In psychology, reactance is an unpleasant motivational reaction to offers, persons, rules, regulations, advice, recommendations, information, and messages that are perceived to threaten or eliminate …

Initially proposed nearly 60 years ago, psychological reactance theory (PRT; J. W. Brehm, 1966) describes how people respond to threats to, or elimination of, valued freedoms.

Aug 25, 2023 · The phenomenon of psychological reactance is centered around threats to freedom and the motivation to regain them. When an individual believes their freedom to feel, think, or behave a …

Learn what psychological reactance is, its effects on behavior, and why it leads us to resist rules or advice. Includes clear, relatable examples.

This article explains psychological reactance, its scientific basis, its effects on mental health, and strategies for reducing it, particularly in therapeutic and health communication contexts.

Reactance theory suggests that when individuals perceive their freedom of choice is being restricted, they experience psychological reactance, a motivational state aimed at reclaiming that freedom. This …

Feb 21, 2025 · When these freedoms are threatened or eliminated, individuals experience a motivational state called “psychological reactance.” This state is characterized by a desire to restore the lost …

5 days ago · The psychological reactance theory proposed by the American psychologist Sharon Brehm defines psychological reactance as a motivational state that arises from a kind of resistance …

Sep 14, 2024 · Explore psychological reactance theory, its manifestations, and impact on behavior. Learn strategies to manage reactance in various contexts and improve persuasion.

Jun 11, 2025 · This common, yet often perplexing, human tendency has a name in psychology: psychological reactance. What is Psychological Reactance? Psychological reactance is an aversive …