I have to admit, I’m a big movie fan. I like all types of movies: comedies, thrillers, action, etc. Today, I want to share my favorite psychological movies. These movie topics range from abnormal psychology to social issues.

Keep in mind that most movies dealing with any psychological topic tends to oversimplify the condition or exaggerate the problem.

Below are some myths and falsehood presented in movies:

• Not all mental patients are violent - Only a small percentage of clinical patients tend to demonstrate violent tendencies.
• Additionally, violence in mental patients are not pertinent to diagnoses.
• Psychologists do not sleep with their clients. It is against the ethics code to do so.
• Not all mental patients are antisocial.
• There is no magic pill to cure any illness or condition.
• Multiple personality disorder (know as Dissociative disorder) is not as common as portrayed in the movies.
• Psychological distress is more common than people think.
• Life as a psychologist is not that glamorous.

With that said, below are my favorite psychology movies:

	Awakenings Robin Williams and Robert De Niro stars in this drama about catatonic patients due to encephalitis. The movie shows the struggle of a doctor in an attempt to help his patients. This movie is based on a true story.
	Identity While not so accurate about the psychological condition, it is a great thriller with a psychological overtone. Additionally, this movie has a great cast.
	A Beautiful Mind Based on the life of John Forbes Nash Jr. and his struggle with schizophrenia. Even if you are not a fan of psychology, this is a great story about life’s challenges and the ability to overcome them.
	The Diving Bell and the Butterfly This is another movie based on a true story. I must warn you, the pace of the movie is very slow and it is in French with English subtitles. This movie is based on Elle editor Jean-Dominique Bauby and his struggles after a massive stroke that left him paralyzed.
	Primal Fear This is a must watch for anyone who is a fan of trials and thrillers. This movie deals with an altar boy with a Dissociative disorder. While some parts of the condition are overexerted (see myths above) the story is very good.

Honorable Mention

Below are a few extra movies that are worth seeing as well.

	What Dreams May Come Another Robin Williams movie that is worth watching. Loosely based on Dante’s Divine Comedy, this movie deals with the topics of depression and suicide. The reaction to this movie is mixed. Some people may not like the pace of the movie. After all, it is a drama.
	What about Bob? While the movie is highly inaccurate about psychological disorders, it does show a lighter side of psychology.
	One Flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest An oldie but classic. This movie while it may not appeal to the appetite of modern movie goers, this movie shows the group dynamics in a psychiatric center.

Those are my favorites psychology movies and as far as I will go as a movie critic.

Now, I want to hear from you. What do you think about this list? Do you have any favorites that you like to add to the list?