after mike does not get the job he interviewed for, he moves back in with his parents and spends his days playing video games. which defense mechanism does this exemplify?
After Mike does not get the job he interviewed for, he moves back in with his parents and spends his days playing video games. Which defense mechanism does this exemplify?
Answer:
In the scenario where Mike moves back in with his parents and spends his days playing video games after not securing a job, this behavior exemplifies the defense mechanism known as “regression.”
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Understanding Regression:
- Definition: Regression is a psychological defense mechanism where an individual reverts to an earlier stage of development in response to stress or discomfort. This means they might start displaying childlike behaviors that were once comforting or easier to cope with.
- Characteristics: Behaviors might include excessive reliance on others, such as parents, and engaging in activities that do not require adult responsibilities, like playing video games excessively.
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Application of Regression in Mike’s Scenario:
- Feeling Overwhelmed: After facing the significant stress of not getting the job, Mike may feel overwhelmed and incapable of dealing with his adult responsibilities.
- Seeking Comfort: By moving back in with his parents, he is seeking a familiar and comforting environment that reminds him of a time when he had fewer responsibilities.
- Escape from Reality: Spending his days playing video games serves as an escape from the stress of his current reality and a way to avoid confronting the disappointment and uncertainty of his job search.
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Examples in Real Life:
- Job Loss: Similar to Mike, individuals who lose their jobs might regress to simpler activities that provide immediate comfort.
- Academic Pressure: Students under extreme academic pressure might engage in behaviors like watching cartoons or seeking comfort from their parents as a way to cope.
Final Answer:
The defense mechanism exemplified by Mike’s behavior of moving back in with his parents and playing video games after not getting the job he interviewed for is regression. Through regression, he reverts to behaviors from an earlier developmental stage to cope with the stress and disappointment of his job rejection.