Final answer:
Denial is the defense mechanism that involves distorting reality and failing to acknowledge painful events.
Step-by-step explanation:
The defense mechanism that involves distorting reality and failing to acknowledge painful events is most likely denial. Denial is a common defense mechanism where a person refuses to accept or acknowledge the truth or reality of a situation, thoughts, or feelings. It allows them to protect themselves from anxiety or emotional distress by blocking out or distorting the truth.