A female client is seeking counseling for personal problems.

(A) This statement is an example of adaptive rationalization. She is coping with her disappointment by rationalizing. This is adaptive because no harm is done to self or others. It is used to protect her ego. (B) This is an example of maladaptive suppression. She is suppressing the seriousness of the lump. It is maladaptive because delaying treatment will cause harm to her. (C) The client’s actions are an example of maladaptive denial. She is denying her son’s death by not facing his possessions. Until she faces his death, she cannot face reality. (D) This is an example of adaptive suppression. She realizes the impact of her husband’s statement but delays discussion until she can devote her full attention to the matter.