Dr. Joyce Brothers (1927-2013) was a multi-faceted American psychologist, writer, and public figure who popularized psychology among the general public. She was a pioneer in her field; combining her scientific expertise, interest in mental health issues, and media savvy to become the first psychologist to destigmatize mental health and offer televised consultations.

Scientific Education and Early Career

Dr. Joyce Brothers graduated from Cornell University (Ithaca, New York) with a double major in Psychology and Home Economics. She then specialized in Psychology and obtained a doctorate from Columbia University (New York) in 1953. Her work was published under the title “An Investigation of Avoidance Anxiety and ‘Escape Behavior in Human Subjects as Measured by Action Potentials in Muscles’”.

With degree in hand, Dr. Brothers taught as a Psychology professor at Hunter College for several years. It was during this period that her desire to explain Psychology to everyone was born. But in 1950s America and facing financial difficulties – her physician husband was just starting his career and earning little money – Dr. Brothers was forced to leave her teaching position to find a better alternative.

Discovery by the General Public

At the time, a television game show promised a big prize to those who could answer high-level questions. Dr. Brothers seized this opportunity, and it was during this game “The $64,000 Question” that she burst onto the audiovisual scene. To win the jackpot, she became an expert in a field unknown to her – boxing. Her determination earned her the $64,000 prize twice, equivalent to a million dollars today (accounting for inflation).

Popularization of Psychology

Building on this notoriety, Dr. Brothers participated in TV and radio shows to talk about her knowledge – in this case, Psychology. She thus appeared on “The Tonight Show,” and hosted several programs such as “The Dr. Joyce Brothers Show” and “Ask Dr. Brothers.” Not afraid to dispense psychological advice outside the therapist’s office, she faced resistance – jealousy? – from her psychologist colleagues. But the American public listened to her: she was the first to normalize mental health issues and lend credibility to the term doctor associated with Psychology – she systematically had herself called Doctor Joyce Brothers as a sign of recognition for her field of expertise. “She was the first to introduce many people to the concept of psychologist and connect them to the term doctor,” declares Dr. Frank Farley, president of the American Psychological Association. Later, her colleagues’ skepticism gave way to respect, and she was invited as a speaker at this association’s annual convention.

On a more humorous note, Dr. Brothers played herself in TV series and even lent her voice to an episode of The Simpsons.

Contribution to Society

Dr. Brothers was a media phenomenon; she was also a committed woman. On several occasions, she didn’t hesitate to stay on the phone with distressed people who called her radio show threatening suicide, until emergency services intervened.

Dr. Joyce Brothers’ legacy endures: she is remembered for opening up the debate on mental health. Her career likely motivated young girls to pursue their goals. Cornell University pays tribute to the “Mother of Media Psychology” through an exhibition celebrating her achievements.

Written and edited by Tiffanie C.