Freud's theory of repression

Freud’s theory of repression suggests that when we experience thoughts, feelings, or memories that are distressing or uncomfortable, our mind often pushes them out of conscious awareness to protect us from psychological pain. These hidden memories or emotions, buried in the unconscious, can influence our behavior and feelings without us realizing it. Repression is a defense mechanism that helps us cope with anxiety or conflict by keeping troubling things out of conscious thought, though they may still affect us indirectly.