Name that Mechanism
Saying 'I don't have a problem' despite consequences.
Denial
Denial is a conscious choice to lie to others.
False
I used to deny my addiction by saying ...
"I can stop whenever I want"
"Rationalization"
"It's not that bad"
Reframe: "It's time to be honest with yourself".
Joking about serious topics
Humor
Minimizing your use can delay recovery.
True
I blamed others for my use by saying ...
"If they treatment me better..."
"I'm fine. Everyone drinks".
Denial
"It's everyone else's fault"
Reframe: "I am responsible for my choices".
Claiming others don't trust you while hiding a relapse.
Projection
Blaming others helps build accountability.
False
I minimized my problem when I said...
"At least I don't use every day".
Yelling at a friend after therapy instead of talking about feelings.
Displacement.
"I just needed to relax".
Reframe: "I can find healthier ways to cope".
Rationalization
Defense mechanisms are always unhealthy.
False
A healthy alternative to rationalization is ...
Avoiding eye contact when discussing trauma.
Avoidance.
"I don't need help"
Reframe: "Support is part of recovery"
Talking about addiction stats to avoid emotions.
Intellectualization.
Avoidance can look like staying busy to ignore feelings.
True
I noticed avoidance when I ...
"Changed the subject in group"
Must answer both! :)
Scenario: Kevin accuses his counselor of not trusting him, even thought he's been hiding his substances use. What defense mechanism is Kevin utilizing?
Identify a time you utilized this defense mechanism.
Projection
Acceptable responses: Any examples that projection is being utilized.
"They're judging me"
Reframe: "I'm learning to accept feedback".