AP Psychology Practice Test

Which defense mechanism is characterized by unconsciously switching unacceptable impulses into their opposites?

1. Displacement

2. Sublimation

3. Reaction Formation

4. Projection

The correct answer is: Reaction Formation

The correct answer is reaction formation. This defense mechanism involves unconsciously transforming unacceptable thoughts or feelings into their opposite. For example, a person who feels hostility toward someone may consciously exhibit an exaggerated affection for that person instead. This serves to disguise the true feelings, allowing the individual to avoid the anxiety associated with those unacceptable impulses. In contrast, the other options relate to different processes. Displacement involves redirecting emotions from a true source to a safer substitute. Sublimation involves channeling unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable activities, such as taking out frustrations through creative expression or exercise. Projection entails attributing one’s own unacceptable feelings or thoughts onto someone else, rather than managing them personally. Each of these mechanisms addresses emotional conflict differently, but only reaction formation specifically refers to converting impulses into their opposites.