THE PLACE OF PSEUDO PSYCHOLOGY IN PSYCHOLOGICAL PRACTICE IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Prao to the introduction of real psychology as it is practiced today, pseudo psychology has dominated the study of human and animal behaviour. People who experience psychological challenges were being assisted to resolve them through unorthodox method otherwise known as pseudo psychology. It is a situation where soothsayers, astrologists, psychics, phrenologists graphologists, herbalists, among others use mere beliefs, folk-tales, superstition and tradition to treat people with psychological and mental illnesses. This study examined the origin of pseudo psychology and its relationship with real psychology. The study also discussed the forms of pseudo psychology, its benefits and weaknesses. Finally, it highlighted the summary/conclusion and recommended the need to include pseudo-psychology in psychological practice in Nigeria.