Some people have a better tolerance and understanding of their brain’s psychological reactance. In some instances, when our psychological reactance runs wild, it can lead to fights, relationship issues and other problems. It can lead you to do the exact opposite of what you’re being told or asked to do, even when safety is involved. This response can make you feel annoyed, panicked or angry when rules or guidelines are put in place. It’s your brain’s reaction when you feel a threat to your freedom or think your choices are being limited. Everyone has some form of inner rebel that likes to question or do the opposite of what we’re told.”Įxperts call this feeling or need to rebel psychological reactance. “Resistance is engrained into our culture and brains from a young age. “No one really likes being told what to do,” says behavioral health therapist Jane Pernotto Ehrman, MEd, RCHES, ACHT. So how do we tame our need to revolt, especially when it has to do with our safety and those around us?Ī behavioral therapist explains how we can keep our ego from causing harm to ourselves and others. The pandemic has been tough on everyone, but even more so for our inner rebel who just can’t stand being told what to do. (We’re even being told not to hug grandma or get-together for the holidays!)

We’re being told to wear a face mask, practice social distancing and stay at home. Since we were little we’ve participated in some form or another of the same song and dance - we don’t like someone else telling us what to do, so we don’t do it or we act out.Īnd although the idea of rebelling against authority or rules is not new, the coronavirus pandemic has given it a modern, urgent twist. We want to be the ones calling the shots and making the rules. Adults get angry and defensive when told to eat veggies and to exercise, so they refuse.Īs humans, we crave independence and autonomy. Teenagers roll their eyes when asked to wear a seatbelt and, when no one is looking, they unbuckle. Toddlers are told not to throw the ball in the house, but they do it again anyway. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center.

What is the opposite of angry