Which defense mechanism involves channeling unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable behavior?

Which defense mechanism involves channeling unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable behavior?

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

Answer: (D)

Sublimation is the defense mechanism where unacceptable impulses are redirected into socially acceptable, constructive activities. In Freud’s view, energy from powerful urges—like aggression or sexual drives—is channeled into positive outlets such as sports, art, or work. This lets the person satisfy those impulses in a way that benefits both themselves and society, making it a mature and adaptive strategy. Other defenses like regression involve retreating to earlier behavior, denial means refusing to accept reality, and repression hides distressing thoughts from conscious awareness. These don’t repurpose impulses into acceptable channels, which is why sublimation best fits the description.

Sublimation is the defense mechanism where unacceptable impulses are redirected into socially acceptable, constructive activities. In Freud’s view, energy from powerful urges—like aggression or sexual drives—is channeled into positive outlets such as sports, art, or work. This lets the person satisfy those impulses in a way that benefits both themselves and society, making it a mature and adaptive strategy.

Other defenses like regression involve retreating to earlier behavior, denial means refusing to accept reality, and repression hides distressing thoughts from conscious awareness. These don’t repurpose impulses into acceptable channels, which is why sublimation best fits the description.