#personality and social psychology bulletin

[empyreumata]

36 Questions for Increasing Closeness

Instructions – Take turns asking one another the questions; each person should answer each question, but in an alternating order, so that a different person goes first each time.

Set I

Given the choice of anyone in the world, whom would you want as a dinner guest?

Would you like to be famous? In what way?

Before making a telephone call, do you ever rehearse what you are going to say? Why?

What would constitute a “perfect” day for you?

When did you last sing to yourself? To someone else?

If you were able to live to the age of 90 and retain either the mind or body of a 30-year-old for the last 60 years of your life, which would you want?

Do you have a secret hunch about how you will die?

Name three things you and your partner appear to have in common.

For what in your life do you feel most grateful?

If you could change anything about the way you were raised, what would it be?

Take four minutes and tell your partner your life story in as much detail as possible.

If you could wake up tomorrow having gained any one quality or ability, what would it be?

Set II

If a crystal ball could tell you the truth about yourself, your life, the future, or anything else, what would you want to know?

Is there something that you’ve dreamed of doing for a long time? Why haven’t you done it?

What is the greatest accomplishment of your life?

What do you value most in a friendship?

What is your most treasured memory?

What is your most terrible memory?

If you knew that in one year you would die suddenly, would you change anything about the way you are now living? Why?

What does friendship mean to you?

What roles do love and affection play in your life?

Alternate sharing something you consider a positive characteristic of your partner. Share a total of five items.

How close and warm is your family? Do you feel your childhood was happier than most other people’s?

How do you feel about your relationship with your mother?

Set III

Make three true “we” statements each. For instance, “We are both in this room feeling…”

Complete this sentence: “I wish I had someone with whom I could share…”

If you were going to become a close friend with your partner, please share what would be important for them to know.

Tell your partner what you like about them; be very honest this time, saying things that you might not say to someone you’ve just met.

Share with your partner an embarrassing moment in your life.

When did you last cry in front of another person? By yourself?

Tell your partner something that you like about them [already].

What, if anything, is too serious to be joked about?

If you were to die this evening with no opportunity to communicate with anyone, what would you most regret not having told someone? Why haven’t you told them yet?

Your house, containing everything you own, catches fire. After saving your loved ones and pets, you have time to safely make a final dash to save any one item. What would it be? Why?

Of all the people in your family, whose death would you find most disturbing? Why?

Share a personal problem and ask your partner’s advice on how they might handle it. Also, ask your partner to reflect back to you how you seem to be feeling about the problem you have chosen.

Final task / suggestion – Stare into each other’s eyes for four minutes.

 — — — Aron, A., Melinat, E., Aron, E. N., Vallone, R. D., & Bator, R. J. (1997). The experimental generation of interpersonal closeness: A procedure and some preliminary findings. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 23(4), 363-377. 

[studiesiread]

Playing dice with criminal sentences: the influence of irrelevant anchors on experts' judicial decision making

Judicial sentencing decisions should be guided by facts, not by chance. The present research however demonstrates that the sentencing decisions of experienced legal professionals are influenced by irrelevant sentencing demands even if they are blatantly determined at random. [...] Expertise and experience did not reduce this effect. This sentencing bias appears to be produced by a selective increase in the accessibility of arguments that are consistent with the random sentencing demand: The accessibility of incriminating arguments was higher if participants were confronted with a high rather than a low anchor.

Englich, B., Mussweiler, T., & Strack, F. (2006). Playing dice with criminal sentences: the influence of irrelevant anchors on experts' judicial decision making. Personality & social psychology bulletin, 32(2), 188–200. https://doi.org/10.1177/0146167205282152

available in full on researchgate!

[mindblowingscience]

Lesbian, gay and bisexual people experience exclusion more frequently than heterosexual people. This is the finding of a recent study published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin by researchers from the University of Basel and the RPTU University of Kaiserslautern-Landau. According to the study, people who are perceived as less gender-conforming are more frequently socially excluded. This could also affect heterosexual people if they deviate from traditional gender roles. In three studies with a total of more than 3,200 participants in Germany and the U.S., the research team investigated the experiences of exclusion of sexual minorities.

Continue Reading.

[pastanest]

Spencer Reid x gender neutral!reader

A/N: inspired by this tiktok - I heard y’all wanted some more shrimp reid content?

gif from an unnamed source on google so if it’s yours please let me know and I’ll credit!! ♡

Turn It Right Around

To suggest Spencer was dreading the arrival of the newest member of the team, would be an understatement. He forced himself to wori earlier than the rest of the team, with the sole intention of sitting at his desk, anxiously bouncing his knees beneath the table and staring at the glass doors that would grant him no more than a few seconds to adjust to the sight of the new member of the team before he would be expected to introduce himself. The young genius had determined that getting to work early was far better than risking arriving at a point where the new team member was already there, had already introduced themselves to the rest of the team, and in doing so, made a spectacle of his own introduction. That was a fate worse than death.

With each member of the team that arrived for the day, Spencer’s heart jumped. He was anxious about having to meet someone new, having someone else to explain his weirdness to, someone else to misunderstand how his mind works and someone else to cut his rambles off short when they inevitably got sick of whatever statistic or piece of trivia he had elected to verbalize; those were his biggest concerns, all culminating under the umbrella term of one fear in particular: what if the new member of the team simply didn’t like him?

The rest of the team had settled at their desks and begun to relax, gossiping about who the new arrival could be, what they might be like. Spencer was too anxious to partake in their theorizing, but when he fixed his gaze back on those glass doors, his heart that had previously been jumping periodically, skipped a beat entirely.

You. With a bright smile and kind eyes, immediately greeting everyone with excited introductions, and Spencer scrambled from his desk, his heart having migrated to his throat. Your smile traveled from person to person, encouraging their smiles in return, until your kind eyes landed on Spencer, and he felt his heartbeat in his suddenly clammy palms.

“Hello! It’s lovely to meet you, I’m (Y/N)!” You introduced yourself to him, and he nodded, concluding in a microsecond that your name was the most beautiful he’d ever heard, regardless of the number of other people he’d encountered who may have shared your name. It was yours, then.

“H-Hello, it’s, it’s uh, lovely to meet you, too, I’m Doctor Spencer Reid.” He introduced himself in return, stammering and blushing and wiping his sweating palms on his trousers before he held a hand out for you to shake, much to the shock of the rest of the team, who shared equally wide-eyed glances.

“Spencer. Good name.” You complimented, shaking his hand gently, and Spencer was stunned to detect no malice or sarcasm in your voice at all. Did you like his name, too? He wondered if you could feel his erratic heartbeat as you shook his hand.

“Thanks. Yours is nice, too.” Spencer managed to say back to you, giving you a shy smile.

The rest of the team had given the two of you some space, almost afraid to burst whatever bubble had formed around you and made the resident genius float in such a way.

“Thank you, Spencer.” You answered, blessing him with a soft smile of your own.

Momentary silence was too much for Spencer, and he quickly blurted out the first thing that came to his head. “D-Did you know a Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin study found that by talking with people and processing their social cues, you wake up those parts of your brain which allow for better cognitive function? I-In fact, the study found that with as little as ten minutes of contact and conversation with a new person, brain stimulation led to improved mental cognition. You are basically giving your brain a workout and expanding the ability to learn to accept new ideas and change preconceived notions.” Spencer was speaking quickly, perhaps too quickly, and his face flushed. Despite feeling more confident in his ability to talk to you when he was reciting information he had memorized, that confidence shattered under the - ironically - preconceived notion that you would, like everyone else he encountered, be bored, or worse, disturbed by his sudden outburst of knowledge.

Much to Spencer’s absolute awe, though, the soft smile on your face only widened, and you looked up at him with stars in your eyes.

“That’s so cool, Spencer!” You began to say, and you parted your lips to continue speaking, just as Aaron Hotchner called for everyone to join him at the round table. You glanceed back up at Spencer with that same smile, sending his heart soaring. “If you’ve got any more facts like that, I’d love to hear them, but for now, we’d better get going.”

Spencer nodded. “Yeah, I’ll, uh, I’ll be right there. You go on ahead.” He urged, and you nodded back at him, disappearing up the stairs.

Taking a deep breath in an effort to compose himself, Spencer headed for the coffee machine in the staff kitchen, but on surpassing two steps in that direction, he abruptly turned back on himself and speed walked over his desk. There sat the cup of coffee he had already made, 10 minutes prior. Picking it up, he quickly made his way to the round table to join the rest of the team, mentally scolding himself, until he saw your smile again, waiting for him.

After all, who can blame his eidetic memory for misplacing the information of having already made himself a coffee, in the midst of his heart leaping out of his chest and running towards you?

[monriatitans]

Finished a Book! Mini-Review

Monday, November 4, 2024

Unmasking Autism: Discovering the New Faces of Neurodiversity by Devon Price, Ph.D.

EVERYONE needs to read this book. Those in power, especially. Reading this book VINDICATED my struggles with communication. Here's a quote:

"If Autistic people are to be fully included in public life, we must vastly expand accessibility requirements to cover the sensory needs of Autistic people and regulate the accessibility of events as well as buildings. It's not just architecture that can be hostile to disabled bodies and minds. As this book has repeatedly shown, many of the ways that disabled people are excluded are far more subtle, and social, than a clear-cut lack of ramps or Braille signage." – pg. 235

For those who don't know, “masking” is hiding our Autistic traits so we're not discriminated against, which can be physically and emotionally draining. Don't believe discrimination would happen if the mask was dropped? Bouncing off the quote, businesses need to be REQUIRED to learn the communication styles of Autistics. “What do you mean?” Autistics NEED direct communication and a clear definition of expectations. We NEED to know what to expect. We NEED you to, instead of getting angry when we don't get the hint, stop hinting. We NEED you to, instead of getting angry at the small talk being done wrong, skip it. Not understanding someone's needs doesn't mean you get to dismiss them. Communication is a two-way street. We Autistics shouldn't have to mask how we naturally communicate to not be shunned by society. 10/10

—

DEVON PRICE, PhD, is a social psychologist, professor, author, and proud Autistic person. His research has appeared in journals such as the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, and the Journal of Positive Psychology. Devon's writing has appeared in outlets such as the Financial Times, HuffPost, Slate, Jacobin, Business Insider, LitHub, and on PBS and NPR. He lives in Chicago, where he serves as an assistant professor at Loyola University Chicago's School of Continuing and Professional Studies.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I finished a book listed on The Neverending Reading List and the Current TBR Tower! Interested in the book? Snag it real quick here!

For more about me, click here! Watch my videos on Twitch, YouTube, Steam, Rumble, and Odysee! The images were made in Canva; check it out at the [referral] link here!

Like what you see and want to know when there's more? Click here to subscribe for updates and/or hit the Follow button! Enjoy what I do? Please consider supporting via Buy Me a Coffee!

To provide educational material for game designers and artists, and some fun reads, I created a bookshop, the Rendezvous Point (RP), powered by Bookshop.org! Check it out here!

—

[oldguardleatherdog]

I posted the following to Facebook today:

(Long post)

Sadly, this account has become both a callout blog and a bulletin board where others can post nasty things about me.

I have to maintain this account in order to monitor these activities for legal reasons, and it's unfortunate that you, my longtime friends and loved ones, have had to see this garbage in your feeds and notifications.

For that reason, I'm gradually unfriending almost everyone on my list here and on Instagram, and will do what I can to shed my followers (if Meta will allow it).

Many of you have rallied to my defense in recent weeks, and my family and I are grateful for your help and support.

For the past two and a half years, since I was injured by a popular local personality who has more than 10,000 followers across social media and chose to pursue legal action against him for his deliberate act, I have been painted as a hatemonger and a vicious, vindictive liar who is attacking this man for his money, that I have some sort of psychological disorder, and that my actions are equivalent to those of a child molester.

I have been called a false Christian, too elderly to care for myself or to be desirable sexually and socially, and my husband has been accused of sinister activities while oblivious to what his "ward" (me) is doing - and he has been subjected twice to these people using him and taking advantage of his good nature in order to inflict further damage on me.

Our building has been broken into and we have been terrorized in our home. Our personally identifiable information has been spread to untold numbers of people via an open Google Drive share that the person who injured me established shortly after he injured me in May of 2021 and is still open to anyone who has the link.

We have been threatened online and in person with violence and calls for me to be "purged from the online and offline communities" - and not once has anyone in these online groups or in person spoken up in my defense.

I have been systematically banned from LGBTQ+ communities and gathering spaces both online and in the real world. I have been hunted and stalked across multiple social media platforms by the person who injured me and his proxies, who have succeeded in forcing me off those platforms, and have caused me to be fired from my employment by threatening my employer, taking work and future opportunities away from me and taking food off my family's table in the process.

My 37-year reputation in the leather community and work as a founder of pup play has been ruined beyond repair, and thousands of people have been fed a steady diet of misinformation and false narratives about me and my family, while I have been unable to speak in my defense and pour truth on these lies.

All of this has forced me to conclude that my ability to continue participating in my longtime communities in the way I have always done is no longer possible.

This isn't the way that I had hoped to end my life in leather and pup, but we don't always get to choose our exit - just ask Dan Rather.

Due to the circumstances, I am removing my name and record of work from all sources, repositories, and reference works relating to anything I have participated in or been given credit for in these groups from the time I came out in 1986 to the present day.

I am also withdrawing the developmental work and research that I had intended to provide to pup play historians and will deaccess any reference to me in leather or journalism archives or collections, except for my queer and AIDS activist performance art and composition works stored in university LGBTQ+ libraries and museums around the world.

That is all that I wanted to say to you.

-Animal

[galaxysharks]

Maddox finding Val to be a lot to handle, yes for gay reasons, but also because Maddie has low-key been a psychological fascination for Val for years. Not in a mean way, cause this is Val, but just in a 'you are a textbook case for so many things, Im gonna study you, just a lil bit' kind of way.

Like vaguely invasive questioning, but Maddox isn't good enough at understanding social cues to get just how weird they are.

Ex.

Maddox: sorry, I was arguing with my mom...

Val: do you argue a lot?

Maddox: I guess?

Val: are they loud fights, or quiet fights?

(This is a real question a real life person once asked me. Don't ask people this, it's a weird question, especially from a civil engineering major)

EJ at some point got roped into this, so Maddox ended up with two older camp siblings that treat her very gently, but every so often just poke at her for a bit. Every year they start a little bulletin for newly acquired MaddieFacts! Where they add things that range from favorite cereal to names of pets. Technically anyone can add to it, so long as Maddox doesn't find it. Madison previously held the record for most collected in a summer, with 3. And one of those was 'current partner'

They put the board in the counseling office for kids who continue going to therapy at camp. Maddox has never found it.

Val feels like she hit the MaddieFacts! Jackpot this year.

Kourtney found it and was equal parts amused and creeped out. She has been bribed to secrecy via phone time for 20min after dinner.

[danemac]

Messy environment causes messy mindset?

The theory that a messy environment leads to a messy mindset suggests a profound connection between the external order of our surroundings and the internal workings of our minds. This concept aligns with the idea that our environment can significantly influence our mental states and cognitive processes.

A cluttered and disorganized space often reflects a lack of structure and control, mirroring a chaotic mindset. The visual stimuli of disorder can contribute to a sense of overwhelm and stress, impacting one's ability to focus and think clearly. When our physical surroundings are cluttered, it can be challenging to establish a mental equilibrium.

Psychologically, there is evidence supporting the idea that external disorder may lead to cognitive disarray. A study published in the journal Psychological Science found that participants in a disorganized environment were more likely to make unhealthy food choices and show a preference for quick, rather than thoughtful, decision-making.

Furthermore, renowned organizational psychologist Marie Kondo emphasizes the impact of tidying up on mental well-being. Her "KonMari" method goes beyond decluttering; it encourages individuals to keep only those items that "spark joy." This process, she argues, not only transforms the living space but also brings about a mental shift, fostering a more positive and intentional mindset.

Conversely, maintaining an organized and tidy environment may contribute to a clearer and more focused mindset. A study from the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin suggests that working in a clean and orderly space may promote healthy choices and ethical behavior.

In practical terms, the act of organizing and decluttering can be therapeutic. It requires decision-making, sorting, and categorizing—activities that engage the mind and create a sense of accomplishment. As physical order is established, mental clarity often follows suit.

However, it's important to note that the relationship between environment and mindset is nuanced and varies from person to person. While some thrive in orderly spaces, others may find inspiration in a more relaxed setting. The key lies in understanding one's personal preferences and finding a balance that fosters productivity and well-being.

In conclusion, the theory that a messy environment leads to a messy mindset suggests a compelling interplay between our external surroundings and internal cognitive processes. While research and anecdotal evidence support the idea that an organized space can contribute to mental clarity, it's essential to recognize individual differences and preferences. Striking a balance that resonates with personal needs and promotes a positive mental state is paramount in navigating the intricate relationship between our surroundings and our minds.

Today I cleaned and organized my bedroom and I feel good. To be able to accomplish a task when you have anxiety, depression, ADHD, and or Borderline Personality Disorder is monumental in feeling better about yourself.

Start with one room and don’t forget to tell yourself way to go you did it!

[webscarlet]

The Importance of Professional Residential Cleaning in Thousand Oaks

Imagine coming home after a long day at work to a pristine and sparkling clean house. Sounds dreamy, right? But who has the time to ensure every corner is spotless when life is already jam-packed with responsibilities? This is where professional residential cleaning services in Thousand Oaks step in to save the day. Let's explore why hiring professionals like Atlas Clean Living could be the game-changer your home needs.

Why Professional Residential Cleaning Matters

When it comes to maintaining your home, a little help goes a long way. You might think "I can handle the cleaning myself," but professional services offer more than just a tidy house. They provide peace of mind, efficiency, and that extra sparkle which is hard to achieve with DIY efforts.

Time-saving Solutions for Busy Lives

In today’s fast-paced world, time is a luxury. According to a study by the American Cleaning Institute, the average American spends about six hours a week cleaning their home. Imagine what you could do with that extra time! Instead of juggling work, family, and cleaning, why not focus on what truly matters to you? Professional cleaners take this burden off your shoulders, making life stress-free.

Expertise Makes a Difference

Professional cleaners bring a level of expertise that’s hard to match. With specialized training and years of experience, they know the ins and outs of cleaning. They understand how to tackle stubborn stains, eliminate allergens, and provide deep cleaning solutions that leave your home healthier and fresher.

The Atlas Clean Living Advantage

Choosing a cleaning service is not just about getting the job done; it’s about finding someone who understands your home’s unique needs. Atlas Clean Living offers an array of services tailored to fit the busy lifestyles of Thousand Oaks residents.

Customized Cleaning Plans

Not all homes are the same, so why should your cleaning plan be? At Atlas Clean Living, we offer customized cleaning services that cater to your specific requirements. Whether it’s a one-time deep clean or regular maintenance, our team is equipped to handle it all.

Eco-friendly Practices

In keeping with modern environmental standards, Atlas Clean Living uses eco-friendly cleaning products. These are not only safer for the environment but also for your family and pets. Imagine a clean home without the harsh chemicals—now that’s a win-win!

Health Benefits of a Professionally Cleaned Home

A clean home is a healthy home, and this goes beyond just aesthetics. The benefits of a professionally cleaned space impact your well-being in ways you might not even realize.

Reduced Allergens and Improved Air Quality

Dust mites, pet dander, and pollen are common culprits that affect indoor air quality. Professional cleaners can significantly reduce these allergens, providing a healthier living environment. According to the EPA, indoor air quality can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air, highlighting the need for regular professional cleaning.

Stress Reduction

Clutter and mess are known stress inducers. Coming home to a clean environment can instantly reduce stress levels. A study published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin found that people who described their homes as cluttered were more likely to feel fatigued and depressed. With Atlas Clean Living, you can transform your home into a sanctuary of peace and relaxation.

Economic Value of Professional Cleaning

Investing in professional cleaning not only enhances your quality of life but also adds value to your property.

Maintaining Property Value

Regular cleaning and maintenance can extend the life of your home’s surfaces and materials. For instance, carpets last longer when dirt and grime are regularly removed by professional methods. This maintenance can contribute to maintaining or even increasing the value of your home.

Cost-effective in the Long Run

While hiring professional cleaners might seem like an added expense, consider the costs of replacing damaged surfaces and materials due to neglect. In the long run, professional cleaning can actually save you money.

Community Engagement and Support

At Atlas Clean Living, we believe in building not just clean homes, but also strong communities. We’re proud to be part of the Thousand Oaks community, supporting local businesses and initiatives. When you choose us, you’re supporting a company that values and invests in your neighborhood.

Get in Touch with Atlas Clean Living

Are you ready to transform your home and your life with professional residential cleaning in Thousand Oaks? Atlas Clean Living is here to make that happen. Call us today at 818-381-4001 to schedule your free discovery session and experience the difference a professional touch can make. Your dream home is just a phone call away.

[rivasjanitorial]

How Office Cleanliness Enhances Cognitive Function and Productivity

A clean office is more than just visually appealing; it plays a critical role in enhancing cognitive function and productivity. Numerous scientific studies have established a direct link between a clean environment and improved brain performance. For Businesses investing in professional commercial cleaning in Morgan Hill CA can be a game-changer in creating an optimal work environment.

The Science Behind Cleanliness and Cognitive Performance

A study by the Princeton Neuroscience Institute found that clutter and disorganization can negatively affect one’s ability to focus and process information. The brain becomes overwhelmed by visual stimuli, leading to reduced cognitive performance and increased stress levels. In contrast, a clean and organized workspace helps the brain process information more efficiently and reduces the stress hormone cortisol, thereby enhancing overall productivity.

Further research published in the journal Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin indicates that people working in clean environments are more likely to exhibit higher levels of persistence and productivity. The study found that participants in a tidy workspace were able to work for 7.5 minutes longer than those in a cluttered space, showcasing the significant impact of cleanliness on work efficiency.

Benefits of Professional Cleaning Services

Professional Commercial Cleaning Morgan Hill CA ensures that your office remains consistently clean and hygienic. These services go beyond basic cleaning, using advanced techniques and eco-friendly products to eliminate germs, dust, and allergens that can compromise health and cognitive function.

Key Benefits Include:

Enhanced Air Quality: Professional cleaners use HEPA filters and high-quality cleaning agents to improve indoor air quality, reducing the incidence of allergies and respiratory issues.

Deep Cleaning: Regular deep cleaning of carpets, upholstery, and office equipment removes hidden dirt and bacteria, creating a healthier work environment.

Consistent Maintenance: Scheduled cleanings ensure that the office remains in top condition, preventing the buildup of clutter and maintaining a professional appearance.

Tips for Maintaining a Clean Workspace

To maximize the cognitive benefits of a clean office, consider the following tips:

·         Declutter Regularly: Encourage employees to keep their desks tidy and to declutter frequently. Use organizational tools like drawers, shelves, and filing cabinets.

·         Implement Clean Desk Policies: A clean desk policy ensures that employees clear their desks at the end of each day, reducing clutter and maintaining order.

·         Promote Clean Habits: Provide ample waste bins and recycling options. Encourage employees to clean up after meals and maintain personal hygiene at their workstations.

Contact Rivas Janitorial today for professional commercial or Residential Cleaning in Morgan Hill CA! We promise to give you the best cleaning quote! 

[ainews]

A new study has revealed that achievers are likely to be seen as attractive partners when looking for a romantic relationship.

The research, which was conducted by researchers from the University of Michigan, sought to understand why successful individuals have an advantage over others when seeking a compatible mate.

The researchers focused on the “desirability gap”- the disparity between those who are sought after and those who are not. They determined that people who are seen as “achievers”-- those with high educational or socioeconomic status and those in leadership roles-- are more likely to have an advantage over others when it comes to finding a mate.

The study, which was published in Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, found that achievers are perceived as having more attractive qualities than individuals who are deemed below them in terms of social hierarchy. These qualities, such as being ambitious, hardworking, and driven, are qualities that potential partners find desirable.

The study also found that the same qualities that make a person attractive to potential partners also make them attractive to employers. Achievers are seen as having the potential to make a positive impact on an organization.

The researchers concluded that when it comes to finding a mate, achievers have an advantage. As the study put it, “the desirability gap found in romantic relationships mirrors what happens in the workplace.”

Ultimately, this research highlights the importance of striving for achievement and success, as it can pay off in both professional and personal life. Not only do achievers have more of an opportunity to earn a higher salary and achieve greater career success, but they are also more likely to find a compatible mate.

[khetho-040517]

HOW SOCIAL SUPPORT BOOSTS MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Think of social support like a safety net that catches you when you fall. When you face challenges or feel down, having friends, family or a supportive community can make a big difference. They offer encouragement, help, and a sense of belonging, which help you feel stronger and more balanced. Am a 3rd-year Occupational therapy student and am going to discuss the role of social support, connecting it to how it can boost or help the mental health and well-being of people with mental disabilities.

People are social beings and having relationships with other people is part of our human nature. Having good relationships with people can help develop positive attitudes and behaviour. These can assist with reducing stress levels (Cohen &Wills, 1985), enhance resilience (Taylor,2011), better physical health (Uchino, 2006) and increase life satisfaction in that one can have a sense of purpose and feel valued by others. For example, I have noticed that patients who have good relationships with hospital staff and their families are always happy and are seldom found sad or angry, this is because there’s always someone there to comfort them in their time of need.

However, in patients with cognitive disabilities like schizophrenia, personality disorders, or bipolar disorder, it is a different story in that they may have delusions or hallucinations that might hinder the establishment of these relationships because of beliefs that they were bewitched or someone used dark magic on them, or they are sent by GOD to save people and that’s where Occupational therapy comes in to rebuild that support.

A patient that has dementia may have problems with memory and this will affect his/her social relationships because she might have a poor orientation to reality and not recognize her surroundings, her relatives, or friends who have come to give her support. Occupational therapy can intervene by helping the clients restore memory by engaging in reminiscence group therapy sessions or reality orientation programs.

 Occupational therapists can help the patients by engaging in group therapy which could teach about proper social behaviour and social skills which are building blocks of social support and maintaining relationships through role-playing as it was done in one of our group therapy sessions at Pixley Hospital. This was very helpful but, requires repetitions to reinforce the behaviour. Occupational therapists can adjust the living environment to support social interactions such as making space accessible and welcoming visitors (Cohen et al.,2014) and doing family education sessions by educating family members on effective communication and interaction strategies they can use with the client (Tremont et al,.2006).

They can also encourage the clients to engage in activities such as volunteer work, hobby groups or other meaningful activities that help build social connections (Hammel et al., 2008), for example: In the Sherwood training workshop Challenge the clients to work together when making earplugs thus developing social support through socialization.

In looking at the impact of social support on mental health, it’s clear to me that the connections are vital. Occupational therapy plays a big role in enhancing social support for mental health care, affirming that well-being is profoundly interconnected with the strength and quality of our social relationships and I highly encourage patients to build good relationships with families and friends so keep their mental health as fit as a fiddle.

REFERENCES

Cohen, S., & Wills, T. A. (1985). Stress, social support, and the buffering hypothesis. Psychological Bulletin, 98(2), 310–357. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-2909.98.2.310

Taylor, S. E. (2011). Social support: A review. In M. S. Friedman (Ed.), The Oxford handbook of health psychology (pp. 189–214). Oxford University Press.

Uchino, B. N. (2006). Social support and health: A review of physiological processes potentially underlying links to disease outcomes. Journal of Behavioral Medicine, 29(4), 377-387. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10865-006-9056-5

Tremont, G., Davis, J. D., & Bishop, D. S. (2006). The unique contribution of family functioning in caregivers of patients with mild to moderate dementia. Dementia and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders, 21(3), 170-174. https://doi.org/10.1159/000090631

Hammel, J., Magasi, S., Heinemann, A., Whiteneck, G., Bogner, J., & Rodriguez, E. (2008). What does participation mean? An insider perspective from people with disabilities. Disability and Rehabilitation, 30(19), 1445-1460. https://doi.org/10.1080/09638280701625534

[gcccleaning]

The Power of Cleaning for a Happier You

The human mind associates clutter with laziness and organization with discipline. Psychological studies have found that keeping clean rooms tends to increase the quality of self-perceptions or self-image. It is also found to influence human behavior through a process known as priming. In a way, clean interiors direct us towards better self-image, behavior, cognition, and thus overall well-being. Here are some insights on how cleaner homes purify the inner being resulting in a happier self.

Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin suggests the benefits of a clean and organized environment in improving cognitive abilities such as focus and concentration. In a way, house cleaning in Abu Dhabi is found to ensure stress reduction while maintaining better mental clarity.

The quality of indoor air is directly related to respiratory ailments such as asthma. In asthmatic people, this also seems to be a trigger that worsens their health conditions. Moreover, dust mites and other allergens can cause skin irritations as well. On the other side by maintaining a clean environment it is possible to ensure physical well-being that in turn improves the quality of life and the happiness coefficient.

Thus clean indoor spaces is inseparably related to our mental well-being. It can be achieved on your own or with the help of house cleaning in Abu Dhabi. Unfortunately, the fast-flowing life in this city doesn’t give a space for a DIY approach. So it will be practical to hire a cleaning service professional. Gleam & Glisten Cleaning Co. with a collective experience of 35 years in the field will be your ideal partner for an efficient cleaning experience resulting in better mental health.

[mattconnorb2]

My Essay - Desensitisation

What is Desensitisation through media ?

Desensitisation is a treatment or process which diminishes emotional responsiveness to a negative or positive stimulus reaction after repeated exposure. It can sometimes be used to treat phobias by gradually and repeatedly presenting the frightening stimulus under non threatening conditions. When desensitisation works, The phobias response becomes less and less intense. Something that I want to talk about is the negative response and violence side and how it has become a concern. The negative side refers to violence media which is the exposure and effects of repeating being exposed to High levels of violence in a movie or through repeated clips in the media. This content would entail intense hostilities or the graphic display of injuries, Initially this would Decrease the emotional responses to the depiction and lack of of violence and injury, Also it induces viewers to exhibit the lack of empathy and can also inhibit them from being able to understand the mental state others are in.

Becoming desensitised can also stem from graphic or emotional topics constantly resurfacing in the news, such as knife crime and war for example. When tragedies are broadcast on social media for all to see, It becomes a rapid fire of different opinions and perspectives filling your feed. People often do not give themselves the proper time to process such events, so they self-inflict desensitisation through doom scrolling, or purposely searching through a rabbit hole of negative news. It doesn’t help that witnessing violence in any form of media is inevitable. Something that i also found interesting that link to this can be referred to as Cultivation Theory which suggests heavy television exposure will have a significant influence on our perception of the real world. The more we see a version of reality being depicted on the screen, the more we will believe it is an accurate reflection of society. For example, if we watch lots of crime shows and see reports of public disorder on the news bulletins every night, we will begin to worry that violence is having a dangerous impact in the area you live.

while researching i found that Desensitisation to violence has been documented in a variety of outcomes. It has been observed as reduced emotional disturbance while witnessing violence but also which i find really distressing it the greater hesitancy to intervene in a witnessed physical altercation, and as less sympathy for the victims of domestic abuse. Studies by professor Bushman and Anderson have filled an important research gap in the literature on the impact of violent media. In earlier work, Bushman and Anderson demonstrated that exposure to violent media produces physiological desensitisation lowering heart rate and skin conductance when viewing scenes of actual violence a short time later. But the current research demonstrates that violent media also affect someone's willingness to offer help to an injured person, in a field study as well as in a laboratory experiment." These studies clearly show that violent media exposure can reduce helping behaviour," said Bushman, professor of psychology and communications and a research professor at the U-M Institute for Social Research." People exposed to media violence are less helpful to others in need because they are 'comfortably numb' to the pain and suffering. people have also have raised an special concern about the desensitising effect of violent video games, the contribution of “shooter” games which provide training in gun wielding techniques.

Instagram does have a sensitive content control feature but I come across a range of deeply graphic videos and photos of violent videos from bloody street fights, shootings, stabbings, deadly car crashes and they are still allowed to be posted and seen by everyone. 

The ideal solution is to decrease the use of social media, but it is much easier said than done when we live in the digital age. There is no chance I will delete Instagram after writing this. For now, the single solution is for platforms to strengthen their censorship policies. In the meantime, the best thing you can do for yourself is to take in new information one post at a time and take breaks to process rather than punishing yourself with doom scrolling,

[monriatitans]

The Neverending Reading List: Book LXIX

"Unmasking Autism: Discovering the New Faces of Neurodiversity" by Dr. Devon Price, Ph.D.

For every visibly Autistic person you meet, there are countless “masked” Autistic people who pass as neurotypical. Masking is a common coping mechanism in which Autistic people hide their identifiably Autistic traits in order to fit in with societal norms, adopting a superficial personality at the expense of their mental health. This can include suppressing harmless stims, papering over communication challenges by presenting as unassuming and mild-mannered, and forcing themselves into situations that cause severe anxiety, all so they aren’t seen as needy or “odd.” In Unmasking Autism, Dr. Devon Price shares his personal experience with masking and blends history, social science research, prescriptions, and personal profiles to tell a story of neurodivergence that has thus far been dominated by those on the outside looking in. For Dr. Price and many others, Autism is a deep source of uniqueness and beauty. Unfortunately, living in a neurotypical world means it can also be a source of incredible alienation and pain. Most masked Autistic individuals struggle for decades before discovering who they truly are. They are also more likely to be marginalized in terms of race, gender, sexual orientation, class, and other factors, which contributes to their suffering and invisibility. Dr. Price lays the groundwork for unmasking and offers exercises that encourage self-expression, including:

Celebrating special interests

Cultivating Autistic relationships

Reframing Autistic stereotypes

And rediscovering your values

It’s time to honor the needs, diversity, and unique strengths of Autistic people so that they no longer have to mask—and it’s time for greater public assistance and accommodation of difference. In embracing neurodiversity, we can all reap the rewards of nonconformity and learn to live authentically, Autistic and neurotypical people alike.

—

DEVON PRICE, PhD, is a social psychologist, professor, author, and proud Autistic person. His research has appeared in journals such as the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, and the Journal of Positive Psychology. Devon’s writing has appeared in outlets such as the Financial Times, HuffPost, Slate, Jacobin, Business Insider, LitHub, and on PBS and NPR. He lives in Chicago, where he serves as an assistant professor at Loyola University Chicago’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies.

—

[drbrownphdblog]

Cross-Cultural Psychology

The best advice for the interested and beginning graduate student seems to be this:

First find a strong program in psychology that has a solid reputation for specializing in a traditional substantive area that matches your career interests. Such areas include clinical, social, developmental, experimental, etc.

Second, look at the interests of all the department faculty members and determine to what extent each is interested in, familiar with, or at least hospitable to the cross-cultural approach in psychology. If you find a program with substantial interest in the area, then you may have found a place with which you would be satisfied. However, if you find that the faculty has little or no interest in the area then you should consider avoiding it because you would likely be frustrated.

In addition to checking out the interests and background of each member of the department, carefully examine the curriculum and carefully read how each course is described. In assessing programs, look for any courses, or course descriptions, which strongly suggest that issues of culture and diversity will be addressed, or that a broad international scope is an important part of the course.

your best bet may be to find a department of psychology which has at least one faculty member -- preferably in your interest area -- who has demonstrated an active interest in either cross-cultural or cultural psychology. Then you should consider getting in touch with that person, by phone, e-mail, or regular mail. A personal interview may be arranged.

If you have not already done so, you may consider joining the International Association for Cross-Cultural Psychology (IACCP). It has attractively low rates for students and individuals with relatively low income. Membership in IACCP includes subscriptions to the bimonthly Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology and the Cross-Cultural Psychology Bulletin. Members also receive a very helpful membership directory which contains helpful information about members throughout the world.