Defense Mechanisms Flashcards
She refuses to admit she has an alcohol problem
Denial
Refuse to accepted reality
Denial
He’s angry at his brother but lets it out on the server
Displacement
Transferring emotions towards one person to a less threatening target
Displacement
She cheats because she thinks her boyfriend is cheating on her
Projection
Attributing unacceptable thoughts/behaviors on others
Projection
He failed because he didn’t study, he’s blaming his teacher
Rationalization
Justifying behaviors by blaming someone else instead of yourself/
Justifying by substituting the real situation with another
Rationalization
She is always late due to partying, you’re mad. You agree by saying partying is cool though
Reaction formation
Adopting opinions contrary to yours
Reaction formation
Dude failed exam so he behaved like a child
Regression
Adapting coping mechanisms from earlier stages of life
Regression
She couldn’t remember a bad incident even though she was present
Repression
Suppressing painful memories
Repression
He feels rage but doesn’t act on it, he joins a support group
Sublimation
