Acting Out (Noun)
Meaning 1
(psychiatry) the display of previously inhibited emotions (often in actions rather than words); considered to be healthy and therapeutic.
Classification
Nouns denoting communicative processes and contents.
Examples
- The patient's outburst in the therapy session was a form of acting out, allowing her to release years of pent-up emotions.
- Through acting out, the individual was able to express and process the traumatic experience in a safe environment.
- The therapist encouraged the client to engage in acting out as a way to access and deal with repressed feelings.
- Acting out provided a healthy outlet for the patient's anxiety and frustration, helping to reduce stress and promote emotional balance.
- In the context of drama therapy, acting out was used as a tool to help participants confront and resolve deep-seated emotional conflicts.
Meaning 2
A (usually irritating) impulsive and uncontrollable outburst by a problem child or a neurotic adult.
Classification
Nouns denoting communicative processes and contents.
Examples
- The teacher struggled to manage the student's acting out in class, which often disrupted the lesson.
- Her acting out in public was a source of embarrassment for her family.
- The therapist worked with the patient to identify triggers for her acting out and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
- The child's acting out was a cry for attention, and the parents needed to address the underlying issue.
- After a few too many drinks, he started acting out, telling off-color jokes and offending the other party guests.