Minister Challenges Psychologists to Write Lightweight Self-Help Books Like 'Atomic Habits'

Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto has challenged Indonesian psychology experts to write self-help books grounded in psychological science that are packaged lightly, communicatively, and attractively for Generation Z, similar to the book ‘Atomic Habits’. Speaking at a national psychology seminar in Jakarta on Tuesday, he said psychology is a field needed by everyone for self-capacity and personal development. He noted that books like ‘Atomic Habits’ are essentially psychology, representing knowledge that needs to be built. The minister assessed that a populist psychological approach is urgently needed, given the strong negative stigma among students who feel ashamed or fearful about face-to-face consultations with professionals. He lamented that the availability of entertaining yet substantial psychology books by local authors remains minimal, causing Indonesian readers to consume more translated literature. Brian suggested that books for Gen Z should not resemble heavy introductory psychology textbooks, but rather serve as applicable guides for career success or transformative leadership. He proposed that the Indonesian Psychological Association hold a competition to produce psychology books for Gen Z. The primary goal of such lightweight books is inclusivity, enabling all levels of society, especially teenagers and students, to learn mental resilience in a relaxed manner, so they are not fragile in facing social and academic pressures.