What defense mechanism might a person exhibit if they refuse to accept a negative outcome as reality?

The chosen answer, denial of reality, accurately describes a defense mechanism where an individual fails to acknowledge or accept unpleasant truths or outcomes. When someone is confronted with a negative situation, such as a disappointing result or loss, they may resort to this mechanism as a way to protect themselves from distress. Denial allows a person to avoid the emotional pain that comes with accepting that the unfavorable situation is true.

By refusing to acknowledge the reality of a negative outcome, a person may experience temporary relief from feelings of sadness, disappointment, or anxiety. This avoidance can serve as a coping strategy, giving them time to adjust to the idea of the negative outcome before potentially facing it later. Understanding denial helps to recognize how the mind can shield itself from difficult emotions and maintain a sense of control, even if it may not be beneficial in the long term.

The other options, while they represent other mechanisms or approaches, do not capture the essence of refusing to accept a negative outcome. Acceptance involves acknowledging reality, social support focuses on seeking help from others, and direct action refers to actively confronting issues rather than avoiding them.