A patient refuses to acknowledge a grim medical prognosis. Which defense mechanism is being used?

A patient refuses to acknowledge a grim medical prognosis. Which defense mechanism is being used?

• A. Minimization
• B. Rationalization
• C. Introjection
• D. Denial

Answer: (D)

The main idea tested here is how people cope with distressing information through unconscious defense mechanisms. Refusing to acknowledge a grim medical prognosis is denial, an unconscious shielding process that prevents acknowledgment of painful reality. By not accepting the truth, the person protects themselves from immediate anxiety, though this can delay important planning and care decisions. In nursing practice, recognize the feelings underlying denial, offer clear, compassionate information, and support the patient while giving time to process. This differs from minimization (downplaying the importance while still recognizing the event), rationalization (finding logical excuses to justify the situation), and introjection (internalizing others’ beliefs or standards as one’s own).

The main idea tested here is how people cope with distressing information through unconscious defense mechanisms. Refusing to acknowledge a grim medical prognosis is denial, an unconscious shielding process that prevents acknowledgment of painful reality. By not accepting the truth, the person protects themselves from immediate anxiety, though this can delay important planning and care decisions. In nursing practice, recognize the feelings underlying denial, offer clear, compassionate information, and support the patient while giving time to process. This differs from minimization (downplaying the importance while still recognizing the event), rationalization (finding logical excuses to justify the situation), and introjection (internalizing others’ beliefs or standards as one’s own).