Mentalization as a factor protecting a human being

Mentalization refers to the ability of an individual to contemplate her/his own or another person's perspective and experience. Good mentalizing ability will help control one's own emotional states, stabilize interpersonal relationships and reduce conflict-induced stress. Mentalizing ability is associated with good interaction with a child, and with a favorable cognitive and emotional development. Although experiences of interaction during childhood are of crucial importance for the development of mentalization, the ability may also be strengthened through later good human relations and precisely targeted therapy.