A person who feels unattractive repeatedly says, "Although I'm not beautiful, I am smart." This is an example of

A) repression.
B) devaluation.
C) identification.
D) compensation.

Compensation is an unconscious process that allows us to make up for deficits in one area by excelling in another area to raise self-esteem. Repression unconsciously puts an idea, event, or feeling out of awareness. Identification is an unconscious mechanism calling for imitation of mannerisms or behaviors of another. Devaluation occurs when the individual attributes negative qualities to self or others.