Misperceiving What's Attainable Aids Maladaptive Daydreaming
Psychology Today
by Leon Garber LMHCFebruary 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Maladaptive daydreaming is a compulsive fixation on fantasies that individuals perceive as attainable or even inevitable. This tendency often stems from distorted beliefs about what’s possible and owed, fueling unrealistic expectations and escapism. People with obsessive-compulsive traits are particularly prone to this behavior, which can impair decision-making and self-soothing mechanisms. Instead of confronting reality, they retreat into idealized scenarios that ignore potential challenges or discomforts. For instance, a aspiring singer might focus only on the thrill of performing in a grand arena while dismissing the grueling rehearsals, criticism, or stage anxiety that come with it.
The appeal of maladaptive daydreaming lies in its ability to offer temporary relief and validation. Those who engage in it often believe their fantasies are not just possibilities but eventual realities. This mindset is supported by cultural influences, such as dating apps that suggest love can be perfectly curated, or career aspirations that hinge on the belief that beauty or talent will guarantee success without obstacles. These distortions are further reinforced by flawed thinking patterns like overgeneralization, black-and-white thinking, mental filtering, and fortune-telling.
For example, someone might filter out the negatives of their chosen path, envisioning it as a reward for achieving high status or universal acclaim. This naivety often leads to dissatisfaction when reality falls short of expectations. Treating maladaptive daydreaming is challenging because individuals are emotionally attached to these fantasies, which provide comfort and validation despite their unrealistic nature.
Understanding maladaptive daydreaming matters for mental health because it highlights the dangers of escapism and unrealistic thinking. It underscores the importance of grounding fantasies in realistic self-reflection and acknowledging that true fulfillment often requires confronting discomfort and setbacks. Recognizing these patterns can help individuals make more grounded decisions, build resilience, and foster healthier coping mechanisms.
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Originally published on Psychology Today on 2/21/2026