What term describes the psychological process that encompasses mechanisms like Reaction Formation?

The term that describes the psychological process involving mechanisms like Reaction Formation is "Defense Mechanisms." Defense mechanisms are unconscious psychological strategies used to protect a person's ego from anxiety or uncomfortable feelings. They help individuals manage internal conflicts and stressors by distorting or denying reality.

Reaction Formation, for example, is a specific defense mechanism where an individual reacts in the opposite way to what they truly feel. This can manifest as expressing feelings that are the polar opposite of one's anxiety-provoking thoughts or feelings, thereby preventing the individual from confronting their true emotions and the anxiety associated with them. This illustrates how defense mechanisms work to help a person cope with uncomfortable feelings.

In contrast, Emotional Intelligence refers to the ability to understand and manage one's own emotions and the emotions of others, which is not specific to psychological defenses. Coping Strategies are conscious efforts and techniques individuals employ to handle stressors, while Behavioral Responses refer to the actions taken by individuals in response to stimuli. While these concepts may relate to emotional and psychological processes, they do not specifically encompass the defense mechanisms that include Reaction Formation.