Reference no: EM133521312

Question: Defense mechanisms are used to deceive oneself by denying, avoiding or distorting sources of threat or anxiety to reduce stress. We use it in order to protect ourselves and are often maladaptive. Defense mechanisms are all around us and they are often in our unconscious mind.

Read the following case study to help you critically think. In a paragraph, identify and explain the various defense mechanisms demonstrated by Richard.

Richard is a college student, who is spoiled by his parents. He joins many activities at school, which take up most of his time, and is quite popular. Richard has a girlfriend and often day dreams in class occupying his thoughts, which inadvertently is affecting his grades. Richard is also lazy and procrastinates often feeling anxious when deadlines approach. His grades are not the best and currently is in danger of failing a few classes.

Struggling to get his grades up, Richard is feeling overwhelmed and experiencing anxiety. He is now lashing out at his mother when she asks if he is ok or when she tries to help. When Richard tries to seek comfort from his friends he does not take responsibility for his wrong doings and says, "It's the teacher's fault. He can't explain anything and nobody understands what he says. He doesn't give us enough time to study or to complete our assignments. It's impossible to cover all that material at such short notice." Richard often thinks if he asks for extra time or invent serious excuses to his professors, they will give him a free pass, as it has happened in the past. He believes he can pass regardless of his unchanging behavior. Recently, he failed a math exam. Sad and embarrassed he now reacts by saying, "Anyway, that course is useless," and "I don't care if I failed because I really hated that subject."