Final answer:
In psychology, the opposite of projection is introjection, a defense mechanism where a person unconsciously adopts the attitudes or behaviors of others. This differs from other defense mechanisms like reaction formation, idealization, and rationalization. The correct answer to the question is c) Introjection.
Step-by-step explanation:
The opposite of projection in psychology, where one sees or attributes positive qualities to oneself or others while ignoring negative aspects, is known as introjection. Introjection is a psychological defense mechanism where a person unconsciously adopts the ideas, attributes, or behaviors of others.
It is part of the internalization process and can be seen as the opposite of projection, where rather than attributing one's own unwanted traits onto others, the individual takes on the traits, behaviors, or attitudes of others as their own.
In contrast to the options provided:
- Reaction formation involves expressing the opposite of what one truly feels,
- Idealization is where excessively positive attributes are ascribed to another person or to oneself,
- Rationalization is the process of justifying behaviors or feelings with logical reasons, even if these are not appropriate.
Hence, the correct answer to the student's question is c) Introjection