Guidebook for Children by American Psychological Association (APA): Nine Dystopian Lessons on Misinformation

Guidebook for Children by American Psychological Association (APA): Nine Dystopian Lessons on Misinformation

The American Psychological Association (APA) has published a new children's book titled True or False? The Science of Perception, Misinformation, and Disinformation. However, the book has stirred controversy due to several inaccuracies and questionable content.

The book, which dedicates five pages to villainising "conspiracy theories," suggests that learning about them can lead people to believe that truth doesn't matter. It also conflates "research" with "some people say," and discourages asking questions, a crucial step in the scientific process.

One of the most contentious aspects of the book is its portrayal of racism. The book misleadingly suggests that only "minority groups" and "people of color" can be negatively stereotyped and victims of racism, omitting the obvious fact that white people can be negatively stereotyped and victims of racism too.

The book also asserts that there is no biological difference between boys and girls, a claim that contradicts the APA's own scientific literature on the subject. The book's example of a logical fallacy also suggests there's no athletic difference between boys and girls in terms of team sports.

The book teaches children to trust the experts and blames the spreading of false information and death on "friends and family." However, this oversimplification is problematic, as misinformation can come from various sources, including the media and government.

The book also presents a one-sided view of disinformation, suggesting that only Russia is responsible for spreading it. It also portrays Hillary Clinton as only a victim of disinformation, ignoring her own role in spreading disinformation about Trump/Russia collusion.

The book also suggests that corporate media is good and "trusted," implying only the internet and social media can spread disinformation. This is a false message, as misinformation can come from any source, including traditional media.

The book's portrayal of the COVID-19 pandemic is also problematic. It suggests that statements from the experts were "seemingly conflicting," but this is a false message, as the statements were completely contradictory on several big issues.

Despite the controversy, the book is being used as a resource in some schools. However, the APA has not addressed the controversy publicly, and the details about it are not reflected in the current search results. It may be a recent or less publicized issue outside the scope of these documents. For definitive insight, checking the APA's official publications or news sources specializing in education or psychology controversies might be necessary.

[1] Source [2] Source [3] Source [4] Source

1. Articles questioning the accuracy and content of the APA's children's book True or False? The Science of Perception, Misinformation, and Disinformation can be found in education-and-self-development publications, revealing concerns about the book's portrayal of 'research', 'conspiracy theories', and its conflation with 'some people say'.
2. Science journals highlight the book's claim that there is no biological difference between boys and girls as contradicting the APA's own scientific literature, indicating a discrepancy between the book's content and established scientific 'truth'.
3. Videos discussing the controversy around the APA's book suggest that the book oversimplifies misinformation sources by blaming 'friends and family' while ignoring the role that 'media' and 'government' can play in spreading misinformation, emphasizing the need for comprehensive understanding and 'education-and-self-development' on the subject.

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