“Let us say you could only choose to study one of the three topics presented below. Consider which one resonates most with you.”
Nils Volden
Select between Western psychology, Traditional Chinese Medicine psychology and Chinese psychology.
Option ONE “WESTERN PSYCHOLOGY”
Western Psychology is an academic and applied discipline that aims to study human behavior and the mind. It focuses on scientific research to understand how we think, feel, and act. However, many theories still lack sufficient evidence. Psychologists typically diagnose mental problems and treat mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety through distinct types of talk therapy. They aim to find the common mean in the population, known as the “normal,” and deviations from this are typically treated as they are considered undesirable.
Option TWO “TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE”
The text contains some inaccuracies and misconceptions. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) did not originate from the cultural revolution in China, but rather has a history that dates back thousands of years. TCM is a comprehensive system of medicine that includes a range of practices such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and dietary therapy, among others. While it is true that Chairman Mao played a role in standardizing TCM, it is incorrect to say that he “invented” it. The theories and concepts within TCM are complex and extensive, and include more than just the concepts of Qi, Yin/Yang, Five Elements, Zang Fu, Six Energy Levels, Meridians, and Seven Emotions. While these are important aspects, they do not fully encompass the breadth and depth of TCM theory and practice. The psychology within TCM is also more nuanced than just being based on the Seven Emotions and Yin/Yang.
Option THREE “CHINESE PSYCHOLOGY”
Chinese psychology is a collection of theories from Chinese medicine and philosophy that explain how the mind works. It includes everything from Traditional Chinese Medicine, as well as ancient aspects of Chinese medicine. This encompasses the concepts of seven emotions and Yin/Yang from TCM, as well as other elements such as psychic qi, personalities (Roun, Chen, I, Pro, and Teche), mental aspects (Hun, Shen, Yi, Po and Zhi), the eight, nine, and ten psychological defense mechanisms (classical Fang wei), Yang sheng (the best treatment), Attention (Zhuyi: Sou fang and Yi ding), divergent meridians with its three organic parts, Xing wei (social behavior), Chong tu (conflict management), and more. Chinese psychology is everything from TCM and beyond, encompassing a wide range of psychological concepts, all expressed in Chinese medical language.
ChinPsy 