Zeke has just found out that his brother has been killed in a plane crash. His first response is "No, not John; he's not dead." According to psychoanalytic theory, Zeke is experiencing the operation of a(n) ________.

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According to psychoanalytic theory, defense mechanisms are unconscious psychological strategies used to cope with anxiety and to protect the ego. In this case, Zeke's denial of his brother's death serves as a defense mechanism to protect him from the overwhelming pain and anxiety that would come from accepting the reality of the situation.

Zeke Has Just Found Out That His Brother Has Been