New Books in Psychology

Nancy Ceulemans, a neurodevelopmental educational consultant and co-author of a book on supporting children with autism, provides valuable insights on understanding children's behavior. She discusses how sensory processing, environmental toxins, and holistic approaches affect behavior in both autistic and neurotypical kids. With practical tips for handling meltdowns and sensory overload, Nancy empowers parents and educators alike. Her expertise highlights the importance of compassionate strategies and a comprehensive view on child development.

Miguel Farias, an experimental psychologist and religion researcher at Coventry University, dives deep into meditation's complexities. He discusses the often-overlooked adverse effects of meditation, urging a balanced perspective on its benefits and risks. The conversation highlights how meditation can have both positive and negative outcomes, particularly for those with trauma. Farias advocates for a nuanced understanding of altered states of consciousness, emphasizing the need to recognize diverse experiences and their implications in both traditional and modern contexts.

Harry Gill, a psychiatrist with a PhD in neuroscience, dives into the serious effects of screen time on middle-aged and older adults. He discusses how excessive screen usage can hinder personal growth and lead to feelings of stagnation and despair. Gill highlights the dangers of isolation from real-life interactions and emphasizes the importance of meaningful connections. Practical strategies to manage screen time and foster healthier habits are also shared, aiming to enhance mental well-being and life engagement as we age.

Ciara Greene, an associate professor at University College Dublin and co-author of 'Memory Lane,' dives deep into the quirks of human memory. She discusses how technology influences our recollection and reflects on personal experiences in memory research. Ciara highlights the transformative case of Henry Molaison, revealing insights about the hippocampus and memory construction. The conversation also tackles the complexities of multitasking and underscores that memory is an adaptive process, not just a flawless recording.

Sally King, a medical sociologist and founder of menstrualmatters.com, dives into the misconceptions surrounding PMS and the historical myths linking women's behavior to hormonal changes. She critiques the stigma of being labeled 'hormonal' and urges a reassessment of menstrual education. King highlights how stereotypes, especially regarding race, influence perceptions of women's health. She calls for better understanding and communication about menstrual health, aiming to empower women and dispel damaging narratives in society and medicine.

Bradley Lewis, a psychiatrist and psychotherapist, Alisha Ali, an expert on oppression's mental health effects, and Jazmine Russell, co-founder of an innovative mental health institute, dive into the transformative world of mad studies. They explore the intersection of mental health, arts, and activism, advocating for inclusive narratives that challenge traditional frameworks. The conversation highlights how lived experiences and diverse perspectives can reshape our understanding of mental difference, confront stigma, and promote collective healing in society.

In this discussion, Peter D. Hershock, a Professor at the East-West Center, shares insights from his book which fuses Buddhist philosophy with modern understandings of consciousness. He argues that consciousness is a relational phenomenon shaped by our environments and cultures. Topics covered include the ethics of machine morality, the implications of AI on human behavior, and the transformative effects of meditation. Hershock emphasizes the intertwining of consciousness with both matter and relationships, urging us to engage compassionately with our evolving understanding.

Jade S. Sasser, an Associate Professor in Gender & Sexuality Studies at UC Riverside, discusses the emotional toll of climate anxiety on reproductive choices. She delves into how eco-anxiety, especially among young people, complicates decisions about having children. The conversation explores the intersection of race and environmental stress, highlighting the disparities faced by marginalized communities. Sasser emphasizes the vital link between climate justice and mental health, advocating for equitable support systems in the face of this global crisis.

Grace Lindsay, an Assistant Professor at NYU and author of "Models of the Mind," explores the fascinating world of theoretical neuroscience. She discusses the intricate interplay between mathematics and biology in understanding brain efficiency and the historical context of electrical models in neurobiology. Lindsay highlights the surprising complexities of a lobster's digestive neural circuitry and the challenges of studying the motor cortex. The conversation also touches on the synergy between neuroscience and AI, aiming to address big questions, including climate change.

Richard Reichbart, a psychoanalyst and author, shares his gripping personal journey through a psychotic experience intertwined with creativity. He discusses how grief, especially the loss of his grandfather, influenced his identity and led him to the Navajo reservation. Reichbart reflects on the impact of early attachments and the dynamics of maternal relationships on his emotional landscape. He also dives into the fascinating intersection of psychosis and parapsychology, showcasing how these experiences shaped his career in psychoanalysis.