Psychology Department Blog

What makes a choice bad or good?

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Human behavior is responsible for some of the best and worst moments in history.   So, how can we use science to make sure humans act in ways that are beneficial to society and the planet? How can we influence and manipulate human behavior?  Using the Humans Understanding Behavior (HUB) research lab, Dr. Jordan Belisle, associate professor of psychology at Missouri State … [Read more...] about What makes a choice bad or good?

Common sense: Are you born with it?

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In a world with instant access to an infinite amount of information, do you have common sense?   Do you:  Eat fruits and vegetables?   Exercise?   Engage in habits that are good for you?  If you answered yes to these questions, you have common sense, according to Drs. Norman Shealy and Amber Abernathy.   Conscientiousness equals common sense  Abernathy, the Mary-Charlotte … [Read more...] about Common sense: Are you born with it?

Professor’s work featured in ‘Top 10 Insights from the Science of a Meaningful Life in 2021’ list

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Recently, Dr. Leslie Echols, associate professor of psychology at Missouri State University, worked with Dr. Jerreed Ivanich of the University of Colorado to conduct a Fast Friends study. It looked at using questions and answers to foster friendships among middle school students. This research was featured in the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley’s recent list of … [Read more...] about Professor’s work featured in ‘Top 10 Insights from the Science of a Meaningful Life in 2021’ list

Using questions to help kids build friendships

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Is there an effective way to foster friendships among tweens and teens? Yes, according to a recent study conducted by psychologist Dr. Leslie Echols of Missouri State University and Dr. Jerreed Ivanich of the University of Colorado. Engaging in meaningful Q&A The researchers implemented the 36 questions activity known as Fast Friends in a local middle school. About 300 … [Read more...] about Using questions to help kids build friendships

Did the pandemic increase guilty pleas?

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People in the U.S. have a constitutional right to a jury trial. Yet, more than 95% of criminal convictions result from guilty pleas rather than jury verdicts. The bulk of these guilty pleas come from plea bargaining. This occurs when prosecutors offer reduced sentences to defendants. In return, they waive their right to a trial. Even those who are innocent can plead guilty. … [Read more...] about Did the pandemic increase guilty pleas?