Let’s Use Science, Not Trends, in Psychology

In recent years, psychology has gained a lot of attention in public discussions. Whether it’s self-help books topping best-seller lists, mental health awareness campaigns on social media, the increasing trend of therapy culture, or its inclusion in divisive political debates, psychology is more visible than ever. This visibility is a positive development, but it also brings a significant challenge—ensuring that psychology remains based on scientific evidence rather than being influenced by fleeting trends and political rhetoric.

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Despite the abundance of research, there is a concerning tendency for both practitioners and the public to favor popular trends over scientific rigor. It’s crucial to understand that not all research is of the same quality; the quantity of studies doesn’t necessarily reflect their thoroughness. It’s equally problematic to focus only on research that supports one’s opinions rather than considering multiple perspectives on the same topic (a.k.a. confirmation bias). It’s important to be transparent about the limitations of research, acknowledging that science is imperfect and there are always gaps in our knowledge. This approach can lead to interventions and views that are not only ineffective but also potentially harmful.

The Importance of Evidence-Based Practice

Evidence-based practice (EBP) is about using the best available evidence to make informed decisions about individual care. In psychology, this means blending clinical expertise with reliable research with consideration for the individual’s values and preferences.

The main goal of behavioral science is to provide the most effective services possible, improving outcomes while minimizing negative consequences. This requires open discussions about what is known and unknown and sharing both the benefits and potential risks of interventions. Unfortunately, the use of EBP in psychology, especially for diagnosis and treatment, isn’t as widespread as it should be. Research by Stewart, Chambless, and Stirman (2018) shows that many practitioners don’t consistently use evidence-based practices, relying more on clinical experience and patient values. Studies, such as those by Shimokawa et al. (2010), have shown that clinical judgment and experience alone aren’t always reliable. This ongoing gap between research and practice is concerning, as it undermines the effectiveness of psychological interventions and fosters public distrust in the potential benefits of psychological services.

The Appeal of Trends

Trends in psychology can be appealing for several reasons. They often promise quick and easy solutions to complex problems that are heavily marketed and shared on social media and can create a sense of community among those who follow them. For example, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has become very popular, partly because it is easy to understand and apply. While CBT has strong support from scientific research (David et al., 2018), its oversimplification and commercialization lead to misuse and overuse, ignoring the unique needs and contexts of individual cases. In reality, not everyone needs or benefits from psychological interventions, and misuse and overuse can actually have negative outcomes. For this reason, working with a professional who can explain and use EBPs is important.

Social media intensifies this issue. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are full of self-proclaimed mental health experts sharing tips and techniques, often without any scientific backing. These influencers reach millions of people, spreading information that isn’t always accurate or safe. This highlights the importance of critical thinking and skepticism, encouraging both practitioners and the public to examine their sources of information carefully.

The Risks of Ignoring Research

Ignoring research regarding trends can have serious consequences. Unproven interventions can waste time and resources, delay effective treatment, and even cause harm. For example, in the 1980s and 1990s, debriefing techniques after traumatic events became popular. However, later research revealed that not only were debriefings ineffective, but they were also potentially harmful, leading to adverse long-term effects, including an increased likelihood of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among those who received the intervention (Mayou et al., 2000).

Another example is the use of facilitated communication (FC) for individuals with communication disorders, recently highlighted in the Netflix documentary “Tell Them You Love Me.” Despite questionable research from the start, FC gained popularity in the 1990s. The persistence of this trend focused more on providing a service that many “wanted to work” rather than following the available evidence. This highlights the dangers of adopting unproven methods. Research continues to critically review and warn against the use of FC (Hemsley et al., 2018).

Bridging the Gap: From Research to Practice

Bridging the gap between research and practice in psychology requires a concerted effort from researchers, clinicians, and consumers. Here are some strategies to ensure that scientific evidence guides practice:

• Education and training: Clinicians must receive rigorous training in EBPs during their education. This includes learning how to evaluate research critically, apply findings to clinical practice, and stay updated with the latest developments. Clinicians should also disclose information about their training and licensure so consumers can research their qualifications. Additionally, consumers should be comfortable asking about a practitioner’s training.
• Continuing professional development: Ongoing education is crucial for clinicians to keep their skills and knowledge current. Professional organizations and continuing education providers should offer resources, workshops, and conferences rooted in EBP. Consumers should ask providers about their professional development activities to ensure they are up to date on best practices.
• Access to research: Clinicians need access to up-to-date research, which can be facilitated by subscribing to academic journals, participating in professional networks, and using online databases. Consumers can inquire about the professional organizations their providers belong to and where they obtain updated information.
• Promoting critical thinking: Encouraging a culture of critical thinking helps practitioners distinguish between effective and ineffective interventions. This involves questioning the validity of popular trends, examining the evidence behind them, and being open to changing practices based on new research findings. It’s also important to hold off on embracing popular trends until they are thoroughly reviewed.
• Public education: Educating the public about the importance of EBPs can reduce the impact of misleading trends. Public awareness campaigns, accurate media reporting, social media use, and accessible resources can empower individuals to be part of the discussion regarding their mental health care. Transparency is key—discussing both what is known and what is not helps build consumer trust and allows for informed decisions.

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Conclusion

Psychology has made significant strides in understanding and addressing various mental health and social issues. However, relying on trends over science threatens the integrity and effectiveness of psychological practice. By prioritizing EBPs, we can ensure that interventions are safe, effective, and tailored to individuals’ unique needs.

Behavioral health professionals have a responsibility to bridge the gap between research and practice, fostering a culture that values scientific rigor over popular appeal. Additionally, we must be transparent with consumers about what we know, allowing them to make informed decisions about their care. By doing this, we can provide the highest standard of care and truly make a difference in people’s lives.