A Cruel and Abusive Person Often Uses Rationalization to Explain

question 32

Multiple Choice

A cruel and abusive person often uses rationalization to explain the behavior. Which comment demonstrates use of this defense mechanism?

• A) "I don't know why I do mean things."
• B) "I have always had poor impulse control."
• C) "That person should not have provoked me."
• D) "I'm really a coward who is afraid of being hurt."

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Definitions:

Evolutionary Perspective

An approach in various fields that evaluates the adaptive processes and traits of organisms in the context of evolution and natural selection.

Abnormal Behavior

Patterns of emotion, thought, and action deemed pathological for being atypical, disturbing, maladaptive, or unjustifiable.

Adaptive Behavior

The collection of conceptual, social, and practical skills that people learn and use in their daily lives to function effectively and meet societal standards.

Determinists

Philosophers or theorists who believe that all events, including human actions, are ultimately determined by causes external to the will.