Denial

Definition

Denial is a psychological defense mechanism in which confrontation with a personal problem or with reality is avoided by denying the existence of the problem or reality itself.

Related terms

Regression:

This is a defense mechanism where an individual reverts to an earlier stage of development in response to a stressful situation.

Intellectualization:

This involves distancing oneself from emotional experiences by focusing on logical and rational aspects of a situation.

Dissociation:

This refers to disconnecting from one's thoughts, feelings, memories or sense of identity, often as a response to traumatic events.