FAA Fundamentals of Instructing (FOI)The Learning ProcessHard
A student pilot consistently struggles with maintaining airspeed during landings, despite repeated instruction and practice. The instructor observes that the student often tenses up and 'freezes' on the controls during the final approach. Which defense mechanism is the student most likely exhibiting?
- ARegression
- BFixation
- CRationalization
- DProjection
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Fixation
Fixation is a defense mechanism where an individual becomes preoccupied with a single idea or action, often to the exclusion of other relevant considerations. In this scenario, the student's 'freezing' on controls and inability to adjust airspeed suggests a rigid, inflexible response to a stressful situation.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Regression involves reverting to an earlier, less mature state of behavior.
- C. Rationalization involves inventing excuses for behavior, not freezing on controls.
- D. Projection involves attributing one's own unacceptable thoughts or feelings to another person.
Fixation (Defense Mechanism)
Fixation is a defense mechanism where an individual becomes preoccupied with a single idea or action, often to the exclusion of other relevant considerations, leading to an inability to adapt or change.
- Involves an inability to abandon an ineffective course of action.
- Characterized by rigid, inflexible behavior.
- Often seen in stressful or anxiety-provoking situations.
Memory trick: Don't Fixate on Defenses; Project, Rationalize, or Regress instead!