A nurse is caring for a client who has a new diagnosis of chronic stress. Which of the following findings should the nurse recognize as being a manifestation of rationalization?

A. The client calls the office multiple times per day to speak with their provider. This behavior may indicate anxiety or dependence, but it does not reflect rationalization, which involves making excuses to justify behavior. B. The client states, "I only act this way because my partner makes me so angry." This is a clear example of rationalization, where the client is attempting to justify unacceptable behavior by blaming it on someone else rather than taking personal responsibility. C. The client does not listen to the nurse during a discussion about their diagnosis. This may indicate denial or avoidance, not rationalization. The client may be overwhelmed and unwilling to accept the diagnosis. D. The client reports that they get upset with their family members for "no apparent reason." This may suggest emotional dysregulation or projection, but it lacks the clear element of excuse-making that defines rationalization.