What might cause a person to exhibit reactance in social situations?

Reactance occurs when individuals feel that their personal freedoms or choices are being restricted or threatened, leading them to assert their autonomy in response. This psychological state typically arises in situations where a person's preferred course of action is blocked or where they perceive an external force imposing limitations on their choices.

For instance, if a person is told they cannot do something they would like to do, they may react by wanting to do it even more vigorously as a form of resistance against this perceived control. This concept is supported by psychological theories suggesting that people have a fundamental need for autonomy and self-determination. When that perceived freedom is threatened, it can trigger a motivation to re-establish it.

In contrast, the other provided options do not align with the concept of reactance. Having too much freedom in decision-making does not threaten autonomy and may lead to overwhelm rather than reactance. A lack of awareness of social norms relates to social behavior but does not directly provoke a sense of reactance. Similarly, a strong sense of compliance suggests a willingness to submit to social influences, which is contrary to the rebellious nature of reactance.