By Dr. Sue Ann T. Guy
Definition, Occurrence and Symptoms: Denial is the conscious refusal to perceive that painful facts exist. In denying latent feelings or mental defects, an individual can escape intolerable thoughts, feelings or events.1 Denial can be an unconscious mental process.2 However, individuals in denial may be aware a possible problem exists, but reject this truth. Individuals who do not understand a possible problem exists are not in denial, but unaware or ignorant of truth - a form of psychological illness. Denial is a type of defense mechanism that involves ignoring the reality of a situation to avoid anxiety, conflict, hurt, stress, feeling overwhelmed or fear. Denial may involve not acknowledging reality or denying the consequences of that reality, which may cause life problems, such as accepting a job or getting psychological treatment. Symptoms of denial include refusing to talk about the problem, finding ways to justify and continue negative behavior, blaming other people, making false promises, ignoring truths or facts, feeling hopeless or helpless, or avoiding acknowledgement that a problem exist.3 Addicts, criminals, narcissists, compulsive liars, those bereaved or experiencing mental illness struggle with denial, as these may be socially stigmatized. The opposite of denial is confirmation, approval, affirmation and acceptance.
Coping Strategies: Individuals experiencing denial may naturally come to terms with the reality of their denial over time and when supported. Support groups are recommended for individuals in denial. Overcoming denial requires acknowledging a deep-seated fear, accepting all possible outcomes associated with reality or a situation, discussing points of trauma or anxiety associated with a situation and identifying incorrect thoughts about a situation.2,3 People negatively impacted by an individual experiencing denial in the work environment may foster and communicate a work environment that clarifies processes and expectations, correct inaccurate perceptions, encourage question and answer sessions, objectively evaluate and sympathetically relay performance, provide resources for assistance including therapy, express concerns and offer support without judging.
References
1. https://www.britannica.com/science/denial-psychology
2. https: //www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/denial
3. https://www.verywellmind.com/denial-as-a-defense-mechanism-5114461
