The Martha Mitchell effect is a mistaken interpretation that a person's belief is a delusion.
The effect was mentioned by English-American psychologist Brendan Arnold Maher in the book, Delusional Beliefs (1988). Maher was a Harvard University psychology professor.
The name of the effect refers to Martha Beall Mitchell who accused the US administration of using her husband, US Attorney General John Mitchell, as a scapegoat to protect President Nixon during the time of the Watergate scandal. Her belief was justified despite being regarded as delusional.
Although Martha Mitchell received mental health treatment, the use of a mental health diagnosis to discredit her perspective on events should serve as a warning to mental health professionals, journalists, and anyone learning about a diagnosis used to slander or discredit someone's opinion. The actions
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Reference
Oltmanns, T. F., & Maher, B. A. (Eds.). (1988). Delusional beliefs. John Wiley & Sons.Documentary
The Martha Mitchell Effect is also a documentary available on Netflix. The actions against Martha Mitchell are an example of gaslighting.
The psychologist behind the effect.
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Geoffrey W. Sutton, PhD is Emeritus Professor of Psychology. He retired from a clinical practice and was credentialed in clinical neuropsychology and psychopharmacology. His website is www.suttong.com
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Dr. Sutton’s posts are for educational purposes only. See a licensed mental health provider for diagnoses, treatment, and consultation.
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