In which scenario does a character exhibit a lack of personal accountability for their actions?

Rationalization involves justifying or explaining away one's actions or decisions, often to avoid facing the consequences or accepting personal responsibility. When a character rationalizes their behavior, they may make excuses or convince themselves that their actions are acceptable or understandable, effectively distancing themselves from accountability. This lack of ownership over their actions typically reflects a reluctance to take responsibility for mistakes or harmful choices, reinforcing the idea that they are not truly acknowledging the impact of their behavior on themselves or others.

In contrast, misdirected blame may involve placing responsibility on someone else rather than being accountable for one's own actions, yet it emphasizes the shifting of blame rather than making excuses for oneself. Defensive behavior typically manifests as a reaction to perceived threats or criticism, where the individual may feel attacked and thus respond in self-preservation mode without reflecting on their own faults. Overexertion of responsibility is the opposite; it suggests taking on too much responsibility, which can lead to burnout or stress but is rooted in a desire to be accountable.