Which defense mechanism involves expressing the opposite of an unacceptable impulse?

• A. Denial
• B. Reaction formation
• C. Dissociation
• D. Fixation

Answer: (B)

Expressing the opposite of an unacceptable impulse is reaction formation, a defense mechanism where the ego converts troubling thoughts or feelings into their opposite to reduce anxiety. This happens often without the person’s awareness, serving to protect self-image by outwardly showing a contrasting attitude or behavior.

For example, someone who feels anger toward a coworker might go out of their way to be unusually kind and accommodating. Another person who feels aggressive urges might become excessively moralistic or overly chivalrous as a way to mask those impulses.

This isn’t about reality denial, dissociation, or lingering at a developmental stage. Denial involves refusing to accept reality; dissociation is a separation of thoughts or identity from awareness; fixation is getting stuck at a certain developmental point. Reaction formation specifically couples the unwanted impulse with its direct opposite in outward behavior.