In the statement shown below, the patient is using which of the following defense mechanisms?

Displacement occurs when an individual redirects emotions or impulses from one target to a safer or more acceptable target. For example, a person might take out frustration from work on a family member. In this case, the patient is not redirecting feelings but instead compensating for perceived shortcomings.

Projection involves attributing one’s own unacceptable thoughts or feelings to someone else. For instance, a person who is angry might accuse others of being hostile. In this scenario, the patient is not projecting their feelings onto others but is instead focusing on their strengths to cope.

Regression is a defense mechanism where individuals revert to behaviors characteristic of an earlier stage of development when faced with stress. An example would be an adult throwing a temper tantrum. The patient does not exhibit regressive behaviors but rather uses compensation to deal with their feelings.

Repression involves unconsciously blocking out painful or unacceptable thoughts and memories. An individual might forget about a traumatic event as a means of coping. In this instance, the patient is not repressing feelings but actively compensating for them.