I think we have all at some point in time spent considerable amounts of time in front of the mirror, whether it was to perfect makeup, add the final touch to a hair-do, or double check to make sure we still look presentable. I think part of the obsession with mirrors may lay in the sense of security and boosts in self-confidence that a mirror image of yourself can offer, especially if this image is to your satisfaction. Did you know humans, we are one of many animals who can successfully recognize their own mirror image? Other animals out there often view their mirror image as a threat and quickly ready themselves for a potential attack (or even initiate an attack) (ever notice a Beta fish flare up when it sees its own image reflected on a mirror or shiny aquarium wall? How about a cat hissing at its mirror image with a puffy tail?). Some researchers even believe that mirror image recognition goes hand in hand with social sensitivity and self-awareness. Since babies and young toddlers cannot yet identify their own mirror images, their social awareness have been found to begin around 18 months of age, when they are able to recognize themselves in the mirror. Other researchers have proposed that obsessions with mirrors may also result from mirror images being perceived more favorably. People have been found to think of viewed mirror images of themselves as more beautiful or handsome as compared to a photograph taken of themselves in the same pose (which would show the actual image of that person). Ever tried taking a picture of yourself after you found yourself looking good (in the mirror) only to be disappointed that the picture appeared to fail to project the same image? Your better-looking mirror image may be to blame for that. 