Which term refers to the psyche's protective methods of reducing anxiety by unconsciously distorting reality?

Which term refers to the psyche's protective methods of reducing anxiety by unconsciously distorting reality?

• A. Repression
• B. Ego defense mechanisms
• C. Projection
• D. Denial

Answer: (B)

Defense mechanisms are unconscious strategies the ego uses to reduce anxiety by distorting or denying reality. This umbrella term fits because it captures the whole set of protective processes that operate automatically to shield the self from distress. The phrase specifies that these are ego-driven mechanisms, the part of the psyche that mediates between impulses, reality, and morality. Individual mechanisms like repression, denial, and projection are examples of this broader system, all serving the same goal: easing anxiety by altering how we perceive or respond to reality.

Defense mechanisms are unconscious strategies the ego uses to reduce anxiety by distorting or denying reality. This umbrella term fits because it captures the whole set of protective processes that operate automatically to shield the self from distress. The phrase specifies that these are ego-driven mechanisms, the part of the psyche that mediates between impulses, reality, and morality. Individual mechanisms like repression, denial, and projection are examples of this broader system, all serving the same goal: easing anxiety by altering how we perceive or respond to reality.