A client channels aggressive energy into intense athletic competition, rather than acting on it directly.

A client channels aggressive energy into intense athletic competition, rather than acting on it directly.

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

Answer: (C)

Sublimation is a defense mechanism in which unacceptable impulses—like aggression—are redirected into socially valued, constructive activities. Channeling aggressive energy into intense athletic competition fits this pattern because the impulse is not denied or acted on in harmful ways but transformed into a vigorous, accepted outlet. This redirect helps reduce anxiety by satisfying the urge in a safe, productive manner and keeps the energy from harming relationships or surroundings. Other defenses don’t fit as well. Projection would involve attributing one’s own feelings to someone else, not redirecting the energy into a constructive activity. Regression means returning to earlier, childlike behaviors rather than channeling energy into an adult, socially valued pursuit. Repression pushes the impulse out of conscious awareness, not into a productive outlet. Sublimation uniquely preserves and transforms the energy into a positive, acceptable form.

Sublimation is a defense mechanism in which unacceptable impulses—like aggression—are redirected into socially valued, constructive activities. Channeling aggressive energy into intense athletic competition fits this pattern because the impulse is not denied or acted on in harmful ways but transformed into a vigorous, accepted outlet. This redirect helps reduce anxiety by satisfying the urge in a safe, productive manner and keeps the energy from harming relationships or surroundings.

Other defenses don’t fit as well. Projection would involve attributing one’s own feelings to someone else, not redirecting the energy into a constructive activity. Regression means returning to earlier, childlike behaviors rather than channeling energy into an adult, socially valued pursuit. Repression pushes the impulse out of conscious awareness, not into a productive outlet. Sublimation uniquely preserves and transforms the energy into a positive, acceptable form.