IGNOU PB Bsc Entrance-2023
Applied Psychology
Easy

All of the following are defensive coping mechanisms EXCEPT :

Appeared in: IGNOU PB Bsc Entrance-2023

Explanation

  • Sublimation is the correct answer because it is classified as a mature, adaptive coping mechanism.
  • It involves channeling unacceptable or powerful impulses into socially acceptable and constructive activities (e.g., channeling aggression into sports).
  • Unlike defensive mechanisms, sublimation does not distort reality but rather redirects energy in a healthy way, contributing to positive mental health.
  • It is considered a high-level or 'virtuous' mechanism for handling conflict and stress.

Why Other Options Were Wrong

  • Option A: Withdrawal is a defensive mechanism involving physical or emotional retreat from a threatening or stressful situation. It is a form of avoidance and is considered an immature defense.
  • Option B: Denial is a classic, primitive defensive mechanism where a person refuses to acknowledge the existence of a disturbing reality or fact. It involves a significant distortion of reality.
  • Option C: Repression is an unconscious defensive mechanism that pushes anxiety-producing thoughts, feelings, or memories out of conscious awareness. It is a key feature of neurotic-level defenses.

Related Visual

Visual explanation — Related Visual
Clinical Relevance
  • Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Classification of psychological defense and coping mechanisms as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
  • Nurses must be able to identify a patient's coping mechanisms to understand their response to illness and stress.
  • Recognizing maladaptive defenses (like denial or withdrawal) is crucial as they can interfere with treatment adherence and recovery.
  • The nurse's role includes helping patients recognize their non-constructive coping patterns and teaching them healthier, more adaptive strategies like problem-solving, seeking support, or stress-reduction techniques.
How to Approach the Question
  • First, identify the keyword 'EXCEPT'. This means you are looking for the option that does not belong in the group.
  • Next, define the group: 'defensive coping mechanisms'. These are typically unconscious, reality-distorting strategies to avoid anxiety.
  • Evaluate each option against this definition.
  • Withdrawal is avoiding a situation, which is a defensive tactic.
  • Denial is refusing to accept reality, a core defensive action.
  • Repression is unconsciously blocking thoughts, another defensive action.
Concept Tested & Keywords
  • Concept Tested: Classification of psychological defense and coping mechanisms.
  • Stem keywords: defensive coping mechanisms
  • Lead-in keywords: EXCEPT
  • Negative lead-in flag: The question asks for the option that is NOT a defensive coping mechanism.

Question ID

QMS2Wcp0Mg46Vb8Qyyg49Q

Reference Book

E6 Robert Boland, Marcia L. Verduin - Kaplan and Sadock's Comprehensive Text of Psychiatry-Wolters Kluwer Health (2024) (pp 1-16525 of 16525) p. 2577-2579

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Taylor p. 1026-1028

E6 Kaplan Sadock's Synopsis of Psychiatry-2022 (pp 1-3768 of 3768) p. 3344-3346

Practise the full IGNOU PB Bsc Entrance-2023

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.

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