Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 82%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a patient who states 'I did not take my medication because my partner forgot to remind me.' The nurse should identify that the patient is demonstrating which of the following defense mechanisms?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
The correct answer is C: Rationalization. Rationalization is a defense mechanism where a person justifies their actions or feelings with logical reasoning to avoid facing the real reasons. In this scenario, the patient is rationalizing their behavior of not taking medication by blaming their partner for forgetting to remind them. This allows the patient to avoid taking responsibility for their own actions.
A: Regression involves reverting to an earlier stage of development.
B: Projection is attributing one's own thoughts or feelings to others.
D: Repression involves unconsciously blocking out painful memories or thoughts.
In this case, the patient's behavior aligns most closely with rationalization, making it the correct choice.
A: Regression involves reverting to an earlier stage of development.
B: Projection is attributing one's own thoughts or feelings to others.
D: Repression involves unconsciously blocking out painful memories or thoughts.
In this case, the patient's behavior aligns most closely with rationalization, making it the correct choice.