Human Mind, Part 1: The Shame of Psychology

Part 1 of a 2-part post about my feelings on Psychology, Shame, Emotion, & the Human Mind:

Psychology is a very interesting subject, but far too many people these days don't give Psychology or Psychologists very much respect. I think it's because a lot of Psychologists & their avenues of thought (though not all) are kind of screwed up.

Freud had a lot of great ideas, but also some that were a bit "out there", or at least much more uncommon than he seemed to think. Too many Psychologists cling to those "extreme" concepts, and entirely base their thinking on them. Others think that Psychology is nothing more than applied Biology---nothing but neurons, synapses, & electro-chemical impulses. But that removes any element of heart, spirit, or soul---the truly human elements.

Other Psychologists seem to think that because they "understand it all", that they're somehow "above it all", like it doesn't apply to them. But that just distances them from their clients, and retards their ability to empathize with & help others. Then there are Psychologists who think that some behaviors & attitudes are perfectly healthy, when in reality they're quite mentally & emotionally unhealthy. This has little to do with their expertise in their field, but more to do with their own personal views & life values.

At any rate, far too many people think that Psychologists are just "screwed up", and that anyone who needs a Psychologist is inherently either "screwed up" or "weak" as a person. But Psychologists who have their heads on straight can be quite effective & helpful. I've known several people who have been to Therapy, Counseling, or whatever else you want to call it, & benefited greatly. Psychological Therapy/Counseling is about talking with someone who knows how the mind works, who can help you when you're in over your head. Sometimes it's having someone to talk with about your problems who won't feel like you're "burdening them". And sometimes it's just about having someone "safe" to talk to, who won't callously dismiss, judge, or criticize you & your problems.

Stay tuned for my own personal views on Psychology. In the meantime, just try to broaden your minds as to the benefits of Psychological Thought. Think about just how busy, harsh, confusing, & chaotic our world & society are. Sometimes people reach their limit. Sometimes people don't know what to think or feel, or how to handle their own emotions while trying to handle the entirety of life on this rock.

"Insanity in individuals is something rare--but in groups, parties, nations and epochs, it is the rule."