Posted by Daisym on December 31, 2004, at 16:48:20
In reply to Idealization, posted by Toph on December 31, 2004, at 14:23:01
I think the key words in your question are "want to" -- You asked, "why would we want to idealize"-- I don't think we want to. I think for some people it just happens. I bet if we had a thread about our therapist flaws, most of us could participate in some way. (I think we may have done that actually.) Idealization, the Golden Fantasy, whatever you want to call it, is a well documented transference phenomenon. Part and parcel of the process for some people.
On the other hand, I think it is helpful to believe that your therapist has the expertise and experience to help you. And when things get really rough, I think we need to believe that our therapists have super-human tolerance for tears, rehashing and negativity. I'm forever apologizing for "knowing" the answer but being unable to take action.
poster:Daisym
thread:436049
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20041228/msgs/436094.html