Marty has just had a heated argument with his coworker, and for a split second he feels the urge to punch the coworker in the chest. Instead, Marty takes an early lunch and works out by sparring at the gym. Which defense mechanism would Freud say is operating in this situation?

A) projection
B) denial
C) rationalization
D) displacement

Displacement

Moving a troubling impulse onto a different, less threatening object.

Sparring

A form of training common in many combat sports where participants fight each other without intending to cause significant harm.

Projection

A defense mechanism where individuals attribute their own unacceptable thoughts, feelings, and motives to another person.