Question

Melissa is unconsciously fearful that her husband is a better cook than she. Recently, she refused his offer to prepare dinner because, said she, "You could better spend the time playing with our kids." Melissa's comment best illustrates which defense mechanism?

1) Regression
2) Projection
3) Rationalization
4) Displacement
5) Reaction formation

Answer 1

Melissa's comment is an example of rationalization, where she provides a plausible reason for her behavior to avoid admitting her unconscious fear of being outperformed by her husband in cooking.

Step-by-step explanation:

Melissa's comment illustrates the defense mechanism known as rationalization. This occurs when a person justifies or explains their behavior or feelings in a seemingly logical or rational way, often to avoid confronting the true underlying emotions or motivations. Melissa's refusal of her husband's offer to cook by suggesting he spend time with the kids seems like a reasonable explanation, but it may unconsciously stem from her fear that he is a better cook than she is.