426. The psychology of superstition

Superstitions can seem irrational on the surface, but beneath them is something incredibly human - the need for meaning, comfort, and a sense of control in an uncertain world. In this episode, we explore the psychology of superstition - why the mind creates these beliefs, why they can feel so reassuring, and what they reveal about anxiety, ritual, hope, and the stories we inherit.

We explore:
•        Historical origins of common superstitions
•        The role of pattern recognition and gut feelings
•        How rituals soothe anxiety and create a sense of certainty
•        When superstitions become self-fulfilling and shape performance
•        How magical thinking overlaps with OCD and anxiety
•        Why it's important to create our own magic in our 20s 

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Our favourite sources: 
https://www.bps.org.uk/psychologist/everyday-magic-superstition

https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0956797610372631

https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/behavioural-and-cognitive-psychotherapy/article/abs/magical-thinking-in-obsessivecompulsive-disorder-and-generalized-anxiety-disorder/AAA4404A26637024E2E5D01B3F133928

The Psychology of your 20s is not a substitute for professional mental health help. If you are struggling, distressed or require personalised advice, please reach out to your doctor or a licensed psychologist.

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