idealizing transferences

Idealizing transferences occur when a person projects positive qualities onto someone else, often a therapist or significant figure, based on their hopes or desires. It's like seeing someone as perfect or flawless because it aligns with the individual's ideal image or feelings. This helps the individual feel safe or valued but can also distort reality. Recognizing these transferences is important in therapy, as it allows for deeper understanding of underlying needs and helps ensure that relationships are based on genuine understanding rather than idealized perceptions.