Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

What psychological concept is depicted by the inability to articulate thoughts freely in latency age children?

1. Defense mechanisms

2. Developmental milestones

3. Solitary play

4. Fear of expression

The correct answer is: Defense mechanisms

The correct answer identifies defense mechanisms as the psychological concept related to the inability of latency-age children to articulate their thoughts freely. During the latency stage of development, which typically occurs from ages 6 to 12, children may show a variety of behaviors influenced by their developing sense of self and social interactions. In this developmental phase, children often experience internal conflicts between their innate desires and the expectations society places upon them. As a result, defense mechanisms, which are unconscious psychological strategies used to cope with anxiety and protect oneself from emotional pain, may emerge. For instance, children may resort to regression, denial, or rationalization as a way to handle situations that provoke insecurity or fear of judgment. The other options relate to different aspects of child development but do not directly connect to the specific psychological struggles of latency-age children in articulating their thoughts. Developmental milestones refer to the key skills and abilities that children typically achieve at certain ages; solitary play describes a child’s independent play behavior without social interaction; and fear of expression, although relevant, is a broader concept that does not fully encompass the range of coping strategies that defense mechanisms illustrate in this context. In summary, defense mechanisms provide insight into why children might struggle to express their thoughts, reflecting their psychological growth and