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What Is Devaluation?

In psychiatry and psychology, devaluation is a defense mechanism that is just the opposite of idealization. 1 It's used when a person characterizes themselves, an object, or another person as completely flawed, worthless, or as having exaggerated negative qualities

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Final answer:

Devaluation is a defense mechanism in psychiatry and psychology that involves perceiving oneself or others as completely flawed or worthless.

Step-by-step explanation:

In psychiatry and psychology, devaluation is a defense mechanism characterized by attributing exaggerated negative qualities to oneself, an object, or another person. It is the opposite of idealization and is used when someone perceives themselves or others as completely flawed or worthless.

For example, someone might devalue themselves by constantly putting themselves down, while another person might devalue a romantic partner by constantly finding faults and criticizing them.

Devaluation is a common defense mechanism that helps individuals cope with anxiety or to protect their self-esteem.

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