AP Psych psychodynamic defense mechanisms practice questions

What is repression?

A defense mechanism where distressing thoughts are pushed out of conscious awareness.

Example of projection?

Accusing others of being angry when you are actually angry.

True or False: Denial involves accepting reality.

False. Denial is refusing to accept the reality of a situation.

How does displacement work?

Redirecting emotions from the original source to a safer target. Example: yelling at a spouse instead of a boss.

What is rationalization?

Creating logical excuses for behaviors that are actually motivated by irrational fears or feelings.

Fill in the blank: _____ involves attributing personal unacceptable traits to others.

Projection

What is the difference between regression and suppression?

Regression: reverting to earlier behaviors. Suppression: consciously avoiding thoughts.

Example of sublimation?

Channeling aggressive impulses into sports or creative activities.

What is rationalization?

Justifying behaviors with logical reasons instead of the true emotional reasons.

True or False: Sublimation is an unhealthy defense mechanism.

False. Sublimation is considered a mature and healthy defense mechanism.

What is reaction formation?

Expressing the opposite of what one truly feels to hide uncomfortable feelings. Example: being overly nice to someone you dislike.

Cause of denial?

Anxiety or fear about the truth of a situation leads to denial.

Example of compensation?

Overachieving in one area to make up for perceived deficiencies in another. Example: excelling in academics after poor social skills.

What is displacement?

Shifting emotional responses from the true source to a less threatening target.

Fill in the blank: _____ is a defense mechanism that involves reverting to childlike behaviors.

Regression

Comparison of repression vs. suppression?

Repression: unconscious forgetting. Suppression: conscious effort to forget.

Example of repression in daily life?

Forgetting a traumatic car accident. - Avoids dealing with emotions.

True or False: Displacement can involve redirecting emotions to a safer target.

True. - Example: Yelling at a coworker after a fight at home.

Fill in the blank: _______ involves blaming others for one's problems.

Projection - Example: Accusing friends of being selfish.

Difference between rationalization and denial?

Rationalization: Justifying actions. - Denial: Refusing reality.

What is an example of regression?

Throwing a tantrum when stressed. - Reverting to childish behaviors.

Example of sublimation in sports?

Channeling anger into intense workouts. - Positive coping mechanism.

Cause → Effect: Excessive criticism leads to?

Defensive behavior. - Individual may become overly aggressive.

True or False: Everyone uses defense mechanisms equally.

False. - Varies by individual and situation.

Example of intellectualization in conversation?

Discussing facts of a breakup, avoiding feelings. - Detached analysis.

Question: How does humor serve as a defense mechanism?

Lightens the emotional load. - Example: Joking about failure.

Define rationalization with an example.

Justifying a poor grade as unfair. - Avoids facing study habits.

Comparison: Reaction formation vs. suppression?

Reaction formation: Expressing opposite feelings. - Suppression: Consciously avoiding thoughts.

What is an example of denial in relationships?

Ignoring evidence of infidelity. - Refusal to accept reality.

Cause → Effect: Unresolved conflict leads to?

Increased anxiety and stress. - May trigger defense mechanisms.

Example of projection in interpersonal conflict?

Accusing partner of being jealous. - Reflects own insecurities.

Example of displacement in everyday life?

Kicking a dog after a bad day. - Redirects frustration.