identify a common defense mechanism that protects you from an uncomfortable feeling

reaction formation

abstinence

mature behaviors

acceptance

1 answer

The correct answer is reaction formation. Reaction formation is a defense mechanism in which an individual unconsciously transforms an uncomfortable feeling into its opposite. For example, a person who feels hostile toward someone might behave excessively friendly toward them. This mechanism helps individuals cope with anxiety or uncomfortable feelings by displaying behaviors that are contradictory to their true feelings.