Jane is a 21-year-old woman who says she cannot remember large parts of her childhood. She suspects she might have been sexually abused. According to Freudian theory, this would be an example of which defense mechanism?

Choice A reason: Reaction formation involves converting unwanted or dangerous thoughts into their opposites. It does not explain memory loss or forgetting traumatic events. Choice B reason: Sublimation is the channeling of unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable activities. It is a mature defense mechanism and not related to memory suppression. Choice C reason: Repression is the unconscious blocking of unacceptable thoughts, feelings, or memories. In Freudian theory, traumatic experiences may be repressed to protect the individual from psychological distress. Choice D reason: Projection involves attributing one’s own unacceptable thoughts or feelings to others. It does not account for memory loss or forgetting traumatic experiences.