Repression refers to the defense mechanism by which people

A) offer self-justifying explanations in place of the real but threatening unconscious reasons for action.
B) retreat to behavior patterns characteristic of a more infantile stage of development.
C) disguise threatening impulses by attributing them to others.
D) banish anxiety-arousing thoughts from consciousness.

Repression

A defense mechanism where unwanted thoughts or desires are unconsciously pushed out of conscious awareness.

Defense Mechanism

A defense mechanism is a psychological strategy unconsciously used to protect oneself from anxiety arising from unacceptable thoughts or feelings.

Anxiety-Arousing Thoughts

Internal cognitions or thoughts that trigger or increase feelings of anxiety, fear, or unease.