Speaking of Psychology

Vaile Wright, PhD, a licensed psychologist and senior director of the Office of Healthcare Innovation at APA, discusses the transformative power of AI in mental health care. She explores the rise of chatbots, emphasizing their role in expanding accessibility while addressing ethical concerns. Wright dives into the balance of AI support versus human empathy in therapy, the distinctions between digital therapeutics and wellness apps, and the evolving landscape of mental health care as AI tools become integrated into treatment models.

Nicholas Turk-Browne, PhD, a psychology professor at Yale University, explores the enigma of childhood amnesia. He discusses groundbreaking research indicating that babies form memories, yet adults struggle to recall them. The conversation delves into the science of how infant brains process experiences and the role of advanced brain imaging techniques in this understanding. Listeners learn about the implications of early memory formation on identity, behavior, and the lifelong impact of early experiences.

Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky, a distinguished psychology professor, shares remarkable insights on how we can enhance our happiness. She discusses the balance between genetics and our active choices in fostering joy. The impact of social media on young adults' happiness is alarming, revealing a significant decline in well-being. Sonja also explores the role of emotional connections, even with AI companions, and dispels myths about hedonic adaptation, emphasizing that experiences trumps material possessions when it comes to lasting fulfillment.

Dr. Paul Piff, an Associate Professor at UC Irvine, delves into how wealth shapes behavior and relationships. He discusses the striking findings from a Monopoly experiment showing that money can lead to increased entitlement and dominance. The conversation explores the connection between wealth and happiness, asserting that true satisfaction comes from experiences, not material goods. Piff also touches on philanthropy, questioning whether wealthy individuals give out of genuine altruism or social obligation, illuminating the complex psychology of economic disparity.

Mindy Shoss, a psychology professor at the University of Central Florida, delves into the pressing issue of job insecurity in a world increasingly shaped by AI and economic shifts. She discusses how job-related stress affects mental and physical health, and emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's identity beyond work. Shoss offers coping strategies and highlights the critical role of employers in creating supportive environments. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of work and the necessity for empathy and adaptability in the face of these changes.

Darby Saxbe, PhD, an associate professor at USC and director of the NEST Lab, discusses the fascinating brain changes that occur in new parents. She explains how these shifts improve bonding and caregiving but can also bring challenges. Saxbe highlights the benefits of paternity leave, which significantly boost mental health for families. The conversation touches on the neuroprotective advantages of parenthood and the need for policies that support the mental well-being of both parents during this critical transition.

Ximena Arriaga, PhD, is a Professor of psychological sciences at Purdue University, specializing in close relationship bonds. She discusses how our early experiences shape our attachment styles, revealing that these styles are not fixed and can evolve over time. The conversation dives into strategies for fostering emotional security within relationships, especially for partners dealing with anxiety and self-worth issues. Arriaga also emphasizes the importance of identity reclamation after abusive dynamics, advocating for healthy communication and support.

Ruth Ogden, a Professor at Liverpool John Moores University, dives into the curious psychology of time. She shares why time seems to race when we're enjoying ourselves and drags during dull moments. The conversation highlights how aging shifts our time perception and discusses the bewildering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on our sense of time. Ruth also critiques daylight saving time's impact on well-being and offers practical strategies to enrich our experiences and reclaim our relationship with time.

George Bonanno, PhD, a Professor of Psychology at Columbia University, dives deep into the human capacity for resilience. He explores how people can survive trauma without lasting effects and emphasizes the role of cognitive flexibility in navigating tough times. Bonanno discusses adaptability as a learned skill and separates the differences between trauma and challenges. He highlights therapeutic strategies for managing mental health and shares insights into supporting veterans during their transitions, all while showcasing the extraordinary ways humanity copes with adversity.

Mary E. Dozier, a licensed clinical psychologist and assistant professor at Mississippi State University, delves into the complexities of hoarding disorder. She reveals that hoarding affects about 2% of people, often intertwining with other mental health issues. Dozier underscores the altruistic traits found in many who hoard and emphasizes a values-based intervention approach. The discussion also touches on the challenges of treatment, particularly how understanding individual motivations can lead to effective decluttering strategies and compassionate support for those affected.