A mother of a young child kicks a trashcan in anger and says to the nurse, "You just don't understand! Why can't the doctor find out what is wrong with my child?" This behavior is most likely an example of:
A) suppression
B) sublimation
C) displacement
D) rationalization

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Displacement is an unconscious defense mechanism used to avoid conflict and anxiety by transferring emotions from one object to another object that is less anxiety-producing. The mother is upset that the health care team is not able to determine the cause of her child's illness and expresses her anger by kicking the trashcan. Suppression is the conscious decision to conceal unacceptable or painful thoughts. Sublimation is the rechanneling of unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable activities. Rationalization is the act of suggesting a different explanation for one that is painful, negative, or unacceptable.

A Mother of a Young Child Kicks a Trashcan in Anger