Light Therapy for Seasonal Depression Light therapy treats seasonal affective disorder (SAD) through artificial light. This can be especially beneficial for those who experience SAD during winter or are not often exposed to direct sunlight. Talk to your doctor or mental health provider to see if light therapy might be a good option for you. […]
The Psychology of Superheroes
In the last few decades, superheroes have become increasing popular. From their comic-book origins back in the 1930’s and 1940’s to the current blockbuster movies successes of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), superheroes continue to capture the public’s imagination. And although the big-screen action may make for some interesting eye candy, only a few books […]
A Look Inside the Criminal Mind
For decades, law enforcement, psychologists, and other mental health professionals have attempted to understand the criminal mind – with some success and some limitations. Many theories and hypothesis abound regarding why someone decides to act in a criminal manner. Is a person born a criminal, or are they made by their environment? A social and […]
Thinking about Time: A Look at Time Perspective Theory (TPT)
Time is a concept that cuts across disciplines. In the academic study of history, historians typically focus on the written record of humanity, which generally goes back to about 5000 years or so. Archeology studies the human past as well, but it focuses on so-called “pre-history” a time prior to 5000 years ago, while also […]
Looking Through the Sociological Lens of Exercise
Of course, most Americans know the mantra by now: “Exercise is good for you,” and “People should exercise more.” These oft-repeated pieces of advance aren’t necessarily wrong; in fact, they’re by most estimates true for most Americans, or anyone – really – who happens to be living in a post-industrialized country. The message is the […]
August is a Month of Reflection
By Kenneth Luck, Ph.D. The long summer days that sit between the Fourth of July and Labor Day in the United States are sometimes called “the dog days of summer.” This time is marked, usually, by hot weather, long days, thunderstorms, picnics. . . and the reminder that summer doesn’t last forever. Indeed, until recently, […]
Family & Friends: How to Help Someone with Depression
You want to be able to help your loved ones who are dealing with depression, but how? The answer is not one size fits all, but there are ways in which you can support those closest to you and let them know you’re there for them. This blog will help you understand what depression is, […]
The Japanese Contentments
Although our world is more connected than ever because of digital technologies, there are still traditions from all around the globe that Westerners (and, in particular, Americans) may not be aware of but are still to make their way into the awareness of the average person from the United States. In particular, words like “Hygge” […]
Developing the Mindset of a Champion
In his book, “How Champions Think: In Sports and in Life,” Bob Rotella, Ph.D., breaks down the psychology of exceptional individuals. According to Rotella, there are a few key habits that exceptional individuals perform in order to stay positive, motivated, and – perhaps, ultimately – more successful. “[T]he ideas people choose to have about themselves […]
Does Marriage Counseling Work? What to Expect.
Whether you’re considering starting marriage counseling with your partner or you have your first appointment booked, and you’re ready to go, it’s normal to ask yourself, will this really work? What do we expect? Luckily, with modern advances in techniques and types, couples counseling has a success rate of nearly 70-90% and contributes to the […]