What kind of self-perception leads to incongruence?

Incongruence in person-centered therapy refers to the disparity between an individual's self-image (how they see themselves) and their ideal self (how they wish to be). A rigid and unrealistic ideal self can create a significant gap between who a person truly is and who they believe they should be. This constant feeling of not measuring up to an unattainable standard often leads to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and low self-esteem.

When individuals set fixed and unrealistic expectations for themselves, they are likely to struggle with accepting their true feelings and experiences, which are often more nuanced and may not align with their rigid self-perception. This lack of acceptance fosters incongruence, as the individual may be unable to reconcile their real self with their perceived ideal. This dissonance is central to various psychological issues and is a primary focus of person-centered therapy, which aims to create a supportive environment where clients can explore and align their self-perception with their inner experiences.

In contrast, a balanced view of personal abilities, a flexible understanding of emotions, and an accurate assessment of external feedback are more likely to promote congruence, leading to healthier self-perceptions and overall mental health.