A four-year-old child is hospitalized and has begun wetting the bed. This is an example of which coping mechanism?

A four-year-old child is hospitalized and has begun wetting the bed. This is an example of which coping mechanism?

• A. Regression
• B. Transference
• C. Denial
• D. Avoidance

Answer: (A)

Regression, a child reverting to earlier behaviors to cope with stress, is demonstrated when a four-year-old begins bed-wetting after hospitalization. Being in the hospital creates anxiety, fear, and a loss of familiar routines and control. Returning to a previously established behavior like enuresis provides a sense of safety and familiarity amid the upheaval. This automatic way of managing distress is distinct from other coping responses: transference involves directing feelings toward a different person, denial is refusing to accept reality, and avoidance is steering clear of dealing with the situation. Bed-wetting here is best understood as regression.

Regression, a child reverting to earlier behaviors to cope with stress, is demonstrated when a four-year-old begins bed-wetting after hospitalization. Being in the hospital creates anxiety, fear, and a loss of familiar routines and control. Returning to a previously established behavior like enuresis provides a sense of safety and familiarity amid the upheaval. This automatic way of managing distress is distinct from other coping responses: transference involves directing feelings toward a different person, denial is refusing to accept reality, and avoidance is steering clear of dealing with the situation. Bed-wetting here is best understood as regression.