When your ego retreats to an earlier time in your life when the current stressor was absent, you are exhibiting the defense mechanism of:

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Regression is a defense mechanism where an individual's personality reverts to an earlier stage of development, adopting more childish mannerisms, when faced with stress and anxiety. This retreat to a previous, less stressful state can temporarily reduce anxiety by allowing the individual to re-experience a time when life was simpler.

When Your Ego Retreats to an Earlier Time in Your