Curiosities in Psychology

What is the actual role of a forensic psychologist? What are some common misconceptions around eye witness testimonies? And how does the way a question is asked in court affect an eyewitnesses memory? This week I'm joined by applied cognitive psychologist, researcher and academic Jim Sauer to discuss the fascinating world of forensic psychology.

How do societal expectations of masculinity affect how men perceive and express their mental health struggles? What are some common stereotypes or misconceptions around men's mental health? And what does the future of men's mental health advocacy and awareness look like, and what can we do to contribute to positive change? This week we chat to Simon Rinne from the Mindful Men Podcast to discuss all things around mens mental health.

Moving overseas can be SO exciting, adventurous and fulfilling - but how do we handle the other emotions that come with it too? The loneliness, homesickness, or uncertainty? How do you unpack that when you're not in your 'safe' environment surround by those who lift you up? This week I'm joined by Darren Jonathon to discuss the psychology of living overseas, including coping methods, culture shock, and the more exciting parts of living in a new country.

*CONTENT WARNING* this episode contains references to sensitive topics, including sexual and domestic violence. What are the underlying factors that promote individuals to commit acts of violence, and how do you effectively work with these individuals to overcome these barriers? How do mental health challenges contribute to violent behaviour? And what motives individuals to work in this field? This week I'm joined by Alison from SAgency to discuss working with perpetrators of domestic and sexual violence.

What is equine therapy and how does it work? How does it differ from conventional therapy? And how are therapy horses actually chosen? Join us this week as we visit Full Gallop Equestrian Centre to discover the psychological benefits of working with horses.

How does where we live affect our mental health? What role do our own perceptions, emotions, memories, and culture have on places themselves? And how does the problem of housing affect our own sense of place and belonging?  Tune into this weeks episode where I’m joined by Australian philosopher and author Jeff Malpas to discuss the psychology of living spaces.  

Fashion: it's everywhere. What you wear is part of your identity, whether you want it to be or not. But how does what we wear affect us psychologically, and affect our behaviour towards others? This podcasts looks at how fashion affects our mood, behaviours, mindset, and even our cognition.

How does language affect our perception of the world around us, and shape our thoughts and beliefs? What role does language play in shaping our cultural and social identities? And what is the future of language with digital technologies? This week I'm joined by associate professor Nenagh Kemp to discuss the psychology of language.

Perhaps you've been in a relationship you knew wasn't quite right for you, or question your choices after a relationship has ended. Sometimes we stay in relationships because it's easier; it's familiar; or we don't want to feel alone. We overestimate how hard it will be to leave, and underestimate our own ability to stand on our own two feet. But what makes us choose these relationships in the first place? Join me this week for a chat about why we make strange relationship choices and the importance of individuality.

In this weeks episode we discuss the barriers to seeking help, the pros and cons of getting a psychological diagnosis, and other stereotypes which influence the way we view mental health.

How does phantom pain demonstrate the relationship between our bodies and our minds? What are out-of-body experiences and why do people have them? And how does the health of our minds affect our bodies, and vice versa? This episode is all about the mind/body connection.

This week I'm joined by TEDx Speaker Lauren Cannell as we discuss her journey with chronic pain, the psychological barriers involved with dealing with chronic pain, and being curious enough to fix it.

How much of what we do is unconscious brain activity, influenced by external features? How does the idea of free will influence our mental health? And what shapes our beliefs? Listen now!

What is neuroplasticity? Can we change how our brains are wired? Can thinking positive thoughts really change the structure of our brains? Join us in the first episode as we unlock the secrets of how our brains are shaped.

Welcome to Curiosities in Psychology!