Sample Solution

The defense mechanism at work here is reaction formation. This occurs when a person suppresses their true feelings and instead expresses the exact opposite of what they are actually thinking or feeling (Zastrow & Hessenauer 2019). In this case, the employer may be expressing defensive behavior due to their own insecurities and fears about being replaced by someone younger and more educated than them.

In terms of overcoming this defensiveness, Gibb’s model suggests that the first step is for both parties to identify and recognize that a communication breakdown has occurred due to one or both of them becoming defensive (Gibb 1981). Once this has been established, it is important for both people involved to express understanding as well as acceptance for each other’s perspectives which should help reduce tensions between them (Gibb 1981). Additionally it would be beneficial for the defensive party to reflect on why they feel threatened in order to gain insight into their underlying motivations. Through this process they can come up with more constructive ways of dealing with negative emotions while fostering healthier dialogue within their relationships.

Ultimately, these steps rely heavily on open communication which requires individuals to be honest with themselves as well as each other if any real progress is going to be made. However, if followed properly they should provide a framework through which productive conversations can occur even during times when tensions are high.