What is pop psychology, and why is it so popular?

You have probably heard the term "pop psychology" (popular psychology). In Persian it is often called "yellow psychology", the same way sensational journalism is called the "yellow press". In this article I look at what pop psychology is, and why so many people find it more appealing than scientific psychology. When I was studying for my master's degree, I asked one of my lecturers this question. In their view, many of us would like our problems to solve themselves without any effort on our part. Ideas that convince people that everything is fate, or that problems disappear if you "send out good energy", are especially appealing to people who would rather not do the work of solving a problem.

What is pop psychology?

Pop psychology describes the popular beliefs and ideas about psychology that circulate in society. Many people are unsure whether pop psychology is accurate or built on myths and misconceptions. The meaning of "pop psychology" is sometimes mixed up with myths and fictional stories as well, which is worth keeping in mind.

Looking at common pop psychology myths can help us understand why this kind of psychology becomes so popular. It is not limited to any one country: pop psychology is common all over the world.

Pop psychology refers to psychological knowledge that is often repeated and understood by the general public. In some cases it contains a trace of scientific psychology, but much of it is based on trending topics on social media, popular mental health themes and lessons learned from therapy, presented in a very superficial way.

Pop psychology may draw on cognitive behavioural therapy, positive psychology, evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, psychotherapy, mindfulness and attachment theory, picking out selected ideas. These topics can help people better understand thoughts and feelings in different situations. When the knowledge is accurate, research-based and approached critically, it can have a positive effect on how the public sees psychology. But when misconceptions and myths spread, pop psychology can do harm. It may sometimes bring short-term comfort, but we should not ignore its costs.

One of the principles of good practice in psychology and counselling is to avoid bias, yet pop psychology is full of it.

Common pop psychology myths

There are several common myths and misconceptions that pop psychology plays up, and some can have harmful effects. Here are a few of the most popular.

Left brain and right brain

One of the most common myths in pop psychology is that people have either a "left-brained" or a "right-brained" personality. According to this idea, left-brained people are logical, analytical and detail-oriented, while right-brained people are creative, emotional and intuitive.

Neuroscience research shows that the brain is far more interconnected and complex than this left–right split suggests. Both hemispheres are involved in many different cognitive processes, and no one relies only on one side.

The "we only use 10% of our brain" myth

Another myth people may hear is that humans only use 10% of their brains. The idea has been around for decades and is kept alive by films and popular culture. As Scientific American has explained, people use far more than 10% of their brains, including during everyday tasks. Every part of the brain has a function, and most areas are active over the course of a day. Dr John Henley, a neurologist at the Mayo Clinic, has said that over a day people use essentially 100% of their brain.

Subliminal messages in advertising

You might wonder what hidden messages in advertising have to do with pop psychology. "Subliminal messaging" is the idea, often repeated in popular culture, that hidden messages in ads, films or music can influence our behaviour without us being consciously aware of them. It is true that the brain can process some information unconsciously, but the effects claimed for subliminal advertising are exaggerated. I can say this from eight years of working in digital marketing. Research suggests that hidden messages in ads have very little effect on behaviour and decision-making. In my view, they may play a small part in brand awareness, but they have no miraculous effect on the unconscious mind. (Source: BetterHelp)

Pheromones

A pheromone is a chemical that triggers a social response in members of the same species. Pheromones have been studied in many animals and are common in the animal kingdom. Although many brands advertise "pheromones" in their products to increase attractiveness, no human pheromone has been reliably identified, and even researchers who believe they exist have not been able to document one.

So buying a perfume that its makers say contains "pheromones" may have a placebo effect on you, but nobody has found a pheromone that can be measured, or added to products such as perfume, that makes people more attractive.

How pop psychology affects everyday life

Although pop psychology has its myths and misconceptions, it may also make some valuable contributions:

Raising public awareness of, and interest in, psychology

Pop psychology often sparks curiosity and interest in psychological ideas. By making psychology more accessible, it can encourage people to explore the field. As more people pay attention to psychology, communities may begin to push back on misconceptions, educate their members about harmful stereotypes and notice the mistakes in pop psychology itself.

Encouraging self-reflection and personal growth

Many pop psychology ideas, such as a growth mindset or emotional intelligence, can encourage people to reflect on their thoughts and behaviour, and that self-reflection can lead to personal growth.

A conversation starter and common ground

Pop psychology can act as a conversation starter, helping people connect over a shared interest in psychological ideas. Talking about these ideas can lead to deeper, more meaningful conversations and create common ground.

Reducing the stigma of seeking help

Many people are afraid to seek professional help because they believe that talking to a therapist is a sign of weakness. Studies have shown that men are less likely to seek support, often because they hold these beliefs about therapy. Someone who sees an interesting fact about mental health online may develop a more positive view of psychology if it resonates with them. For example, if they watch a social media video about the signs of depression and recognise those signs in themselves, they may be more likely to seek help.

A responsible approach to pop psychology

Pop psychology can have benefits, but it is most valuable when we approach it responsibly and with care. Here are some tips for engaging with it while keeping a healthy, balanced perspective.

Learn from a range of sources

Pop psychology may explain psychological ideas, but it is important to recognise that it may not give the most accurate or complete information. To understand a topic better, look at other sources such as academic articles, books and reputable websites, rather than relying on one source. For example, before you believe what you see on social media, check several sources.

Avoid overgeneralising

Pop psychology often simplifies complex ideas, which can lead to overgeneralisation. People are diverse, and not everyone fits neatly into categories or labels. Be careful not to overgeneralise pop psychology ideas, or you may end up with problems and biases.

Cultivate healthy scepticism

When you come across pop psychology claims or ideas, approach them with healthy scepticism. Be willing to question information and consider other points of view. Remember that psychology is always evolving, and new findings may challenge or update existing ideas.

Share your knowledge responsibly

As you keep exploring psychology, you may be tempted to share what you learn with others. Talking about psychology can be valuable, but be careful about presenting pop psychology ideas as fact. Encourage others to think critically and to look for more information too.

What do you think about pop psychology? Is there an idea you think is pop psychology that many people wrongly believe?