idealise

Idealise refers to the act of viewing or representing something or someone as perfect or better than it or they actually are. This can manifest in various ways, often involving an overemphasis on positive qualities and a downplaying or complete omission of negative ones. In psychology, idealisation is a defense mechanism where an individual perceives another person as flawless, often to fulfill unmet needs or desires. This can be a common feature in the early stages of relationships, both romantic and platonic.

The term can also be used in a more general sense to describe a tendency to dream or fantasize about an idealized future or state of being. This form of idealisation can be a source of motivation and aspiration, but it can also lead to disappointment if reality falls short of expectations. In art and literature, idealisation is a technique used to portray subjects in a more perfect or noble light than they might appear in real life, often to convey a particular message or aesthetic. It is important to distinguish between healthy aspirations and unrealistic idealisation, which can hinder personal growth and lead to distorted perceptions.