Which defense mechanism involves redirecting an impulse from an unacceptable target to a more acceptable one?

• A. Displacement
• B. Rationalization
• C. Intellectualization
• D. Sublimation

Answer: (A)

Redirecting an impulse from an unacceptable target to a more acceptable one is displacement. The underlying feeling or urge is still there, but expressing it toward the original, inappropriate target would cause problems, so the energy is redirected to a safer outlet. For example, someone who feels anger toward their boss might take out that frustration on a family member or a pet instead. The emotion isn’t eliminated; it’s just redirected.

Rationalization would involve offering logical excuses for the behavior, not moving the impulse to a new target. Intellectualization would focus on abstract, detached thinking to avoid feeling the emotion. Sublimation would transform the impulse into a constructive activity that channels the energy toward a socially valued outcome rather than simply shifting the target.