The victim of domestic abuse tells the nurse, “I know my spouse didn’t

The victim of domestic abuse tells the nurse, “I know my spouse didn’t mean to hurt me. The situation just got out of hand.” The nurse recognizes that the client is exhibiting which defense mechanism?

1. Intellectualization
2. Introjection
3. Projection
4. Minimization

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 4
Rationale 1: Intellectualization is a defense mechanism in which an uncomfortable or painful reality is evaded by using a rational explanation that removes personal significance from the event.
Rationale 2: Introjection is a form of identification in which the person adopts another person’s norms or values, even if those norms or values are contrary to what the person would have previously assumed.
Rationale 3: Projection is blaming another person or the environment for one’s own unacceptable thoughts, shortcomings, or failures.
Rationale 4: Minimization is not acknowledging the significance of a behavior.