What statement reflects a client's insight into the defense mechanism of displacement?

The statement indicating that when feeling angry, the client chooses to talk to their spouse instead of the kids reflects an understanding of the defense mechanism known as displacement. Displacement is a psychological defense mechanism where an individual redirects their emotions from a person or object that is perceived as threatening or unacceptable to a safer or more acceptable target.

By expressing anger towards their spouse rather than the kids, the individual is acknowledging their feelings and choosing to direct those feelings toward a more appropriate outlet. This demonstrates a level of insight into their emotional responses and the way they manage those feelings, as it shows they recognize the anger they felt and have found a way to communicate it without causing harm to their children.

Other statements indicate avoidance or lack of recollection of emotions, which do not demonstrate the same level of understanding of how the defense mechanism of displacement operates. For instance, overlooking feelings or focusing on work signifies an attempt to escape or divert attention from emotions rather than a conscious effort to redirect those feelings safely and healthily.