Hidden-camera videos spark questions over DEI, activism at psychology conference
Fri, August 7, 2026 at 10:19 AM
UpdatedFri, August 7, 2026 at 10:19 AM
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WASHINGTON (TNND) —A hidden-camera investigation is raising questions about the use of clinical psychology techniques in DEI and social justice training after speakers at the American Psychological Association’s annual conference were recorded discussing methods for training “white allies” and incorporating activism into psychology programs
Accuracy in Media President Adam Guillette said his organization recorded multiple speakers discussing the use of therapeutic approaches, including dialectical behavior therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy, in the context of anti-racism and allyship
In one recording released by the group, a conference speaker discussed using skills from DBT, along with approaches including ACT, motivational interviewing, CBT and mindfulness, to help “white allies overcome the various barriers that are a part of their allyship journey.”
Guillette criticized the approach, arguing that techniques developed for clinical treatment were being applied to political and ideological objectives
“We captured multiple speakers explaining how to use psychological tactics like dialectical behavioral therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy to make better, quote, ‘white allies’ in the fight for anti-racism,” Guillette said
Accuracy in Media also alleges that speakers discussed ways to continue incorporating DEI, social justice and discussions surrounding Palestine into psychology education, including by changing how certain initiatives are described
Guillette argued that the recordings raise broader questions about how political and social issues are being incorporated into the training of future psychologists and, ultimately, patient care
He also called attention to the organizations supporting the conference, claiming that the Department of Justice was among its sponsors while the agency has simultaneously scrutinized DEI practices at universities
Guillette called for sponsors, lawmakers and universities to take a closer look at what was promoted at the conference and argued that patients should be aware of the ideological debates taking place within the profession
The American Psychological Association is one of the country’s most influential professional organizations for psychology, giving debates over its conferences and educational priorities potential implications for how future psychologists are trained and how clinical practices evolve
