FAA Instrument Flight Instructor (FII)Instructional TechniquesEasy
An instrument student consistently anticipates the CFII's instructions during an ILS approach, often initiating control inputs before the CFII finishes speaking. This behavior, while seemingly proactive, occasionally leads to minor deviations. Which defense mechanism is the student most likely exhibiting?
- AReaction Formation
- BCompensation
- CIntellectualization
- DFantasy
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Compensation
Compensation is a defense mechanism where an individual attempts to overcome a real or imagined inadequacy by emphasizing a desirable trait or overachieving in another area. In this case, the student may be compensating for perceived slowness or lack of proficiency by trying to be overly quick.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Reaction formation is behaving in a way opposite to one's true feelings.
- C. Intellectualization is using abstract thinking to avoid dealing with emotional aspects.
- D. Fantasy is escaping into a dream world to fulfill desires.
Compensation (Defense Mechanism)
A psychological defense mechanism where individuals try to make up for real or imagined deficiencies by excelling in other areas or overemphasizing desirable traits.
- Used to protect self-esteem.
- Can manifest as over-eagerness or excessive effort.
- Often subconscious.
Memory trick: Don't Defend Yourself, Understand Psychology