer community. This transformation from potential criminal behavior to law enforcement showcases sublimation in action.
9. The Micromanager
People with a strong need for control may become micromanagers, using this behavior to manage their anxiety about unpredictability. Although often seen negatively, micromanagement can be beneficial in new, complicated tasks, organizational crises, or when quick decisions are needed. This sublimation helps them cope with their anxiety in a structured way.
10. MMA Sports
People with an innate desire for violence may channel their impulses into professional sports like rugby, football, boxing, and MMA. These sports allow them to express their aggressive tendencies in a socially acceptable manner. By doing so, they avoid legal consequences and can even earn substantial incomes.
Conclusion
Sublimation is a defense mechanism that can help people cope with unwanted or disturbing thoughts and feelings by channeling that energy into constructive activity.
There can be many ways to cope with inner struggles, such as keeping an incredibly tidy household, dressing impeccably, or, in some cases, striving for a leadership position that enables one to exert control over a lot of things, including other people.
Without sublimation, many wonderful pieces of art would have never been created; fantastic movies that allow escapism of the masses might never have materialized; and amazing CEOs might not have ever created life-changing gadgets like the iPhone or iPad.
➡️ References and Further Reading
References
Freud, S. (2000). Three Essays on the Theory of Sexuality. New York, NY: Basic Books. (Original work published 1905).
Freud, S. (1958). On Creativity and the Unconscious. New York, NY: Harper.
Freud, S. (1977). Introductory Lectures on Psychoanalysis. New York, NY: Norton.
Kim, E., Zeppenfeld, V., & Cohen, D. (2013). Sublimation, culture, and creativity. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 105(4). 639-666. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0033487
Mishra, N., Rajkumar, M., & Mishra, R. (2019). Micromanagement: An employers’ perspective. International Journal of Scientific and Technology Research, 8(10), 2949-2952.
Weber, M. (2002). The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism (P. Baehr, Ed.). New York, NY: Penguin. (Original work published 1905). https://doi.org/10.1522/cla.wem.sec
Dr. Cornell has worked in education for more than 20 years. His work has involved designing teacher certification for Trinity College in London and in-service training for state governments in the United States. He has trained kindergarten teachers in 8 countries and helped businessmen and women open baby centers and kindergartens in 3 countries.
This article was peer-reviewed and edited by Chris Drew (PhD). The review process on Helpful Professor involves having a PhD level expert fact check, edit, and contribute to articles. Reviewers ensure all content reflects expert academic consensus and is backed up with reference to academic studies. Dr. Drew has published over 20 academic articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education and holds a PhD in Education from ACU.