Understanding Personality Theories

Freud says that when humans deal with conflict, we experience defense mechanisms. They are as follows:

• Projection- attributing one’s own feelings about the conflict to another person.

• Reaction formation- acting the opposite of how one truly feels to cover up vulnerability to the conflict.

• Denial- the inability to come to terms with the conflict.

• Repression- pushing the conflict into the unconscious.

• Regression- reverting to childlike behavior to deal with the conflict.

Annie walks into the kitchen and sees a jar of cookies. She feels a strong urge to grab one and eat it, even though dinner is in an hour. Which part of Annie's psyche is driving her urge to eat the cookie?

• ID

• Superego

• Ego

David knows he has a big test tomorrow. He wants to go out with his friends instead of studying, but he also feels guilty about neglecting his responsibilities. Which part of David's psyche is making him feel guilty?

• Id

• Superego

• Ego

Tayana is working on a group project. She wants to contribute fair ideas, but also make sure everyone gets a chance to speak and share their thoughts. Which part of Tayana's psyche is helping her balance her needs with the group's?

• Id

• Superego

• Ego

Caine sees a sale on his favorite video game but knows he should save his money for a gift for his mom's birthday. Which part of Caine's psyche is reminding him of his prior obligations?

• Id

• Superego

• Ego

Twanasia has two job offers. One pays more, but the other aligns more with her values and long-term goals. Which part of Twanasia's psyche is helping her evaluate these options?

• Id

• Superego

• Ego

Jayshaun forgot to study for his math test and blames his poor performance on the teacher's unfair questions. Which defense mechanism is Jayshaun using?

• Repression

• Projections

• Rationalization

• Sublimation

Emily is upset with her boss but cannot express her anger at work. Instead, she goes home and argues with her family over trivial matters. Which defense mechanism is Emily displaying?

• Displacement

• Denial

• Regression

• Rationalization

Khalani channels her aggressive impulses by playing volleyball, a sport that allows for physical exertion. Which defense mechanism is Khalani employing?

• Denial

• Projection

• Regression

• Sublimation

In a situation where a student fails an exam and insists the test was unfair despite evidence to the contrary, which of Freud's defense mechanisms and personality components best explain this behavior?

• Denial and Ego

• Rationalization and Superego

• Repression and Id

• Reaction Formation and Superego