Which reasoning might explain someone believing they are special or deserving despite clear failures?

The belief that one is special or deserving despite clear failures is most accurately explained by wishful thinking. This form of reasoning occurs when an individual maintains a distorted outlook, allowing their desires to shape their perceptions of reality. In this case, a person may focus on the idea that they are unique or deserving of success regardless of actual evidence or outcomes, leading to a disconnect from realistic assessments of their situation.

This tendency can stem from an optimistic outlook or a strong desire for self-affirmation, causing individuals to ignore or downplay failures. In contrast, rationalization involves justifying one’s actions or beliefs with logical reasons, even if they are not the true motivations, and would not necessarily reflect an intrinsic belief in one’s specialness. Inconceivability refers to a refusal to accept certain realities, while academic detachment suggests a disengagement from emotional involvement with outcomes. Wishful thinking best captures the essence of believing one is special despite evidence to the contrary, focusing on personal desires over objective reality.