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

Doctored Degree in Clinical Psychology (PSYD) (ABD) All But Dissertation, a Masters (M.A.) in Clinical Psychology, a Bachelor's Degree (B.A.) in Psychology, a Associate Degree (AA) in Liberal Arts with an emphases in Psychology, Certification in Anger Management, Certification in MRT-Moral Reconation Therapy®, Certification in Clinical Hypnotherapy, and Certification in Advanced Hypnotherapy.

Cultural Biases in Mental Health:

Cultural Biases in Mental Health:

Cultural biases in mental health refer to the ways in which cultural factors — such as values, beliefs, norms, and traditions — can influence the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions.

These biases can manifest in various ways, such as:

Diagnostic Practices: Certain mental health conditions may be interpreted differently based on cultural norms. For example, in some cultures, behaviors that are considered normal or even desirable may be labeled as disorders in others. For instance, certain forms of emotional expression or family dynamics might be seen as abnormal in Western cultures but perfectly acceptable in other cultural contexts.

Treatment Approaches: The type of therapy or treatment considered effective can be influenced by cultural views on health and wellness. Some cultures may prefer spiritual healing or community-based practices over psychotherapy or medication. Cultural biases in mental health professionals can lead to misunderstanding or dismissing the validity of these practices.

Stigma and Perception: Mental health stigma varies greatly across cultures. In some cultures, mental illness may be seen as a personal weakness, shameful, or taboo, which can lead to individuals avoiding seeking help or facing discrimination.

Cultural Adaptation of Tools: Mental health assessment tools, like questionnaires or scales, are often developed with a specific cultural context in mind. If these tools are used outside that context, they may not be valid or reliable. For example, a mental health assessment designed in a Western context may fail to accurately assess mental health in non-Western populations.

Language Barriers: Different cultures may have distinct ways of expressing emotions or psychological distress. When mental health professionals are not aware of these differences, they may misinterpret the symptoms or fail to communicate effectively, which can lead to inaccurate diagnoses or ineffective treatments.

Cultural Competence: Mental health professionals who lack cultural competence (the ability to understand, appreciate, and interact with people from cultures other than their own) may unintentionally perpetuate biases that affect the quality of care.

Addressing these biases involves cultural competence training for mental health professionals, developing culturally appropriate diagnostic tools, and creating more inclusive treatment models that respect diverse cultural perspectives on mental health.

Shervan K Shahhian

Self-Obsession, how can one escape from it:

Self-Obsession, how can one escape from it:

Escaping self-obsession requires shifting focus from excessive self-concern to a more balanced and outward-looking perspective.

Here’s how:

1. Cultivate Self-Awareness

  • Recognize when you’re overly fixated on yourself.
  • Keep a journal to track thoughts and patterns.
  • Reflect on how self-obsession affects relationships and mental well-being.

2. Develop Empathy & Connection

  • Practice active listening in conversations.
  • Engage in acts of kindness and service to others.
  • Spend time with people without making everything about yourself.

3. Challenge Negative Thought Patterns

  • Ask: “Is this truly important in the grand scheme?”
  • Focus on gratitude and appreciation for others.
  • Shift from self-criticism or self-glorification to objective self-assessment.

4. Engage in Meaningful Activities

  • Find hobbies that bring joy outside of self-image concerns.
  • Volunteer or contribute to a cause bigger than yourself.
  • Learn new skills that take focus off internal concerns.

5. Practice Mindfulness & Presence

  • Meditate to reduce rumination on self-related thoughts.
  • Focus on the present moment instead of internal narratives.
  • Avoid excessive social media comparisons that fuel self-obsession.

6. Seek External Perspectives

  • Ask trusted people for honest feedback about your behavior.
  • Read, watch, or listen to content that broadens your worldview.
  • Engage in discussions that challenge your viewpoints.

Shervan K Shahhian

Non-Pathological Obsession, what is it:

Non-Pathological Obsession, what is it:

A non-pathological obsession refers to an intense interest or fixation on a particular subject, activity, or goal that does not negatively impact a person’s overall well-being or daily functioning. Unlike pathological obsessions (which are often linked to obsessive-compulsive disorder or other mental health conditions), non-pathological obsessions can be beneficial, driving passion, deep expertise, and personal fulfillment.

Characteristics of a Non-Pathological Obsession:

  • Passionate Engagement – A strong and consistent interest in a subject or activity.
  • No Significant Distress – The obsession does not cause anxiety, distress, or impairment in daily life.
  • Balance – The individual maintains a functional lifestyle and responsibilities.
  • Personal Growth – The obsession leads to learning, creativity, or meaningful achievements.
  • Choice and Control – The person can step away from the obsession when needed.

For example, someone deeply interested in Controlled Remote Viewing (CRV) who dedicates significant time to studying, practicing, and discussing it—but still maintains healthy relationships, work, and self-care—could be said to have a non-pathological obsession.

Shervan K Shahhian

Non-Pathological Obsession vs Pathological Obsession, the differences:

Non-Pathological Obsession vs Pathological Obsession, the differences:

The main difference between non-pathological obsession and pathological obsession lies in the level of impairment, distress, and control a person has over their thoughts and behaviors.

Here’s a breakdown:

Non-Pathological Obsession
Healthy Passion or Intense Interest — A person might be deeply invested in a hobby, research, or goal (e.g., an artist obsessed with perfecting their craft).
Enhances Life — The obsession is constructive, leading to personal growth, achievements, or fulfillment.
Under Control — The person can take breaks and shift their focus when necessary.
Minimal Distress — Even if they think about it frequently, it doesn’t cause anxiety or disrupt their daily life.

🔹 Example: A scientist obsessively working on a theory but still maintaining relationships and self-care.

Pathological Obsession
Compulsive & Unwanted Thoughts — Intrusive thoughts that feel uncontrollable and cause distress.
Interferes with Daily Life — Negatively affects work, relationships, or mental health.
Driven by Anxiety or Fear — Often linked to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or other conditions.
Lack of Control — The person feels trapped in obsessive patterns and may engage in compulsive behaviors to cope.

🔹 Example: Someone repeatedly washing their hands due to obsessive fear of germs, despite knowing it’s excessive.

Shervan K Shahhian

Understanding the Psychology of Obsession:

Understanding the Psychology of Obsession:

Obsession is a psychological state where a person becomes fixated on a particular thought, idea, person, or activity to an unhealthy degree. It can be linked to various psychological mechanisms and conditions, from normal intense interests to clinical disorders like Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) or even addiction. Understanding the psychology of obsession requires exploring its cognitive, emotional, and neurological foundations.

Key Psychological Aspects of Obsession

  1. Cognitive Fixation — The mind locks onto a specific idea or subject, making it difficult to focus on anything else. This can stem from emotional needs, trauma, or deep-seated fears.
  2. Emotional Intensity — Obsession is often fueled by strong emotions such as love, fear, desire, or anxiety. For example, obsessive love can stem from insecurity or fear of abandonment.
  3. Reinforcement Loops — The brain reinforces obsessive thoughts through repeated exposure and emotional validation, creating a cycle that is hard to break.
  4. Neurological Basis — Research suggests that obsessive behavior is linked to dopamine and serotonin imbalances, which affect reward and mood regulation.

Types of Obsession

  • Personal Obsessions — Related to self-image, success, or personal goals.
  • Romantic Obsession — Can lead to unhealthy attachment or stalking behaviors.
  • Intellectual or Ideological Obsession — Seen in extreme beliefs or conspiracy thinking.
  • Compulsive Behaviors — Found in OCD, where individuals feel compelled to repeat actions to ease anxiety.

Healthy vs. Unhealthy Obsession

  • A healthy obsession (or passion) drives motivation and creativity, such as an artist or scientist deeply engaged in their work.
  • Unhealthy obsession leads to distress, dysfunction, and often negative outcomes, such as toxic relationships or compulsions that interfere with daily life.

Shervan K Shahhian

Neurobehavioral Status Testing:

Neurobehavioral status testing:

(PLEASE CONSULT A NEUROLOGIST, and/or PSYCHIATRIST FOR UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION)

Neurobehavioral status testing is a type of cognitive and psychological assessment used to evaluate a person’s brain function, behavior, and mental status. It is often used in clinical settings to assess individuals with suspected neurological disorders, brain injuries, or cognitive impairments.

What It Evaluates

  1. Cognition — Memory, attention, problem-solving, and executive functioning.
  2. Language Skills — Understanding, speaking, and writing abilities.
  3. Motor Skills — Coordination and fine motor control.
  4. Emotional and Behavioral Functioning — Mood disorders, personality changes, and impulse control.
  5. Perception — Visual-spatial skills and sensory integration.

Who Needs Neurobehavioral Status Testing?

  • Patients with traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
  • Individuals with neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s)
  • Those with psychiatric disorders affecting cognitive function
  • Stroke survivors
  • People with suspected toxic or metabolic brain disorders

Common Tests Used

  • Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE)
  • Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)
  • Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS)
  • Neuropsychological test batteries (e.g., Halstead-Reitan, RBANS, or D-KEFS)

Shervan K Shahhian

Non-Delusional Pathological Jealousy, what is it:

Non-delusional pathological Jealousy, also called Obsessive Jealousy or Morbid Jealousy, is an intense, irrational, and uncontrollable form of jealousy that is not based on delusions (as seen in delusional jealousy or Othello syndrome). Unlike normal jealousy, which can be based on real concerns, non-delusional pathological jealousy is excessive, intrusive, and often leads to destructive behaviors.

Key Characteristics:

  • Not delusional — The person does not have false, fixed beliefs (as in psychotic disorders), but their jealousy is still irrational and overwhelming.
  • Obsessive and intrusive thoughts — Constant thoughts about a partner’s potential unfaithfulness, even without evidence.
  • Compulsive behaviors — Checking phones, social media, interrogating partners, or stalking them.
  • Severe emotional distress — Anxiety, insecurity, and paranoia despite reassurance.
  • Aggressive or controlling behaviors — Trying to limit the partner’s social interactions or independence.

Causes:

  • Low self-esteem
  • Past trauma (e.g., infidelity in previous relationships)
  • Attachment issues
  • Underlying mental health conditions (e.g., OCD, borderline personality disorder)

Impact & Treatment:

  • Can damage relationships and lead to emotional abuse.
  • This may cause significant distress to both partners.
  • Treated with therapy (CBT, couples therapy), self-esteem work, and sometimes medication (if linked to anxiety or OCD).

Shervan K Shahhian

The Mental Health Impact of Unidentified Aerial Vehicles:

The Mental Health Impact of Unidentified Aerial Vehicles:

The presence and increasing awareness of Unidentified Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), often associated with unidentified flying objects (UFOs) or Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAPs), can have significant mental health implications, both individually and collectively.

Here are some key aspects of its impact:

1. Anxiety and Fear

  • Many people experience fear and anxiety due to the unknown nature of UAVs/UAPs. The idea that they could be extraterrestrial or beyond human control can trigger existential distress.
  • Witnesses of UAP encounters may develop paranoia or heightened vigilance, fearing government surveillance, alien abduction, or secret military experiments.

2. Psychological Distress in Witnesses

  • People who claim to have seen a UAP often report feelings of isolation, disbelief from others, and difficulty processing their experience.
  • Some witnesses suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)-like symptoms, including flashbacks, nightmares, and social withdrawal.

3. Cognitive Dissonance and Worldview Disruption

  • The idea that mainstream science, governments, and institutions may be hiding or suppressing UAP information creates cognitive dissonance for some individuals.
  • Those deeply invested in materialistic or religious worldviews may struggle with integrating UAP phenomena into their existing belief systems, leading to existential crises.

4. Obsession and Paranoia

  • Some individuals become obsessed with uncovering the truth about UAPs, leading to compulsive research, conspiracy thinking, and paranoia.
  • Excessive focus on the phenomenon can result in social withdrawal and neglect of everyday responsibilities.

5. The Role of Disclosure and Media Influence

  • Official government acknowledgment of UAPs can validate concerns but also cause widespread uncertainty and fear.
  • Sensationalized media coverage can amplify hysteria, while secrecy fuels speculation and mistrust in institutions.

6. Spiritual and Psychological Awakening

  • On a more positive note, some people experience a sense of expanded consciousness, feeling that UAP encounters or knowledge about them open the door to greater cosmic awareness.
  • This can lead to personal growth, deeper philosophical inquiry, and a shift in perspective about humanity’s place in the universe.

Shervan K Shahhian

Emotional Manipulation, how to manage it:

Emotional Manipulation, how to manage:

Managing emotional manipulation involves recognizing when it’s happening and taking steps to protect yourself while maintaining your emotional health.

Here are some strategies that can help:

Recognize the signs: Emotional manipulation can be subtle, but some signs include guilt-tripping, gaslighting (making you doubt your own reality), playing the victim, or using fear to control your behavior.

Set boundaries: Be clear about what behaviors are not acceptable to you. Setting boundaries is crucial in protecting yourself from manipulation.

Maintain emotional distance: Try not to react impulsively to manipulative behaviors. Emotional manipulators often thrive on emotional reactions because it gives them control.

Trust your instincts: If something feels off or manipulative, trust your gut. Don’t second-guess yourself, even if the manipulator tries to make you feel otherwise.

Communicate assertively: Use “I” statements to express how you feel without being aggressive or confrontational. For example, “I feel upset when you try to make me feel guilty.”

Seek support: Talk to trusted friends, family members, or a therapist. They can provide a different perspective and help you stay grounded.

Know when to walk away: Sometimes, the best way to manage emotional manipulation is to distance yourself from the person who is engaging in it, especially if they refuse to respect your boundaries.

Shervan K Shahhian

Schema Therapy, how does it work:

Schema Therapy, how does it work:

Schema Therapy is an integrative form of psychotherapy that combines elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, attachment theory, and Gestalt therapy to address deep-rooted patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving known as schemas (or early maladaptive schemas). It was developed by Jeffrey Young primarily to treat personality disorders, chronic depression, and other long-standing emotional difficulties.

How Schema Therapy Works:

Identifying Maladaptive Schemas

  • Schemas are deeply ingrained patterns of beliefs and behaviors that develop in childhood or adolescence due to unmet emotional needs.
  • Examples include abandonment, mistrust, emotional deprivation, failure, unrelenting standards, and more.

Understanding Schema Modes

  • Schema modes are momentary emotional states and coping responses triggered by schemas.
  • Common modes include the Vulnerable Child, Angry Child, Detached Protector, and Punitive Parent.
  • Therapy aims to weaken maladaptive modes and strengthen the Healthy Adult mode.

Healing Core Emotional Wounds

  • The therapist uses experiential techniques (e.g., imagery rescripting, chair work) to help the client reprocess painful memories and experiences.
  • This helps rewrite negative beliefs developed in early life.

Cognitive Restructuring

  • Clients learn to challenge and change self-defeating beliefs tied to schemas using cognitive techniques.
  • This involves recognizing irrational thoughts and replacing them with healthier perspectives.

Behavioral Pattern Change

  • Clients work on breaking unhealthy coping mechanisms (e.g., avoidance, overcompensation) and developing healthier behaviors.
  • Role-playing and real-life assignments help reinforce new patterns.

Therapeutic Relationship (Limited Reparenting)

  • The therapist provides a corrective emotional experience by acting as a nurturing, supportive figure.
  • This allows the client to experience unmet childhood needs in a safe therapeutic environment.

Who Benefits from Schema Therapy?

Schema Therapy is particularly effective for:

  • Personality disorders (e.g., Borderline Personality Disorder, Narcissistic Personality Disorder)
  • Chronic depression and anxiety
  • Relationship difficulties and attachment issues
  • Childhood trauma survivors
  • People who struggle with self-sabotage and emotional dysregulation
  • Shervan K Shahhian