Author: Atherial
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Vaccines and Autism: The Studies and Misinformation
The rumor of vaccines causing autism started decades ago with one man – Andrew Wakefield. His studies would start a misinformation movement that continues to gain momentum. Today, we will break down the studies he published, where they went wrong, and their impact. The Researcher Andrew Wakefield now stands as an infamous figure in medical Read more
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Expand Your Toolkit: Importance of Having Multiple Coping Techniques
Resilience and coping tend to be buzz words when talking about mental health – and for good reason. Building resilience and having healthy coping skills are the best ways to prevent crises and overcome obstacles. However, we often neglect to talk about the importance of having multiple coping techniques to deal with the variety of Read more
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On Diversity and Censorship in Research
Psychological research as we know it is being dismantled. Researchers are being censored or fired. Many projects focusing on topics of diversity or discrimination are being defunded and removed from public view. Even studies that use words like “race”, “gender”, or “sexuality” to define factors are being targeted. As those who have been on my Read more
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Ways Weight Lifting Transformed My Mental Health
Previously, we discussed prominent issues in the fitness industry and how this has devastated the mental health of many fitness enthusiasts. I ended that post by stating that exercise is an essential component to mental health. To expand on this, I want to discuss how one of my favorite types of exercise – weight lifting Read more
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Gambling Addiction: A Growing Epidemic in Youth
Disclaimer: This is not a criticism of any singular company or product. Any mentioned company is purely for example in criticism of a systematic problem. There is a growing epidemic among both adults and children – compulsive gambling. From Counter Strike loot boxes to Pokémon packs and Labubu mystery boxes, there are many more opportunities Read more
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Numbers & Stories: The Roles of Statistics & Case Studies
Research is important for advancement in any field of study. However, there is often debate on what is the best practice for studying human psychology. Statistics give us a scientific understanding of trends and the experiences of groups. Case studies, on the other hand, provide a detailed look at an individual’s experience and personal factors. Read more
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Eugenics: The Dark Period in Psychological and Medical History That is Making a Comeback
TW – This topic will discuss sensitive topics including racism, discrimination, and forced sterilization. Reader discretion is advised. One of the darkest zeitgeists seen in the history of psychology and medicine, eugenics provided a false scientific justification for discriminatory practices in the late 1800s and throughout the 1900s. Not only is its legacy still felt Read more
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Drinking the Kool-Aid: Psychological Techniques Cults & Extremist Groups Use to Influence Others
TW: This topic discusses abuse, manipulation, and violence. One of the most fascinating but niche topics in the field of psychology is cults and extremist groups. Why do people join cults? Why do they stay? How can someone justify doing heinous acts in the name of a group? These are all questions explored by cult Read more
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The Problems with AI Therapists
Artificial intelligence has become a regular aspect of everyday life. With rapid developments and little regulation, it now seems to be taking over many fields. Psychology is no exception. AI tools may be useful in data analysis, research, and mood tracking; but the overreliance of it in therapy can have devastating consequences. Many individuals turn Read more
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Healing Animals: The Different Types of Support Animals
Animals have become a major asset in the field of mental health. There are various kinds of mental health and disability support animals that fill different roles. Misinformation and scams have made discerning these roles from one another confusing for many. Today we will go over the three main types of animals utilized in mental Read more