How to Think Critically About Psychology

About this resource

Psychological claims are everywhere—from social media and self-help books to podcasts, news articles, therapy websites, and everyday conversations.

But something sounding psychological, persuasive, or even scientific does not necessarily mean the evidence supports it.

This introductory PsyMosaïque resource explores some of the basic tools of scientific and critical thinking that can help us evaluate psychological information more carefully.

In this resource, you'll explore:

• What psychology actually studies• Why psychology is considered a science• How testable predictions help us evaluate claims• Curiosity, skepticism, and intellectual humility• The difference between subjective experience and factual claims• Anecdotes versus systematic evidence• How to evaluate psychology and self-help content online• The PsyMosaïque Critical Thinking Checklist

Why start here?

PsyMosaïque was created to explore psychology through research, context, and multiple perspectives. Before asking readers to engage with the psychology we publish, we think it's important to provide the tools to question it.

You should never need to accept a psychological claim simply because it appears here—or anywhere else.

Look at the evidence. Ask where information comes from. Consider alternative explanations. Notice uncertainty. Stay willing to revise your conclusions.

That's part of psychological literacy, too.