Which defense mechanism involves developing the opposite trait and acting opposite to what one truly feels, while being aware of those feelings?

Which defense mechanism involves developing the opposite trait and acting opposite to what one truly feels, while being aware of those feelings?

• A. Regression
• B. Repression
• C. Sublimation
• D. Reaction Formation

Answer: (D)

Reaction formation is a defense mechanism in which an unacceptable impulse is turned into its opposite and the person behaves in a way that is opposite to what they truly feel, often while still being aware of the original emotion. This reduces anxiety by presenting a socially acceptable outer behavior while the inner feeling remains acknowledged or managed. For example, someone who feels hostility toward a coworker may treat them with excessive kindness and praise. The outward demeanor reflects the opposite trait, while the person recognizes the underlying feeling. This differs from regression, which is a retreat to earlier behaviors; repression, which hides the feeling from conscious awareness; and sublimation, which channels the impulse into a constructive activity rather than an opposite trait.

Reaction formation is a defense mechanism in which an unacceptable impulse is turned into its opposite and the person behaves in a way that is opposite to what they truly feel, often while still being aware of the original emotion. This reduces anxiety by presenting a socially acceptable outer behavior while the inner feeling remains acknowledged or managed. For example, someone who feels hostility toward a coworker may treat them with excessive kindness and praise. The outward demeanor reflects the opposite trait, while the person recognizes the underlying feeling. This differs from regression, which is a retreat to earlier behaviors; repression, which hides the feeling from conscious awareness; and sublimation, which channels the impulse into a constructive activity rather than an opposite trait.