When a parent accidently punishes his or her child too harshly and then claims that it is "for the child's best interests," the parent is using ________.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Rationalization refers to the process of justifying behaviors, thoughts, or feelings that might otherwise be considered unacceptable, by creating logical and acceptable reasons for them. In this case, the parent is rationalizing their harsh punishment as being in the child's best interests, rather than acknowledging that it may be excessive or inappropriate.

When a Parent Accidently Punishes His or Her Child Too