idealization

idealization /ide·al·iza·tion/ (i-de″il-ĭ-za´shun) a conscious or unconscious mental mechanism in which the individual overestimates an admired aspect or attribute of another person.

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Patient discussion about idealization.

Q. When should I stop? As part of my efforts to lose weight, I worked a lot about accepting myself – that less-than-perfect body is also an acceptable option. And now, after losing weight but not reaching my ideal weight, I have these doubts- Should I continue my efforts to lose weight, although I feel good about my self? What do you think?

A. I truly believe that if you are happy with your weight loss, even though you say you have not reached your ideal weight or goal, be proud of who you are and what you have acomplished. There is no such thing as the perfect body image, at least not as far as i'm concerned. I feel that you have to love yourself for what's on the inside because the outside always changes (i.e. age, loss of hair, teeth, etc...) I had gastric bypass in 2005 and lost 90 lbs. I still have not reached my goal of 125-127 lbs. where I used to be 10 years ago, but I love "who" I am today. I am 140 lbs. of fantastic and some days I look at me and feel different but feel blessed that I am healthy and alive...Hope this helps