What is this behavior an example of?

Displacement

Ego defense mechanisms are operations outside of a persons awareness that the ego calls into play to protect against anxiety. Displacement is the discharging of pent-up feelings on persons less threatening than those who initially aroused the emotion. Denial is the blocking out of painful or anxiety-inducing events or feelings. Repression is unconsciously keeping unacceptable feelings out of awareness. Suppression is consciously keeping unacceptable feelings and thoughts out of awareness. Test-Taking Strategy: Use the process of elimination. Read the behavior identified in the question to assist you in determining the type of ego defense mechanism or behavior used. Remember that displacement is the discharging of pent-up feelings on persons less threatening than those who initially aroused the emotion. If you had difficulty with this question, review defense mechanisms