Bob talks rationally about the fact that his wife of 30 years has unexpectedly asked for a divorce and discusses the practical aspects of moving out, totally avoiding any show of emotion. This is an example of

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Intellectualization involves using logical and rational thinking to avoid or minimize emotional distress. Bob's discussion of practical aspects and avoidance of emotions is a clear example of intellectualization. Projection involves attributing one's own unacceptable thoughts and feelings to someone else, reaction formation involves expressing the opposite of one's true feelings, and splitting involves black-and-white thinking and categorizing people as all good or all bad. None of these apply to Bob's behavior in this scenario.

Bob Talks Rationally About the Fact That His Wife of 30