A 25-year-old client is hospitalized for severe anxiety. During the assessment, the nurse notices the client clutches a childhood stuffed animal and speaks in a childlike voice when discussing stressful life events. Which defense mechanism is the client most likely using?

Choice A reason: Displacement involves transferring feelings from one object or person to another safer target, which is not occurring here. Choice B reason: Returning to earlier developmental behaviors, such as holding a childhood toy and speaking like a child during stress, is a clear example of regression. Choice C reason: Sublimation is channeling unacceptable impulses into constructive activities, which is not shown in this scenario. Choice D reason: Repression involves unconsciously blocking distressing thoughts or feelings, but in this case the client is acting out stress through childlike behavior.