Lesson 4

To respond to this discussion forum, you have two choices.

1. Respond to the following question: Pick three defense mechanisms and illustrate them using examples from your own life. Be sure to explain how each of the defense mechanisms serves to protect you from anxiety.

2. Start a discussion topic of your choice.

Perspectives On Personality, Ch. 8.

EXAMPLE only discussion

Rationalization: Recently I took an exam and feel as if I did not do as well as I could have. The week prior I had taken another large exam that I spent most of my time studying for leaving very little time to devote to this other class. Additionally I started a job and had even less time since I was figuring out my schedule. This reassured me that it was not a matter of my lack of intellect but all the other factors that go on in student life.

Sublimation: The other day I was upset with one of my friends and the situation we were dealing with at the time. From there I communicated that I needed space and proceeded to go on a run. This helped me release some of that stress and think through the situation more clearly.

Displacement: On the other hand, one day I was really frustrated and stressed with everything going on that I snapped at another one of my friends. While this did not end up quite dissipating any stress as I had to then deal with another situation, it did shift the impulse of academic stress to another target (aka my friend).