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Artificial Affection: Exploring Human-AI Relationships
As AI adoption becomes increasingly widespread, researchers have been exploring how people develop human-like attachments to AI, which has both beneficial and risky implications.
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The Places That Shape Us: Small Towns vs. Big Cities
Some of us spent our childhood building forts in the woods with our siblings and knowing the full history of everyone in our town. Others spent their early days with endless activities to choose from and the constant sound of police cars and ambulances whizzing by. These very different environments shape the world we know,…
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Poverty’s Impact on the Developing Brain
In this paper, we discuss how socioeconomic status (SES) influences child development through poverty’s interaction with stress, caregiving, and neighborhood context. We highlight evidence that toxic stress, reduced caregiving quality, and neighborhood disadvantage impair brain development, while policy interventions such as financial assistance can buffer these effects and promote healthier developmental trajectories.
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Autism Spectrum Disorder: The Role of Cross-Cultural Differences in Diagnosis and Intervention
In this blog post, we explore how cross-cultural differences impact the diagnosis and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). While early intervention is key, cultural beliefs, stigma, and systemic disparities often delay diagnosis for children from non-white and minoritized communities. By examining global perspectives and research, this post highlights the need for culturally responsive approaches…
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Phobias and Fears
Whether it’s heights, planes, or spiders, we each have that one fear that defies logical explanation, yet our brains insist on sounding the alarm. But why does this happen? And why aren’t we all scared of the same things?
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The Psychology of Climate Change
This article explores the psychological and social challenges in addressing climate change, emphasizing how evolutionary and cognitive biases hinder our responses to this global crisis. It delves into the complexities of human behavior and societal structures that make it difficult to enact effective climate action and considers how these obstacles might be overcome through increased…
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Brainpower in Full Bloom: The Cognitive Benefits of Rosemary and Lavender Aromatherapy
This article explores how aromatherapy can enhance cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and mental clarity, drawing on both real-world applications and its potential benefits for neurological health.
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Symphonic Interventions: Investigating the Impact of Music Therapy on Social and Communication Skills in ASD Individuals
In this article, the author discusses the role of music therapy in enhancing social and communication skills among individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Music therapy provides a comfortable medium for self-expression and emotional regulation, particularly important during adolescence. The author highlights the universal appeal of music and its ability to help individuals with ASD…
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Effects of Nature and Birdsong on Cognition, Attention, and Wellbeing
Alex Yeghikian (Author) and Sonya A. Ashikyan (Mentor) Walking around UCLA, you might hear the trill of a Bewick’s wren, the clicks of a California towhee, or the chirping of a dark-eyed junco. With a careful eye, you might even see one perched on a branch or flying swiftly by. We might not pay much…
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Furry Prescription: The Healing Powers of Pet Interaction
This article discusses the therapeutic benefits of pets on human health, emphasizing their role in enhancing physical activity, improving mood, and providing emotional support. Through personal experience and scientific research, it underscores the transformative impact of pet ownership on individuals’ well-being.