When Pavati orders a hot fudge sundae and a diet soda, she tells herself that the calories from the ice cream really are not a big deal because the diet soda sort of balances it all out. Which of Freud's defense mechanisms is motivating Pavati?
A) repression
B) rationalization
C) sublimation
D) projection

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Pavati is using rationalization to justify her choice of a high-calorie dessert by convincing herself that the diet soda she's pairing it with makes it okay. She is not repressing any thoughts or feelings, not sublimating any impulses, and not projecting her thoughts or behavior onto someone else.

When Pavati Orders a Hot Fudge Sundae and a Diet