SELF DELUSION Meaning and
Definition
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Self-delusion is a psychological phenomenon characterized by a person's tendency to deceive themselves, creating fictional narratives or beliefs that contradict reality. It involves a strong, often unconscious, inclination to cling to beliefs or perceptions that are in conflict with evidence, logic, or common understanding. Individuals engaging in self-delusion often exhibit a remarkable ability to rationalize their thoughts, actions, or circumstances, thereby distorting or misinterpreting reality to align with their desired beliefs.
The concept of self-delusion encompasses a wide range of cognitive biases, including confirmation bias, wishful thinking, and cognitive dissonance. It often occurs when individuals desperately desire a certain outcome or hold a deep-seated fear, leading them to unconsciously create distorted interpretations that support their hopes or allay their fears. Self-delusion can manifest in various aspects of life, including personal relationships, professional aspirations, religious beliefs, or perceptions of oneself.
Engaging in self-delusion can have detrimental effects on an individual's well-being and decision-making abilities. It can prevent individuals from recognizing and addressing their flaws, inhibiting personal growth and hindering the development of healthy relationships. Moreover, self-delusion may hinder critical thinking skills, as individuals become increasingly resistant to acknowledging facts that challenge their self-created beliefs.
Overcoming self-delusion often requires introspection, self-awareness, and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths. It involves developing a more objective mindset and actively seeking out evidence or perspectives that contradict one's preconceived notions. By embracing a more realistic worldview, individuals can foster personal growth, make more informed decisions, and enhance their overall mental and emotional well-being.
Common Misspellings for SELF DELUSION
- aelf delusion
- zelf delusion
- xelf delusion
- delf delusion
- eelf delusion
- welf delusion
- swlf delusion
- sslf delusion
- sdlf delusion
- srlf delusion
- s4lf delusion
- s3lf delusion
- sekf delusion
- sepf delusion
- seof delusion
- seld delusion
- selc delusion
- selv delusion
- selg delusion
- selt delusion
Etymology of SELF DELUSION
The word "self-delusion" is composed of two parts: "self" and "delusion".
The term "self" originates from the Old English word "self" or "sylf", which means "one's own person", "individual", or "identity". Its roots can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*selbaz".
Meanwhile, the word "delusion" comes from the Latin word "deludere" which means "to deceive" or "to mock". "Deludere" is made up of two Latin words, "de" meaning "from" or "away", and "ludere" meaning "to play".
Combining these two words, the term "self-delusion" refers to the act of deceiving or tricking oneself. It denotes a state in which an individual holds false beliefs or ideas about themselves, their abilities, or their circumstances.
