The ability to conceptualize oneself psychologically is the chief variable by which to measure maturity; and to conceive of one's impulses is to achieve some measure of control over them. Measurements by self-report of the success of therapy or of 'adjustment' are thus liable to error. They may accept as normal or mature a conventional or idealized self-portrait which issues from a nonpsychological attitude founded on repression, denial, or avoidance. A more psychologically-minded person may report a less ideal image even though, through the ability to conceptualize his inner life and the capacity for detachment and self-criticism, he may be more 'normal' than the more numerous nonpsychologically-minded people.