Refusing to believe or even to perceive painful realities constitutes the defense mechanism known as
A) regression.
B) denial.
C) displacement.
D) projection.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Denial is the defense mechanism that involves refusing to acknowledge or accept a painful reality. This can involve a refusal to believe something is happening, or an attempt to minimize or rationalize the situation. Regression involves reverting to more childish or immature behavior, displacement involves directing negative feelings onto a less threatening target, and projection involves attributing one's own negative feelings to someone else.

Refusing to Believe or Even to Perceive Painful Realities Constitutes