Which response is most likely to be observed in a victim who is experiencing denial?

The response most likely to be observed in a victim experiencing denial is avoiding discussions about the event. Denial is a psychological defense mechanism that enables individuals to block out feelings and thoughts that are too painful or distressing to confront. When a victim is in denial, they may refuse to talk about the traumatic event or minimize its importance, attempting to shield themselves from the full emotional impact. This behavior may manifest as avoidance of conversations related to the trauma, which allows the individual to maintain a sense of normalcy in their life while not fully processing what has happened.

In contrast, acceptance of the situation typically indicates that a person is dealing with their emotions and is ready to acknowledge the reality of what they have experienced. Expressing emotions freely suggests that an individual is grappling with their feelings and working through them, which is not characteristic of denial. Seeking therapy shows a proactive approach to coping with trauma, indicating that someone is ready to explore and confront their experiences instead of avoiding them. These responses are more aligned with processing and healing rather than the avoidance that characterizes denial.