PSYOP, short for 

psychological operations, refers to the use of propaganda and other psychological tactics to influence the emotions, motives, and behaviors of target audiences. These operations are conducted by military forces to achieve specific objectives, such as demoralizing an enemy, influencing public opinion, or providing information to civilian populations during a crisis. While the term was used extensively, its military use was briefly changed to Military Information Support Operations (MISO) but has since reverted. 

• Military operations:
  • Objective: To influence the behavior of a target audience in a way that supports a military or national objective.
  • Tactics: Can include developing and distributing targeted messaging (like pamphlets or radio broadcasts), using information to affect public opinion or enemy morale, or providing critical information during disaster relief efforts.
  • Examples: Encouraging enemy desertion, providing information to civilians during a natural disaster, or using loud and repetitive sounds to demoralize an opponent.
• Terminology:
  • The term “PSYOP” is sometimes viewed negatively, leading to the U.S. military’s brief renaming of the function to “Military Information Support Operations” (MISO) in 2010 to foster better cooperation with the State Department.
  • However, the original term “PSYOP” has been reinstated since late 2017.
• Modern use:
  • PSYOP can now take place online, with tactics aimed at influencing public opinion, interfering in elections, or undermining democratic governments.
  • It’s used to shape decision-making and behaviors in support of national objectives.