The student nurse notes that a client uses a number of behaviors designed to relieve anxiety. The
student asks the coassigned staff nurse if ego defense mechanisms and security operations are
identical.
The nurse should explain that, although both are unconsciously determined and designed
to relieve anxiety, the major difference is that
a. defense mechanisms are always intrapsychic and not observable.
b. defense mechanisms always lead to arrested personal development.
c. security operations are interpersonal relationship activities.
d. security operations are masterminded by the id and superego.
ANS: C
Sullivan's theory explains that security operations are interpersonal relationship activities designed
to relieve anxiety. Because they are interpersonal in nature they can be observed. Option A: Defense
mechanisms are unconscious and automatic. Repression is entirely intrapsychic, but other
mechanisms result in observable behaviors. Option B: Frequent, continued use of many defense
mechanisms often results in reality distortion and interference with healthy adjustment and
emotional development. Occasional use of defense mechanisms is considered normal and does not
markedly interfere with development. Option D: Security operations are ego centered.
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