Ideology, Scientism and Mental Health

Background: There is an intrinsic conflict between science and ideology, with the expected rational subordination of the latter. Objective: The present article will present a brief bibliographical exploration in neuroscientific and cognitive terms on the importance of the set of norms and positions of ideas or ideology held by the affected individuals in the field of mental health. It will particularly explore psychobiological and communicative influences, as well as the practical attitude or subjective perspectives of those involved in health interactions. Method: It is a narrative and theoretical review study, based on the pertinent electronic and manual search in different national and international qualified bibliographical indexes. The number of references included is n= 78. Results and discussion: Modern neuropsychiatry and clinical psychology tend towards personalisation or precision applied to individual mental health. Neuroscience fused with multiple approaches will be the next identity frontier for both. In any case, the best accompaniment, subsumed or added to the specialised psychological or psychiatric intervention, is essential for therapeutic adherence and effectiveness. Conclusion: Findings for the psychobiological basis of most mental, behavioural and neurodevelopmental disorders is beginning to collide with traditional exclusivist psychologistic preconceptions, as we are immersed into a new era of scientism in search of the best experimental knowledge. Limitations: High heterogeneity of scientific quality, approaches and contents of contributions make it difficult to pondering the obtained results. Value: This article elucidates general basic questions on the considered matter