A nurse is assessing the coping strategies of a client who has recently retired. Which of the following statements by the client indicates that the client is using compensation as a defense mechanism?

Compensation is a defense mechanism in which a person makes up for a perceived weakness or loss in one area by excelling in another. Entering gardening competitions after retirement compensates for the loss of professional identity and achievement. Option B reflects rationalization (making excuses). Option C reflects projection (blaming others). Option D reflects sublimation (channeling feelings into a productive activity such as journaling).