FAA Instrument Flight Instructor (FII)Instructional TechniquesMedium
A CFII is debriefing an instrument student after a challenging flight. The student attributes their poor performance solely to 'bad luck' and 'the ATC controller being unhelpful.' This defense mechanism is an example of:
- ADisplacement
- BFantasy
- CProjection
- DCompensation
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Projection
Projection is a defense mechanism where an individual attributes their own undesirable thoughts, feelings, or shortcomings to another person or external factor. Blaming 'bad luck' or 'the controller' for personal poor performance is a classic example of projection.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Displacement is shifting an emotion from its original object to another.
- B. Fantasy is escaping from reality into a world of imagination.
- D. Compensation is emphasizing a desirable trait to cover up an undesirable one.
Defense Mechanism: Projection
An unconscious defense mechanism where an individual attributes their own unacceptable thoughts, feelings, or shortcomings to another person or external cause.
- Shifts blame away from oneself.
- Often used to protect self-esteem.
- Prevents self-reflection and learning.
Memory trick: Don't let Defense Mechanisms block your learning.