The influence of pop psychology has increased due to social media use.

Pop psychology includes psychological information through books, television, blog posts, and social media.

Psychological language online is often oversimplified, misused, or lacking in context, which can be harmful.

Social media has transformed the way we talk about mental health. Increases in the use of social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and podcasts have helped reduce stigma, increase awareness, and encourage more people to go to therapy (Turner, Jernigan-Noesi, & Metzger, 2021). As a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 15 years of experience, I have personally seen the positive impact that technology can have in promoting mental health literacy and creating conversations that once felt taboo. When I first began using social media in 2009 to discuss psychology and mental health, very few licensed psychologists were active online. Many professionals were hesitant because of concerns about ethics, misinformation, and the challenges of translating complex psychological science into short-form content. While the landscape has changed dramatically, those concerns remain highly relevant today.

It's important to acknowledge why people look to pop psychology and online personalities for support. There are significant workforce shortages in mental health care, long waitlists, financial barriers, and a lack of provider diversity. Many individuals online are simply looking for connection, validation, and guidance wherever they can find it. That is why technology and social media can still play an important role in increasing mental health literacy and connecting people with resources. The key is transparency. A recent discussion online following Cheyenne Bryant’s appearance on the Joe Budden podcast has sparked a debate about degree, credentials, and who earns the right to use the term “doctor.” The public deserves to know whether someone is providing psychoeducation, coaching, advocacy, or licensed mental health treatment. Otherwise, we blur the lines, and the potential for harm increases.

What Is Pop Psychology?

The American Psychological Association defines popular (pop) psychology as psychological knowledge geared toward the general public. The term is often used to describe how psychological concepts are used to........

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