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Psychology

Is the coronavirus pandemic making us mean?

Is the coronavirus pandemic making us mean?

Jeremy Tyler of the Perelman School of Medicine spoke about how tempers are flaring amidst the pandemic. “I don't know that [the pandemic] is making people mean per se, but I think it's absolutely pushing our limit,” he said.

Why do people react differently when confronting the same threat?
pyramid of multiple rolls of toilet paper, implying hoarding in crisis

Why do people react differently when confronting the same threat?

In the face of the coronavirus, some people collected household goods. Others ignored the warnings altogether. Two Penn researchers explain why both responses are normal and how to find a middle ground if you disagree with those around you.

Michele W. Berger

How to socially distance and stay sane

How to socially distance and stay sane

Carolyn Cannuscio of the Perelman School of Medicine recommended that small groups of people form pacts to reduce outside contact during the pandemic in order to make socializing safer. “I can see social and mental-health advantages to that kind of approach,” she said.

What is Havening? Experts weigh in on Justin Bieber's stress-relieving technique

What is Havening? Experts weigh in on Justin Bieber's stress-relieving technique

Melissa Hunt of the School of Arts and Sciences recommended evidence-based interventions for anxiety. “If someone is suffering enough that their ability to function or get joy out of life is impaired in some way, then cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is by far the best supported form of psychotherapy for anxiety of various types,” she said.

Working on ‘the human side’ of heritable cancers
woman with clasped hands stands in a stairwell with colorful art in the background

Allison Werner-Lin, associate professor in the School of Social Policy and Practice.

Working on ‘the human side’ of heritable cancers

How do you talk about cancer risk? How do you make major life decisions knowing you are likely to develop cancer? Allison Werner-Lin looks at these questions, studying the intersection of genetics and family life.

Kristina Linnea García