idealizáció

Idealizáció is a psychological defense mechanism where an individual exaggerates the positive qualities of another person, object, or situation, while minimizing or ignoring the negative aspects. This process often occurs unconsciously as a way to cope with feelings of anxiety, insecurity, or disappointment. In essence, the idealized subject is perceived as perfect or flawless, fulfilling a need for something or someone to be unequivocally good.

This mechanism can manifest in various relationships, such as romantic partnerships, friendships, or family dynamics. For instance, someone might idealize a new partner, seeing them as the "perfect match" and overlooking potential incompatibilities or flaws. Similarly, individuals might idealize their childhood, remembering it as a time of unblemished happiness, even if reality was more complex.

While idealization can provide temporary comfort and enhance feelings of self-worth by association with the idealized object, it can also lead to unrealistic expectations. When the idealized subject inevitably fails to live up to this perfect image, the individual may experience significant disappointment, disillusionment, or even a swing to the opposite extreme, devaluing the person or situation entirely. This pattern of idealization followed by devaluation is often observed in certain personality disorders. Understanding idealization helps in recognizing how perceptions can be shaped by internal psychological needs rather than objective reality.