Which defense mechanism involves returning to an earlier developmental stage in response to stress?

Which defense mechanism involves returning to an earlier developmental stage in response to stress?

• A. Reaction Formation
• B. Regression
• C. Sublimation
• D. Displacement

Answer: (B)

Regression is a defense mechanism where, in the face of stress, a person reverts to behaviors and coping patterns from an earlier developmental stage. By returning to childish or earlier ways of handling situations, the mind seeks a simple, familiar way to reduce anxiety rather than tackle the problem with mature strategies. For example, an adult under intense stress might seek reassurance, exhibit childish temper tantrums, or revert to habits learned in childhood. This is different from reaction formation, which involves acting in the opposite way to a true impulse; sublimation, which channels unacceptable impulses into constructive activities; and displacement, which redirects emotions to a safer target. Regression captures that retreat to earlier modes of behavior as a way to cope.

Regression is a defense mechanism where, in the face of stress, a person reverts to behaviors and coping patterns from an earlier developmental stage. By returning to childish or earlier ways of handling situations, the mind seeks a simple, familiar way to reduce anxiety rather than tackle the problem with mature strategies. For example, an adult under intense stress might seek reassurance, exhibit childish temper tantrums, or revert to habits learned in childhood. This is different from reaction formation, which involves acting in the opposite way to a true impulse; sublimation, which channels unacceptable impulses into constructive activities; and displacement, which redirects emotions to a safer target. Regression captures that retreat to earlier modes of behavior as a way to cope.