Which defense mechanism involves returning to a previous level of development?

Which defense mechanism involves returning to a previous level of development?

• A. Regression
• B. Denial
• C. Sublimation
• D. Projection

Answer: (A)

Returning to an earlier level of development is a coping pattern where anxiety drives a person to revert to childish or previously mastered behaviors. In regression, the individual momentarily acts younger, seeks more dependence, or reverts to earlier routines to feel safe when faced with stress. This differs from denial, which is refusing to accept reality; sublimation, which channels unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable activities; and projection, which attributes one’s own unwanted feelings to others. The hallmark of regression is the retreat to an earlier developmental state as a way to manage distress.

Returning to an earlier level of development is a coping pattern where anxiety drives a person to revert to childish or previously mastered behaviors. In regression, the individual momentarily acts younger, seeks more dependence, or reverts to earlier routines to feel safe when faced with stress.

This differs from denial, which is refusing to accept reality; sublimation, which channels unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable activities; and projection, which attributes one’s own unwanted feelings to others. The hallmark of regression is the retreat to an earlier developmental state as a way to manage distress.