Psychologists examine the trend of manifesting

The psychological concept of manifesting, a popular trend on social media under the hashtag #manifesting, involves the belief that one can influence the universe to fulfill desires through positive thinking and conscious thought control.

Psychologist and couple therapist Tobias Herrmann-Schwarz describes it as the belief that one can ask the universe for the fulfillment of wishes through strong belief. Elisabeth Dallüge, deputy federal chair of the German Psychotherapist Association (DPtV), notes that manifesting also includes practical methods such as visualization, affirmations, and journaling to engage consciously with personal goals.

Experts suggest the trend's popularity stems from a fundamental psychological need for control and the hope to influence one's own future. However, social media can create a skewed perception of its efficacy by primarily showcasing success stories while omitting failures. There is also a potential risk that individuals may hold themselves solely responsible for all life events due to this mindset.