Which of the following is NOT one of the five layers of neurotic avoidance?

• A. Phony Layer
• B. Phobic Layer
• C. Reflective Layer
• D. Impasse Layer

Answer: (C)

In this framework, neurotic avoidance unfolds through five defense layers in Gestalt theory: phony, phobic, impasse, implosive, and explosive. A Reflective Layer isn’t part of that sequence, so it doesn’t belong among the five layers. The phony layer covers inauthentic pretending to fit in, the phobic layer involves fear that blocks contact, and the impasse layer is the stagnation point where action stalls. The remaining two layers—the implosive and explosive—represent deeper internal breaking and the eventual release. Because Reflective Layer doesn’t describe one of these avoidance patterns, it’s not a recognized layer, making it the correct choice.