Dictionaries define brainwashing as a technique of using force, propaganda, or extreme forms of salesmanship to give up basic beliefs and accept an alternative belief system. It is commonly thought of as being something that goes along with the territory in totalitarian countries, but you may find it closer to home.
YOU MAY BE DOING IT TO YOURSELF!
The experience of being human allows us to use intelligence, creativity, physical skills, talent, and motivation (among other things) to maximize our potential and to maximize the experience of being human. To do so, however, require a belief in one’s self and a positive attitude.
As we progress through our lives, we go through the process of learning and adjusting. For some, it means learning that the universe that we dominated as a child has to be shared. Some learn that effort is rewarded even if some goals are not achieved, while others learn that whatever they do isn’t good enough. Some learn that they are objects of abuse, and some learn that their only source self-esteem comes from being a bully.
Some enter adulthood with positive self-images, while others have been brainwashed to feel lousy about themselves. Up to a point, the brainwashing is the work of others. As an adult living in the times, you have to take responsibility for it if you continue to put yourself down.
The lessons of positive psychology are so well-documented and widespread that they offer an effective counter-argument to those who continue to put themselves down. In addition to reviewing the information on this website, all you have to do is Google Positive Psychology to be exposed to a ton of research and clinical guidance to help you master the art of feeling better about yourself.
Brainwashing is inappropriate, no matter who is doing it. DOING IT TO YOURSELF IS INEXCUSABLE.