Question

Ryan’s sister is visiting for Thanksgiving. She always gets on Ryan’s nerves, and this year is no exception. While walking the dog after dinner, Ryan may reveal this conflict unconsciously by being strict with the dog. Ryan’s behavior is best explained by the ________ defense mechanism. Group of answer choices

Answer 1

Ryan is employing the defense mechanism known as displacement.

Step-by-step explanation:

Displacement is when one's feelings towards a specific target are redirected to a different one since it becomes less threatening. In Ryan's case, creating a conflict with his sister might give way to more issues. Being strict with the dog does not represent a conflict to him, it is not a threatening presence so Ryan and it allows him to discharge the negative feelings he has towards his sister in a more passive way.