Mass Hysteria ― Critical Psychology and Media Studies

This book provides an innovative approach to the relation of psychology to the media for media and cultural studies students. Drawing on post-structuralism, discursive psychology, postcolonial theory and feminism, the book explores the regulation of the masses and its place both in the project of psychology and of media studies. By means of a number of innovative case studies, the book demonstrates the centrality of images of Otherness in constituting the relation between the normal and pathological that lies at the heart of the relationship between psychology and the media. The book establishes a way beyond the present impasse and looks forward to a different way of thinking about psychology and the media. Essential reading for all media and cultural studies students and for those interested in media psychology.

LISA BLACKMAN is a critical psychologist who teaches media studies and researches new forms of subjectivity, such as psychiatric user groups and emerging forms of spiritual practice. She is Lecturer in the Department of Media and Communications at Goldsmiths College.

VALERIE WALKERDINE is a critical psychologist who works at the intersection of psychology, social and cultural theory. She is Foundation Professor of Critical Psychology at University of Western Sydney, Nepean and the author of a number of books including Daddy's Girl (Macmillan 1997) and Growing Up Girl (Macmillan, forthcoming).