Which defense mechanism involves refusing to accept reality or fact, acting as if a painful event does not exist?

Denial is the defense mechanism that involves refusing to accept reality or the existence of a painful event. When someone is in denial, they may behave as if the distressing situation or fact does not exist, which serves to protect them from the psychological discomfort associated with acknowledging that reality. This mechanism can manifest in various ways, such as minimizing the seriousness of an addiction, dismissing the implications of a medical diagnosis, or ignoring the emotional consequences of trauma.

When an individual engages in denial, they may also avoid confronting their feelings or the ramifications of their circumstances, which can lead to prolonged difficulties in dealing with the truth. This defense mechanism can initially appear to provide emotional relief, but it often complicates recovery and coping in the long term.

Understanding denial can be crucial in psychological practice, as it highlights the ways individuals may struggle to cope with challenging truths in their lives. Establishing a therapeutic alliance can help clients gradually confront and process these realities in a supportive environment.