When a worker blames their lack of promotion on favoritism rather than self-performance, what thinking pattern are they using?

The reasoning behind the choice of rationalization lies in the way individuals interpret their experiences and circumstances. In this scenario, the worker attributes their lack of promotion not to their own actions or performance but to favoritism, which serves as a justification for their perceived failure. This reflects a cognitive process where the individual seeks to make sense of an unfavorable outcome by shifting the blame to external factors rather than accepting personal responsibility or acknowledging potential shortcomings.

Rationalization is a common psychological defense mechanism that allows individuals to maintain a positive self-image by providing reasons for their failures that are more palatable than accepting personal limitations. By framing favoritism as the cause of their stagnation, the worker is alleviating feelings of inadequacy and reinforcing the belief that they are deserving of advancement based on merit. This thought pattern can hinder personal growth and accountability, as it perpetuates a reliance on external explanations instead of fostering self-improvement.