Defense mechanisms work primarily through

A) distorting reality so it does not seem so unpleasant and threatening.
B) reducing a person's impulse control.
C) allowing a person to release pent-up emotions.
D) promoting adaptive coping whenever they are employed.

Defense mechanisms work by distorting reality in order to make harsh or threatening situations or emotions more bearable. This can include denial, repression, projection, and other techniques that allow the person to avoid dealing directly with the reality of a situation. While defense mechanisms may provide temporary relief, they can also prevent individuals from facing and resolving underlying problems or emotions in a healthy, adaptive way.