US High School Psychology Complete Practice Exam 2025

Question: 1 / 400

What defense mechanism is Matteo displaying, who has repressed the memory of being bitten by a dog?

Denial

Projection

Regression

Repression

Matteo is demonstrating the defense mechanism of repression. Repression is a psychological process where distressing thoughts, memories, or feelings are buried in the unconscious mind in order to protect the individual from anxiety or discomfort associated with those memories. In Matteo's case, the memory of being bitten by a dog is so distressing that he has unconsciously pushed it away from his awareness, which is characteristic of repression.

This mechanism serves as a way to keep troubling experiences out of conscious thought, allowing the individual to avoid the associated emotional pain. Repression can lead to various other issues if the repressed memories resurface or influence behavior in unintended ways.

Understanding repression helps highlight how the mind attempts to cope with traumatic events and the lengths to which individuals may go to avoid confronting their fears or anxieties.

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