definitions of denial

• Pretending something does not exist when in reality it does
• Being willing to admit there is a problem, but unwilling to see the severity of it
• Seeing the problem as being caused by something or someone else. The behavior is not denied, but its cause is someone else's responsibility
• Offering excuses, alibis, justifications, and other explanations for behavior
• Dealing with the problem on a general level; avoiding personal and emotional awareness of the situations or conditions
• Changing the subject to avoid threatening topics
• Becoming angry and irritable when reference is made to the condition. This helps to avoid the issue