What term describes a defense mechanism by which an individual justifies or explains an action to avoid discomfort?

The term that describes a defense mechanism by which an individual justifies or explains an action to avoid discomfort is rationalization. This psychological strategy involves providing logical or reasonable explanations for behaviors, feelings, or actions that might otherwise evoke guilt, anxiety, or shame. By rationalizing, a person can maintain a sense of self-esteem and justify actions that may not align with societal standards or personal morals.

For example, if someone makes a poor decision that leads to negative consequences, they might rationalize it by blaming external factors or downplaying its significance. This allows the individual to avoid confronting the underlying issues and feelings associated with the action, providing temporary emotional relief.

In contrast, denial involves refusing to accept reality or the truth of a situation, transference refers to redirecting feelings from one person to another, and repression is the unconscious blocking of unacceptable thoughts or memories. Each of these mechanisms serves a different function in the coping process, illustrating the complexity of human psychology.