Mass Psychology

In this classic of political and social psychology, Joost Meerloo attempts to account for the mechanisms of mind that have made the brainwashing techniques of totalitarian states so historically successful. His frightening conclusion, that "hardly anyone can resist," appeals to mechanisms undergirding human thought, many of which are not obviously available to individuals.

From Sandy Hook, Connecticut, to Aurora, Colorado, to Tucson, Arizona, this nation has been racked from coast to coast with mass shootings perpetrated by criminals with sick minds. Authors Dr. Liebert and Dr. Birnes believe the increase in violence is an epidemic and dig deep into the causes of mental illness to determine what exactly is going on with these individuals and society as a whole, and what action can be taken to slow this frightening trend toward mass violence.

The impact of media coverage on victims and communities following a mass shooting cannot be understated. The intense and often sensationalized reporting can have lasting effects on those directly affected by the tragedy. For the seven children injured in the Indiana mass shooting, the constant barrage of news coverage can trigger feelings of fear, anxiety, and even re-traumatization. It is crucial for media outlets to consider the psychological well-being of these victims when reporting on such tragedies.