Research indicates individuals with ‘woke’ views may be prone to unhappiness and depression
Exploring the Link Between ‘Woke’ Beliefs and Mental Health
Intriguing new research has unveiled a potential psychological cost associated with ‘woke’ thinking, suggesting that individuals who align closely with these ideals might be walking a thinner line between mental well-being and turmoil. Could there be a hidden downside to being hyper-aware of social justice issues?
The Impact of Wokeism on Happiness
The Scandinavian Journal of Psychology has opened a new chapter in our understanding of the intersection between progressive ideas and mental health. It reports a fascinating correlation: those who hold ‘woke’ beliefs—rooted in a vigilant stance on social justice—seem to be more susceptible to feelings of depression and anxiety.
With a broad sample of over 5,800 college students and professors weighing in on various ‘woke’ assertions, the study delved deep into the collective psyche of the academic world. The results painted a stark portrait of the emotional landscape linked with these social justice viewpoints.
Researchers found a lower degree of mental well-being to be associated with a higher “social justice score.”
Wokeism: An International Phenomenon
Oskari Lahtinen, one of the lead authors of the study, observed the rising tide of ‘woke’ ideology as it spilled over from American campuses onto European shores. “The gender split findings were particularly startling,” suggested Lahtinen. Three out of five women held ‘woke’ ideas in a positive light, compared to a mere one out of seven men.
Public Figures Weigh In
Public commentators like Fox News host Greg Gutfeld have not shied away from scrutinizing the study’s implications. Gutfeld sees ‘woke’ culture as a kind of refuge for troubled minds, providing a collective identity for those struggling with their mental health.
“The woke are more likely to be mentally ill… It indulges in feelings of hopelessness and victimhood,” asserted Gutfeld, pointing out that this ideological embrace provides a sense of belonging and purpose to those who might otherwise feel adrift.
He also suggested a political divide in the response to these findings, with Democrats, in his view, approaching the subject of mental health and ’woke’ ideology with a familial sensitivity.
A Closer Look at ‘Woke’ Psychology
- Is the association between ‘woke’ beliefs and mental distress a cause for concern or a call for deeper understanding?
- Do societal pressures related to social justice advocacy contribute to emotional strain?
- Could the quest for a more equitable world be placing an unexpected burden on its champions?
As the discussion around ‘woke’ ideals and mental health continues to gain traction, both intellectual curiosity and compassionate inquiry are vital. Regardless of where one stands in the ideological spectrum, the well-being of those in the academic and broader communities remains paramount.
For an insightful dive into the complexities of ‘wokeism’ and mental health, click here to read more from the Washington Examiner.
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