Final answer:
Protests during the COVID-19 pandemic against mask mandates and social distancing are an example of reactance, a response to perceived infringement on personal freedoms. The correct answer is option d.
Step-by-step explanation:
Protests against mask mandates and social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic can be categorized as an example of reactance. Reactance refers to a psychological reaction that occurs when people feel that their freedom to choose is being limited or threatened, prompting them to do the opposite of what is being sought. This is often seen when individuals believe their liberties are being infringed upon, as was the case with some people's protests against the measures governments enacted to control the spread of the virus.