Denial strategy # 2: Absolute denial

"Problem? What problem?”  

      When people get cornered they often tell “the big lie.” They say that a problem does not exist no matter how much evidence is presented to the contrary.  They often get so good at convincing others that there is nothing wrong that they begin to believe it themselves.  With so much time and effort invested in propping up their arguments they become entrenched and are unwilling to change their opinion in light of any available evidence.  

      To change their opinion would be offensive because they now personally identify with it.  Criticism is therefore perceived as an affront not only to their mode of thinking, but to them personally.  If they win an argument there is a feeling of personal vindication that comes along with it.  If they know their ideas are flawed, convincing others they are correct still makes them feel good because they won.  

      This strategy attempts to shift the burden of proof onto those who recognize the problem.  This strategy can be identified when one side refuses to acknowledge the existence of a problem despite being presented with evidence to the contrary. An unwillingness to acknowledge the existence of a problem in turn delays any attempt to address them.