A patient has been instructed to exercise his arm for five minutes several times a day. He tells the medical assistant that he could not do the exercises because he had to go to work. Which of the following defense mechanisms is he using?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Rationalization is a defense mechanism where an individual justifies or rationalizes their behaviors or feelings in a seemingly logical or rational manner to avoid the true explanation. In this case, the patient is rationalizing not doing the exercises by blaming his work schedule, avoiding the real reasons for not adhering to the exercise regimen.

A Patient Has Been Instructed to Exercise His Arm for Five