An adult facing a lot of stress at work might start behaving more childishly at home, such as throwing a minor tantrum or sulking when things don’t go their way. By reverting to these childlike behaviors, they’re unconsciously trying to feel safe and comforted, like they did in childhood.

Suppose someone has intense feelings of aggression or anger. Instead of acting out in harmful ways, they might take up boxing or martial arts, using these sports as an outlet for their aggressive energy. This way, they transform their intense feelings into a healthy, constructive activity, which can even bring them a sense of accomplishment and self-discipline.

A person frustrated with their boss comes home and takes it out on a family member by snapping at them. Here, they shift their anger from the boss to a safer target, even though the family member wasn’t involved in the original issue.

A person frustrated with their boss comes home and takes it out on a family member by snapping at them. Here, they shift their anger from the boss to a safer target, even though the family member wasn’t involved in the original issue.

Imagine a person who is feeling insecure about their own abilities at work. Instead of acknowledging their insecurity, they begin to believe that their colleagues are critical or judgmental toward them. They might say, "Everyone here is so competitive and out to get me," even though this may not be true.