The concept of releasing aggressive energy to relieve aggressive urges is called?

• A. Rationalization
• B. Catharsis
• C. Denial
• D. Sublimation

Answer: (B)

Catharsis is the idea of releasing pent-up aggressive energy to relieve aggressive urges. It describes venting or expressing strong emotions to reduce tension, such as letting out anger through controlled expression or physical activity. The other terms refer to different coping processes: rationalization is justifying behavior with excuses; denial is refusing to accept reality; sublimation involves redirecting impulses into a more socially acceptable outlet (like turning aggression into sport). The description in the question matches catharsis because it centers on releasing energy to diminish the urge.