An adult client attends a smoking cessation class. The client tells the nurse, "Even though I smoke, I don't smoke around children, in my car, or in my house." Which defense mechanism does the nurse recognize the client is exhibiting?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The client is using rationalization, a defense mechanism where one justifies or rationalizes behavior or feelings in a seemingly logical way to avoid the true explanation. By stating they don't smoke around children or in certain places, the client is attempting to justify their smoking habit and make it seem more acceptable.

An Adult Client Attends a Smoking Cessation Class