Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Which of the following type of inversion is observed in reaction formation?
(A) Implicit
(B) Explicit
(C) Conscious
(D) Unconscious

Correct option is C

The correct answer is (B) and (D) only.
(B) Explicit: Reaction formation is a defense mechanism in which an individual consciously expresses the opposite of their true feelings or impulses. For example, a person who has feelings of hostility toward someone may go out of their way to act in an excessively friendly or affectionate manner. This behavior is explicit because it is outwardly expressed and can be easily observed by others.
(D) Unconscious: Reaction formation is typically an unconscious defense mechanism, meaning that the individual is not consciously aware of the true feelings or impulses they are repressing. The outward display of behaviors that are the opposite of the true feelings occurs automatically as a defense against anxiety or unacceptable emotions.
(A) Implicit is not typically associated with reaction formation, as implicit refers to internal or non-conscious processes that are not directly expressed outwardly.
(C) Conscious: Reaction formation operates unconsciously, as individuals are not aware of their underlying feelings. Therefore, it does not operate at a conscious level where the person deliberately chooses to express the opposite feelings.

Information Booster:

Repression:
The unconscious blocking of unacceptable thoughts, feelings, or memories from conscious awareness. For example, forgetting a traumatic event to avoid emotional pain.

Denial:
Refusing to accept reality or facts, often to avoid dealing with painful emotions. For instance, denying the severity of an illness.

Projection:
Attributing one’s own unacceptable thoughts, feelings, or impulses to someone else. For example, accusing someone of being angry when you are actually the one feeling anger.

Displacement:
Redirecting emotions or impulses from a threatening target to a safer, less threatening one. For instance, taking out anger on a family member after a bad day at work.

Rationalization:
Creating logical, but false, explanations for behaviors or feelings to justify them. For example, blaming failure on external factors rather than accepting personal responsibility.

Sublimation:
Channeling unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable or productive activities. For example, turning aggressive energy into competitive sports.

Regression:
Reverting to behaviors characteristic of an earlier stage of development when faced with stress. For instance, an adult throwing a tantrum when overwhelmed.

Reaction Formation:
Expressing the opposite of one’s true feelings to avoid anxiety. For example, acting overly kind to someone you dislike.

Identification:
Adopting the characteristics or behaviors of another person, often to cope with anxiety or bolster self-esteem. For example, a child imitating a parent’s behavior.

Undoing:
Attempting to “undo” a thought or action through reparative behavior. For example, apologizing excessively after making a mistake to alleviate guilt.