Association of Social Work Boards Masters (ASWB MSW) Practice Exam

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Which defense mechanism involves splitting mental functions to disown certain behaviors?

Compensation
Acting Out
Denial
Dissociation

The correct answer is: Dissociation

Dissociation involves detaching from reality or from one's own thoughts and feelings in order to avoid the discomfort caused by certain behaviors or memories. This defense mechanism can manifest as a temporary or long-term avoidance of certain behaviors, thoughts, or memories. The other options are incorrect for the following reasons - Compensation is a defense mechanism where one tries to make up for a perceived weakness or deficiency in one area by excelling in another area. This does not involve splitting mental functions. - Acting out involves expressing uncomfortable or unwanted emotions through actions rather than words. It does not involve splitting mental functions. - Denial is a defense mechanism where one refuses to accept or acknowledge the truth of a situation. It does not involve splitting mental functions.