John is thinking of ways to break up with Marguerite. He decides to tell her, "I'm moving to the city for a job opportunity, so there's really no point in continuing the relationship." This method is known as _______.
A) positive tone
B) negative identity management
C) justification
D) de-escalation

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Justification is a strategy where one partner explains reasons or justifies why the breakup is happening, often to make the decision seem rational and to lessen the emotional impact on the other person. In this scenario, John is using a job opportunity as a rational justification for ending the relationship.

John Is Thinking of Ways to Break Up with Marguerite