Well I mean some mental strategies dare not risk the possibility of depression sadness etc. To that kind of mindset the "emotional cost" is very relevant. It it is associated with a fragile ego. But it does mean that in certain situations there is a clear option that is the emotionally least taxing even if it is not the most productive or most truthful option. Scapegoating your way out of harm usually leads into things like irresponcibiilty. But it is tempting and for many the default action if no corrective action is taken.
What do LWers think about this concept? What do you think is the main rationale for this idea, and do you think it is a good policy?