DEFENSE MECHANISM

Question 1

A type of defense mechanism where a person refuses to acknowledge some aspect of objective reality or subjective experience that is apparent to others

Answer 1

Denial

Question 2

This is a type of defense mechanism where an individual diverse their emotions such as anger, from the original source to a substitute target.

For example, Your friend says something hurtful, and instead of confronting your friend, you later lash out at your sister.

Answer 2

Displacement

Question 3

The projection of one’s own feelings, thoughts, or motives onto someone else.

For example, the person who is cheating is under the impression that their partner is cheating on them.

Answer 3

Projection

Question 4

Developing false though plausible excuses to justify irrational and/or unacceptable behavior.

For example, stealing from a corporate chain store such as Best Buy and justifying the theft by saying: “They make millions in profit so it doesn’t matter”

Answer 4

Rationalization

Question 5

Behaving in a way opposite to how you feel.

For example, when a person is romantically attracted to someone, but adamantly claims that they dislike that someone.

Answer 5

Reaction formation

Question 6

Reverting to childlike patterns of behavior.

For example, A student gets a bad grade on their test and screams and cries at their parents or teacher.

Answer 6

Regression

Question 7

Blocks disturbing wishes, thoughts, or experiences from conscious awareness.

Pushing or burying thoughts and feelings that are distressing into the subconscious

For example, a person who witnessed a crime is unable to remember the event.

Answer 7

Repression

Question 8

Directs potentially maladaptive feelings or impulses into socially acceptable behavior

Example:
A person who is experiencing aggressive impulses instead challenges that energy into rigorous exercise.

Answer 8

Sublimation

Question 9

The detachment from reality and oneself and the finding of another representation of self to cope with extreme stress or conflict. A person uses _____ as a defense mechanism to disconnect from reality and live in a world, in which they do not experience unbearable thoughts, feelings, or memories for some time.

Answer 9

Dissociation

Question 10

Overthinking and misdirection of focus when confronted with unacceptable situations, behaviors, or impulses.

For example, A person who has been told a close family member has died begins to focus on and overthink the details of planning a funeral, etc, instead of expressing their grief.

Answer 10

Intellectualization

Question 11

The counterbalancing of perceived flaws or weaknesses by instead emphasizing strengths.

For example, A person says they can’t draw but they’re good at dancing.

Answer 11

Compensation