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psychology behind superheroes: The Psychology of Superheroes Robin S. Rosenberg, Jennifer Canzoneri, 2008-02-09 This latest installment in the Psychology of Popular Culture series turns its focus to superheroes. Superheroes have survived and fascinated for more than 70 years in no small part due to their psychological depth. In The Psychology of Superheroes, almost two dozen psychologists get into the heads of today's most popular and intriguing superheroes. Why do superheroes choose to be superheroes? Where does Spider-Man's altruism come from, and what does it mean? Why is there so much prejudice against the X-Men, and how could they have responded to it, other than the way they did? Why are super-villains so aggressive? The Psychology of Superheroes answers these questions, exploring the inner workings our heroes usually only share with their therapists. |
psychology behind superheroes: What is a Superhero? Robin S. Rosenberg PhD, Peter Coogan PhD, 2013-07-01 It's easy to name a superhero--Superman, Batman, Thor, Spiderman, the Green Lantern, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Rorschach, Wolverine--but it's not so easy to define what a superhero is. Buffy has superpowers, but she doesn't have a costume. Batman has a costume, but doesn't have superpowers. What is the role of power and superpower? And what are supervillains and why do we need them? In What is a Superhero?, psychologist Robin Rosenberg and comics scholar Peter Coogan explore this question from a variety of viewpoints, bringing together contributions from nineteen comic book experts--including both scholars in such fields as cultural studies, art, and psychology as well as leading comic book writers and editors. What emerges is a kaleidoscopic portrait of this most popular of pop-culture figures. Writer Jeph Loeb, for instance, sees the desire to make the world a better place as the driving force of the superhero. Jennifer K. Stuller argues that the female superhero inspires women to stand up, be strong, support others, and most important, to believe in themselves. More darkly, A. David Lewis sees the indestructible superhero as the ultimate embodiment of the American denial of death, while writer Danny Fingeroth sees superheroes as embodying the best aspects of humankind, acting with a nobility of purpose that inspires us. Interestingly, Fingeroth also expands the definition of superhero so that it would include characters like John McClane of the Die Hard movies: Once they dodge ridiculous quantities of machine gun bullets they're superheroes, cape or no cape. From summer blockbusters to best-selling graphic novels, the superhero is an integral part of our culture. What is a Superhero? not only illuminates this pop-culture figure, but also sheds much light on the fantasies and beliefs of the American people. |
psychology behind superheroes: Superhero Ethics Travis Smith, 2018-06-01 Whether in comic books or on movie screens, superhero stories are where many people first encounter questions about how they should conduct their lives. Although these outlandish figures—in their capes, masks, and tights, with their unbelievable origins and preternatural powers—are often dismissed as juvenile amusements, they really are profound metaphors for different approaches to shaping one’s character and facing the challenges of life. But, given the choice, which superhero should we follow today? Who is most worthy of our admiration? Whose goals are most noble? Whose ethics should we strive to emulate? To decide, Travis Smith takes ten top superheroes and pits them one against another, chapter by chapter. The hero who better exemplifies how we ought to live advances to the final round. By the end of the book, a single superhero emerges victorious and is crowned most exemplary for our times. How, then, shall we live? How can we overcome our beastly nature and preserve our humanity? (The Hulk vs. Wolverine) How far can we rely on our willpower and imagination to improve the human condition? (Iron Man vs. Green Lantern) What limits must we observe when protecting our neighborhood from crime and corruption? (Batman vs. Spider-Man) Will the pursuit of an active life or a contemplative life bring us true fulfillment? (Captain America vs. Mr. Fantastic) Should we put our faith in proven tradition or in modern progress to achieve a harmonious society? (Thor vs. Superman) Using superheroes to bring into focus these timeless themes of the human condition, Smith takes us on an adventure as fantastic as any you’ll find on a splash page or the silver screen—an intellectual adventure filled with surprising insights, unexpected twists and turns, and a daring climax you’ll be thinking about long after it’s over. |
psychology behind superheroes: Batman and Psychology Travis Langley, 2012-06-13 A journey behind the mask and into the mind of Gotham City’s Caped Crusader, timed for the summer 2012 release of The Dark Knight Rises Batman is one of the most compelling and enduring characters to come from the Golden Age of Comics, and interest in his story has only increased through countless incarnations since his first appearance in Detective Comics #27 in 1939. Why does this superhero without superpowers fascinate us? What does that fascination say about us? Batman and Psychology explores these and other intriguing questions about the masked vigilante, including: Does Batman have PTSD? Why does he fight crime? Why as a vigilante? Why the mask, the bat, and the underage partner? Why are his most intimate relationships with “bad girls” he ought to lock up? And why won't he kill that homicidal, green-haired clown? Gives you fresh insights into the complex inner world of Batman and Bruce Wayne and the life and characters of Gotham City Explains psychological theory and concepts through the lens of one of the world’s most popular comic book characters Written by a psychology professor and “Superherologist” (scholar of superheroes) |
psychology behind superheroes: Comic Book Movies Blair Davis, 2018-06-25 Comic Book Movies explores how this genre serves as a source for modern-day myths, sometimes even incorporating ancient mythic figures like Thor and Wonder Woman’s Amazons, while engaging with the questions that haunt a post-9/11 world: How do we define heroism and morality today? How far are we willing to go when fighting terror? How can we resist a dystopian state? Film scholar Blair Davis also considers how the genre’s visual style is equally important as its weighty themes, and he details how advances in digital effects have allowed filmmakers to incorporate elements of comic book art in innovative ways. As he reveals, comic book movies have inspired just as many innovations to Hollywood’s business model, with film franchises and transmedia storytelling helping to ensure that the genre will continue its reign over popular culture for years to come. |
psychology behind superheroes: Untamed Suzana E. Flores, 2018-07-10 Wolverine. Logan. Weapon X. By any name, Marvel Comic's savage, brooding antihero is, in his own words, the best at what he does--killing with gratuitous precision. Paradoxically violent yet humane, the beer-swilling, cigar-smoking mutant with retractable claws is universally misjudged in the Marvel Universe yet esteemed by fans worldwide. The author explores Wolverine's development from bit character to modern legend over more than four decades, with a focus on his enduring appeal as an allegory for resilience through torment. |
psychology behind superheroes: Superman on the Couch Danny Fingeroth, 2004-01-01 Why are so many of the superhero myths tied up with loss, often violent, of parents or parental figures? What is the significance of the dual identity? What makes some superhuman figures good and others evil? Why are so many of the prime superheroes white and male? How has the superhero evolved over the course of the 20th and early 21st centuries? And how might the myths be changing? Why is it that the key superhero archetypes - Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Spider-Man, the X-Men - touch primal needs and experiences in everyone? Why has the superhero moved beyond the pages of comics into other media? All these topics, and more, are covered in this lively and original exploration of the reasons why the superhero - in comic books, films, and TV - is such a potent myth for our times and culture.> |
psychology behind superheroes: Captain America Vs Iron Man Stan Lee, 2016 This provocative collection, edited by acclaimed media psychology writer Travis Langley and with a foreword by the legendary Stan Lee (!), examines the complex psychological and political choices made by Captain America and Iron Man throughout their careers, culminating in Marvel's superhero civil war which spreads far beyond the Avengers themselves. Why do Steve Rogers and Tony Stark see things so differently? What are their motivations? Is either one truly in the right? |
psychology behind superheroes: Harry Potter Therapy Janina Scarlet, 2017-08-29 Dear witch or wizard, Have you read and reread the Harry Potter books? Are you someone who can quote the movies by heart? Do you still ever wonder when you will get your acceptance letter into Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry? Me too.As a diehard and proud Potterhead, my heart warms every time I hear the main theme music, Hedwig's theme. Like many of you, I have been sorted on Pottermore (House Slytherin) and I have my wand (Willow, 10-inch unicorn hair) and robes. And for me, like for so many of you, the Harry Potter series has been life changing.I always wanted to write a book specific to Harry Potter, my favorite fandom, and one, which undoubtedly has influenced me, the most. I decided that I would like to write a self-help book for you, my fellow Harry Potter fans to help you better manage you anxiety, depression, trauma, insecurity, and other difficulties. I hope that you will join me on an enchanting exploration how Harry Potter series can help us heal and find the magic in our own lives.The proceeds of this book will be donated to mental health charities, such as Crisis Text Line and RAINN, as well as Lumos and the Good Samaritan organization |
psychology behind superheroes: Wonder Woman Psychology Travis Langley, Mara Wood, 2017 What can we learn about human psychology from a superhero who is mentally healthy? This compendium of 20 essays offers a fascinating analysis of the psychology behind one of the world's most famous superheroes-Wonder Woman-and looks at the controversial psychologist who created her. Seek the truth! Book jacket. |
psychology behind superheroes: Superheroes and Philosophy Tom Morris, Matt Morris, 2010-10 Great Caesars Ghost!! A team of Brainiacs! Superheroes and Philosophy is Kryptonite for those super villains who diss the heroes as lightweights! Riddle me this, Batman: How are Gotham City and Metropolis like ancient Athens and modern Paris? Read this sensational book and find out! |
psychology behind superheroes: Superhero Grief Jill A. Harrington, Robert A. Neimeyer, 2020-12-29 Superhero Grief uses modern superhero narratives to teach the principles of grief theories and concepts and provide practical ideas for promoting healing. Chapters offer clinical strategies, approaches, and interventions, including strategies based in expressive arts and complementary therapies. Leading researchers, clinicians, and professionals address major topics in death, dying, and bereavement, using superhero narratives to explore loss in the context of bereavement and to promote a contextual view of issues and relationship types that can improve coping skills. This volume provides support and psychoeducation to students, clinicians, educators, researchers, and the bereaved while contributing significantly to the literature on the intersection of death, grief, and trauma. |
psychology behind superheroes: Batman and Psychology , |
psychology behind superheroes: Heroes:What They Do and Why We Need Them Scott T. Allison, George R. Goethals, 2010-10-29 Abraham Lincoln, Princess Diana, Rick in Casablanca--why do we perceive certain people as heroes? What qualities do we see in them? What must they do to win our admiration? In Heroes, Scott T. Allison and George R. Goethals offer a stimulating tour of the psychology of heroism, shedding light on what heroism and villainy mean to most people and why heroes--both real people and fictional characters--are so vital to our lives. The book discusses a broad range of heroes, including Eleanor Roosevelt, Walt Kowalski in Gran Torino, Senator Ted Kennedy, and explorer Ernest Shackleton, plus villains such as Shakespeare's Iago. The authors highlight the Great Eight traits of heroes (smart, strong, selfless, caring, charismatic, resilient, reliable, and inspiring) and outline the mental models that we have of how people become heroes, from the underdog who defies great odds (David vs. Goliath) to the heroes who redeem themselves or who overcome adversity. Brimming with psychological insight, Heroes provides an illuminating look at heroes--and into our own minds as well. |
psychology behind superheroes: The Physics of Superheroes: Spectacular Second Edition James Kakalios, 2009-11-03 A complete update to the hit book on the real physics at work in comic books, featuring more heroes, more villains, and more science Since 2001, James Kakalios has taught Everything I Needed to Know About Physics I Learned from Reading Comic Books, a hugely popular university course that generated coast-to-coast media attention for its unique method of explaining complex physics concepts through comics. With The Physics of Superheroes, named one of the best science books of 2005 by Discover, he introduced his colorful approach to an even wider audience. Now Kakalios presents a totally updated, expanded edition that features even more superheroes and findings from the cutting edge of science. With three new chapters and completely revised throughout with a splashy, redesigned package, the book that explains why Spider-Man's webbing failed his girlfriend, the probable cause of Krypton's explosion, and the Newtonian physics at work in Gotham City is electrifying from cover to cover. |
psychology behind superheroes: Daredevil Psychology Stan Lee, 2018 Why are we interested in characters like Daredevil? Do we have conscious will or not? With so many positive forces in the comic book world, why do people cheer for a mass murderer? This compendium of 18 chapters offers a fascinating look into the psychology behind the complicated superhero Daredevil. Book jacket. |
psychology behind superheroes: Star Wars Psychology Travis Langley, Carrie Goldman, 2015 From its very first frame, the Star Wars series created a compelling universe, with complex characters and engaging storytelling. In advance of the highly anticipated new movie, Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens, this essay collection offers a fascinating and unauthorized psychological analysis of every aspect of George Lucas's richly rendered world. A group of expert contributors, edited by Travis Langley, examines such topics as family ties, Jedi qualities, masculinity, girl power, and the values embodied in both the dark and light sides of this spellbinding world. |
psychology behind superheroes: Super Heroes Richard Reynolds, 1994 A study of one of popular culture's superstars whose enchanting mystique pervades the modern world |
psychology behind superheroes: My Captain America Megan Margulies, 2020-08-04 A finely wrought coming-of-age memoir about the author’s relationship with her beloved grandfather Joe Simon, cartoonist and co-creator of Captain America. In the 1990s, Megan Margulies’s Upper West Side neighborhood was marked by addicts shooting up in subway stations, frequent burglaries, and the “Wild Man of 96th Street,” who set fires under cars and heaved rocks through stained glass church windows. The world inside her parents’ tiny one-bedroom apartment was hardly a respite, with a family of five—including some loud personalities—eventually occupying the 550-square-foot space. Salvation arrived in the form of her spirited grandfather, Daddy Joe, whose midtown studio became a second home to Megan. There, he listened to her woes, fed her Hungry Man frozen dinners, and simply let her be. His living room may have been dominated by the drawing table, notes, and doodles that marked him as Joe Simon the cartoonist. But for Megan, he was always Daddy Joe: an escape from her increasingly hectic home, a nonjudgmental voice whose sense of humor was as dry as his farfel, and a steady presence in a world that felt off balance. Evoking New York City both in the 1980s and ’90s and during the Golden Age of comics in the 1930s and ’40s, My Captain America flashes back from Megan’s story to chart the life and career of Rochester-native Joe Simon, from his early days retouching publicity photos and doing spot art for magazines, to his partnership with Jack Kirby at Timely Comics (the forerunner of Marvel Comics), which resulted in the creation of beloved characters like Captain America, the Boy Commandos, and Fighting American. My Captain America offers a tender and sharply observed account of Megan’s life with Daddy Joe—and an intimate portrait of the creative genius who gave us one of the most enduring superheroes of all time. |
psychology behind superheroes: Dark Agents, Book One Janina Scarlet, 2020-03 Meet Violet -- a young witch whose parents were murdered by a necromancer when she was a child. Running from country to country, as well as from herself, Violet never gets a chance to fully process her traumatic experience. Then, at age 19, her life takes a dramatic turn. Violet begins training at the Underworld Intelligence Agency in hopes of becoming a Dark Agent -- someone tasked with keeping the balance between the world of the living and the world of the undead. As she battles monsters and ghouls, Violet learns to conquer her inner demons as well. Blended seamlessly throughout the story are elements of a powerful treatment called acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). Whether or not you've experienced a traumatic event like Violet, you'll find real skills you can apply to your own life to help you hone your unique superpowers--Back cover, Book one |
psychology behind superheroes: Becoming Batman E. Paul Zehr, 2008-11-28 Battling bad guys. High-tech hideouts. The gratitude of the masses. Who at some point in their life hasn't dreamed of being a superhero? Impossible, right? Or is it? Possessing no supernatural powers, Batman is the most realistic of all the superheroes. His feats are achieved through rigorous training and mental discipline, and with the aid of fantastic gadgets. Drawing on his training as a neuroscientist, kinesiologist, and martial artist, E. Paul Zehr explores the question: Could a mortal ever become Batman? Zehr discusses the physical training necessary to maintain bad-guy-fighting readiness while relating the science underlying this process, from strength conditioning to the cognitive changes a person would endure in undertaking such a regimen. In probing what a real-life Batman could achieve, Zehr considers the level of punishment a consummately fit and trained person could handle, how hard and fast such a person could punch and kick, and the number of adversaries that individual could dispatch. He also tells us what it would be like to fight while wearing a batsuit and the amount of food we'd need to consume each day to maintain vigilance as Gotham City's guardian. A fun foray of escapism grounded in sound science, Becoming Batman provides the background for attaining the realizable—though extreme—level of human performance that would allow you to be a superhero. |
psychology behind superheroes: Heroes in Crisis (2018-) #2 Tom King, 2018-10-31 Suspected of murder, [REDACTED] and [REDACTED] find themselves on the run from the super-hospital called Sanctuary —with each thinking the other one is the real killer! It’s up to Batman to solve this heinous crime, but suspicion falls on him when Superman and Wonder Woman ponder just how much Sanctuary’s A.I. is telling them. Meanwhile, [REDACTED] tries to make a shady deal to hide from the Trinity, while [REDACTED] searches out an old friend to help him out of this mess—and only gets deeper in trouble. |
psychology behind superheroes: Superheroes and Beyond Christopher Hart, 2009 Superheroes remain the most popular genre of characters in comics and comics-inspired movies. Superheroes & Beyond by Chris Hart shows aspiring artists how to create a huge array of original comic book heroes and villains. The characters found within these pages are broken down into step-by-step constructions that help the student of comics visualize the basic forms and individual features of comic book superheroes. The subjects covered include: drawing faces, drawing the head from all angles, expressions, light and shadow and its effect on the face, heroes, villains and supporting characters, hands and fee; foreshortening poses, the dynamics of drawing action; sexy gals; talking in speech balloons, placement of speech balloons and captions, storytelling, use of light and dark in silhouettes, superhero environments, and drawing the splash page. |
psychology behind superheroes: The Virtues of Captain America , 2014-01-27 The first look at the philosophy behind the Captain America comics and movies, publishing in advance of the movie release of Captain America: The Winter Solider in April 2014. In The Virtues of Captain America, philosopher and long-time comics fan Mark D. White argues that the core principles, compassion, and judgment exhibited by the 1940’s comic book character Captain America remain relevant to the modern world. Simply put, Cap embodies many of the classical virtues that have been important to us since the days of the ancient Greeks: honesty, courage, loyalty, perseverance, and, perhaps most importantly, honor. Full of entertaining examples from more than 50 years of comic books, White offers some serious philosophical discussions of everyone’s favorite patriot in a light-hearted and accessible way. Presents serious arguments on the virtues of Captain America while being written in a light-hearted and often humorous tone Introduces basic concepts in moral and political philosophy to the general reader Utilizes examples from 50 years of comics featuring Captain America, the Avengers, and other Marvel superheroes Affirms the value of old-fashioned virtues for the modern world without indulging in nostalgia for times long passed Reveals the importance of the sound principles that America was founded upon Publishing in advance of Captain America: The Winter Soldier out in April 2014. |
psychology behind superheroes: The Psychology of Superheroes Robin S. Rosenberg, Jennifer Canzoneri, 2008-03-01 This latest installment in the Psychology of Popular Culture series turns its focus to superheroes. Superheroes have survived and fascinated for more than 70 years in no small part due to their psychological depth. In The Psychology of Superheroes, almost two dozen psychologists get into the heads of today's most popular and intriguing superheroes. Why do superheroes choose to be superheroes? Where does Spider-Man's altruism come from, and what does it mean? Why is there so much prejudice against the X-Men, and how could they have responded to it, other than the way they did? Why are super-villains so aggressive? The Psychology of Superheroes answers these questions, exploring the inner workings our heroes usually only share with their therapists. |
psychology behind superheroes: The Secret History of Wonder Woman Jill Lepore, 2014-10-28 NATIONAL BESTSELLER • Within the origin of one of the world’s most iconic superheroes hides a fascinating family story—and a crucial history of feminism in the twentieth-century. “Everything you might want in a page-turner…skeletons in the closet, a believe-it-or-not weirdness in its biographical details, and something else that secretly powers even the most “serious” feminist history—fun.” —Entertainment Weekly The Secret History of Wonder Woman is a tour de force of intellectual and cultural history. Wonder Woman, Jill Lepore argues, is the missing link in the history of the struggle for women’s rights—a chain of events that begins with the women’s suffrage campaigns of the early 1900s and ends with the troubled place of feminism a century later. Lepore, a Harvard historian and New Yorker staff writer, has uncovered an astonishing trove of documents, including the never-before-seen private papers of Wonder Woman’s creator, William Moulton Marston. The Marston family story is a tale of drama, intrigue, and irony. In the 1920s, Marston and his wife brought into their home Olive Byrne, the niece of Margaret Sanger, one of the most influential feminists of the twentieth century. Even while celebrating conventional family life in a regular column that Marston and Byrne wrote for Family Circle, they themselves pursued lives of extraordinary nonconformity. Marston, internationally known as an expert on truth—he invented the lie detector test—lived a life of secrets, only to spill them on the pages of Wonder Woman. Includes a new afterword with fresh revelations based on never before seen letters and photographs from the Marston family’s papers, and 161 illustrations and 16 pages in full color. |
psychology behind superheroes: Inventing Iron Man E. Paul Zehr, 2011-10 E. Paul Zehr physically deconstructs Iron Man to find out how we could use modern-day technology to create a suit of armor similar to the one Stark made--Jacket. |
psychology behind superheroes: Superhero Therapy Janina Scarlet, 2016-11-29 |
psychology behind superheroes: Marvel: Universe of Super Heroes Jon Burlingame, Brian Crosby, Kelly Sue DeConnick, Randy Duncan, Jay Edidin, Danny Fingeroth, Travis Langley, Jeph Loeb, Ben Saunders, Evan Narcisse, Brooks Peck, Patrick A. Reed, 2019 The spectacular exhibition catalogue, Marvel: Universe of Super Heroes celebrates 80 years of Marvel history with original comics pages, amazing sculptures, artefacts, original commissions, panoramic hallways and interactive displays.Marvel Comics and Marvel Studio Films are not only the enduring voices of the Super Heroes themselves, but also the diverse visions of Marvel's writers, artists, actors and filmmakers.The catalogue features legendary comic creators, up-and-coming talent, editors, executives, artists, art collectors, actors and show-runners, along with articles about the history and power of YOU, the Marvel fans, with stories that stretch the mind regarding how we think about heroes, be it through personal history, fandom or fashion.Featuring interviews with and articles by some of the legends and stars in the field, such as:Iconic comic book writer and editor, Stan Lee (1922-2018).Comic book writers Kelly Sue DeConnick, Joe Quesada, G. Willow Wilson, and Chris Claremont (best known for creating Wolverine).Actor, Clark Gregg who plays the character of Phillip J. Coulson in classic Marvel films such as Iron Man 1 and 2, Thor, and The Avengers.Film, TV and comic writer, Joseph 'Jeph' Loeb best-known for his writing of TV series such as Smallville, and Heroes, as well as his book works on many major Marvel characters.Actor, James Marsters who played the role of the English vampire Spike in the cult TV series, Buffy the Vampire Slayer.Creator of Marvel's Luke Cage, Cheo Hodari Coker. |
psychology behind superheroes: Superman Alan Moore, Curt Swan, 2010-09-01 He is the world's most powerful being. The sole survivor of a doomed planet, he has made our protection his life's work. And although his never-ending battle for truth and justice continues to this day, one question has always haunted his shining legend: How would the story of Superman finally end? |
psychology behind superheroes: Superhuman Psychology Conrad Riker, 101-01-01 Are you fascinated by superheroes? Are you curious about their origins, impact, and evolution? Do you question the ethics of vigilante justice and the influence of these fictional characters? Then this book is for you. In Superhuman Psychology: The Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Superheroes, we delve into the psychological, symbolic, and cultural implications of superheroes. - Gain insight into the birth and evolution of superheroes, from myth to modern comic books. - Discover the psychological impact of superheroes on society and the role they play in shaping our perceptions. - Analyze the symbolic representations of superheroes in culture and their religious connotations. - Explore the political and societal implications of superheroes and their influence on power dynamics. - Understand the business aspect of superheroes and how they became a cornerstone of popular culture. - Examine the role of gender in superhero narratives and challenge traditional masculine tropes. - Mourn the deaths of superheroes and analyze the symbolism behind their mortality. - Predict the future of superheroes and their role in an increasingly complex world. If you want to deepen your understanding of superheroes and their impact, then Superhuman Psychology: The Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Superheroes is the book for you. Buy now to expand your knowledge and perspective today. |
psychology behind superheroes: Unpacking the Pyramid Model Mary Louise Hemmeter, Michaelene Ostrosky, Lise Fox, 2020 This practical guide details evidence-based strategies for implementing the Pyramid Model from the creators of the Pyramid Model. It is written for classroom teachers who are novice users of the model to help them understand the principles and use the practices. Unpacking the Pyramid Model is the definitive resource to help teachers improve their classroom practices to support social emotional competence and prevent challenging behavior-- |
psychology behind superheroes: Superhero Peter Coogan, Peter MacFarland Coogan, 2006 An exhaustive and entertaining study of the superhero genre, Superhero: the Secret Origin of a Genre traces the roots of the superhero in mythology, science fiction, and the pulps, and follows the superhero's development to its current renaissance in film, literature, and graphic novels.--BOOK JACKET. |
psychology behind superheroes: Welcome To Superhero School Gracie Dix, 2020-03-28 Welcome to Superhero School! Join Oliver, Jess, and all their friends on a mission to destroy the power-hungry, evil villains of Vork. From subterranean sewers to lush jungle, from dinosaurs to dragons, our heroes will be pushed to their limits in ways they'd never imagined. Will their collective Powers-Flight, Morphing, Invisibility, Mind Reading, and more-be enough for them to overcome the malevolence of Vork? Or will they stumble over their own doubts and painful histories? This action-packed journey of friendship, hardship, and humor will take our heroes to thrilling new heights and a deeper understanding of their own place in the world. But will that be enough-or will Vork always be one step ahead? |
psychology behind superheroes: The Superhero Gospels Jason Korsiak, 2017-07 For Christians who love superheroes! This devotional features 25 spiritual reflections based on some of the greatest superhero films of all time, including The Avengers (2012), Man of Steel (2012), Spider-Man (2002), Batman Begins (2005), and more!Warning! Though the lessons in these devotions are appropriate for all ages, the content of the films we discuss might not be! Be sure to check the including ratings when planning your viewing schedule.Written by Jason Korsiak, the author of The Monster Gospels and The Christmas Gospels, |
psychology behind superheroes: Superhero Teens and the American Dream Pasquale De Marco, 2025-05-05 **Superhero Teens and the American Dream** explores the many facets of superheroism, from its origins in comic books to its role in American culture today. This book examines the history of superheroes, their impact on our lives, and the psychology behind their enduring popularity. Superheroes are more than just characters in a story. They are symbols of our hopes and dreams, and they embody the values that we hold dear. They represent the American Dream, and they inspire us to be better people. In this book, we will explore the different ways that superheroes have influenced American culture. We will look at their role in movies, television, video games, and toys. We will also examine how superheroes have been used to promote political agendas and teach children about important issues. We will also discuss the psychology of superheroism. Why are we so fascinated by superheroes? What do they represent to us? And how can we use superheroes to help us achieve our own goals? Whether you are a lifelong fan of superheroes or you are just curious about their appeal, this book has something to offer you. Join us as we explore the fascinating world of superheroism! This book is perfect for anyone who is interested in superheroes, American culture, or the psychology of human behavior. It is also a great resource for teachers, parents, and anyone who works with children. If you like this book, write a review on google books! |
psychology behind superheroes: Superhero Therapy Janina Scarlet, 2018-09-20 Psychologist Janina Scarlet and Marvel and DC Comics illustrator Wellinton Alves join forces to offer teens Superhero Therapy-a dynamic, illustrated introduction to acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). With this fun, outside-the-box self-help guide, teens will discover how to vanquish inner super villains such as anxiety, depression, anger, or shame; explore their unique superpowers; and become their own Superhero questing for what matters to them. |
psychology behind superheroes: Superheroes and Superegos Sharon Packer MD, 2009-12-14 This comprehensive collection of essays written by a practicing psychiatrist shows that superheroes are more about superegos than about bodies and brawn, even though they contain subversive sexual subtexts that paved the path for major social shifts of the late 20th century. Superheroes have provided entertainment for generations, but there is much more to these fictional characters than what first meets the eye. Superheros and Superegos: Analyzing the Minds Behind the Masks begins its exploration in 1938 with the creation of Superman and continues to the present, with a nod to the forerunners of superhero stories in the Bible and Greek, Roman, Norse, and Hindu myth. The first book about superheroes written by a psychiatrist in over 50 years, it invokes biological psychiatry to discuss such concepts as body dysmorphic disorder, as well as Jungian concepts of the shadow self that explain the appeal of the masked hero and the secret identity. Readers will discover that the earliest superheroes represent fantasies about stopping Hitler, while more sophisticated and socially-oriented publishers used superheroes to encourage American participation in World War II. The book also explores themes such as how the feminist movement and the dramatic shift in women's roles and rights were predicted by Wonder Woman and Sheena nearly 30 years before the dawn of the feminist era. |
psychology behind superheroes: The King and the Corpse Heinrich Zimmer, 2026-01-20 A classic book on comparative mythology by acclaimed scholar Heinrich Zimmer Drawing from Eastern and Western literatures, Heinrich Zimmer presents a selection of stories linked together by their common concern for the problem of our eternal conflict with the forces of evil. Beginning with a tale from the Arabian Nights, this theme unfolds in legends from Irish paganism, medieval Christianity, the Arthurian cycle, and early Hinduism. In retelling these tales, Zimmer discloses the meanings of their seemingly unrelated symbols and suggests the philosophical wholeness of their myths. |
psychology behind superheroes: Seduction of the Innocent Fredric Wertham, 1999 Dr. Wertham was senior psychiatrist for the Department of Hospitals in New York City. This book, thoroughly documented by facts and cases, gives the substance of Dr. Wertham's expert opinion on the effects that comic books have on the minds and behavior of children who come in contact with them. Reprint of the 1954 edition with a new comprehensive Introduction by James E. Reibman, Ph.D. |
Psychology - Wikipedia
Psychology is the scientific study of mind and behavior. [1] [2] Its subject matter includes the behavior of humans and nonhumans, both conscious and unconscious phenomena, and …
Psychology | Psychology Today
Psychology is the study of the mind and behavior. It arose as a discipline distinct from philosophy in the late 19th century. The mind is so complex and so dynamic—it is changing as you read ...
Psychology | Definition, History, Fields, Methods, & Facts
May 9, 2025 · psychology, scientific discipline that studies mental states and processes and behaviour in humans and other animals.. The discipline of psychology is broadly divisible into …
8 Psychology Basics You Need to Know - Verywell Mind
Jun 25, 2024 · Clinical psychology: Clinical psychologists provide mental and behavioral health care and often provide consultation to communities, as well as training and education. If you …
What Is Psychology?
Sep 3, 2024 · Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behavior, according to the American Psychological Association. Psychology is a multifaceted discipline and includes …
28 Main Branches of Psychology
Jan 23, 2025 · Counseling psychology, like clinical psychology, is devoted to diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental health issues. This branch of psychology takes a special focus on …
Science of Psychology - American Psychological Association (APA)
Applied psychology and the science of psychology benefit society. Psychologists conduct basic and applied research, serve as consultants to communities and organizations, diagnose and …
Psychology: Definitions, branches, history, and how to become one
Feb 1, 2018 · Psychology is the study of the mind and behavior, according to the American Psychological Association. It is the study of the mind, how it works, and how it affects …
What Is Psychology? – Introduction to Psychology
Psychology courses deal with a number of issues that are helpful in a variety of settings. The text made mention of the types of skills as well as the knowledge base with which students of …
Chapter 1. Introducing Psychology – Introduction to Psychology
Chapter 1. Introducing Psychology Psychology is the scientific study of mind and behavior.The word “psychology” comes from the Greek words “psyche,” meaning life, and “logos,” meaning …
Psychology - Wikipedia
Psychology is the scientific study of mind and behavior. [1] [2] Its subject matter includes the behavior of humans and nonhumans, both conscious and unconscious phenomena, and …
Psychology | Psychology Today
Psychology is the study of the mind and behavior. It arose as a discipline distinct from philosophy in the late 19th century. The mind is so complex and so dynamic—it is changing as you read ...
Psychology | Definition, History, Fields, Methods, & Facts
May 9, 2025 · psychology, scientific discipline that studies mental states and processes and behaviour in humans and other animals.. The discipline of psychology is broadly divisible into …
8 Psychology Basics You Need to Know - Verywell Mind
Jun 25, 2024 · Clinical psychology: Clinical psychologists provide mental and behavioral health care and often provide consultation to communities, as well as training and education. If you …
What Is Psychology?
Sep 3, 2024 · Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behavior, according to the American Psychological Association. Psychology is a multifaceted discipline and includes …
28 Main Branches of Psychology
Jan 23, 2025 · Counseling psychology, like clinical psychology, is devoted to diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental health issues. This branch of psychology takes a special focus on …
Science of Psychology - American Psychological Association (APA)
Applied psychology and the science of psychology benefit society. Psychologists conduct basic and applied research, serve as consultants to communities and organizations, diagnose and …
Psychology: Definitions, branches, history, and how to become one
Feb 1, 2018 · Psychology is the study of the mind and behavior, according to the American Psychological Association. It is the study of the mind, how it works, and how it affects …
What Is Psychology? – Introduction to Psychology
Psychology courses deal with a number of issues that are helpful in a variety of settings. The text made mention of the types of skills as well as the knowledge base with which students of …
Chapter 1. Introducing Psychology – Introduction to Psychology
Chapter 1. Introducing Psychology Psychology is the scientific study of mind and behavior.The word “psychology” comes from the Greek words “psyche,” meaning life, and “logos,” meaning …