A child who is extremely angry at her father hits her little brother instead. This is most likely an example of ________.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Displacement is the defense mechanism wherein an individual transfers their negative emotions towards someone or something else because expressing those emotions towards the actual source may not be possible or safe. In this case, the child is angry with her father but cannot express it towards him, so instead, she hits her little brother.

A Child Who Is Extremely Angry at Her Father Hits