Question

Give an example of how psychology is misportrayed and explain why your example is a misrepresentation of psychology.

Answer 1

Take a look at this article:
http://www.spring.org.uk/2007/03/revealed-eight-ways-media-distorts.php

The article shows us eight ways that the media misrepresents psychology.

People often do misunderstand psychology,
because of the way that it is shown on the news, on TV, and in movies.

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This isn't in the article, but I'll tell you about one misrepresentation that is really common.

Many people believe that "psychology" is the same as "psychotherapy,"
and that all psychologists are shrinks. Therapists.

It IS true that most psychologists are therapists.
But some psychologists are not therapists.

Some psychologists work for large companies,
giving advice on how influence product sales.

Some psychologists are sports psychologists,
showing people how to channel their motivation into physical activity,
so that they can play at their best,
and live healthier, happier lives.

Some psychologists are researchers,
who work in laboratories with rats and monkeys,
to research many topics,
such as brain function, and social influence.

Psychology is about much more than therapy, and the treatment of mental disorders.

"Psychology" is the study of the human mind, and behavior.

A psychologist's goal is to add to the amount of knowledge that deals with the human mind,
and to use that knowledge, in order to help build a better world.

And there are many ways to achieve that goal.

Therapy is only one of those ways.