Which of the following scenarios best illustrates the psychoanalytic concept of regression?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

11ecba2d_0d85_f44e_a3bf_85b9e93e1801_MD0008_00 According to psychoanalytic theory, defense mechanisms are a largely unconscious means of dealing with anxiety or stress, often through distorting or ignoring aspects of reality. Some defense mechanisms are more adaptive (eg, channeling unacceptable urges into a socially acceptable hobby) and provide an effective means of coping with stress, whereas others are less adaptive (eg, avoiding feelings through excessive alcohol consumption) and can result in additional problems (eg, unstable relationships). Regression involves unconsciously acting much younger, often reverting to behaviors one hasn't engaged in for years (eg, thumb sucking) to avoid dealing with a stressor. An individual who experiences a distressing event (eg, expulsion from medical school) is exhibiting regression by spending her days watching cartoons and becoming attached to a childhood toy. (Choice A) Projection involves attributing one's unacceptable thoughts and behaviors to another person or object. A medical student who fails a class reduces the anxiety he feels from thinking he is unprepared and incompetent by attributing those qualities to the instructor instead. (Choice C) Displacement involves taking out one's unacceptable thoughts and urges on a safer object. A medical student who responds to news that he has failed his licensing exam by throwing his laptop on the ground is displacing his anger with himself onto his computer. (Choice D) Sublimation involves turning unacceptable thoughts or behaviors into productive, acceptable ones. A medical student uses sublimation by taking her frustration out in an acceptable way through martial arts classes. Educational objective: In psychoanalytic theory, defense mechanisms are the largely unconscious means by which reality is altered (eg, distorted, ignored) to relieve anxiety or stress.

Which of the Following Scenarios Best Illustrates the Psychoanalytic Concept