Question

Which of the following is not a defense mechanism?

• A. Reception
• B. Repression
• C. Reaction formation
• D. Rationalisation

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Repression

In psychology, a defense mechanism is an unconscious psychological process that helps people cope with stress, anxiety, or difficult feelings. Defense mechanisms can be helpful, but they can also be harmful if used excessively or to avoid difficult emotions. 

Here are some examples of defense mechanisms: 

• Denial: Not acknowledging the reality of a stressful situation 

• Distortion: Believing something is true when it's not 

• Projection: Blaming someone else for having thoughts or feelings that you have 

• Sublimation: Displacing unacceptable emotions into constructive, socially acceptable behaviors 

Sigmund Freud first used the term "defense mechanism" in his 1894 paper, The Neuro-Psychoses of Defence. 

Defense mechanisms can be categorized as mature, neurotic, or immature. Clinicians use psychodynamic therapy to help patients identify their defense mechanisms and improve their self-awareness. 

Repression has been defined as the tendency to inhibit—consciously or unconsciously—the experience and expression of negative emotions or unpleasant cognitions in order to prevent one's positive self-image from being threatened.