Actually, we don't want us to be seen with contempt. We don't like someone telling us bad in front of us or look us with contempt and hatred. We want ourselves to be known as the dominant personality. When we get exposed, we seldom feel guilt for our deeds. Instead of it, we feel sorry for ourselves thinking that our careless behavior was the reason of this outcome. We don't like to face reality because of these reason. Our ego prevents us from facing reality as reality can bring embarrassment for us.
But actually this attitude comes from escapism. We are not bold enough to face reality. It demands to be very courageous to accept reality. This is the real courage.