Which of the following best describes fantasy as a coping mechanism?

Fantasy as a coping mechanism primarily involves using imagination or daydreaming to create an alternative reality that offers a sense of escape from current stressors or challenges. This process enables individuals to temporarily distance themselves from their real-life issues, allowing them a moment of respite and a chance to envision possibilities outside their immediate circumstances.

While utilizing fantasy can serve as a comforting strategy, it typically does not engage directly with the realities of a person's situation. Instead, it provides a mental break and can offer relief from anxiety or distress, albeit in a non-confrontational manner. In contrast, the other options imply a more proactive and grounded approach to coping that engages with reality and problem-solving rather than escaping from it.