Speaking of Psychology

In this engaging discussion, Paul Bloom, a psychology professor at the University of Toronto and author of 'The Sweet Spot,' delves into the curious allure of suffering. He explores why we willingly embrace pain through activities like marathons and scary movies, highlighting the paradox of pleasure and hardship. Bloom distinguishes between chosen and unchosen suffering, questioning the societal belief in trauma leading to growth. He also discusses the moral implications of enduring struggle for a greater purpose and introduces a new book aimed at simplifying psychology.

Marisa Franco, PhD, is a psychologist and friendship expert as well as the author of 'Platonic'. In this discussion, she highlights why adults struggle to form and maintain friendships and offers strategies to overcome loneliness. The conversation delves into the complexities of adult friendships, including the impact of ghosting and societal pressures on emotional vulnerability. Franco also explores how friendship dynamics differ between men and women, the health implications of shrinking social networks, and ways to build meaningful connections in a divided world.

In this episode, Paul Eastwick, a relationship expert at UC Davis, and Eli Finkel, a social psychologist from Northwestern University, dive into how romantic comedies shape our views on love. They explore popular myths like love at first sight and soulmates, critiquing how these narratives can distort real-life expectations. The duo analyzes key films such as 'When Harry Met Sally' and 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,' discussing the impact of negativity in relationships and the importance of authenticity in portraying love.

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.