Emily, a high-achieving student, has a huge crush on Jaxon,, a boy in her class who has a reputation for being a 'bad influence' and doing drugs. Rather than acknowledge her feelings, she begins acting rude toward him. What type of defense mechanism is this an example of?

• A. Denial.
• B. Projection.
• C. Regression.
• D. Reaction Formation.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the situation: Emily has a crush on Jaxon but acts in a way that is opposite to her true feelings.
2. Understand the concept of defense mechanisms: These are unconscious psychological strategies used to cope with reality and maintain self-image.
3. Define Reaction Formation: It is a defense mechanism where an individual behaves in a manner opposite to their true feelings or desires.
4. Analyze Emily's behavior: She is acting rude towards Jaxon, which is contrary to her actual feelings of affection.
5. Conclude that Emily's behavior is an example of Reaction Formation, as she is displaying actions that are opposite to her true emotions to cope with her feelings.