Regarding the defence mechanism of 'Reaction Formation', which example best illustrates it?

• A A man angry at his boss develops a headache
• B A child who fears a dog becomes fascinated by dogs and wants to be a vet ✓
• C A person forgets a traumatic event
• D An adult blames others for problems caused by themselves

Explanation

Reaction formation is a neurotic defence mechanism in which an unacceptable impulse is transformed into its opposite in behavior and attitude. Classic example: excessive love toward someone hated, or extreme cleanliness in someone with anal-aggressive impulses. The child who fears dogs becoming fascinated by them illustrates reaction formation — the anxiety is transformed into its opposite (attraction/interest). A headache from anger is somatization. Forgetting trauma is repression. Blaming others is projection. Reaction formation differs from true change by being excessive, rigid, and incongruent with context.

Reference: Kaplan & Sadock's Synopsis of Psychiatry, 11th ed.

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