Which defense mechanism is an ego defense in which a client hides socially unacceptable thoughts or feelings with behavior that is considered appropriate?

• A. Sublimation
• B. Repression
• C. Projection
• D. Reaction formation

Answer: (D)

Reaction formation is when unacceptable thoughts or feelings are masked by presenting behavior that is socially acceptable or the opposite of what one truly feels. For example, someone who secretly feels anger toward a coworker might go out of their way to be excessively kind and supportive in public. The inner impulse remains hidden, while outward conduct looks appropriate. Sublimation channels the impulse into a constructive outlet rather than masking it with acceptable behavior. Repression keeps the thought out of conscious awareness without necessarily changing outward actions. Projection assigns one’s own unacceptable feelings to someone else, and regression involves retreating to earlier behaviors. So, the described defense best fits reaction formation.