Alcoholics frequently combine deflection and projection through the use of anger and hostility. Rationalization Falsification of experience through the construction of logical or socially approved explanations of behavior. A man cheats on his income tax return and tells himself it's all right because everyone does it. When the world of everyday life becomes too painful or difficult too bear, some people turn to the inner world of fantasy. Day dreaming and wishful thinking replace action.
Alcoholics often combine rationalizing and fantasy.
Intellectualization Separating an emotion from an idea or thought because the emotional reaction is too painful to be acknowledged. A man learns from his doctor that he has cancer. Reaction-formation Unacceptable feelings disguised by repression of the real feeling and by reinforcement of the opposite feeling. Recap The major function of these psychological defenses is to prevent the experiencing of painful emotions. There are several major problems with there use, however.