10 Psychological Defense Mechanisms

4. Reaction Formation

Behaving in a way opposite to how you feel. For example, when a person is romantically attracted to someone but adamantly claims that they dislike that someone.

5. Regression

Reverting to childlike patterns of behavior. For example, a student gets a bad grade on their test and screams and cries at their parents or teacher.

6. Repression/Denial

Pushing or burying thoughts and feelings that are distressing into the subconscious. For example, an addict will deny they have an addiction because they can function fine at work and at home. An example of repression would be a person who witnesses a crime being unable to remember the event.