acting out

/æktɪŋ aʊt/
IPA guide

Definitions of acting out
  1. noun
    a (usually irritating) impulsive and uncontrollable outburst by a problem child or a neurotic adult
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    type of:
    blowup, ebullition, effusion, gush, outburst
    an unrestrained expression of emotion
  2. noun
    (psychiatry) the display of previously inhibited emotions (often in actions rather than words); considered to be healthy and therapeutic
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    type of:
    display
    exhibiting openly in public view
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