Author Note First paragraph: Research the Myth Second paragraph: Sources of the Myth Third paragraph: Video Script Dispelling Myths and Misconceptions in Psychology The myth that humans only use 10% of their brain has been talked about in psychology and neuroscience. Scientific research using brain imaging technology, such as MRIs and PET scans, shows that all areas of the brain have functions and are active at different times, even during simple activities or rest (Boyd, 2008). Research shows that damage even to small areas of the brain can lead tos serious impairments in speech, memory, or movement, which shows that very part of the brain serves an important role (OECD,2008). Studies also show that many people continue to believe this myth regardless of the lack of scientific evidence supporting it (Higbee & Clay, 1998). Experts have explained that this misconception likely comes from misunderstandings about early neurological and how brain activity works (Radford, 2014). References Boyd, B. (2008). Do people only use 10% of their brains? Scientific American Higbee, K. L. & Clay S. L (1998). College students’ beliefs in the ten-percent myth. The Journal of Psychology, 132(5), 469-476 Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). (2002). Understanding the brain: Towards a new learning science. Raford, B. (2014) The 10 percent of the brain myth. Live Science Sources of the Myth The myth that humans only use 10% of their brain has been spread through many forms of media. It is commonly seen in movies like Lucy and Limitless, where the characters gained abilities by unlocking more of their brain. The idea is also shared widely on social media platforms, motivational speeches, and websites that promote self-improvement. These sources often suggest that people have hidden potential that can be accessed with proper training. Historically the myth may have come from misunderstandings of early brain research or misinterpretations of statements made by psychologists and scientists. Over time the idea became popular because it is simple, appealing, and gives people hope that they can easily increase their intelligence abilities. Structured Video Script Debunking the Myth I. Warn about the Myth You may have heard the claim that humans only use 10% of their brain. This idea is very popular and often appears in movies, social media, and motivational content, making it seem like we all have a large amount of unused brain power waiting to be unlocked. II. Refutation cue But this idea is not true! III. Refute with scientific evidence Scientific evidence shows that we actually use all parts of our brain, not just 10%. Brain imaging technology demonstrates that different areas of the brain are active throughout the day, even when we are performing simple tasks or resting (Boyd,2008). Research also shows that damage to small areas of the brain can cause serious problems, which proves that every part of the brain has an important function (OECD, 2002). If we only used 10% of our brain, damage to the rest would not have such significant effects but it does. In addition, studies show that many people continue to believe this myth even though there is no scientific evidence supporting it (Higbee & Clay, 1998). Experts explain that this misconception comes from misunderstanding about how the brain works (Radford, 2014). IV. Explain why the myth misleads This myth is misleading because it makes people believe that most of their brain is unused or wasted. It can also lead people to believe there are quick ways to unlock hidden brain power, which is often used to promote products or programs that are not supported by science. V. Explain caveats Although we use all parts of our brain, we do not use every part at full capacity all the time. Different areas are active depending on what we are doing. It is also true that people can improve brain function through learning, practice, and healthy habits, but this is not the same as unlocking unused portions of the brain. VI. Reinforce the truth The truth is that humans use 100% of their brain, just in different ways throughout the day. Instead of focusing on myths, we should focus on learning, practicing, and taking care of our brain to help it function effectively.