Which defense mechanism involves refusing to acknowledge painful facts?

Denial is a defense mechanism that involves refusing to acknowledge painful or distressing facts, experiences, or realities. When an individual employs denial, they essentially block out the truth, which may be too difficult or uncomfortable to face. This mechanism can occur in situations where the emotional impact is overwhelming, such as dealing with addiction, loss, illness, or other stressful life events. By not accepting the reality of a situation, individuals may attempt to protect themselves from the anxiety or discomfort associated with it.

For instance, a person diagnosed with a serious illness might insist that they are fine and ignore medical advice, thereby denying the existence of their condition. This avoidance can prevent them from taking necessary steps toward recovery or coping appropriately with their circumstances.

The other defense mechanisms mentioned—projection, rationalization, and repression—differ from denial in their functions. Projection involves attributing one’s own unacceptable thoughts and feelings to someone else, rationalization entails justifying behaviors or feelings with logical reasoning to avoid uncomfortable truths, and repression involves unconsciously burying distressing thoughts or memories, but not necessarily denying their existence outright. Each of these mechanisms serves different purposes in managing anxiety and emotional pain, but denial specifically centers on an outright refusal to accept reality.