Neuromyths

In a paper accepted in June 2025, a group of psychologists identified the issue of neuromyths not only circulating classrooms and the general public, but also psychologists in training. The ideas seem so logical, and are repeated so often, that it is difficult to tell when red flags should be waved even when labeled “a misunderstanding, a misreading and, in some cases, a deliberate warping of established facts” (Balmaseda-Serrango, et al., 2025).

To explore these neuromyths, a questionnaire was circulated among supposed experts with a few falsehoods highlighted in their review. Have you bought into any of these ideas? (I certainly have):

• learning styles

• opposing left and right brains

• intelligence improvement by listening to Mozart

• rotation of letters as a sign of dyslexia

• effect of sugary drinks on attention

For a look at their full questionnaire and a more in-depth analysis, check out “Psychology training and its relationship with neuromyths” from the European Journal of Psychology of Education!

https://doi.org/10.1007/s10212-025-00979-x

Image comes from the 2020 article “Why do people believe so strongly in neuromyths?” by Chris Golis: https://www.emotionalintelligencecourse.com/why-do-people-believe-so-strongly-in-neuromyths/