A nurse is caring for a client who has a new diagnosis of cancer.The client states, "I can't think about my health until after my son is married next week.”. The nurse should identify the client's statement as an indication of which of the following maladaptive defense mechanisms?

Choice A rationaleSplitting is a defense mechanism where a person sees things in black-and-white, without the capacity to recognize nuances or integrate good and bad qualities together.Choice B rationaleSuppression is a conscious decision to delay dealing with stressors or emotions until a later time, as the client does by focusing on their son’s wedding before addressing their health.Choice C rationaleReaction formation involves behaving in a way that's opposite to one's true feelings, which does not align with the client's expressed actions.Choice D rationaleProjection is attributing one's own thoughts, feelings, or impulses to another person, not evident in the client's behavior.