Comparison Paper Theory and practice rarely coincide perfectly. Few programs consistently do what they proclaim. The comparison paper identifies, and attempts to reconcile, the differences between what ought to be and what is. A critical skill that should be developed in the process of writing this comparison paper is the ability to separate agency flaws from personal inadequacies. The Freudian defense mechanism of projection becomes especially relevant here.
Projection involves two steps.
Then the person attributes to others, or an organization, that which is so abhorrent within her or himself. Far too often students, and professionals alike, project onto supervisors, co-workers and the agency, faults which exists more seriously within themselves than within the others who are perceived as defective. In writing this paper, the student should actively question to what extent the perceived faults are external versus internal. Perceived problems may indeed be objectively real, or they may be a mirror into ones own self, i.e. projections. Determining which is the case may be the most valuable benefit that can result from writing this comparison paper.