Psychology and Popular Culture 2500-EN-PS-EAc-23

Psychology has often been a topic treated in popular film (movies and
television). Mental illness, therapeutic practices, human experimentation,
and client-practitioner relationships, have been and continue to be
represented with varying degrees of accuracy and authenticity. Such film
treatments have run the gamut from comedy to drama. At best, some
films have arguably helped foster social change, while at worst others
have portrayed Psychology and psychological issues in inaccurate and
potentially damaging ways. While such representations, both positive and
negative, can influence public impressions of the field, such popular art
can also have consequences for the professional as well. Through a
careful examination of selected films, students will develop a deeper
appreciation of the role such art may play in influencing public perception
of Science in general and Psychology in particular. By attaining greater
understanding of how popular culture may impart problematic
perceptions of the field, the student will be better versed and better able
to anticipate and address biases and misconceptions of the public.