A nurse is providing care for a client who seems anxious following a recent tragedy. Which of the following statements by the client reflects an adaptive use of sublimation?

Choice A reason: Sublimation is a defense mechanism where negative emotions, like anger, are channeled into positive or socially acceptable activities, such as exercise. Working out in the gym when feeling mad transforms the emotion into a constructive outlet, reflecting adaptive use of sublimation. Choice B reason: Forgetting the event suggests repression or dissociation, not sublimation. This response does not involve channeling emotions into productive activities and is not adaptive for addressing anxiety. Choice C reason: Denying anxiety indicates denial, not sublimation. This statement avoids acknowledging the emotion rather than redirecting it into a positive action, making it non-adaptive. Choice D reason: Expressing inability to move past the tragedy reflects rumination or despair, not sublimation. It does not involve transforming negative emotions into constructive behaviors, so it is not an adaptive response.