Key Difference – Intellectualization vs Rationalization
Defense mechanisms are our ways of dealing with negative emotions unconsciously in order to reduce the level of anxiety that we feel. Intellectualization and rationalization are two examples of defense mechanisms. The key difference between the two is that while in intellectualization the individual draws on intellectual components, in rationalization the individual draws on logical components.
What is Intellectualization?
Intellectualization is a defense mechanism where the individual seeks the assistance of intellectual components in order to relieve the anxiety. It allows the person to distant himself from the stressful emotions that he is experiencing. Through intellectualization the person can adopt a cold, distant approach to the problem so that it does not affect him emotionally.
What is Rationalization?
Rationalization is also a defense mechanism in which the individual constructs a logical justification in order to reduce the anxiety. The difference between intellectualization and rationalization is that while intellectualization uses intellectual components, rationalization uses logic to reduce the anxiety. Unlike in the case of intellectualization, rationalization is where the individual finds an excuse for his mistakes to avoid condemnation and guilt.
What is the Difference Between Intellectualization and Rationalization?
Definitions of Intellectualization and Rationalization:
Intellectualization: Intellectualization is a defense mechanism where the individual seeks the assistance of intellectual components in order to relieve the anxiety.
Rationalization: Rationalization is where the individual constructs a logical justification in order to reduce the anxiety.
Characteristics of Intellectualization and Rationalization:
Defense mechanism:
Intellectualization: Intellectualization is a defense mechanism.
Rationalization: Rationalization is a defense mechanism.
Specialty:
Intellectualization: Intellectualization relies on the intellectual components to reduce anxiety.
Rationalization: Rationalization relies on logic to reduce anxiety.
Function:
Intellectualization: Intellectualization distances the painful emotions related to the stressful event.
Rationalization: Rationalization assists the individual to not feel guilty or condemn oneself.
