Label. Shame. Break. Science. The Monster Study Tragedy

In this chilling episode, we unravel the truth behind one of psychology’s darkest and most disturbing experiments—The Monster Study. Conducted in 1939 on unsuspecting orphans, this study set out to determine whether stuttering could be artificially induced. But in its pursuit of academic validation, it shattered childhoods, silenced voices, and inflicted lasting emotional trauma. Join us as we dig deep into how respected researchers crossed moral boundaries, how survivors lived with the consequences for decades, and how this forgotten experiment came back to haunt the scientific world. The hosts mix serious reflection on trauma, accountability, and the role of labels with personal reactions, anecdotes, and lighter banter, highlighting why this case remains a cautionary tale for science and society. This is not just a story about speech—it’s a story about power, trust, and the thin line between research and abuse. Prepare yourself for a devastating yet vital exploration of a forgotten chapter in psychological history. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.