Reaction formation is a psychoanalytic concept that is difficult for many people to grasp because it runs opposite to what we perceive. This is an example of reaction formation from the movie mean girls. Reaction Formation in Psychology: Definition & Example Counter Conditioning: Definition & Examples 5:14 Go to Behavioral Perspective in Psychology: Tutoring Solution Reaction formation: When people act in the direct opposite of the way they really want to behave, examples: 1. Let's jump right in and find out more about reaction formation. Reaction formation is the fixation in consciousness of an idea, affect, or desire that is opposite to a feared unconscious impulse. Reaction Formation. You'll discover examples of reaction formations. Psychoanalytic defense mechanisms, the ego unconsciously switches unacceptable impulses to their opposites. Like other defense mechanisms, reaction formation is not a conscious choice, with the person choosing to try and suppress desires, wishes, or beliefs. The term refers to a defense mechanism employed by people with deeply held thoughts and beliefs that they consider to be socially unacceptable. For example, a person may experience normal feelings of … A reaction formation is used to balance the ego-id-superego emotion of this "homosexual" living as a "heterosexual" in order to relieve the individual's anxiety. You'll even learn about how the reaction formation is related to defense mechanisms, a term you may already be familiar with. Reaction formation is a psychological term coined by the American criminologist Albert K. Cohen to describe a theory of Sigmund Freud's. Endocrine System. This is an example of reaction formation from the movie mean girls. The case of prominent Congressman Mark Foley (R-Florida), in 2006, might also be considered an example of reaction formation. A defense mechanism where an individual acts in a manner opposite from his or her unconscious beliefs. This one is the example of reaction formation. Humans have the unique ability to rationalize behavior, thought processes and emotions in order to make life seem more palatable. A homosexual who joined a gay hate group would be an example of reaction formation. Those behaviors primarily based on fake emotions are often smooth to identify. Another example of reaction formation is the angry person who behaves with exaggerated calm and courtesy. Freud believed that defense mechanisms helped us cope with the world around us by letting us repress our deepest unconscious fears. Reaction formation example As an instance, a father who feels guilt at resenting his child may match above and beyond to express showy love to the child underneath all occasions. Reaction formation It is a way of protecting the mind from uncomfortable thoughts or desires. Reaction Formation. 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