Psychology Help Today

“Susan is not unusual.  She developed this problem because she lives in a culture that teaches out appearances and material acquisitions can soothe psychological problems and enhance self-worth.  Like Susan, most of us believe that others will accept us and think more highly of us if we have more stuff, or fancy stuff, or the latest stuff.  Our psyches are marinated in promises of status and esteem gained through material possessions. “Large corporations implement highly sophisticated advertising campaigns convincing you that their products are necessary and will help you solve your problems.  They first remind you of your human fallibility and personal insecurities, and then promise you redemption from your feelings of inadequacy or shame.  Advertisements instill hope to achieve psychological states of being–like happiness, popularity, inner peace, sex appeal, and superiority to others–through particular products. “Advertisers have studied your...