Question

A nurse is caring for a client who states, My boss accused me of stealing yesterday. I was so angry I went to the gym and worked out. The nurse should recognize the client is demonstrating which of the following defense mechanisms?

A) Displacement
B) Regression
C) Suppression
D) Sublimation

Answer 1

A) Displacement. The client in this scenario is demonstrating the defense mechanism of Displacement.

Step-by-step explanation:

The client in this scenario is demonstrating the defense mechanism of Displacement after being accused of stealing by their boss. Displacement occurs when a person transfers their inappropriate urges or behaviors onto a more acceptable or less threatening target. In this case, the client directs their anger and frustration towards working out at the gym instead of confronting their boss directly.