Self-Idealization

Self-idealization is viewing oneself in an overly positive light, exaggerating strengths and minimizing flaws. It’s a defensive strategy to protect oneself from feeling insecure or vulnerable, providing a sense of self-esteem and protection from perceived threats. But the idealized self can also not measure up to one’s actual self, leading to unrealistic expectations, disappointment, or self-criticism. While not inherently pathological, self-idealization can be a component of narcissistic personality traits.