Which defense mechanism involves returning to behavior that was effective at an earlier age of development?

The concept of regression as a defense mechanism refers to a psychological response where an individual reverts to behaviors characteristic of an earlier stage of development in response to stress or anxiety. This can manifest in various ways, such as an adult throwing a temper tantrum when faced with overwhelming emotions or a teenager exhibiting childlike behaviors when under pressure. Regression serves as a coping strategy, allowing individuals to temporarily escape their current challenges by indulging in more simplistic and comfortable behaviors that they previously found effective in managing their emotions or circumstances.

In contrast, repression involves unconsciously blocking out painful or threatening thoughts from awareness, denial is the refusal to accept reality or facts, and suppression is the conscious decision to avoid addressing uncomfortable feelings or thoughts. These mechanisms operate differently and do not involve returning to earlier developmental behaviors, which is the hallmark of regression. Therefore, this understanding solidifies why regression is the accurate choice in identifying the mechanism that reflects returning to effective behaviors from an earlier age.