Question

6\. The ego defense mechanism in which a person who is confronted with anxiety returns to a more immature behavioral stage is called __________. a. repression b. regression c. reaction formation d. rationalization

Short answer

b. regression

Step-by-step solution

Understand the terms

Firstly, knowledge about the four ego defense mechanisms mentioned is critical. Repression is an unconscious mechanism employed by the ego to keep disturbing or threatening thoughts from conscious awareness. Regression involves taking the position of a child in some problematic situation, instead of acting in a more adult way. Reaction formation reduces anxiety by taking up the opposite feeling, impulse, or behavior. Lastly, rationalization involves constructing a logical justification for a decision that was originally driven by unconscious mind.

Match description to term

In the provided description, a person is said to return to a more immature behavioral stage when confronted with anxiety. This directly aligns with the definition of regression, which involves receding to a childlike state in problematic scenarios.

Key concepts

Regression

Regression is an ego defense mechanism that functions as a temporary or symbolic retreat to an earlier stage of development. When faced with stress or emotional conflict, rather than handling the situation in an adult manner, an individual may revert to behaviors or habits from a time when they felt safer or more secure.

For instance, a grown adult might throw a tantrum or sulk like a child when they don't get their way. This mechanism can be seen as a form of psychological escape when current circumstances are overwhelming. It's important to recognize that regression is not a conscious choice; rather, it's a subconscious reaction to stress.

Repression

Repression is another subconscious defense mechanism, but unlike regression, it operates by pushing distressing thoughts, memories, or feelings out of the conscious mind. This is a process that the ego employs to help an individual cope with trauma or to prevent socially inappropriate impulses from surfacing.

For example, a person who has experienced a traumatic event might have no recollection of the ordeal due to repression. The repressed memory doesn't disappear; it remains in the subconscious and can manifest in various ways, sometimes affecting behavior and mental well-being. Understanding repression helps in recognizing the roots of certain anxieties or behaviors that may seem inexplicable.

Reaction Formation

Reaction formation is a defense mechanism where an individual behaves in a manner opposite to their actual feelings or impulses. This often occurs when directly expressing a feeling or desire is anxiety-inducing or considered socially unacceptable.

To cope, the ego converts these unwanted thoughts into their opposites, leading to a presentation that can feel exaggerated or 'over the top'. As an example, a person who harbors feelings of hostility towards someone may behave overly friendly or complimentary towards that person. Understanding this concept helps us to analyze behavior patterns and recognize when someone's actions may be compensating for hidden true feelings.

Rationalization

Rationalization involves justifying or explaining personal behavior and feelings in a seemingly logical or rational way, often to avoid the true reasons behind them. This defense mechanism can serve to soothe anxiety, guilt, or cognitive dissonance by providing a socially acceptable explanation for actions or thoughts that may be seen as unacceptable.

When people rationalize, they might frame a situation in a way that diminishes their role in something perceived negatively, or they find reasons to justify their choices. For instance, someone who is procrastinating might rationalize their behavior by claiming that they work better under pressure. Grasping rationalization is crucial for self-awareness and for understanding the motives behind our actions and those of others.