Final answer:
Reaction formation is a defense mechanism where a person counters unacceptable impulses by behaving in the opposite manner. Cognitive dissonance is the mental discomfort from conflicting cognitions, leading to changes in behavior or beliefs. Understanding these behaviors is crucial for achieving successful self-regulation and personal growth.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept in question relates to a psychological behavior known as reaction formation, which is a type of ego defense mechanism. This complex behavior occurs when a person confronted with anxiety transforms unacceptable urges or desires by adopting the opposite stance. Instead of expressing the original impulse, the person's behavior will display the exact contrary. For instance, one might express love and care towards someone they actually harbor negative feelings for, in an effort to cope with the incongruity of their feelings. Similarly, scenarios that involve changing behaviors to align with a group's expectations, even if they contradict personal beliefs, is known as conformity and can sometimes be a response to cognitive dissonance.
Cognitive dissonance occurs when a person experiences mental discomfort due to holding conflicting beliefs or attitudes. This discomfort can be alleviated by making one's cognitions, attitudes, and behaviors more harmonious, which may involve rationalizing or outright denying the dissonance, or by adding new cognitions to justify behaviors.
Understanding these concepts is paramount for proposing improvements in self-regulation and in changing the perception of oppressive systems, as reflected in the goals one sets for oneself. This level of personal insight requires a strong commitment to change thinking and behaviors, and varies greatly depending on an individual's predispositions and circumstances.