Final answer:
Defense mechanisms are psychological processes that help individuals cope with anxiety. Some examples include regression, reaction formation, projection, rationalization, displacement, and sublimation. These mechanisms can be rated as more or less mature based on their effectiveness in managing anxiety.
Step-by-step explanation:
There are several defense mechanisms, including:
- Regression: This defense mechanism involves reverting to a more immature behavioral stage when confronted with anxiety.
- Reaction formation: It refers to expressing feelings, thoughts, and behaviors opposite to one's inclinations.
- Projection: This defense mechanism involves refusing to acknowledge one's own unconscious feelings and instead attributing them to someone else.
- Rationalization: It is a defense mechanism where a person justifies or explains their behavior in a rational and acceptable manner.
- Displacement: This defense mechanism involves redirecting emotions or impulses from the original source to a substitute target that is perceived as less threatening.
- Sublimation: It is a defense mechanism where socially unacceptable impulses or instincts are channeled into socially acceptable activities or behaviors.
Defense mechanisms can be rated as more or less mature depending on their adaptiveness and effectiveness in dealing with anxiety. Regression and reaction formation are considered less mature as they involve avoidance or denial. On the other hand, rationalization, displacement, and sublimation are considered more mature as they allow for more adaptive, acceptable, and effective ways of managing anxiety.