The Psychiatrist calls Jake’s father to obtain collateral information, pending Jake’s discharge home. Jake’s father reports Jake’s mother died when he was 14 years old. Jake is unable to tell the nurse or Psychiatrist how old he was or the year she died. Which defense mechanism is being depicted?

Choice A reason: Regression involves reverting to an earlier stage of development in response to stress. This defense mechanism is not indicated by Jake’s inability to recall specific details about his mother’s death. Choice B reason: Projection involves attributing one’s own unacceptable thoughts, feelings, or flaws to others. This defense mechanism does not explain Jake’s inability to remember details about his mother’s death. Choice C reason: Repression is a defense mechanism where distressing memories, thoughts, or feelings are unconsciously pushed out of conscious awareness. Jake’s inability to recall how old he was or the year his mother died suggests that he may be repressing these painful memories. Choice D reason: Suppression is a conscious effort to push distressing thoughts or feelings out of awareness. Since Jake is unable to recall specific details, it is more likely that repression, an unconscious process, is at play.