11/24/2025
One of the symptoms of borderline personality disorder (BPD) is the cycle of idealization and devaluation. As a result of this all-or-nothing thinking, we may see people as either "all good" or "all bad".
Idealization is when a person is placed on a pedestal and viewed as perfect. Devaluation can cause us to view the same person as completely flawed or worthless. This pattern can also create unstable relationships (another symptom of BPD).
In Wicked, Elphaba is seen as "all bad" and Glinda is seen as "all good". At the same time, the movies teaches us to think dialectically and view people as complex and multi-faceted beings. We learn to see Elphaba's endearing and positive qualities and Glinda's personality flaws.
Moreover, we may also apply this black-and-white thinking towards
ourselves. One day, we make a mistake and view ourselves as completely useless or worthless. Another day, the wind is at our back and we feel invincible. One day we can see our life as wonderful and then the next day feel hopeless and fall into despair.
The solution is to use dialectics and check the facts to see things in a more wise-minded and nuanced way. We can use mindfulness to allow our thoughts to float by without engaging in them.
How has this pattern impacted your life? Do you plan on seeing Wicked 2? How was it? Let us know below.
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