Terrence is a "gay basher." Reaction formation suggests that people like this may be ________.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Reaction formation refers to a defense mechanism in which a person unconsciously denies their own unacceptable feelings, thoughts, or behaviors and instead expresses the opposite in an extreme manner. In the case of a "gay basher," their extreme hatred and violence towards gay individuals may be a way of denying their own repressed same-sex desires. Therefore, the best choice is A: in deep denial that they themselves are closeted homosexuals.

Terrence Is a "Gay Basher