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

The concept of reaction formation is critical in understanding how individuals cope with feelings that might be deemed unacceptable. When a person employs reaction formation, they unconsciously transform an emotion into its opposite. For instance, someone who has feelings of anger or hostility towards another person might instead exhibit excessive friendliness or affection towards them. This defensive mechanism acts as a shield to protect the individual from the anxiety that could arise from confronting their genuine feelings.

In the context of reaction formation, it is essential to recognize that the emotional expression that appears on the surface is not indicative of the individual's true feelings. This can be particularly relevant in situations where societal norms discourage certain emotions, thus leading individuals to adopt behaviors that starkly contrast with their internal experiences.

The other defense mechanisms such as denial, projection, and rationalization serve different functions. Denial involves refusing to accept reality or acknowledging emotions, projection entails attributing one’s unacceptable feelings to others, while rationalization involves creating excuses for behavior that allows individuals to avoid confronting the true reasons for their actions. Each of these mechanisms operates differently and does not specifically relate to expressing the opposite emotion, which is the hallmark of reaction formation.