Which defense mechanism is at work when we unconsciously replace threatening inner wishes with exaggerated versions of their opposite?

reaction formation

Explanation:

As per the psychoanalytic theory of Sigmund Freud, reaction formation is referred to as a system of defense mechanism which states that an individual goes beyond denial and acts the opposite way he or she thinks or feels about. In other words, It is a psychological mechanism in which anxiety-producing or unacceptable feelings are replaced by their immediate opposites. It is usually identified by overt behavior, such as superficiality and compulsiveness.

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