A rationalization is a form of psychological defense. In a broader sense, it is a process of searching for explanations, and excuses as to why it happened to a person. It may be actions, thoughts, or emotions. The person does something and then looks for excuses for his or her activity. Thus, the psyche tries to protect itself from traumatic situations, but not everything is so harmless.

Rationalization is an attempt to justify that which is contrary to public opinion. It occurs, for the most part, unconsciously. A person explains his actions with arguments that society will accept. In other words, it is a search for motives that explain undesirable behavior and help maintain a state of comfort.