Reaction formation is a defense mechanism in which people express the opposite of their true feelings, sometimes to an exaggerated extent. For instance, a man who feels insecure about his masculinity ...

Reaction formation can be defined as the superficial adoption—and, often, exaggeration—of ideas and impulses that are diametrically opposed to one’s own. Examples A man unconsciously finds himself ...

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Mark Travers writes about the world of psychology. Many people come to therapy with complaints about their relationships, often ...