When unacceptable behaviors are reinterpreted in more acceptable terms, the defense mechanism at work is __________.

Question

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Rationalization is the defense mechanism that involves reinterpreting or justifying unacceptable behaviors or thoughts in more acceptable terms by finding logical or rational reasons for them. For example, a person who cheats on a test may rationalize their behavior by thinking that everyone else does it, or that the test isn't a fair measure of their true abilities.

When Unacceptable Behaviors Are Reinterpreted in More Acceptable Terms, the Defense