Psychodynamics: mature defences: practice question

A Psychiatry question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Psychiatry · Psychodynamics: mature defences

Sample item

Which pair of defence mechanisms is classed as mature in Vaillant's hierarchy?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

C. Humour and altruism

Vaillant's mature defences include sublimation, humour, altruism, anticipation and suppression. Immature defences include projection, splitting, acting out, passive aggression and somatisation. Neurotic defences include repression, displacement, reaction formation, intellectualisation and rationalisation.

Option by option

  • A. Splitting and projection

    Splitting and projection are immature defences.

  • B. Regression and somatisation

    Regression and somatisation are immature defences.

  • C. Humour and altruism (correct)

    Correct. Humour and altruism are mature defences.

  • D. Denial and acting out

    Denial and acting out are immature or psychotic-level defences.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Psychiatry question

What is the answer to this Psychiatry question?

The best answer is C, Humour and altruism. Vaillant's mature defences include sublimation, humour, altruism, anticipation and suppression.

Why is "Splitting and projection" not the answer?

Splitting and projection are immature defences.

Why is "Regression and somatisation" not the answer?

Regression and somatisation are immature defences.

Why is "Denial and acting out" not the answer?

Denial and acting out are immature or psychotic-level defences.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Psychodynamics: mature defences in Psychiatry. Immature defences include projection, splitting, acting out, passive aggression and somatisation. Neurotic defences include repression, displacement, reaction formation, intellectualisation and rationalisation.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Psychodynamics: mature defences?

Learn each diagnosis by its core features and its first-line treatment. Then use the flashcards and the other Psychiatry questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.