What defense mechanism is used when a patient makes excuses about something bad that has happened?

Rationalizing is a defense mechanism where an individual provides logical or reasonable explanations for behaviors or decisions that may otherwise be viewed as inappropriate or negative. In the context of a patient making excuses for something bad that has occurred, rationalization allows them to justify their situation or feelings, avoiding the discomfort of facing the underlying issues or emotions associated with the incident.

For example, if someone fails an exam, they might say it was unfair or blame the instructor rather than acknowledging they may not have studied enough. This helps the individual cope with the negative experience without confronting their personal responsibility or feelings of inadequacy. Understanding rationalization is important because it highlights how individuals protect themselves from emotional pain by distorting facts to make them more palatable.