A man has been arrested for driving under the influence twice within the past year. He continues to drink alcohol and tells his friends he does not have any issues with alcohol consumption. What is this behavior an example of?

Choice A reason: Sublimation is a mature defense mechanism where unacceptable impulses are transformed into socially acceptable actions or behaviors. For example, someone might channel aggressive impulses into competitive sports. This does not apply to the scenario, as the man is not redirecting his behavior into a constructive outlet but rather continuing harmful behavior. Choice B reason: Denial is a primitive defense mechanism where a person refuses to accept reality or facts. In the context of substance use, denial is common among individuals with alcohol use disorder. The man’s repeated arrests and continued drinking, coupled with his insistence that he has no problem, exemplify denial. He is rejecting the reality of his condition and its consequences, which is a hallmark of this defense mechanism. Choice C reason: Reaction formation involves behaving in a way that is opposite to one's true feelings or desires. For example, someone who feels hostility might act overly friendly. This does not fit the scenario, as the man is not displaying behavior contrary to his internal state—he is simply refusing to acknowledge the problem. Choice D reason: Repression is an unconscious process where distressing thoughts or memories are pushed out of conscious awareness. While repression may play a role in substance use disorders, the man’s overt behavior and verbal denial suggest a conscious refusal to accept reality, which aligns more closely with denial than repression.