Students often pick on Tito, but he says that this behavior is a sign that the other students like him. What defense mechanism is Tito displaying?

(1 point)
Responses

regression

denial

compensation

rationalization

1 answer

Tito is displaying rationalization. This defense mechanism involves trying to justify or make excuses for feelings or behaviors in a way that makes them seem more acceptable. In Tito's case, he is interpreting the negative behavior of his peers as a sign of affection rather than hostility.