The perspective of Carl Jung, another renowned psychologist and a contemporary of Freud, on psychological projection presents an intriguing exploration. Jung moved away from Freud’s path to develop analytical psychology, and his viewpoint on projection was an integral part of this journey.

Jung believed that the mechanism of projection was not merely a device to avoid unacceptable feelings or impulses. Instead, he argued that projection served a more profound and spiritual purpose. According to Jung, projection was a critical pathway to self-discovery and personal growth.

In Jung’s theory, the subconscious mind contains a collection of archetypes—universal symbols or motifs. These archetypes, such as the Shadow, the Persona, the Anima or Animus, form an essential part of our psychological makeup. Psychological projection, Jung suggested, often involved these archetypes. For instance, the Shadow, representing our hidden, repressed aspects, is frequently the source of our projections.

If we project the Shadow onto others, we might see them as malicious, jealous, or possessing other negative traits that we cannot accept in ourselves. However, Jung proposed that recognising and integrating these projections could lead to what he termed ‘individuation’—a process of becoming aware of one’s unique psychological reality.

Jung’s perspective therefore brings a new dimension to our understanding of psychological projection. It’s not merely a defensive mechanism but a doorway to self-awareness and personal evolution. Through acknowledging and understanding our projections, we can begin the journey towards a more integrated and authentic self.

Complimentary projection (not to be confused with complementary projection, above) is projecting feelings or thoughts that are consistent with one’s own onto someone else. Essentially, it’s seeing our own traits in others. For example, this could mean assuming that someone else has the same level of competency in something as you do.