Mass Hysteria

This book provides an innovative approach to the relation of psychology to the media for media and cultural studies students. Drawing on post-structuralism, discursive psychology, postcolonial theory and feminism, the book explores the regulation of the masses and its place both in the project of psychology and of media studies. By means of a number of innovative case studies, the book demonstrates the centrality of images of Otherness in constituting the relation between the normal and pathological that lies at the heart of the relationship between psychology and the media. The book establishes a way beyond the present impasse and looks forward to a different way of thinking about psychology and the media. Essential reading for all media and cultural studies students and for those interested in media psychology.