Study finds greater optimism for the future in countries at higher risk for disease

Research from the University of Georgia found a more positive outlook for the future of humanity among people who live in areas with historically higher levels of disease

UGA Psychology's Brian Haas led the study, which was co-authored by Xiaobin Lou, fourth-year PhD candidate, and included contributions from more than 50 additional researchers worldwide. 

UGA Psychology Students Study Health and Wellness in Italy

This summer, psychology majors from the University of Georgia studied occupational health and well-being under the direction of Dr. Malissa Clark, department head and professor of industrial-organizational psychology. As part of the course, PSYC 5100: Employee Health and Well-Being, students spent two weeks on the island of Ischia, Italy, exploring topics such as stress, burnout, emotional health, and positive psychology while engaging in cultural experiences that brought course concepts to life.

Meaningful Conversation Matters More Than Location on First Dates

Daisi Brand, a psychology Ph.D. student at UGA, is shedding new light on what really makes first dates successful. Her research shows that it’s not the setting that matters most, but the quality of the conversation and the connection you build. Whether in a cozy room or a plain space, meaningful dialogue can spark closeness. 

Read the full article on UGA Today to learn more about her study.

 

Photo Credit: Adobe Stock

Show Up, Connect, Repeat: How Live Events Fight Loneliness

New research from the University of Georgia and Brigham Young University, led by Richard Slatcher and Julianne Holt-Lunstad, finds that attending live, in-person events, especially with friends and on a recurring basis, boosts social connection and helps combat loneliness. The study shows that actively participating, rather than just attending, maximizes the benefits. Since the boost in connection is short-lived, regular engagement is important.

Dr. Allison L. Skinner Receives Innovative Teaching Award from SPSSI

We are proud to announce that Dr. Allison L. Skinner, Associate Professor of Psychology at the University of Georgia, has been awarded the Innovative Teaching Award by the Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues (SPSSI). This annual award honors creative and effective teaching in areas related to the psychological study of social issues.
 

Psychology Offers Study Abroad in Amsterdam for First-Year Students

Connect Abroad–Immerse: Psychology in Amsterdam

By Susan Ambrosetti

Designed exclusively for first-year psychology majors with an interest in organizational psychology, Connect Abroad-Immerse: Psychology in Amsterdam offers a unique spring-break experience in one of Europe’s most progressive cities. Taking place during Spring Break 2026, this one-credit experiential learning program invites students to explore the science of work through a global lens.