Denial is a defense mechanism that can allow a patient to avoid the immediate implications of an illness, while also masking the fear associated with a chronic disease. However, it can also hinder the success of medical treatments if the patient is not fully accepting of their condition. Denial may also help the patient control their emotional reaction to the diagnosis. Therefore, choice D is the best option as it takes into account all of these factors.

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Denial

Question 4

Multiple Choice

Denial

A) is a defense mechanism that allows the patient to avoid the immediate implications of an illness.
B) may help the patient control her or his emotional reaction.
C) can mask the fear associated with a chronic disease.
D) is a defense mechanism that allows a patient to avoid the immediate implications, and can mask the fear associated with a chronic disease, however it may help the patient control his or her emotional reaction.
E) inhibits the success of medical treatments for chronic illness.

Correct Answer: