When a patient with hypertension is questioned about whether he has been taking his medication, he says, "The problem is all my mother's fault. She had hypertension, too." Which of the following defense mechanisms is the patient exhibiting?

Compensation involves a person attempting to cover up their deficiencies or weaknesses by emphasizing strengths in another area. While the patient may feel inadequate regarding his health, he does not display any behavior indicating that he is compensating for his hypertension through other successes or strengths.

Denial is a refusal to accept reality or facts, effectively ignoring the existence of a problem. Although the patient may be avoiding responsibility, he does acknowledge his hypertension; thus, he does not fully deny the condition itself.

Projection involves attributing one’s own unacceptable thoughts or feelings to someone else. The patient does not project his feelings onto others but rather externalizes responsibility by blaming his mother for his hypertension, which aligns more closely with rationalization.

Regression is the return to earlier developmental behaviors in response to stress or anxiety. The patient does not exhibit any signs of reverting to childish behavior; instead, he rationalizes his current situation by blaming his mother.