The nurse is reviewing the interdisciplinary notes of four adult clients recovering on a severe trauma and burn step-down unit. Match each documented client statement or behavioral cue to the specific defense mechanism being demonstrated.
- A client harboring intense anger toward the driver who caused their accident channels this energy into organizing a community chapter for impaired driving awareness.Sublimation
- An adult client who was previously independent begins whining, exhibiting nocturnal enuresis, and demanding the nurse feed them.Regression
- A client who ignored workplace safety protocols causing their burn injury states, 'The equipment was outdated anyway, so it was bound to happen eventually.'Rationalization
- A client who secretly resents their spouse for escaping the house fire unharmed is excessively affectionate and constantly tells staff, 'My spouse is an absolute angel.'Reaction Formation
Answer
The correct pairings are: channeling anger into community awareness matches with Sublimation, reverting to whining and enuresis matches with Regression, justifying the accident on outdated equipment matches with Rationalization, and displaying excessive affection to hide resentment matches with Reaction Formation.
Defense mechanisms are unconscious psychological strategies used to protect a person from anxiety arising from unacceptable thoughts or feelings. Sublimation is an adaptive mechanism where negative energy is redirected into positive, socially acceptable endeavors. Regression is a maladaptive response characterized by returning to an earlier, more comfortable developmental stage. Rationalization involves creating self-justifying explanations to hide the true underlying motives or guilt. Reaction formation occurs when a person outwardly exhibits the exact opposite of their true, unacceptable internal feelings.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Defense Mechanisms in Psychosocial Adaptation