James wants to break people in half, but instead of hurting them, ...

[mmm]

James wants to break people in half, but instead of hurting them, he has become a chiropractor and his work actually helps people to feel better. Which of the defense mechanisms is he experiencing, and why?
 
  What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Theresa is in medical school. She adores her dad and cannot bear to disappoint him, even though subconsciously she does not want to be a doctor. Instead of quitting school, Theresa throws herself into her studies even more.
 
  Which of the defense mechanisms is she experiencing, and why?
  What will be an ideal response?

[Jordin Calloway]

Answer to Question 1

Answer: James is experiencing sublimation. This is the channeling of unconscious impulses into work.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: Theresa is experiencing denial. Denial is the lack of acknowledgement of unconscious content.

[mmm]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it

[LegendaryAnswers]

Gracias!