Which defense mechanism is characterized by transforming reality by refusing to acknowledge thoughts, feelings, desires, or impulses (unconscious, not lying)?

• A. Intellectualization
• B. Denial
• C. Projection
• D. Rationalization

Answer: (B)

Denial is the defense mechanism described here. It involves refusing to accept painful reality or facts, effectively distorting reality by not acknowledging certain thoughts, feelings, desires, or impulses. It's typically unconscious rather than a deliberate lie, so the person isn’t purposely deceiving themselves or others. This can provide short-term relief from anxiety but delays dealing with the underlying issue.

For contrast, intellectualization would involve thinking about the situation in cold, clinical terms to avoid emotions; rationalization creates logical excuses to justify unacceptable behavior; projection shifts one’s own unacceptable feelings onto someone else.