Which psychological defense mechanism allows a person to redirect unacceptable emotions into constructive activities?

The correct answer is sublimation, which is a defense mechanism recognized in psychoanalytic theory. Sublimation involves channeling or redirecting unacceptable or distressing emotions, such as anger or anxiety, into socially acceptable or constructive activities. For instance, a person who feels intense anger may take up a sport, engage in creative endeavors, or become deeply involved in work as a way to express that energy in a positive form.

This mechanism serves not only to manage emotional discomfort but also leads to personal growth or skill development. By transforming negative feelings into productive actions, individuals can cope with their emotions healthily and constructively.

In contrast, regression is characterized by reverting to an earlier stage of development, denial involves refusing to accept reality or facts, and resilience refers to the ability to recover from setbacks. Each of these mechanisms differs significantly from sublimation in its approach to dealing with emotions and stressors.