National Counselor Exam Prep (NCE)

Answer - B - A defense mechanism is primarily used to protect people from anxiety, particularly anxiety arising from unacceptable wishes and impulses. Everyone has defenses and some are healthy and mature, such as sublimation, which can change an unhealthy, self-destructive desire into the drive to create a work of art. Others are unhealthy and can distort reality, interfering in efforts to build relationships.