What is the purpose of rationalization as a defense mechanism?

Rationalization serves the purpose of providing cognitive justification for behaviors or feelings that may otherwise provoke discomfort or anxiety. When individuals experience an action that conflicts with their self-image or societal norms, they may invoke rationalization to produce reasons that make these actions seem acceptable. For example, someone who has failed a test may attribute their poor performance to external factors, such as the difficulty of the exam or the instructor's unfair grading, rather than acknowledging their lack of preparation or understanding of the material.

By offering logical explanations that alleviate guilt or regret, rationalization helps preserve self-esteem and reduce internal conflict. It allows individuals to maintain a sense of order and comprehension in their experiences, even if the reasoning they provide may not accurately reflect the truth of the situation. This defense mechanism is common in various contexts, including personal relationships and professional environments, where individuals might find it easier to cope with their emotions and the reality of their situations through rationalized explanations.