Which defense mechanism involves reverting to earlier development stages and childlike behaviors when faced with sickness or emotional conflict?

• A. Projection
• B. Denial
• C. Regression
• D. Rationalization

Answer: (C)

Regressions occur when the ego slips back to earlier, more childish ways of coping with anxiety, especially during sickness or emotional conflict. By retreating to familiar developmental patterns, a person seeks safety and simplicity in the face of distress. That’s why reverting to childlike behaviors fits this scenario: the person, overwhelmed by illness or emotional strain, taps into behaviors from earlier life stages to feel cared for and protected.

For example, an adult might seek constant reassurance, become clingy, or act like a dependent child when stressed. This is different from denial, which involves refusing to acknowledge reality; it’s about avoidance of the truth rather than a retreat to childlike behavior. It’s also not projection, which would place one’s own unacceptable thoughts onto someone else, or rationalization, which creates logical excuses to justify actions.