Fuck You

Defense Mechanism Worksheet

Student Name: ___________________________

Class Period: __________

Using the descriptions on the back of this worksheet, determine which defense mechanism best fits the examples given here. It is helpful to work in small groups and discuss the examples and come to a group consensus.

______________________ 1. Jim bought a sweater he really didn’t need and couldn’t afford. He claimed it was a bargain he couldn’t pass up.

______________________ 2. I got a dean referral because the teacher doesn’t like me.

______________________ 3. Whenever there is something unpleasant to do, Mary gets sick.

______________________ 4. Tom is not strong academically, so he puts extra effort into sports.

______________________ 5. Bill seems unable to recognize any of his faults

______________________ 6. Mister Smith had an argument with his boss. When he got home he beat his wife.

______________________ 7. Dan pouts and sulks when he doesn’t get his way.

______________________ 8. Whenever things go badly at work, Mr. Jones stops at the park to play with the children.

______________________ 9. Bob blames the bat every time he strikes out.

______________________ 10. Mary has an overly strong urge to help people. This influenced her becoming a nurse.

______________________ 11. Lately Paul has begun to walk and talk like Brad Pitt.

______________________ 12. Mary never allows herself to cry when feels hurt

______________________ 13. When Tom was in school, he was always trying to get attention by making smart alec comments in class. Today he makes a living as a stand up comic.

______________________ 14. Bill complains about his job. He says, ”all the foreigners are taking the good gobs”.

______________________ 15. Even though John likes Ellen, he teases her constantly.

Defense Mechanisms

Definition: Defense Mechanisms contribute to mental health by providing relief from...