Which defense mechanism is John using when he says “It’s ok if I tell my parents that I am going to Lisa’s house even when I’m really going to ride around with Pete because they won’t mind.”

(1 point)
Responses

regression
regression

rationalization
rationalization

rejection
rejection

denial
denial

1 answer

John is using rationalization when he says, “It’s ok if I tell my parents that I am going to Lisa’s house even when I’m really going to ride around with Pete because they won’t mind.” Rationalization involves providing logical or reasonable explanations for behaviors that may be unacceptable or anxiety-provoking. In this case, he is justifying his lie to his parents by assuming they wouldn't mind.