The unconscious processes that minimize anxiety and protect the self are called what?

• A. Coping strategies
• B. Ego defense mechanisms
• C. Cognitive distortions
• D. Surviving mechanisms

Answer: (B)

Defense mechanisms are unconscious processes the ego uses to reduce anxiety and shield the self from threat. They happen outside awareness and help keep psychological balance when reality feels uncomfortable or conflict arises. By distorting or denying aspects of experience, they lessen distress and protect self-esteem. Examples include repression (pushing painful thoughts out of awareness), denial (refusing to accept reality), projection (attributing one’s own unacceptable feelings to others), rationalization (giving plausible but false explanations), reaction formation (expressing the opposite impulse), displacement (shifting feelings to a safer target), and sublimation (channeling energy into socially acceptable activities).

Coping strategies can be conscious and goal-directed, not necessarily unconscious. Cognitive distortions are biased or faulty ways of thinking, not protective maneuvers aimed at reducing anxiety. Surviving mechanisms isn’t a standard psychological term for this concept.