The ____ is the underlying defense mechanism used by individuals to justify aggressive behaviors that has an implicit assumption that people tend to be motivated by desires to harm others.
A) retribution bias
B) potency bias
C) hostile attribution bias
D) social discounting bias

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The description given matches that of the hostile attribution bias. This bias is characterized by the tendency to interpret the actions of others as being intentionally harmful or aggressive, even when there is no evidence to support this interpretation. It is often used by individuals to justify their own aggressive behaviors, as it allows them to see their actions as being defensive rather than offensive.

The ____ Is the Underlying Defense Mechanism Used by Individuals