Defense Mechanisms for RPGs: Realism at the Table

Dungeons, Dragons, & Psychology Podcast

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5d ago 18:04

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What happens to an adventurer after the dragon burns their village, or when they fail to save an innocent life? In this episode, we dive deep into the psychology of defense mechanisms—the unconscious strategies people use to protect themselves from overwhelming stress—and explore how they can shape roleplay at the table.

Drawing from the work of Sigmund Freud and Anna Freud, we’ll unpack four core defenses—repression, denial, rationalization, and projection—and show how they can bring depth and realism to your characters. You’ll hear practical examples of how both players and Dungeon Masters can weave these coping strategies into their games to create more immersive, emotionally resonant storytelling.

Plus, in the Tricks of the Trade segment, we’ll break down how to use in-character defense mechanisms in subtle, believable ways that enhance immersion without slowing the pace of play.

Whether you’re a player looking to breathe life into your character’s trauma or a DM wanting to design encounters that challenge the party on more than just hit points, this episode will give you the tools to make your game world feel more human—and more unforgettable.

🎲 Call to Action: Share your own stories of characters coping with trauma through defense mechanisms, or let me know what other psychological concepts you’d love to see explored in future episodes.

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