Confessions of a CyberPsychologist

We sit down to chat with Dr Linda Kaye about the fascinating world of Emoji and their role in digital communication. Dr Kaye delves into why we use Emoji, how they shape the tone and interpretation of our messages, and their influence on the people receiving them. She also shares insights into her Introductory book on Cyberpsychology and how she feels the mass media interpretation of academic findings is improving.

Professor Elaine Kasket joins Confessions of a CyberPsychologist to explore the digital afterlife, grief bots, big tech ethics, digital legacy, and how our online lives continue after death.

Guest Meagan Copelin discusses why older adults are re-victimised in online scams, examining emotional harm, family dynamics, digital literacy, AI-driven fraud, research, support after victimisation, and the future of forensic cyberpsychology.

Dr Brigitte Viljoen explores how humans relate to social AI, examining cyberpsychology, mental health, attachment and the psychological risks and possibilities of chatbot relationships.

Dr Jessica Piotrowski discusses empowering children through digital competence, evidence-based approaches to media use, and what it truly means to be pro-children in a digital world.

Dr. Scott Debb joins to discuss how cyberpsychology helps us understand behaviour, technology, and connection in the digital age.

In this episode, we talk with Professor Neil Coulson on how online peer support communities impact people living with long-term health conditions and their carers.

In this episode, I talk with CyberPsychologist Camila Caro about the psychology of online gaming, the wellbeing benefits of play, VR experiences, girls in gaming, parenting and multiplayer games, and why every tech company should have a cyberpsychologist focused on user wellbeing.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the human side of AI. Louise O’Dea brings both insider experience from Google and fresh academic insight into how technology is shaping society—and why the future of AI can’t be left to engineers alone.

This time, we uncover the potential psychological impact of Grief Bots. We explore the intersection of grief, childhood development, and AI. I’m joined by Dr Melissa Lunardini, an international expert in child bereavement, and Tara Steele, Director at Safe AI for Children Alliance. From emotional vulnerability to ethical design, they unpack how children process loss, the myth of innate resilience, and why tech solutions must include young voices.

We speak with Dr Jason R.C. Nurse about the vital role psychology plays in cybersecurity. Why people ignore best practices, how attackers exploit human biases, and why many awareness campaigns fail to change behaviour? Jason shares insights into cultural differences, the importance of reducing friction, and how organisations can design human-centred security systems.

We chat with Dr Nicola Fox Hamilton and Dr Liam Challenor about their new podcast In Bits, which explores the complexities of our digital lives. They share the motivations behind launching the show, the rigorous research involved and how they aim to make cyberpsychology accessible and engaging. The conversation touches on online dating, trolling, tech addiction, and the myths surrounding digital behaviour.

We speak with AI and cybersecurity strategist Tom Vazdar and explore the psychology behind cyber threats, from romance scams to deepfakes, and the alarming rise of AI-powered manipulation. In an age of surveillance and misinformation, Tom shares his insights into digital scepticism, behavioural vulnerabilities, and the need for psychological resilience. We discover how companies can build stronger human-centric defences and why cybersecurity must be seen as a public health issue.

In this episode of Confessions of a Cyber Psychologist, Carolyn Freeman speaks with Dr Seemal Asif, head of the Intelligent Flexible Robotics Assembly group at Cranfield University. From emotional sensing robots to the future of humanoid machines, we dive into the real-world implications of intelligent robotics in industry and society. We explore the fascinating world of human–robot collaboration, ethical AI, and the growing challenge of robotic deepfakes. Dr Asif shares her journey from software engineering to leading cutting-edge robotics research, emphasising the importance of responsible AI development, diversity in STEM, and industry collaboration.

In this episode of Confessions of a Cyber Psychologist, Carolyn Freeman speaks with Mel Celich, applied psychologist and advisor to Harvard’s AI for Human Flourishing Council. Together, they explore the human-AI relationship, digital agency, the crisis of meaning in a hyperconnected world, and how technology is reshaping identity, empathy, and community. Mel discusses the psychological impacts of synthetic relationships with AI, the future of work, and why every tech firm needs a psychologist. It’s a deep, insightful conversation on reclaiming our humanity in a digital age; thought-provoking, hopeful, and a must-listen for anyone navigating today’s tech-saturated world.

In this episode of Confessions of a Cyber Psychologist, Carolyn Freeman speaks with Dr Genevieve Bartuski, a leading forensic psychologist and AI ethics consultant. We explore the intersection of online harms, forensic psychology, and data privacy, highlighting the psychological risks of AI therapy bots, digital manipulation, and child safety online. Genevie shares her journey from death row to data governance and how her expertise helps tech companies build ethically responsible AI systems. A powerful conversation about the urgent need for psychologists in tech to safeguard mental health, human values, and digital integrity in our increasingly AI-driven world.

In this episode we delve into the intersection of eye-tracking and technology’s impact on family life, digital literacy, and ethical issues. Adam shares insights from his research on children's digital engagement, prosthetic technology, and the cognitive impact of texting versus face-to-face interactions. We explore nuanced perspectives on screen time, digital literacy, and ethical challenges arising from emerging technologies. We reflect on how we shape - and are shaped by - the digital world around us.

Join us as Professor Deb Donig, an English Literature scholar and tech ethicist, discusses her journey from Silicon Valley entrepreneurship to academia. Deb explores the importance of uniting humanities and STEM, why ethical oversight matters in fast-paced tech environments, and how her work - plus her Technically Human podcast - aims to reshape our digital world. If you’re curious about the human side of innovation, this is a must-listen.

Delve into the psychological shadows lurking behind online dating and how toxic personality traits - like narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy - and how they manifest in digital spaces. Learn how cyber dating abuse happens, how to spot red flags, and what to do if you're affected. Maria, Rebecca and Anthonique offer vital insights for navigating love in the digital age safely.

How do emoji shape our digital conversations? Professor Linda Kaye shares insights from her latest book, The Psychology of Emoji Processing. From emotional perception and cultural differences to the role of AI in emoji interpretation. Listen in and discover how these tiny symbols impact the way we communicate, connect, and sometimes, confuse one another in the digital world.

How can psychology strengthen cybersecurity? In this episode, Chartered Psychologist Rebecca McKeown focusses on the human side of cybersecurity, the importance of crisis resilience, and why mental agility is key in high-stakes cyber incidents. Rebecca expounds on the pitfalls of traditional security training, and how organisations can better equip teams to navigate cyber threats. Tune in to discover why humans are not the weakest link—but the strongest defence.

How does human psychology shape cybersecurity? Dr Hadlington talks through the critical role human factors play in cybersecurity and debunks the myth that technical expertise alone can protect organisations. Our behaviours, cognitive biases, and everyday distractions - like the allure of social media notifications - significantly influence our vulnerability to cybercrime.

80% of organisation’s cybersecurity breaches stem from human factors. Dr. John Blythe, expounds on how cyberpsychology and behavioural science can reduce employee mitigated cybersecurity breaches. We talk about how gamification and AI can help organisations more effectively tackle cyber threats, and how focusing more on the Human Element can create better security solutions.

In this episode Carolyn Freeman speaks with psychotherapist Stephanie Jeans about online sexual addiction and compulsive behaviour. They explore how digital access fuels addiction, its impact on relationships and mental health, and the role of shame in perpetuating secrecy. Stephanie shares insights on breaking the cycle and supporting affected individuals.

Dr Douglas Parry examines digital distraction, multitasking and self-regulation in this episode, discussing tech’s impact on attention. He highlights research gaps and urges accurate science communication and his upcoming project on youth and technology use in the Global South.

Dr. Sean Guillory explores the blurring of physical, virtual, and cognitive spaces, cognitive warfare, ethical AI, and the emotional impact of digital tech in shaping identity and the future of conflict.

In this episode, we explore Emma's research on community dynamics in digital spaces, specifically how online gaming fosters social capital - how we build and maintain connections, support mental health, and bridge cultures.

In this episode, we talk about how video games foster social integration and education. We discover the difference between ‘Interactional Systems’ and interactive tech, and the integration of AI-powered social robots in healthcare. We also talk about the ethical concerns surrounding AI, its productivity potential, sentience, and media misrepresentation of academic findings.

Dr Stéphane Bouchard takes us on a fascinating journey through the development and use of Virtual Reality (VR) as a clinical tool, explaining how it can help overcome anxiety disorders, addictions, and chronic pain. Stéphane’s insights underscored how VR is reshaping the future of mental health care and its potential to revolutionise psychotherapy.

In this episode, Emma talks about her research that showcases how online gaming communities foster friendships, enhance social bonds, and contribute to our understanding of digital interactions, thereby increasing feelings of social connectedness amongst players

We explore with Eric Miyares the psychological impact of technology use in cyber warfare in the Armed Forces Intelligence Units. He reveals the psychological toll of cyber warfare operations, detailing operator stress, cognitive overload, and the future of operational CyberPsychology.

Dr Rachel Kowart reveals how digital games shape mental well-being, trust, and safety. She talks about her research on how gaming fosters connection and creativity and about her multimedia platform PsychGeist.

Stéphane, a pioneer in video-based therapies, explores the transformative potential of telepsychotherapy and its impact on mental health care and how effective it is on many disorders, offering greater accessibility and patient autonomy, allowing greater accessibility for those with geographical or physical limitations.

Rachel Wood discusses the psychological impact of artificial intelligence on professionals, the workplace, and educational systems. Her insights on the rapid evolution of AI and its implications offer a fresh perspective on how we can adapt to the challenges and opportunities of emerging technologies.

Dr Rowena Forsyth talks about Digital Health and Communities and the power of online communities in reshaping how we make decisions about health, how professionals communicate, and how young people learn about wellbeing.

Dr Maša Popovac shares insights on online safety, cyberbullying, smartphone use, and digital citizenship, offering practical advice for parents, educators, and policymakers tackling online harm among young people.

In this episode we explore the fascinating world of Forensic CyberPsychology with Dr Marshall S. Rich, a leading expert in this are. With a unique blend of military experience, academic expertise, and government-level involvement, Marshall brings a compelling perspective to understanding and counteracting cyber adversaries.

Dr Andrew Campbell is a leading expert on technology and children. We explore how technology impacts development and the innovative tool focused on mental wellbeing created in their Research Lab, called ‘My Circle’. We talk about why “screentime” is an outdated measure of digital use, and discuss insights into gaming disorder, warning signs for parents, and CyberPsychology in mental health, security, and industry.

In our chat with Dr Marsden, we explore the intersection of AI and psychology/behaviour from the perspective of positive psychology. We talk about how technology enhances autonomy, relatedness, and competence, and discuss AI in mental health therapy, motivational analysis, and productivity tools, alongside ethical concerns. Dr Marsden provides insights into media literacy, fostering wellbeing through meaningful technology use and advice for CyberPsychologists thinking of pursuing a career in AI.

As an eSports champion and a PhD student, Chelsea Gault is uniquely positioned to give insights into why people game, why they participate in and watch eSports and how their personality type affects their behaviour within a game. She also highlights two aspects of personality that is specific to the online world: how choosing a specific avatar changes your self-perception and how we can become more disinhibited online.

Guests Todd Fletcher and Dr Chris Fullwood discuss the psychology of cybersecurity professionals. What are the differences between cyberpsychology and cybersecurity, the practical application of cybersecurity in an organisation, and the future of cybersecurity. We also talk about White, Grey and Black Hat Hackers and practical advice for those starting a career in cybersecurity.

We chat to Catherine Knibbs about Cyber related Trauma, how we’re becoming desensitised to it and the impact on young people. We also chat about how we connect with others online, the psychology behind tracking technology, the effect of gaming and how online games can be used in the therapy room - through the unlocking of subconscious insights.

We chat to Dr Chris Fullwood from Birmingham City University about how we build an understanding of who we are as individuals (our self-perception), how we present ourselves online, and how video calls affect how we perceive ourselves. We also cover the cognitive demands that video conferencing has on the listener and the Equilibrium Theory around intimacy and physical distance in online calls.

In this episode, I explore cyberbullying and victimisation among individuals with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities with Drs Clements, Chadwick and Orchard. The conversation highlights research on digital inclusion, online risks, and the importance of tailored support systems.

Dr Nicola Fox-Hamilton discusses her journey into cyberpsychology, from a career in graphic and web design to becoming a full-time academic. We explore her research on online behaviour – particularly online dating and how online relationships have changed over time. We also discuss how her Audible book aims to debunk myths about digital life.

Prof. Dr. Raakesh Kriplani (in India) works alongside government institutions and the Rashtriya Raksha University to train the next generation of CyberPsychologists in India. We talk about how effective robotic, and AI mental health counselling therapy is and what influences children’s digital technology behaviour.

Ruth Guest talks about the importance of parents understanding enough about social media to initiate conversations with their children and teens about healthy usage while providing them with the tools and skills to successfully navigate the online world - to maximise the advantages and mitigate the dangers thereof.