Terrence's father abandoned him and his mother when he was 6 years old. When asked about his father, he says that his father died. Although his father has tried to contact him, Terrence insists that his father is dead. Which of the following Freudian processes would best explain Terrence's behavior?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Terrence's denial of his father's existence despite attempts at contact is a clear example of a defense mechanism. Specifically, he is using denial to cope with the painful reality of his father leaving him and his mother.

Terrence's Father Abandoned Him and His Mother When He Was