When something planned has the opposite effect to what was wanted, causing harm to the person who started it.
From 'back' (returning) + 'fire' (to shoot). Originally a literal term in engines and firearms when ignition happened unexpectedly in the wrong direction.
Studies on 'psychological reactance' show that backfires often happen when you try to persuade someone too hard—their brain rebels against pressure, which is why tough punishment sometimes makes people commit more crimes, not fewer.
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