Developmental psychologist J.D. Haltigan, PhD, recently asserted on social media that "Wokeism is the normalization of mental illness." This direct statement, shared via his tweet on July 27, 2025, contributes to an ongoing public and academic discourse concerning the intersection of contemporary social ideologies and mental well-being. Dr. Haltigan's professional background includes a Ph.D. in developmental psychology from the University of Miami, with a research focus on developmental and evolutionary psychopathology and measurement science.
Dr. Haltigan has been a vocal critic of what he perceives as the influence of "woke" culture within academia and broader society. He has articulated concerns about the "feminization" of psychology and how well-intentioned efforts to reduce mental health stigma might have morphed into troubling trends. His critical stance extends to legal action, as he previously filed a lawsuit against UC Santa Cruz, alleging that a mandatory diversity statement for a faculty position infringed upon free speech principles.
The assertion that "wokeism" normalizes mental illness resonates with some recent academic discussions and studies. Research from institutions, including a large-scale academic study from Finland, has indicated that individuals with higher agreement with critical social justice attitudes tend to report increased levels of anxiety and depression. Commentators suggest that certain online subcultures, often associated with "woke" ideologies, may inadvertently romanticize or validate mental health conditions, potentially lowering the threshold for what is considered "trauma" or encouraging self-diagnosis.
These perspectives often highlight a perceived shift where mental health struggles are framed as identity markers rather than conditions requiring intervention or recovery. Critics argue this approach can hinder genuine therapeutic progress by fostering a culture where vulnerability is celebrated without a corresponding emphasis on resilience or improvement. This framing suggests that a focus on systemic oppression might lead some to internalize victimhood, impacting their mental health.
Conversely, proponents of "woke" movements argue that increased awareness and open discussion around mental health aim to destigmatize conditions and foster empathy, not normalize illness. They contend that a focus on societal injustices and systemic inequalities can be a healthy response to perceived societal flaws. This viewpoint emphasizes that acknowledging the impact of social structures on individual well-being is crucial for comprehensive mental health support. The complex and often contentious relationship between ideological frameworks and mental health outcomes remains a subject of active research and debate within psychology, sociology, and public discourse.