Illinois CNA State Practice Exam

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Which defense mechanism involves a person substituting a strength for a weakness?

Compensation
Displacement
Projection
Regression

The correct answer is: Compensation

Compensation is a defense mechanism that involves a person substituting a strength for a weakness. This means that when a person feels insecure or inadequate, they will try to compensate by excelling in another area or showcasing a strength. For example, a person who is not good at socializing may compensate by excelling in academics or sports. Displacement, on the other hand, refers to redirecting feelings of anger or frustration onto a less threatening target. This defense mechanism does not involve substituting a strength for a weakness. Projection involves attributing one's own unacceptable thoughts or feelings onto someone else. Again, this is not substituting a strength for a weakness. Regression is a defense mechanism where a person reverts back to an earlier stage of development in order to cope with stress or anxiety. This does not involve substituting a strength for a weakness either. In summary, compensation is the best fit for the given question as it specifically involves replacing a perceived weakness with a strength, while the other options do not involve this specific substitution.