Integrating Buddhist Approaches and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to Address Simulacra-Induced Psychological Issues in Modern Chinese Society
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Abstract
This study examines Simulacra-Induced Psychological Issues (SIPI), a proposed conceptual framework for psychological difficulties associated with prolonged exposure to idealized and algorithmically curated digital representations in contemporary Chinese society. The objectives were to: (1) examine patterns of simulacra exposure and perceived psychological effects; (2) explore functional relationships between selected Buddhist psychological concepts and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT); and (3) develop a preliminary Buddhist-integrated CBT framework. An exploratory multi-method design combined documentary and scriptural analysis, a descriptive online questionnaire completed by 100 Chinese internet users selected by convenience sampling, and semi-structured interviews with seven experts. Participants commonly reported compulsive checking, anxiety, depressive feelings, emptiness, and cognitive dissonance in relation to digital-media use. Documentary and interview analyses identified three candidate mechanisms: addictive design, idealized settings, and reality replacement.
These findings are descriptive and do not establish prevalence, diagnosis, or causality. Comparative analysis identified possible functional parallels between the Five Aggregates and elements of CBT cognitive processing, and between Yogācāra concepts such as ālayavijñāna and manas and hierarchical belief models; these parallels are heuristic rather than doctrinal or clinical equivalences. The study proposes a Buddhist-integrated CBT model and a 12-session intervention prototype incorporating cognitive restructuring, behavioral experiments, mindfulness, Five Aggregates observation, and optional Buddhist practices. Expert feedback supported further development while identifying concerns regarding complexity, cultural fit, and religious applicability. The model requires instrument validation, pilot safety testing, and controlled outcome research before clinical use.
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