acting out1
/ˌaktɪŋ ˈaʊt/noun
1The action or an act of translating something into action; (Psychoanalysis ) the action or an act of expressing repressed or unconscious feelings in overt behaviour. Compare to act out.
2The action of behaving badly or antisocially as a deliberate response to an unwelcome or distressing situation. Compare to act out.
Origin
Mid 19th century. From acting + out, after to act out.
acting-out2
/ˌaktɪŋˈaʊt/adjective
Especially of a child or adolescent: that acts out, misbehaving. See to act out.
Origin
1940s. From acting+ out, after to act out. Compare earlier acting out.