John worries about his tendency toward abusing animals, so he joins the Association for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.John's behaviour can be viewed as an example of

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Reaction formation occurs when a person's conscious attitudes and behaviors are opposite to their true unconscious desires, thoughts, or feelings. In this case, John's unconscious desire may be to abuse animals, but he is consciously aware that it is wrong and thus engages in the opposite behavior of joining an organization that works to prevent animal cruelty. This is an example of reaction formation. Projection involves attributing one's own unacceptable desires or impulses to others, regression involves reverting to an earlier, less mature stage of development, and rationalization involves coming up with an explanation or justification for one's unacceptable behavior.

John Worries About His Tendency Toward Abusing Animals, So He