Keyword: «cognitive distortions»

The paper attempts to characterize the Dunning-Kruger effect from the point of view of the psychological content of socially conditioned cognitive errors (distortions). The Dunning-Kruger effect is understood as the tendency of people with a low level of competence to make erroneous conclusions and wrong decisions, but unable to realize this due to the low level of their competence. A study was conducted in order to specify the psychological content of the effect. The results showed that the psychological characteristics that contribute to the manifestation of the Dunning-Kruger effect include inflated self-esteem and anticipatory inadequacy of the individual.

Ce of modern digital media and sociocultural factors. The results revealed a significant severity of catastrophizing and self-directed "should" statements. The obtained data are important for developing cognitive-behavioral correction programs aimed at improving psychological adaptation of women in early adulthood.

The article examines the phenomenon of the personal success cult in contemporary society, its impact on value system formation and psychological consequences for individuals. It analyses the mechanisms of promoting the idea of success through mass media, social networks, self‑development industry and corporate culture. Special attention is given to psychological manipulation techniques based on cognitive biases (confirmation bias, survivorship bias) and emotional impact (guilt, shame). The negative consequences of blind adherence to the success cult are described, including emotional burnout, financial losses, social isolation and distortion of life values. The concluding section offers strategies for protection against manipulations: developing critical thinking, mindfulness, forming healthy habits and realistic goals. The conclusion states that while the success cult can serve as a growth stimulus, its manipulative use poses serious risks to psychological well‑being.