One of the following is an example of regression -

Appeared in: UPPSC 2023

Explanation

Regression is a defense mechanism where an individual reverts to an earlier, more immature stage of development when faced with stress or anxiety.
This behavior is an unconscious way to cope with a situation by returning to a time when the person felt safer and more secure.
The option 'Returning to an earlier age to cope with situation' is the textbook definition of regression.
A classic example is a toilet-trained child who starts wetting the bed again after a new sibling is born, as this represents a return to an earlier developmental stage.

Why Other Options Were Wrong

Option A: This describes Denial, which is the refusal to accept a painful reality or fact. It's about rejecting external reality.
Option B: This describes Projection or Rationalization. Projection is attributing one's own failures to others, while rationalization is making excuses.
Option C: Telling the truth is a sign of healthy coping and direct communication. It is not an unconscious defense mechanism.

Related Visual

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Ego Defense Mechanisms: Regression as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must recognize defense mechanisms in patients to understand their behavior and provide empathetic care. Identifying regression can signal significant underlying stress or fear.
A patient who is usually independent might become demanding and needy after a difficult diagnosis; this is a form of regression that requires patience and reassurance from the nursing staff.
What if? If a patient is using denial about their need for surgery, the nurse's approach would shift from preparing them for the procedure (as with a regressive patient) to gently providing factual information and emotional support to help them face reality.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core concept in the question stem, which is 'regression'.
Recall the definition of regression as a psychological defense mechanism: reverting to an earlier stage of development.
Evaluate each option against this definition.
Option A describes Denial. Option B describes Projection or Rationalization. Option C is not a defense mechanism.
Option D directly describes the act of reverting to an earlier developmental stage to cope, which is the definition of regression.
Therefore, select the option that best matches the definition of regression.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Ego Defense Mechanisms: Regression
Stem keywords: regression, example, defense mechanism
Lead-in keywords: One of the following

Question ID

Q5UUPcHYmjm7gZ0h094KtU

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. 2993-2995

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

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