National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level 2 (NCAC II) Practice Exam Exam

What defense mechanism involves transferring feelings about an unpleasant situation onto another individual?

1. Rationalization

2. Projection

3. Denial

4. Displacement

The correct answer is: Displacement

The correct answer, displacement, refers to a defense mechanism where an individual shifts their emotional reactions from the original source of distress to another person or object. For instance, if someone experiences frustration at work, they may come home and vent their anger on family members or pets rather than addressing the source of their feelings. This mechanism allows individuals to express emotions in a safer environment, although it can lead to problematic interactions with those who are unintentionally targeted. Rationalization, on the other hand, involves offering logical explanations for behaviors or feelings that are actually driven by irrational motives. It's a way to justify actions or thoughts instead of facing the uncomfortable truth. Projection is a defense mechanism where individuals attribute their own unwanted feelings or thoughts onto someone else, believing that others think or feel the same way they do. For example, a person who is angry may accuse others of being hostile. Denial involves refusing to accept reality or facts, effectively blocking external events from awareness. This may include ignoring behaviors or consequences related to addiction or personal issues. Understanding these distinctions helps to identify how people cope with emotions and stress, particularly in the context of addiction and mental health counseling.