Which defense mechanism refers to retreating to childlike behaviors when faced with stress?

Which defense mechanism refers to retreating to childlike behaviors when faced with stress?

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

Answer: (A)

Regression is the defense mechanism where a person under stress reverts to behaviors more typical of an earlier developmental stage. By slipping into childlike actions—such as seeking constant reassurance, whining, temper tantrums, or clinging to familiar caregivers—the individual reduces anxiety by returning to a time when coping feels safer and more straightforward. This helps explain why someone might retreat to childish patterns when pressure mounts. Repression involves pushing distressing thoughts out of conscious awareness, projection means attributing one’s own unacceptable feelings to others, and rationalization is about offering acceptable excuses for behavior rather than addressing the underlying feelings. In the scenario described, retreating to childish behaviors specifically illustrates regression.

Regression is the defense mechanism where a person under stress reverts to behaviors more typical of an earlier developmental stage. By slipping into childlike actions—such as seeking constant reassurance, whining, temper tantrums, or clinging to familiar caregivers—the individual reduces anxiety by returning to a time when coping feels safer and more straightforward. This helps explain why someone might retreat to childish patterns when pressure mounts. Repression involves pushing distressing thoughts out of conscious awareness, projection means attributing one’s own unacceptable feelings to others, and rationalization is about offering acceptable excuses for behavior rather than addressing the underlying feelings. In the scenario described, retreating to childish behaviors specifically illustrates regression.