Psychosocial IntegrityQuestion 908 of 2368
A client is angry about a delay in discharge that the provider explained. The client later snaps at the nursing assistant over a small matter. Which defense mechanism is this?
- Displacement
- Projection
- Rationalization
- Reaction formation
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Correct answer: Displacement
Displacement is an unconscious transfer of emotions from the original object to a less-threatening target to release tension.
Source: Nursing Health Promotion (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2025), Mental Health Concepts: Defense Mechanisms. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Practice the topic "Psychosocial Integrity"Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026