rationalization

n. A defense mechanism whereby the individual uses complicated (often circuitous) explanations in order to justify behavior. This defensive process happens outside conscious awareness and is thought to be a way of covering up a more painful unconscious reality. For example, a person may be in an abusive relationship but focus on the good aspects of the partner's behavior (e.g., “He is actually a really nice person when you get to know him”) in order to justify staying in the relationship. The rationalization therefore serves to justify the behavior. Additionally, rationalization acts as a way of covering up other unconscious motivators (e.g., in the example rationalization allows the individual to focus on the positive aspects of the partner, as opposed to focusing on his/her own unconscious reasons for remaining in the relationship, such as feelings of being needy or dependent on the partner). – DGa