Top TED Talks on Psychology You Must See

Psychology is a rich and fascinating field that explores the complexities of the human mind and behavior. The TED Talks listed below are must-see for anyone interested in learning more about psychology. These talks cover a range of topics from happiness and motivation to the power of belief and understanding human behavior.

Must-See TED Talks on Psychology

Dan Gilbert: The Surprising Science of Happiness

Dan Gilbert is a psychologist and the author of Stumbling on Happiness. In this talk, Gilbert explores the concept of happiness and how our perceptions of what will make us happy often mislead us. He shares the surprising findings of his research on how our brains create the illusion of a stable sense of self despite constant change in our lives.

Angela Lee Duckworth: Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance

Angela Lee Duckworth is a psychology professor at the University of Pennsylvania. She defines grit as passion for a long-term goal and perseverance toward that goal. Her talk emphasizes the importance of grit over talent, using real-life examples to demonstrate how passion and perseverance contribute to success in various fields of work and life.

Brené Brown: The Power of Vulnerability

Brené Brown, a research professor at the University of Houston, speaks about the importance of vulnerability in building stronger connections and living a fuller life. She shares insights into her research on shame, empathy, and self-compassion, highlighting the courage it takes to live a wholehearted life.

Amy Cuddy: Your Body Language May Shape Who You Are

Amy Cuddy is a social psychologist and author of Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges. In this talk, she examines how body language affects how others see us and how we see ourselves. She advocates for usingpower poses to boost confidence and alter one's mental states, proving that our bodies influence our minds.

Celeste Headlee: Just Listen

While not a traditional psychology topic, this talk by Celeste Headlee is crucial for understanding the psychology of communication and connection. Headlee provides advice on how to listen more effectively, which can greatly enhance our interactions with others and our personal relationships.

Cindy Gallo Zimmerman: Identify Your Brain's Triggers

Cindy Gallo Zimmerman is a brain hacker and the author of The Brain-Hacking Way to Master the Learning Process. In this talk, she explores how our brains are wired and the triggers that can impact our ability to learn and adapt. She offers practical tips for optimizing our learning processes and improving overall cognitive function.

Carol Dweck: The Power of Believing That You Can Improve

Carol Dweck is a psychologist and the author of Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. In this talk, she presents her research on mindset, distinguishing between a fixed mindset and a growth mindset. She explains how our beliefs about learning and effort can significantly affect our ability to grow and thrive in various aspects of life.

Martin Seligman: The New Era of Positive Psychology

Martin Seligman is the founder of positive psychology. In this talk, he discusses the field of positive psychology and how focusing on strengths rather than deficits can lead to a more fulfilling life. He shares research on how positive emotions, relationships, and accomplishments contribute to well-being.

Philip Zimbardo: The Psychology of Time

Philip Zimbardo is a professor emeritus of psychology at Stanford University. He explores how our perception of time influences our behavior and decision-making. He argues that our temporal mindset affects our happiness and success, highlighting the importance of considering the timing of events and opportunities.

Tali Sharot: The Optimism Bias

Tali Sharot is a cognitive neuroscientist at the University College London. In this talk, she investigates why people tend to be overly optimistic about their future. She explores the psychological implications of this bias and provides insights into how understanding and managing optimism can enhance our mental health and well-being.

Eleanor Longden: I’m Not a Monster

Eleanor Longden is a recovery advocate and author of Coming Unhinged: On Loss and Madness. Drawing from her personal experience living with schizophrenia, she challenges societal perceptions of mental illness. Longden emphasizes the importance of understanding, empathy, and recovery in the context of mental health advocacy.

Susan Cain: The Power of Introverts

Susan Cain is a bestselling author and speaker who explores the strengths of introverts and the value they bring to society. She advocates for a more inclusive approach to personality types, highlighting how introverts can contribute effectively in various fields and settings.

These TED Talks offer valuable insights into various psychological concepts and can inspire personal growth and a deeper understanding of human behavior. Whether you're a student of psychology, a curious individual, or simply interested in self-improvement, these talks provide a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.