REACTION FORMATION Meaning and
Definition
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Reaction formation is a psychological defense mechanism that refers to the process of unconsciously expressing a feeling or belief that is the opposite of one's true emotions or thoughts. It occurs when an individual develops exaggerated attitudes, behaviors, or emotions that go against their actual desires, impulses, or values.
This defense mechanism often manifests as the deliberate adoption of attitudes or actions that are the opposite of what one truly feels. For example, someone who has repressed feelings of anger or hostility towards someone may demonstrate exaggerated kindness and friendliness towards that person instead. Similarly, a person who is privately struggling with their sexual orientation but feels societal pressure to conform to heterosexual norms may publicly display extreme measures of homophobia.
The purpose of reaction formation is to help an individual cope with uncomfortable or unacceptable thoughts, emotions, or desires by expressing the opposite. By doing so, they can maintain a sense of self-consistency, control, and avoid feelings of guilt, shame, or anxiety associated with their true feelings. However, this defense mechanism often leads to inner conflicts and can result in the experience of emotional distress.
The concept of reaction formation was first introduced by Sigmund Freud, who believed that humans possess unconscious motives that influence their behavior. Today, it is widely accepted as a defense mechanism used to protect oneself from experiencing negative emotions associated with unacceptable thoughts or desires.
Common Misspellings for REACTION FORMATION
- eeaction formation
- deaction formation
- feaction formation
- teaction formation
- 5eaction formation
- 4eaction formation
- rwaction formation
- rsaction formation
- rdaction formation
- rraction formation
- r4action formation
- r3action formation
- rezction formation
- resction formation
- rewction formation
- reqction formation
- reaxtion formation
- reavtion formation
- reaftion formation
Etymology of REACTION FORMATION
The etymology of the term "reaction formation" can be broken down as follows:
1. Reaction: The word "reaction" originated from the Latin word "reactio", which means a "renewed action or movement". It was derived from the Latin verb "reagere", consisting of "re-" (meaning "again" or "back") and "agere" (meaning "to do" or "to act").
2. Formation: The word "formation" has its roots in the Latin word "formationem", which means "a shaping or molding". It is derived from the Latin verb "formare", meaning "to form" or "to shape".
Therefore, "reaction formation" refers to the psychological defense mechanism in which an individual expresses thoughts or feelings that are the opposite of their own unconscious desires or instincts.
Similar spelling words for REACTION FORMATION
