PsychologyJuly 17, 2026

neuromyth

NYUR-oh-mith

Definition

A widely held but scientifically inaccurate belief or misconception regarding how the human brain functions.

Etymology

The word is a portmanteau combining 'neuro-' from the Greek 'neuron' (nerve) and 'myth' from the Greek 'mythos' (story or legend). It was coined in the late 20th century to describe the propagation of pseudo-scientific ideas about the brain.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe outdated ideas about the brain that persist in culture and professional fields despite being disproven by current research. Recognizing these myths is essential for practitioners to avoid relying on faulty psychological models.

Lizard Brains and Hidden Knowledge

Read the full article ↗

Psychology Today

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