The Thinking Mind Podcast: Psychiatry & Psychotherapy E60: Confidence & Why Your Beliefs Matter (with Professor Ian Robertson)
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Sep 29, 2023 
Neuroscientist and clinical psychologist Professor Ian Robertson discusses the danger of over-emphasizing genetic influences on psychology, the impact of environment on psychology, and the limitations of a psychiatric view on mental health. They also explore the components of confidence, the obesity and opioid crises, and steps to build confidence and overcome anxiety.
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What Confidence Really Means
- Confidence is linked to action systems and involves believing you can do something that will lead to a specific outcome.
- It is domain-specific, unlike optimism or self-esteem, and influences internal and external action.
Control vs Status and Brain Chemistry
- Perceived social status influences brain dopamine receptors and mental health, affecting depression and anxiety risk.
- A sense of control over life and mind contents can mitigate negative mental and physical effects of low status.
Confidence as Habits and Mindset
- Confidence emerges from habits of attention, action, and managing anxiety, plus a growth mindset about abilities.
- Fixed beliefs about traits limit learning and increase defensiveness, harming confidence development.