Vaillant Suggesting That His Levels of Defense Mechanisms Are a Way

question 72

Multiple Choice

Vaillant suggesting that his levels of defense mechanisms are a way to measure psychological maturity and well-being. Which of the following is an argument he probably offered in support of this assertion?

• A) All individuals consistently demonstrate the same defense mechanisms in a stage-like progression based on their age.
• B) The association between mature defenses and mental health is present across a number of indicators (occupational success, maturity, happiness).
• C) Individuals under severe stress do not revert to less mature mechanisms.
• D) The two levels of defense mechanisms are sequential.

---

Definitions:

Punishment

A consequence delivered following an undesired behavior, intended to decrease the likelihood of that behavior occurring in the future.

Delayed Partial Reinforcement

A reinforcement strategy in which not every response made by the subject is reinforced, and the reinforcement is not immediately administered.

Self-Regulation

The use of learning principles to regulate one’s own behaviour.

Self-Observation Data

Information gathered through personal monitoring of one's actions, behaviors, and responses in various situations.