What does reaction formation as a defense mechanism involve?

Reaction formation as a defense mechanism involves exaggerating opposite thoughts or behaviors to conceal or counteract unacceptable impulses or feelings. This psychological strategy allows individuals to transform anxiety-provoking emotions into their opposites. For example, someone who harbors feelings of anger or jealousy might display exaggerated friendliness or affection toward the person they feel negatively about. By adopting such overtly positive behavior, the individual defends against their true feelings, creating a buffer that protects their self-image and reduces internal conflict.

The other options describe different defense mechanisms. Refusing to accept painful realities relates to denial, attributing one's own threatening impulses to others reflects projection, and providing self-justifying explanations for actions is characteristic of rationalization. Each of these mechanisms serves to help individuals cope with psychological stressors, but they differ fundamentally in how they operate compared to reaction formation.