Psychologically Speaking

Americans spend hundreds of millions of dollars each year on magnetic bracelets, belts, vests, pillows, and mattresses, hoping to gain clarity, improved memory, and relief from pain. But what evidence do we have that materials such as these provide "scientifically proven healing benefits?" How do scientists evaluate these and other pseudoscientific claims? What are some strategies you can use to develop your critical and scientific thinking skills? Take a listen to find out why skeptics do it with their eyes open!

Did you know that liking curly fries and Morgan Freeman's voice is linked to high intelligence? Michael Kosinski and colleagues (2013) found evidence of these and other interesting correlations after studying the pages of 58,000 Facebook users. But what do findings from studies like this one really tell us, if anything? How do psychologists conduct research, and what are empirical questions? Listen to this latest episode to find out!

What comes to mind when you hear the word wellness? Last year's pandemic highlighted the importance of being physically and mentally healthy. But did we become concerned enough about our overall well-being to explore the topic from a holistic perspective? In this episode, I introduce you to the 8 domains of wellness that affect our overall state of well-being in so many ways. Listen as I discuss how behavior changes for the better lead to changes that make your life better. Here's to your success at being your very best!

Psychology is a science and a profession fueled by curiosity. At the forefront of applying psychology to everyday life are four big ideas: Critical thinking, behavior as a biopsychosocial event, dual processing, and human strengths. Which of these seems most interesting to you and why? What is something you've experienced that relates to these ideas? Are you able to make the connections between these four big ideas and your daily experiences? If you listen to this podcast, the answer is yes!

Have you ever found yourself saying, "Duh, I could've told them that!" after hearing the results of a psychological experiment? There is a common misconception that the findings from psychological research are common sense knowledge or intuitive, so why do we need psychological science? Psychology is more than a soft science. Psychology is a science based on empirical evidence, a healthy sense of skepticism, and structured research project design. Take a listen to find out why psychology is the "science with attitude!"

Did you know that over 50% of the population will be diagnosed with a mental illness or disorder at some point in their lifetime? This means that many of us will experience, know someone who will experience, or know someone who has experienced the pain and confusion related to mental illness.  What does this say about the state of psychological health? Can we see mental illness through a preventive medicine lens? What are some ways we can rescue those in danger of falling into the river of mental health troubles and being swept away? Take a listen to find out.

If you're suffering from a lack of motivation, don't worry, it's natural. By nature, our brains are wired to resist change. But we can prepare for what's coming when we plan ahead, find an accountability partner, visualize your success and act on it! And most importantly, celebrate your success, no matter how small it might seem. Celebrate the journey. After all, the journey is what gets you to your destination! Now, tell me, what are you aspiring to do? Don't let a lack of motivation hold you back!

Are you a crier? Do you cry when the wind blows too hard? Do you know someone that never cries? For years scientists have argued about the reasons we cry. Tears of joy appear to be expressed in the same manner as tears of sadness. It's only the emotion that distinguishes the two. And, surprisingly, the tears we shed when chopping onions are chemically different than the tears we cry when expressing our feelings. Take a listen to hear some interesting research findings in the up-and-coming field of the science of crying. Enjoy!

What do you do when you're experiencing an episode of life interrupted? You seek enlightenment, spiritual growth, and awakening. At least that's what I did when the world stopped last year in the wake of a pandemic. During an uncertain time, I started practicing yoga. And I am so glad I did! Studying yoga has allowed me to explore Eastern philosophy methods and link them to Western psychology concepts. I am enjoying my journey to maintaining and achieving optimal well-being and reaping the benefits found at the intersection of east meets west!

Most of the harmful stress we experience exists in our minds. This is not to say that horrible events and catastrophes don't happen. But how we perceive these events and our reactions to the events makes stress a relative experience. Findings from research in health psychology and positive psychology suggest that our bodies and minds are deeply connected. Therefore it's essential to think about how the body might influence the mind, specifically when dealing with stress. How do you alleviate stress? What coping strategies do you find helpful?