FAA Fundamentals of Instructing (FOI)The Learning ProcessMedium
An applicant experienced a frightening near-collision during a solo cross-country flight but, when discussed during a later flight review, insists she has no memory of the event at all, even though ATC recordings confirm it occurred exactly as described. This defense mechanism, in which an emotionally threatening memory is unconsciously excluded from awareness, is best identified as:
- ACompensation
- BRepression
- CProjection
- DRationalization
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Repression
Repression is the unconscious exclusion of a painful or threatening memory or impulse from conscious awareness, which matches the applicant's genuine lack of memory of the traumatic event.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Compensation involves making up for a weakness in one area by excelling in another, unrelated to memory suppression.
- C. Projection involves attributing one's own unacceptable feelings to someone else, not memory loss.
- D. Rationalization involves making excuses to justify behavior, not blocking memory entirely.
Repression (Defense Mechanism)
An unconscious defense mechanism in which distressing or threatening memories, thoughts, or impulses are excluded from conscious awareness.
- Operates unconsciously, unlike suppression which is deliberate
- Can prevent a person from learning from a traumatic experience
- One of several defense mechanisms instructors should recognize in students
Memory trick: Repress = hide the memory in a locked box in the mind