FAA Fundamentals of Instructing (FOI)The Learning ProcessMedium
A student pilot who is secretly terrified of solo cross-country flights begins loudly telling classmates and the instructor how much she 'can't wait' for her solo cross-country and volunteers to go first, even though her hands visibly shake before each lesson. Which defense mechanism is this student most likely displaying?
- AProjection
- BCompensation
- CRationalization
- DReaction formation
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Reaction formation
Reaction formation occurs when a person unconsciously expresses feelings or behavior that are the opposite of their true, often unacceptable, emotions; here the student masks genuine fear with exaggerated enthusiasm.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Projection involves attributing one's own unacceptable feelings or faults to someone else.
- B. Compensation involves covering a weakness by excelling in another area, not masking an emotion with its opposite.
- C. Rationalization involves creating logical-sounding excuses for a failure or shortcoming, not expressing opposite emotions.
Reaction Formation
A defense mechanism in which a person unconsciously expresses attitudes or behaviors opposite to their true, uncomfortable feelings.
- Masks true fear or dislike with exaggerated opposite display
- Unconscious, not a deliberate lie
- One of several ego-defense mechanisms discussed in the Aviation Instructor's Handbook
Memory trick: Reaction formation = wearing a smiling mask over a scared face.