After Jack's loan application for the new car was rejected, he told a friend that he was glad he had not gotten the loan because his old car was still very reliable and he really didn't want to make monthly car payments. Which ego defense mechanism best explains Jack's behavior?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Jack is using rationalization as an ego defense mechanism by coming up with a justification for not getting the loan, even though it was likely a disappointment for him. By focusing on the positives of his situation, such as having a reliable car and not having to make monthly payments, he can feel better about the rejection.

After Jack's Loan Application for the New Car Was Rejected