Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Practice Examination

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Prepare for the Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Exam with detailed questions and explanations. Study effectively and excel on your test journey today!

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Which defense mechanism is described as the unconscious exclusion of distressing thoughts and feelings?

Projection
Repression
Displacement
Regression

The correct answer is: Repression

The concept described is repression, which is a defense mechanism where individuals unconsciously block out distressing thoughts, memories, or feelings from their awareness. This occurs as a way to protect the individual from anxiety or emotional pain associated with those memories or feelings. Repression can be seen as a psychological safeguard, allowing a person to cope with potentially overwhelming situations without facing the full impact of their thoughts or emotions at the forefront of their consciousness. By keeping these distressing elements out of awareness, an individual can function more effectively in their daily life, albeit sometimes at the expense of unresolved issues that may emerge later.