Author Archives: Shervan K Shahhian, LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION, The Most Comprehensive Online Library Regarding Mental Health, Psychology and Parapsychology in the World.

What is Psi phenomena?

Psi phenomena, also known as psychic phenomena or paranormal phenomena, refers to a range of unexplained or unconventional phenomena that are purportedly related to the human mind’s ability to perceive or interact with information or events beyond the scope of the known physical senses. Psi is often used as a general term to encompass various psychic abilities, such as telepathy, clairvoyance, precognition, psychokinesis, and remote viewing.

Here are brief explanations of some common psi phenomena:

Telepathy: The ability to perceive or transmit thoughts, feelings, or information between individuals without using the known physical senses.

Clairvoyance: The ability to obtain information about people, objects, or events at remote locations, without having any prior knowledge or sensory perception of them.

Precognition: The ability to gain knowledge about future events or situations that cannot be inferred through normal means.

Psychokinesis: The ability to influence or manipulate physical objects or events using the power of the mind, without any known physical interaction.

Remote Viewing: The ability to gather information about distant or unseen targets using extrasensory perception, often involving mental impressions or images.

It’s important to note that while many people claim to have experienced or witnessed psi phenomena, the scientific community generally remains skeptical due to the lack of robust empirical evidence supporting these claims. Research into psi phenomena continues, but it remains a topic of debate and investigation in parapsychology, a field dedicated to studying these purported phenomena.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Precognition?

Precognition refers to the purported ability to gain knowledge about future events or experiences before they occur through extrasensory perception (ESP) or other supernatural means. It suggests that an individual can obtain information about events or circumstances that are yet to happen, bypassing the conventional understanding of time and causality.In popular culture and fiction, precognition is often depicted as a form of clairvoyance or foresight, allowing individuals to predict specific details about future events. This concept has been explored in various mythologies, religious beliefs, and paranormal phenomena throughout history.It’s important to note that while many people claim to have had precognitive experiences, there is no scientific consensus supporting the existence of precognition or any other form of psychic ability. The scientific community generally views such claims as pseudoscience or the result of cognitive biases, coincidence, selective memory, or other psychological factors.Research into precognition and related phenomena, such as premonitions or prophetic dreams, remains a subject of ongoing debate and investigation within parapsychology, a field that explores paranormal phenomena. Shervan K Shahhian

What is ESP?

ESP stands for Extra-Sensory Perception. It refers to the alleged ability to receive or perceive information using senses beyond the five commonly recognized ones: sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch. ESP encompasses various paranormal or psychic phenomena that involve acquiring knowledge or awareness without relying on the known physical senses or logical reasoning.

There are several types or categories of ESP:

Telepathy: The ability to perceive or communicate thoughts, feelings, or information between individuals without using traditional sensory channels.

Clairvoyance: The ability to gain information about a person, object, location, or event through means other than the known senses, often referred to as “remote viewing” or “second sight.”

Precognition: The ability to perceive or predict future events or experiences before they happen.

Psychokinesis: The ability to influence or manipulate objects, events, or physical systems through the power of the mind alone, often referred to as “mind over matter.”

It’s important to note that the existence of ESP and its various forms is a topic of much debate and skepticism among scientists and researchers. While many people claim to have experienced or witnessed ESP phenomena, scientific studies have yet to provide conclusive evidence supporting its existence.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Sudden wealth syndrome?

“Sudden wealth syndrome” is a term that is used to describe a psychological and emotional condition that some individuals experience after coming into a large sum of money or acquiring significant wealth unexpectedly. It is not an officially recognized medical or psychiatric diagnosis but rather a colloquial term used to describe a set of symptoms and challenges faced by people who experience a sudden increase in wealth.

The syndrome is characterized by a range of emotional and behavioral issues that can arise from the sudden acquisition of wealth. These may include feelings of guilt, anxiety, or isolation, as well as difficulties in managing relationships and adapting to the new lifestyle and responsibilities that come with wealth. Individuals with sudden wealth syndrome may struggle to adjust to their newfound financial status and may find it challenging to make decisions related to their money and investments.

The syndrome can be attributed to a variety of factors, such as the rapid change in lifestyle and social dynamics, pressures from family and friends, and a lack of financial literacy or preparedness for managing significant wealth. It can also be influenced by existing psychological and emotional vulnerabilities that are exacerbated by the sudden influx of money.

People experiencing sudden wealth syndrome may benefit from seeking professional help, such as therapy or financial counseling, to navigate the challenges and emotional issues associated with their newfound wealth. Financial advisors and wealth management professionals can also provide guidance on managing wealth, making sound financial decisions, and developing long-term financial plans.

It’s important to note that not everyone who experiences a sudden increase in wealth will develop sudden wealth syndrome. People react differently to significant life changes, and individual experiences will vary.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Animal Psychology?

Animal psychology, also known as comparative psychology or ethology, is the scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of non-human animals. It involves investigating how animals perceive, learn, think, and interact with their environment and other individuals.
Animal psychologists seek to understand the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral aspects of animals through observation, experimentation, and theoretical analysis. They study a wide range of animal species, including mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, and even invertebrates, in order to identify similarities and differences in their psychological processes.
The field of animal psychology encompasses various sub-disciplines, such as:

Animal cognition: Examining an animal’s mental processes, including memory, problem-solving, decision-making, attention, and communication abilities.
Comparative behavior: Investigating the behavior of different animal species and comparing their social structures, mating rituals, territoriality, aggression, and other behavioral patterns.
Behavioral ecology: Focusing on how an animal’s behavior is shaped by its ecological environment, including factors such as foraging, predator-prey relationships, and habitat selection.
Animal welfare: Assessing the well-being of animals in captivity or in their natural habitats and developing strategies to enhance their physical and psychological welfare.
Applied animal behavior: Addressing behavioral issues in domesticated animals, such as dogs, cats, and horses, and providing behavior modification techniques to improve their welfare and strengthen human-animal bonds.
Animal psychologists employ a variety of research methods, including field observations, controlled experiments, neurobiological investigations, and computational modeling. They often collaborate with other disciplines such as biology, neuroscience, ecology, and veterinary science to gain a comprehensive understanding of animal behavior and cognition.
The insights gained from animal psychology not only deepen our knowledge of the natural world but also have practical applications in animal conservation, animal training, veterinary medicine, and understanding human behavior and mental processes through comparative studies.
Shervan K Shahhian

What are the Psychotropic medications?

Psychotropic medications, also known as psychoactive drugs, are medications that affect the brain and central nervous system, influencing a person’s mood, thoughts, perceptions, and behaviors. These medications are primarily used in the treatment of mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other psychiatric conditions. There are several classes of psychotropic medications, each with its own specific mechanisms of action and indications. Here are some common classes of psychotropic medications:

Antidepressants: These medications are used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and certain other conditions. Examples include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline (Zoloft), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta), and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) like amitriptyline (Elavil) and imipramine (Tofranil).

Antipsychotics: These medications are primarily used to treat psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. They can help manage symptoms like delusions, hallucinations, and disordered thinking. Examples include risperidone (Risperdal), olanzapine (Zyprexa), and aripiprazole (Abilify).

Mood stabilizers: These medications are used to stabilize mood and are commonly prescribed for bipolar disorder. They help prevent or manage episodes of mania or depression. Lithium is a commonly prescribed mood stabilizer, and other examples include valproic acid (Depakote) and lamotrigine (Lamictal).

Anxiolytics: These medications are prescribed to treat anxiety disorders and are also used for short-term relief of anxiety symptoms. Benzodiazepines such as alprazolam (Xanax) and lorazepam (Ativan) are commonly prescribed anxiolytics. Non-benzodiazepine medications like buspirone (BuSpar) may also be used.

Stimulants: These medications are primarily used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). They work by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, helping to improve focus and reduce hyperactivity. Examples include methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamine salts (Adderall).

Sedative-hypnotics: These medications are used to induce sleep or manage sleep disorders. They have a calming effect and can be prescribed for short-term use. Examples include zolpidem (Ambien), eszopiclone (Lunesta), and temazepam (Restoril).

It’s important to note that the use of psychotropic medications should always be prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare professional. The specific medication prescribed and dosage will depend on the individual’s diagnosis, symptoms, and overall health.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)? The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) is a publication by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) that serves as a standardized classification and diagnostic tool for mental disorders. It provides criteria and guidelines for the diagnosis and classification of various mental health conditions. The DSM is widely used by mental health professionals, including psychiatrists, psychologists, counselors, and clinical social workers. It helps clinicians in making accurate and consistent diagnoses, facilitating communication among professionals, and promoting research and treatment development. The DSM has gone through multiple revisions since its initial publication in 1952, with the latest edition being the DSM-5, which was released in 2013. Each revision reflects advancements in scientific understanding, research findings, and clinical knowledge regarding mental disorders. The DSM-5 includes diagnostic criteria for a wide range of mental disorders, such as depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders, bipolar and related disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., autism spectrum disorder), personality disorders, and many more. It’s important to note that the DSM is a controversial publication, and its diagnostic criteria and categorizations have been subject to ongoing debate and critique. Critics argue that it may lead to overdiagnosis, pathologize normal human behavior, and have potential cultural biases. Nonetheless, it remains a widely used resource in the field of mental health.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is the difference between Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy?

Hypnotherapy and psychotherapy are both forms of therapy aimed at helping individuals improve their mental and emotional well-being. While they share some similarities, there are distinct differences between the two approaches. Here’s an overview of each:

Hypnotherapy: Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic technique that utilizes hypnosis to induce a deeply relaxed state, known as a trance, in which the individual is more open to suggestion. The primary focus of hypnotherapy is to access the subconscious mind and promote positive changes in thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. During a hypnotherapy session, a trained hypnotherapist guides the individual into a trance state and may use various therapeutic techniques and suggestions to address specific issues. Hypnotherapy is often used to treat conditions such as phobias, anxiety, smoking cessation, weight management, and pain management.

Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy or counseling, is a general term that refers to a range of therapeutic approaches aimed at helping individuals understand and resolve their emotional and psychological difficulties. Psychotherapy involves conversations between the therapist and the client, with the goal of exploring the client’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to gain insight and promote personal growth. The therapist may use various therapeutic techniques and interventions based on different theoretical orientations, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, humanistic therapy, or family systems therapy. Psychotherapy can be long-term or short-term, depending on the individual’s needs and goals.

Key Differences:

Trance state: Hypnotherapy utilizes hypnosis to induce a trance state, whereas psychotherapy typically does not involve altered states of consciousness.
Focus: Hypnotherapy primarily focuses on accessing the subconscious mind and utilizing suggestions for positive change, while psychotherapy emphasizes understanding and resolving emotional and psychological issues through talk therapy.
Techniques: Hypnotherapy employs specific techniques and suggestions delivered during the trance state, whereas psychotherapy encompasses a broader range of therapeutic techniques and interventions depending on the theoretical approach used.
Applications: Hypnotherapy is often used for specific issues like phobias, addiction, and habit control, whereas psychotherapy is employed for a wide range of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and trauma.
It’s important to note that these distinctions are not absolute, and there can be overlap between hypnotherapy and psychotherapy in certain cases. Some therapists may integrate elements of hypnotherapy into their psychotherapy practice, and vice versa, depending on the needs of the individual. The choice between hypnotherapy and psychotherapy ultimately depends on the individual’s specific goals, preferences, and the expertise of the therapist.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is the difference between Psychotherapy and Psychiatry?

Psychotherapy and psychiatry are two distinct but related fields within the realm of mental health. Here’s an overview of the differences between them:

Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy or counseling, refers to a therapeutic approach that involves a trained professional helping individuals, couples, or groups work through emotional, psychological, or behavioral issues. Psychotherapists employ various techniques and theories to address mental health concerns, promote personal growth, and improve overall well-being.

Key points about psychotherapy include:

Focus: Psychotherapy primarily emphasizes the therapeutic relationship between the client and the therapist. The goal is to explore thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in a supportive environment to gain insight, develop coping strategies, and effect positive change.

Treatment Methods: Psychotherapy can involve different therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, humanistic therapy, family therapy, or mindfulness-based therapy. The specific approach used depends on the therapist’s training and the client’s needs.

Practitioners: Psychotherapy is provided by various mental health professionals, including psychologists, licensed professional counselors, licensed clinical social workers, and marriage and family therapists. These professionals typically hold advanced degrees and are trained in specific therapeutic techniques.

Psychiatry: Psychiatry is a medical specialty focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illnesses. Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MDs) or doctors of osteopathic medicine (DOs) who specialize in mental health and are qualified to provide a range of interventions, including psychotherapy and medication management.

Key points about psychiatry include:

Focus: Psychiatrists approach mental health issues from a medical and biological perspective. They diagnose mental disorders, prescribe medication, and provide comprehensive treatment plans. While psychiatrists can offer psychotherapy, their primary focus is often on the use of medications to manage mental health symptoms.

Treatment Methods: Psychiatrists may incorporate psychotherapy techniques into their treatment plans, but they typically rely on pharmacological interventions, such as prescribing medications to alleviate symptoms of mental disorders. They have extensive knowledge of psychopharmacology and can adjust medications based on the individual’s response.

Practitioners: Psychiatrists are medical doctors who have completed specialized training in psychiatry. They are authorized to diagnose mental disorders, prescribe medications, and provide other medical interventions. Due to their medical training, psychiatrists can also assess how physical health conditions may contribute to mental health concerns.

In summary, psychotherapy primarily focuses on talk-based therapeutic interventions delivered by mental health professionals, while psychiatry encompasses the medical diagnosis, treatment, and management of mental disorders, often utilizing medication in addition to psychotherapy. Both fields play important roles in supporting individuals’ mental health, and often work together in a collaborative manner to provide comprehensive care.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientific approach to understanding and modifying human behavior. It is based on the principles of behaviorism, which emphasize that behavior is learned and can be influenced by the environment. ABA is often used in the field of psychology and education to bring about positive changes in individuals with various behavioral and developmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

The primary goal of ABA is to increase socially significant behaviors while reducing challenging or maladaptive behaviors. It involves systematically analyzing behavior, identifying the factors that influence it, and implementing strategies to bring about desired changes. ABA focuses on observable and measurable behaviors and uses data collection and analysis to guide decision-making and track progress.

ABA techniques are based on a functional understanding of behavior, which means that behaviors are viewed as serving a purpose or function for the individual. ABA interventions are tailored to the unique needs of each person and are designed to teach new skills, improve communication and social interactions, and decrease problem behaviors.

ABA uses a variety of strategies and techniques, including prompting, reinforcement, shaping, and fading. Prompting involves providing cues or assistance to help individuals learn and perform desired behaviors. Reinforcement involves providing rewards or positive consequences to strengthen desired behaviors. Shaping involves gradually guiding individuals toward the desired behavior by reinforcing successive approximations. Fading involves systematically reducing prompts or reinforcement over time to promote independent behavior.

ABA interventions can be implemented in various settings, such as homes, schools, clinics, and community settings. They often involve a multidisciplinary team approach, including behavior analysts, therapists, educators, and caregivers who collaborate to design and implement individualized intervention plans.

It’s important to note that while ABA has been shown to be effective for many individuals, there are ongoing discussions and debates regarding different approaches within the field and the need for ethical considerations, such as ensuring individual autonomy and promoting well-being.

Shervan K Shahhian