perceive (someone or something) as (something)
To regard, consider, or think of someone or something as having or exhibiting the characteristics of something. Often used in passive constructions. I know you don't perceive this issue as anything serious, but I'm warning you—it could escalate into a full-blown financial crisis! The thought of being perceived as a loser fills makes me feel worse than actually failing at something.
perceive someone or something as something
to think of someone or something as something or as displaying certain characteristics. I perceive Randy as sort of hotheaded. We all perceive this problem as solvable.