Question

Displacement refers to the process by which people?

1) offer self-justifying explanations in place of real, but unacceptable, unconscious reasons for action.
2) consciously express feelings that are the opposite of unacceptable, unconscious impulses.
3) disguise threatening impulses by attributing them to others.
4) retreat to behavior patterns characteristic of an earlier stage of development.
5) redirect aggressive or sexual impulses toward less threatening targets.

Answer 1

Displacement is a psychological defense mechanism where an individual redirects aggressive or sexual impulses toward a less threatening target to cope with anxiety and protect self-image.

Step-by-step explanation:

In psychological terms, displacement refers to an ego defense mechanism where a person redirects their aggressive or sexual impulses toward a less threatening target. This is different from offering justifications for behaviors (rationalization), expressing the opposite of one's impulses (reaction formation), attributing one's impulse to others (projection), or reverting to earlier behaviors (regression). For example, a person who is frustrated with their boss might displace their anger onto a family member at home, which is a more acceptable or less risky target.

The term 'displacement' can also refer to several other concepts, such as the physical movement of an object, the economic-driven relocation of people, or the prejudiced practice of scapegoating. However, in the context of a psychological defense mechanism, it specifically describes the redirection of emotions or impulses to safer outlets, acting as a coping strategy to reduce anxiety and protect one's self-image without confronting the source of distress directly.

Key examples of displacement in everyday life include redirecting anger toward a safer target, finding alternative ways to satisfy desires that are deemed inappropriate, or shifting negative feelings about oneself onto another person or group (scapegoat theory).