Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Therapist Development Center Practice Exam

Which of the following statements is NOT an example of a defense mechanism?

1. Conscious behavior to protect from therapist influence

2. Justifying actions to make them acceptable

3. Attributing unacceptable aspects of oneself to another

4. Protecting oneself from anxiety and guilt

The correct answer is: Conscious behavior to protect from therapist influence

The choice indicating conscious behavior to protect from therapist influence does not align with the typical characteristics of defense mechanisms. Defense mechanisms are often unconscious strategies that individuals employ to cope with anxiety, internal conflict, or socially unacceptable impulses. These mechanisms operate outside of the person's conscious awareness and serve to shield the individual from uncomfortable feelings or thoughts. In contrast, the other options presented relate to unconscious processes. Justifying actions to make them acceptable involves rationalization, which is a defense mechanism that alters perceptions to mitigate feelings of guilt or shame. Attributing unacceptable aspects of oneself to another refers to projection, a well-known defense mechanism that allows individuals to project their undesirable traits onto others rather than acknowledging them within themselves. Protecting oneself from anxiety and guilt encapsulates a broad spectrum of defense mechanisms designed to buffer emotional pain, highlighting the role of these mechanisms in emotional and psychological well-being. Understanding the distinction between conscious choices and unconscious defense mechanisms is crucial in therapy, as it allows practitioners to recognize and address their clients' coping strategies effectively.