Spring Theory
Because psychologists and their patients loved the results, the arbitrary tactic of attributing poor decision-making and bad behavior to “external negative influences” became widespread.
That poor decision-making and bad behavior can be caused by “external negative influences” is an authentic theory of human nature. This theory of human nature can be summarized as follows:
Human beings would perform admirably if not for “external negative influences” that cause individuals to perform poorly.
An appropriate name for this theory of human nature is “Spring Theory” because it assumes human beings are predisposed to perform admirably (spring up) if not for “external negative influences.”
According to Spring Theory, “external negative influences” are like heavy baggage. They weigh on us, compressing Nature's intrinsic “spring.” With enough “baggage,” the supposed “spring” becomes compressed to a point where we perform poorly.
Because “Spring Theory” proved to be advantageous for psychologists and gratifying to their patients, it quickly became the de facto theory of Psychology.
Today, it is standard for psychologists to look for “external negative influences” (“hooks”) on which to hang poor decision-making and bad behavior.
Note: A “breakthrough” is the discovery of an “external negative influence.”
Most psychologists believe healing cannot begin before a “breakthrough” is realized from identifying the “external negative influence” responsible for the patient's poor decision-making and bad behavior. Only then can psychologists guide their patients to emotional healing and well-being.
Spring Theory was adopted quietly without objection because (1) it filled the hole in Psychology and (2) the real theory that actually explains human nature was missing. In short, there was no one to object.
Note: The American Psychological Association could have reminded everyone (1) the central theory of Psychology was missing and (2) Spring Theory was unofficial and unproven. However, the APA is more than the governing body of Psychology. It is the marketing arm for its members, the psychologists who pay a fee to the APA in trade for expanding the reach of Psychology and increasing profitability. As such, the APA was reluctant to kill the “Cash Cow.”