15 Must-See Psychology Documentaries
Delving into psychology and neurosciences can be complex through text alone. Documentaries offer a dynamic way to explore these fascinating fields. Here is a curated selection of essential documentaries to deepen your understanding of the human mind and behavior.
Social Psychology Documentaries
These documentaries illuminate how societal forces shape individual and collective behaviors, offering critical perspectives on human interaction and influence.
1. The Act of Killing (2012)
Nominated for an Oscar, The Act of Killing features Anwar Congo and Herman Koto, former Indonesian paramilitaries, as they reenact and recount mass killings committed during the Cold War. The film starkly illustrates dehumanization and objectification of enemies, common psychological processes in contexts of systematic extermination and genocide, highlighting perpetrators’ impunity.
2. The Shock Doctrine (2009)
Based on Naomi Klein’s influential 2007 book of the same name, this documentary explores how unpopular political measures can be implemented by exploiting public crises and fear to establish a state of permanent exception.
3. Psychological Warfare (2010)
This film examines contemporary techniques and maneuvers used to steer public opinion on various issues, influencing millions through propaganda and public relations. It features insights from prominent figures.
4. Manufacturing Consent: Noam Chomsky and the Media (1992)
Linguist and philosopher Noam Chomsky explains how the public is misled, often through misrepresentation or omission of crucial information, hindering free decision-making. Chomsky argues that overt censorship is unnecessary for creating uniform public opinion; instead, an inundation of insignificant data effectively masks the absence of vital information. This provides key insights into how theoretical freedom can coexist with remarkably similar widespread opinions.
Educational Psychology Documentaries
Explore the dynamics of learning, teaching, and educational systems with these insightful documentaries.
5. The Finland Phenomenon (2011)
This documentary delves into the world-renowned Finnish education system, examining its success factors and its emphasis on values-based education.
6. The Forbidden Education (La Educación Prohibida) (2012)
An independent Argentine film that critiques the shortcomings of conventional education and its impact on youth. While proposing alternative educational models, the documentary also highlights the complexities in fully defining solutions to current educational gaps.
Psychology and Neuroscience Documentaries
Uncover the mysteries of the brain and its intricate connection to our psychological experiences.
7. Mystical Brain (2006)
Researchers investigate the neural processes that occur during meditation and mystical experiences, exploring the brain’s role in spiritual phenomena.
8. Total Isolation (2008)
What happens when the brain is completely deprived of external stimuli? This documentary explores the cerebral activity of individuals in total isolation, revealing profound insights into consciousness and perception.
9. The Man with 7 Second Memory
This concise documentary chronicles the life of Clive Wearing, who suffers from severe anterograde and retrograde amnesia due to hippocampal damage. Like the protagonist in “Memento,” his immediate memories vanish every seven seconds.
10. Is Seeing Believing? (2010)
A journey through the brain’s physiological and cognitive processes that explain optical illusions. This segment specifically elucidates the McGurk Effect, demonstrating how visual and auditory information interact to influence perception.
Developmental Psychology Documentaries
Trace the evolution of human thought, language, and social interaction across the lifespan.
11. Why Do We Talk?
This documentary meticulously explains the mechanisms of language acquisition and use, making it essential viewing for anyone interested in language development within psychology.
12. The Secret Life of the Brain (2002)
Focusing on the development of the human brain, this series explores the psychological stages that accompany neurological changes throughout an individual’s life.
Psychology and Mental Disorders Documentaries
These films offer intimate and informative perspectives on mental health conditions, challenging stigmas and fostering understanding.
13. María and I (María y yo) (2013)
This documentary offers a poignant and valuable exploration of autism, focusing on the specific case of a person with the disorder. It provides a firsthand look into the life and experiences of an autistic individual.
14. My Bipolar Son (Mi Hijo Bipolar)
Addressing the challenges of parenting and living with young individuals experiencing bipolar disorder. This documentary provides personal accounts and insights.
15. 1% Schizophrenia (1% Esquizofrenia) (2006)
This film actively counters the trivialization and prejudices often associated with schizophrenia, promoting a more empathetic and informed understanding.
Economic Psychology Documentaries
Discover the psychological underpinnings of financial decisions and market behavior.
16. Mind Over Money (2010)
This documentary investigates the psychological factors that drive decision-making in finance and economics, offering insights into human irrationality and biases in financial contexts.