Psychological Reactance Theory

Psychological Reactance Theory explains how people tend to react against restrictions on their freedoms. When individuals feel that their choices are limited or threatened, they often assert their independence by wanting to do the opposite of what is being imposed. For example, if someone is told they can't have dessert, they may crave it even more. This theory highlights how autonomy is essential to human behavior, and when it's challenged, people may resist or rebel, seeking to restore their sense of control and freedom.