Psychology & the Movies
The field of psychology has not always been portrayed in the most accurate or glamorous light. However, there are also a number of movies which reflect important historical aspects of the fields. This page provides a number of movies suggestion for those interested in the history of psychology. This is not intended to be an analysis of the portray of mental illness in the movies or the accuracy of how mental illness is portrayed. For that, I'd recommend Dr. Danny Wedding's excellent book Movies and Mental Illness
One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Next This film is a classic for many reasons, one of which is the superb acting. This portrays many of the ugly spots in the history of psychology and the poor treatment of mentally ill. Every therapist should see this film. Added February 2006 |
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Girl Interrupted This is another class movie depicting what it was like to be in a mental hospital. It's also a very well acted film. Added February 2006 |
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Awakenings Robin Williams has done some marvelous acting in psychologically relevant films. This one is based on a true story. Also depicts what it was like in mental institutions at one time. Added February 2006 |
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Patch Adams This movie is devoted more to the medical field than psychology, but there are many points of relevance. Patch (Robin Williams) was in a mental hospital at the beginning of the film and this serves for much of his inspiration. Also, it reflects important themes on treating all people humanely. Added February 2006 |
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