Psychodynamics: defence mechanisms (reaction formation): practice question

A Psychiatry question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Psychiatry · Psychodynamics: defence mechanisms (reaction formation)

Sample item

A woman who unconsciously resents her mother-in-law behaves in an excessively warm and caring way towards her. The defence mechanism is:

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

B. Reaction formation

In reaction formation, an unacceptable impulse is converted into its opposite in conscious behaviour. It is a neurotic defence.

Option by option

  • A. Rationalisation

    Rationalisation gives logical but false reasons for behaviour.

  • B. Reaction formation (correct)

    Correct. Hostile feelings expressed as exaggerated affection is reaction formation.

  • C. Projection

    Projection attributes one's own feelings to others.

  • D. Displacement

    Displacement shifts emotion to a safer target.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Psychiatry question

What is the answer to this Psychiatry question?

The best answer is B, Reaction formation. In reaction formation, an unacceptable impulse is converted into its opposite in conscious behaviour.

Why is "Rationalisation" not the answer?

Rationalisation gives logical but false reasons for behaviour.

Why is "Projection" not the answer?

Projection attributes one's own feelings to others.

Why is "Displacement" not the answer?

Displacement shifts emotion to a safer target.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Psychodynamics: defence mechanisms (reaction formation) in Psychiatry. It is a neurotic defence.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Psychodynamics: defence mechanisms (reaction formation)?

Learn each diagnosis by its core features and its first-line treatment. Then use the flashcards and the other Psychiatry questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.