Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

Which defense mechanisms are most commonly used by couples experiencing marital problems?

1. Suppression and rationalization

2. Projection and displacement

3. Dissociation and denial

4. Repression and sublimation

The correct answer is: Projection and displacement

Couples experiencing marital problems often engage in defense mechanisms such as projection and displacement. Projection occurs when one partner attributes their own feelings, thoughts, or motivations onto the other partner. For instance, if one partner is feeling insecure or jealous, they might accuse the other of being untrustworthy or envious. This mechanism can create a cycle of blame and conflict, further complicating the relationship. Displacement, on the other hand, involves redirecting feelings from a primary target to a substitute target. In a marital context, a spouse might take out frustrations from work on their partner, leading to misunderstandings and heightened emotional tensions in the relationship. These defense mechanisms can serve to protect individuals from dealing with their own uncomfortable emotions but often exacerbate marital issues by preventing open and honest communication. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for social workers and therapists as they navigate couples therapy and work to facilitate healthier communication patterns. Recognizing when projection and displacement occur can help partners identify underlying issues and promote a more constructive dialogue about their feelings and experiences.