Accusing others of engaging in behavior that one is doing themselves is a psychological defense mechanism known as "projection." Projection occurs when a person unconsciously attributes their own unwanted or negative thoughts, feelings, or behaviors to someone else. In other words, they "project" their internal conflicts onto others, believing that others are doing what they themselves are guilty of doing.
There are several reasons why people may resort to projection:
Avoiding guilt and shame: By projecting their undesirable traits onto others, individuals can distance themselves from feelings of guilt, shame, or self-blame. It becomes a way of avoiding personal responsibility for their actions.
Maintaining a positive self-image: Projection can help protect a person's self-esteem and self-image. They might see themselves as virtuous and superior by disowning negative qualities and projecting them onto others instead.
Coping with internal conflicts: Sometimes, people have conflicting feelings or desires that are uncomfortable to acknowledge. Projection allows them to externalize these conflicts and attribute them to others, making it easier to manage.
Defense against criticism: Accusing others of the same behavior they are engaging in can be a way to preemptively defend themselves against potential accusations or criticism from others.
Lack of self-awareness: Some individuals may be unaware of their own behaviors, thoughts, or feelings due to various psychological factors. Projection is a way for them to remain oblivious to their own actions while focusing on the perceived faults of others.
Manipulation and control: In some cases, individuals may use projection as a manipulative tactic to divert attention away from their own actions and shift blame onto others.
It's essential to recognize that projection is a defense mechanism and not a conscious, deliberate act in most cases. Self-awareness and introspection can help individuals identify and address their own projection tendencies. In situations where projection is causing interpersonal conflicts, seeking therapy or counseling can be beneficial in gaining insight into one's behavior and addressing underlying issues.