Therapists Against Trumpism

On the Media | Aug 26, 2016

Psychologists and psychiatrists are generally advised to stay out of political debate. Weighing in on a candidate's mental health could undermine the integrity of the profession or further stigmatize mental illness. But for some in the field, there are moments when a break with convention is not only appropriate, but essential. Bill Doherty, a family therapist and psychology professor at the University of Minnesota, believes this election season is one of those moments.

He's created an online manifesto entitled "Citizen Therapists Against Trumpism," which has been signed by some 2,400 other mental health professionals. Doherty maintains he's not diagnosing Donald Trump the man, but rather condemning the threatening ideology that Trump represents. He talks with Bob about why he believes "Trumpism" is a public health risk, and what motivated him to speak out not just as a citizen, but as a therapist.

Song:

"Bird Song" by Bert Jansch

WNYC is funded by sponsors and member donations

WNYC Homepage - Top Stories

Mayor Mamdani on the Knicks' Victory

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani drops in to talk about the Knicks' win and the city's celebrations.

The Brian Lehrer Show |

Rachel Goldberg-Polin on Losing a Son in Gaza. Plus, How Pablo Torre Is Changing Sports

An advocate for the Israeli hostages held in Gaza discusses her book, “When We See You Again,” and the sports journalist explains his Pulitzer Prize-winning investigation of an N.B.A. team.

The New Yorker Radio Hour |

The UK’s Violent Riots Were Stoked by Elon Musk and a Global Far-Right Network

The trillionaire's role in Belfast; chaos at 60 Minutes; and how to survive authoritarianism.

On the Media |

Knicks jersey, FIFA shirt and a Puerto Rican parade hat: Archbishop embraces NYC's big weekend

The archbishop said he watched every minute of the Knicks' championship win and praised sports for bringing people together.

Gothamist |