FAA Fundamentals of Instructing (FOI)Human Behavior and Effective CommunicationHard
A student pilot deeply admires his flight instructor and begins copying the instructor's exact radio phraseology, mannerisms in the cockpit, and even wears the same style of aviator sunglasses, hoping this will make him feel more capable as a pilot. This behavior is best described by which defense mechanism?
- AProjection
- BIdentification
- CCompensation
- DReaction formation
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Identification
Identification is a defense mechanism in which a person unconsciously adopts the mannerisms, attitudes, or characteristics of someone they admire, often to gain a sense of confidence or worth by association with that person's success.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Projection involves attributing one's own unacceptable feelings to someone else, not imitating an admired person.
- C. Compensation involves making up for a real or perceived weakness through effort in another area, not imitation of a role model.
- D. Reaction formation involves expressing the opposite of true, often uncomfortable feelings, not imitation.
Identification (Defense Mechanism)
A defense mechanism in which a person unconsciously models their behavior after someone they admire to increase feelings of self-worth.
- Involves adopting mannerisms/traits of an admired figure
- Different from imitation done consciously for learning
- Can help build confidence but may mask underlying insecurity
Memory trick: 'ID = I Do like them' — copying an admired role model.