The State of Mainstream Psychology in India: A Patch on Capitalism

Psychology has historically been seen as a vital field dedicated to understanding the human mind and behavior, fostering well-being, and addressing mental health issues. But lately, it feels like the field is being co-opted by capitalism, especially within corporate settings. This shift has compromised the essence of psychology, reducing it to a tool that serves economic interests rather than prioritizing genuine mental health care.

The Essence of Psychology

At its core, psychology aims to delve deeply into the experience of the human psyche, exploring factors that influence thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. The therapeutic relationship between a psychologist and a client is most important factor. It requires patience, empathy, and a commitment from therapist side for long-term healing. Most of the approaches of psychology emphasize the importance of this relationship, focusing on understanding the client’s experiences and fostering a journey of self-discovery and growth. But the modern-day crisis has made us forget about this very basic idea of the therapeutic relationship.

The Corporate Influence

The corporate sector, driven by profit and efficiency, often demands quick fixes and measurable outcomes. This clashes with the fundamental principles of psychology, which advocate for a thorough and patient approach to mental health care. My recent job interviews in corporate mental health settings really brought this to light.

For instance, during an interview at a well-known hospital, I was made to wait for two and a half hours before being called in. When the interview finally began, the psychiatrist conducting it was clearly in a hurry and disinterested in my responses. He didn’t even seem to know the difference between relational psychoanalysis and classical psychodynamics, and showing dismissive attitude towards a field he seemingly knew little about, was disheartening. This showed a glaring disconnect between what corporate settings expect and what real psychological practice should be about.

The Agitation of the Corporate Therapist

The psychiatrist’s frustration during my interview, especially after a long day, reflects a broader issue in corporate mental health settings. Therapists in these environments are often overworked and under pressure to deliver quick results. This pressure can lead to a superficial approach to therapy, focusing on immediate symptom relief rather than addressing underlying issues. These shortcuts undermine the therapeutic process and serve the capitalist demand for efficiency over real effectiveness.

The Loss of True Therapeutic Value

In a capitalist framework, the deep, relational aspects of therapy are often overshadowed by a need for productivity and cost-effectiveness. People seeking help from their mental health struggles end up in a system that’s just as stressful as what they’re trying to escape. Therapists, too, become cogs in the capitalist machine, unable to practice the patient, empathetic care that is essential for true healing.

The Call for Change

It’s crucial to recognize and resist the capitalist encroachment on psychology. The field must reclaim its roots, emphasizing the importance of the therapeutic relationship and the slow, patient work of understanding and healing. Mental health care should not be about quick fixes but about fostering genuine, long-term well-being.

The essence of psychology lies in its ability to connect deeply with individuals, understand their unique experiences, and guide them towards self-realization and healing. As we face the challenges of modern life, we need to protect this essence, resisting the pressures of capitalism to ensure that psychology remains a source of hope and healing in an increasingly stressful world.