Question: Ego defense mechanisms are coping methods described in psychoanalytic theory that protect us from pain and anxiety. John is angry at his boss. He wishes he could tell his boss what is on his mind, but he knows if he does, he will be punished, or even fired. Whenever John sees his boss, he smiles brightly and engages him in pleasant conversation. The defense mechanism John is using is called: Option A repression Option B projection Option C reaction formation Option D rationalization. Need Assignment Help?