**Core Concept**
Defense mechanisms are psychological strategies used by individuals to cope with stress, anxiety, or other uncomfortable emotions. Mature defense mechanisms are adaptive and healthy ways of dealing with stress, whereas immature defense mechanisms can be maladaptive and even pathological.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
A mature defense mechanism is one that helps individuals maintain a sense of control and well-being in the face of stress or adversity. **Sublimation** is a mature defense mechanism where an individual channels their unacceptable thoughts or impulses into a more acceptable and creative outlet. For example, a person who is angry and frustrated with their job might channel those feelings into writing poetry or painting. This allows them to express their emotions in a healthy way, rather than acting out in an aggressive or destructive manner.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** **Denial** is an immature defense mechanism where an individual refuses to acknowledge or accept reality. This can be a coping mechanism in the short term, but it can also lead to further distress and problems in the long term.

**Option B:** **Projection** is an immature defense mechanism where an individual attributes their own unacceptable thoughts or feelings to someone else. This can be a way of avoiding taking responsibility for one's own actions or emotions.

**Option C:** **Displacement** is an immature defense mechanism where an individual redirects their emotions or impulses from the original source to a safer or more acceptable target. While this can be a way of coping with stress, it can also lead to further problems and conflicts.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Remember the acronym **S-A-R-C-A-S** to help you identify mature defense mechanisms: Sublimation, Altruism, Rationalization, Compensation, Anticipation, and Suppression.

**Correct Answer: C. Sublimation**