Does self-help ... help? The problem with pop psychologyDoes self-help ... help? The problem with pop psychology
All In The Mind
This episode was first broadcast in June 2021. Have you ever tried a self-help book? Did it… well, help? On All in the Mind this week, why self-help sometimes falls short ... and the problem with pop psychology more generally.
29:09•8 Apr 2023
The Truth About Self-Help: Pop Psychology Under Scrutiny
Episode Overview
- Power posing caught on despite weak scientific backing.
- Pop psychology often oversimplifies complex issues.
- Replication is vital for validating psychological studies.
- Self-help can offer guidance but requires careful scrutiny.
- Grit may not be as effective as once thought.
“"Power posing is not very time-consuming, but does it really work?"”
Ever wondered if those self-help books really make a difference? This episode of 'All In The Mind' questions the effectiveness of popular psychology, diving into the viral phenomenon of 'power posing' and its shaky scientific foundation. Host Sanna Kadar and guests Jesse Singel and Nick Haslam unpack the allure of quick fixes in psychology and the dangers of oversimplifying complex societal issues.
From the rise and fall of power posing to the grit craze, this episode critiques the tendency to chase easy solutions to life's challenges. The conversation is both enlightening and humorous, revealing how popular psychology can sometimes fly ahead of solid scientific evidence. It's a call to be sceptical and informed, reminding us that while some self-help can offer valuable guidance, it's crucial to differentiate between genuine advice and overhyped claims.
If you've ever been tempted by a quick fix, this episode might just change your perspective. How can we better assess the credibility of self-help advice? Tune in for a refreshing take on the pitfalls and potential of pop psychology.

Do you want to link to this podcast?
Get the buttons here!
More From This Show
The latest episodes from the same podcast.
Related Episodes
Similar episodes from other shows in the catalogue.
