Psychoanalysis Defense Mechanisms 3

Question 1

According to George Vaillant's hierarchical model of defenses, which level is considered the most psychologically mature?

Accepted Answer

Mature defenses

Answer

Psychotic defenses

Answer

Immature defenses

Answer

Neurotic defenses

Question 2

Which of the following is classified as a mature defense mechanism in Vaillant's hierarchy?

Accepted Answer

Sublimation

Answer

Splitting

Answer

Projection

Answer

Denial

Question 3

The defense of 'isolation of affect' is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Separating an idea or memory from the emotional charge originally associated with it

Answer

Withdrawing from social contact to avoid anxiety-provoking situations

Answer

Suppressing all awareness of a disturbing event from consciousness

Answer

Focusing on peripheral details of a trauma while ignoring its core meaning

Question 4

How does rationalization differ from intellectualization as a defense mechanism?

Accepted Answer

Rationalization provides post-hoc justifications for specific behaviors, while intellectualization uses abstract reasoning to avoid emotional engagement broadly

Answer

Rationalization operates at a conscious level while intellectualization is entirely unconscious

Answer

Rationalization is considered a mature defense while intellectualization is neurotic

Answer

Rationalization is exclusive to obsessive-compulsive pathology while intellectualization is found in all neuroses

Question 5

Which defense mechanism, identified by Anna Freud, involves taking on the characteristics of a feared authority figure to reduce anxiety, as seen in children adopting parental strictness?

Accepted Answer

Identification with the aggressor

Answer

Introjection

Answer

Projection

Answer

Reaction formation

Question 6

In psychoanalytic theory, 'introjection' refers to:

Accepted Answer

Unconsciously incorporating the traits, values, or attitudes of another person into one's own ego

Answer

Projecting internal conflicts outward onto external objects or people

Answer

Converting psychological distress into somatic symptoms

Answer

Attributing one's own negative qualities to others to reduce guilt

Question 7

Which statement best reflects the contemporary psychoanalytic view of defense mechanisms and their role in psychological health?

Accepted Answer

Mature defense mechanisms can be adaptive and contribute to resilience and psychological well-being

Answer

All defense mechanisms are pathological and should be systematically eliminated in treatment

Answer

The absence of defense mechanisms is the ultimate goal of completed psychoanalytic treatment

Answer

Defense mechanisms are only clinically relevant in the treatment of psychotic disorders