People may use "cheating" and "substance abuse" as deflection mechanisms to avoid confronting their core problems and issues for several reasons:
Avoiding responsibility: Facing core problems and issues can be emotionally challenging and may require acknowledging one's mistakes or shortcomings. By deflecting blame onto external factors like cheating or substance abuse, individuals can avoid taking responsibility for their actions and avoid feeling guilt or shame.
Distraction from emotional pain: Dealing with core problems and issues can be emotionally distressing. Cheating or substance abuse can serve as distractions or coping mechanisms to temporarily numb or escape from difficult emotions and realities.
Preserving self-image: Admitting to core problems and issues can be a blow to one's self-esteem and self-image. By attributing their behavior to cheating or substance abuse, individuals can maintain a facade of being victims of circumstances rather than accepting personal flaws or mistakes.
Gaining sympathy or support: People may use cheating or substance abuse as a deflection strategy to elicit sympathy and support from others. They might hope that others will focus on the perceived external problem rather than exploring the deeper issues.
Avoiding vulnerability: Opening up about core problems and issues requires vulnerability and a willingness to be emotionally honest. Deflecting with cheating or substance abuse allows individuals to keep their emotional walls up and avoid being vulnerable with others.
Habitual coping mechanism: In some cases, cheating or substance abuse might have become habitual coping mechanisms over time. It becomes a default response to stress or difficult situations without addressing the root causes.
It's important to note that using deflection as a coping strategy can be counterproductive in the long run. While it may provide temporary relief or protection, it often perpetuates a cycle of avoidance and prevents individuals from addressing the underlying issues that need resolution.
Seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional can be beneficial for individuals struggling with deflection and the core problems and issues they are avoiding. Working through these challenges in a healthy and constructive manner can lead to personal growth, improved self-awareness, and more effective problem-solving skills.