An office clerk badly snubbed by his superior takes it out on his wife and children on reaching home. This is an example of which type of defence mechanism?
## **Core Concept**
The question tests understanding of defence mechanisms, specifically those related to psychological coping strategies. Defence mechanisms are psychological strategies that people use to cope with stress, anxiety, or other uncomfortable emotions. They can be adaptive or maladaptive.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The scenario describes a situation where an individual redirects his negative emotions (anger) from the original source (his superior) to a more acceptable or less threatening target (his wife and children). This is a classic example of **displacement**, a defence mechanism where an individual redirects emotional feelings about one thing to another, less threatening or safer target.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** This option is blank and cannot be evaluated.
- **Option B:** This option is blank and cannot be evaluated.
- **Option C:** This option is blank and cannot be evaluated.
- **Option D:** This option is blank and cannot be evaluated.
However, common defence mechanisms that might be confused with displacement include:
- **Repression**: Forgetting or pushing uncomfortable memories into the subconscious.
- **Projection**: Attributing one's unacceptable thoughts, feelings, or motives to another.
- **Rationalization**: Creating logical explanations or justifications to excuse unacceptable behaviour.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that defence mechanisms are often used unconsciously and can provide temporary relief but may not address the underlying issue. **Displacement** is particularly notable because it can lead to seemingly irrational behaviour, such as the office clerk's actions in the scenario.
## **Correct Answer:** D. Displacement.