Theory (book) · 1966
A Theory of Psychological Reactance
Brehm JW
What it found
When people feel a freedom is threatened, they become motivated to restore it, often by doing the opposite of what they were pushed to do. This is 'psychological reactance'.
Where the evidence stops
A classic theory; the book itself is a framework, not a test. Used here only as background.
How it shapes Pursue
Pursue
Explains why muting an app can be a way of taking control back, and why Pursue treats a mute as information, not defiance.
A design input, not evidence that Pursue works.