The client tells the nurse that she does not wish to see her mother-in

The client tells the nurse that she does not wish to see her mother-in-law during this hospitalization because she does not like her. When the client’s husband and her mother-in-law visit, the client is very cordial and acts happy to see both visitors.

The nurse recognizes that this client may be using which defense mechanism?
1. Reaction formation
2. Rationalization
3. Regression
4. Reparation

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 1
Rationale 1: Reaction formation is a mechanism that causes people to act exactly opposite to the way they feel.
Rationale 2: Rationalization is justification of behaviors by faulty logic and by ascribing socially acceptable motives to the behavior.
Rationale 3: Regression is resorting to an earlier, more comfortable level of functioning that is less demanding.
Rationale 4: Reparation is not a recognized defense mechanism.