As Mario is filling out his income tax forms, he makes the decision not to report all of his income. He figures that it is okay, because everyone cheats on their taxes; and besides, he needs the money more than the government does. Mario is exhibiting which defense mechanism?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mario is using rationalization, a defense mechanism where an individual justifies or rationalizes their behaviors or feelings with plausible but not always true reasons. In this case, Mario is justifying not reporting all of his income with reasons that make his actions seem acceptable or reasonable to him.

As Mario Is Filling Out His Income Tax Forms, He