False Psychology

I received my bachelors degree in psychology several years ago. I have to boast about this fact because a bachelors degree in psychology is not worth much more than bragging rights. I worked hard and learned a lot, but I will have to go to graduate school before I can do much of anything in the world of psychology. However, there are a few things I picked up in psychology classes that make for interesting conversations and contradict common thought. Many people fancy themselves to be amateur psychologists without knowing the statistics that can either support or completely negate their opinions.
For instance, did you know that letting your anger out isn’t the best way to deal with your anger? Studies show that expressing your anger, even towards inanimate objects like pillows and stress balls, reinforces your motivation to become angry. Being creatures of habit, we can become addicted to outward expressions of anger. If a pillow or stress isn’t available, one’s habitual anger can be directed any number of completely inappropriate places.
This next idea may seem a little confusing, but stay with me. The concept that simply believing in one’s self will lead to success is a tad backwards. Having confidence in one’s self can be a component of success, but individuals who have an inflated sense of self-worth can become very aggressive when their superiority is questioned. Instead of teaching kids to feel worthier, we should be teaching them the skills that will lead them to pride and success like good social skills and appropriate ways to deal with anger. It is great that this helpful idea as well as others can be found in scripture. The Proverbs alone are full of advice that is supported by several modern studies. God truly knows us best.