Brainwashing is a term that refers to a process of psychological manipulation that aims to change an individual’s attitudes, beliefs, and values. It is said to reduce its subject’s ability to think critically or independently and allow the introduction of new, unwanted thoughts and ideas into their minds.

The concept of brainwashing is not generally accepted as a scientific term. In casual speech, “brainwashing” and its verb form, “brainwash,” are used figuratively to describe the use of propaganda to persuade or sway public opinion.