Confessions of a CyberPsychologist

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, securi...

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 thro...

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 mor...

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 find...