Final answer:
The process described is known as retroflection, a defense mechanism where an individual 'turns back' on themselves what they wish to do to others. Other defense mechanisms include reaction formation, regression, projection, displacement, and sublimation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Defense Mechanisms
The process of turning back to ourselves what we would like to do to someone else is known as retroflection. This is a psychological term used to describe a situation where an individual does to themselves what they would like to do to others. The correct option from the provided choices is (a) retroflection. However, there are several other defense mechanisms that people use to cope with anxiety and stress, such as:
- Reaction formation: Expressing the opposite of what one truly feels or desires.
- Regression: Reverting to behaviors from an earlier stage of development.
- Projection: Attributing one's own unacceptable thoughts or feelings to someone else.
- Displacement: Redirecting emotions to a substitute target.
- Sublimation: Channeling unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable activities.
It is critical for those studying psychology to understand the different defense mechanisms and how they manifest in behavior.