Speaking of Psychology Debunking psychology myths and misconceptions, with Erin Smith, PhD
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May 6, 2026 
Erin Smith, PhD, developmental psychologist and professor studying psychology of religion and education. She explores why myths like 10% brain use and fixed learning styles stick. She talks about how repetition, social media echo chambers, and emotions reinforce false beliefs. She outlines teaching strategies and tools to spot shaky claims and promote critical thinking.
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Repetition Makes False Claims Feel True
- Repetition increases belief regardless of truth because human memory treats repeated exposure as a signal of truth.
- Debunking can inadvertently reinforce myths if repetition isn't paired with corrective context.
Echo Chambers Amplify And Entrench Misbeliefs
- Social media and echo chambers amplify and emotionally charge false beliefs, making them harder to correct.
- Isolated communities often recycle the same root sources, giving the illusion of independent support.
Academic Engagement Predicts Better Myth Rejection
- Higher reported GPA students were better at rejecting misconceptions and showed more nuanced skepticism.
- Stronger academic engagement seems tied to understanding the scientific process, not just surface facts.