In psychology, reaction formation is a defense mechanism in which a person unconsciously replaces an unwanted or anxiety-provoking impulse with its opposite, often expressed in an exaggerated or showy way. For example, a person who is afraid of being seen as weak may become overly aggressive. Or, a person who is afraid of being seen as sexual may become prudish.
Reaction formation is a common defense mechanism that can be seen in people of all ages. It is often used to protect the ego from anxiety or conflict. However, reaction formation can also be harmful if it prevents people from expressing their true feelings and needs.
History of Reaction Formation
The concept of reaction formation was first introduced by Sigmund Freud in his 1915 paper “Repression.” Freud believed that reaction formation was a way for the ego to protect itself from anxiety by repressing unacceptable thoughts or feelings and then expressing the opposite of those thoughts or feelings.
For example, a person who is afraid of being seen as weak may repress their fear and instead become overly aggressive. Or, a person who is afraid of being seen as sexual may repress their sexuality and instead become prudish.
Related Characteristics of Reaction Formation
Some of the key characteristics of reaction formation include:
- Unconscious. Reaction formation is an unconscious defense mechanism. This means that people who use reaction formation are not aware that they are doing it.
- Exaggerated. Reaction formations are often exaggerated or showy. This is because people who use reaction formation are trying to convince themselves and others that they do not have the unwanted or anxiety-provoking impulse.
- Protective. Reaction formation is a defense mechanism. This means that it is used to protect the ego from anxiety or conflict.
- Harmful. Reaction formation can be harmful if it prevents people from expressing their true feelings and needs.
Academic Studies on Reaction Formation
There have been a number of academic studies on reaction formation. One study, published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology in 1989, found that people who used reaction formation were more likely to experience anxiety and depression. Another study, published in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology in 2000, found that people who used reaction formation were more likely to have problems in their relationships.
Conclusion
Reaction formation is a common defense mechanism that can be seen in people of all ages. It is often used to protect the ego from anxiety or conflict. However, reaction formation can also be harmful if it prevents people from expressing their true feelings and needs.
The psychoanalytical theory that as a defense mechanism, an individual will respond to unacceptable or threatening unconscious impulses by exhibiting (in their conscious actions) the opposite. For example, a subject vulnerable to abhorrent sexual desire may preach against such practices in the community.