forcing thoughts to remain unconscious in order to avoid the anxiety that would result it they were conscious is the definition of which defense mechanism? a. Denial b. Isolation c. Regression d. Repression
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is d. Repression.
Repression is a defense mechanism in psychology where an individual unconsciously pushes distressing thoughts, memories, or feelings out of conscious awareness to avoid anxiety or emotional pain. These unwanted thoughts are forced into the unconscious mind, meaning the person is not aware of them, but they may still influence behavior or emotions.
Repression differs from denial in that denial involves refusing to accept reality or facts consciously, while repression involves unconsciously blocking thoughts from awareness. For example, a person who experienced a traumatic event might not remember the details because those memories are repressed. The mind protects itself by burying those painful memories deep in the unconscious.
Isolation is another defense mechanism where a person separates a thought or memory from the feelings associated with it. For example, someone might describe a traumatic event without showing any emotion, isolating the feeling from the thought.
Regression involves reverting to an earlier stage of development when faced with stress or anxiety. For example, an adult under extreme stress might behave childishly or seek comfort behaviors typical of a younger age.
Repression plays a key role in many theories of psychological defense, especially in psychoanalytic theory. It helps individuals manage painful emotions by keeping threatening or disturbing thoughts out of conscious awareness. However, repressed memories or feelings can sometimes resurface, causing psychological symptoms or distress. Psychotherapy often works to bring repressed material to consciousness so that it can be processed and resolved.
In summary, repression is the unconscious blocking of painful or anxiety-provoking thoughts from consciousness, distinguishing it from denial, isolation, and regression by its unconscious nature and focus on avoiding anxiety through forgetting.