making excuses to explain a situation or behavior  *1 pointrepressionrationalizationdenialcompensationprojection

The question pertains to psychological defense mechanisms, specifically about the act of making excuses to explain a situation or behavior. The options listed include:

1. Repression - Involuntary blocking of unpleasant emotions or memories.
2. Rationalization - Justifying behaviors or feelings with logical reasons, even if these are not the real reasons.
3. Denial - Refusing to accept reality or facts.
4. Compensation - Overachieving in one area to offset failures in another.
5. Projection - Attributing one’s own unacceptable feelings or thoughts to someone else.

Final Answer

The correct answer is rationalization. This defense mechanism involves providing excuses or logical explanations for behaviors to make them seem more acceptable or justifiable.