My therapist told me that the way people perceive us, or whether they like or dislike us, is out of our control

And I strongly disagree. I gave her an example of the way public figures manipulate their image to be perceived a certain way, to gain votes, or favours, etc...., and I told her that in a capitalistic world, it's very important that I understand how to do this.

And she told me that it's not true???
Huh??? You want me to pay you 11dollars per session to lie to me just because you don't have answers to my questions??? Don't bulls.hit me lady!

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Zeusdelight · 61-69, M

Public figures create an image in the hope of being perceived a certain way, but they cannot control he we decide to perceive them.

They can create whatever image they like, but we will take that image and other things from our experience, knowledge, tastes and other things to determine how we perceive them.

For example, if you are a strong Republican supporter every Democrat will create their choice of image. You may not even consider the image provided, you will perceive them in your own way because of the strength of your party support.

There is nothing anyone can do to control how you perceive them.

assemblingaknob · 26-30, F

@Zeusdelight yes, but their persona is aimed at a target audience. So people of a certain mindset will still support them regardless of their other flaws!

Zeusdelight · 61-69, M

@assemblingaknob But it is still the choice of the people of a certain mindset to perceive them that way. Beauty, as well as perception, is in the eye of the beholder.