We’re back with another Spring issue, the first of 2024! What an exciting time for our Division as we launch a new website and a new issue of The Health Psychologist ezine. Learn more about what’s in the Spring 2024 issue!
The Health Psychologist
The Electronic Magazine (E-Zine) of SfHP
This publication focuses on the dissemination of health psychology related information that is intriguing, pertinent, educational, and practical. The goal is to showcase relevant information in the field of health psychology and highlight works in clinical practice, program development, research, advocacy for the practice of health psychology and equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives. It is also a place where SfHP members can communicate and highlight their passion for the field of Health Psychology.
Strengthening Connections, Fostering Learning, Engaging, and Cultivating Growth
Our president, Dr. Mark Vogel, demonstrates how these four pillars are modeled within our Division: connection, learning, engagement, and growth. He encourages the continuation of these pillars in order to inspire and mold the future of our Division for our community as whole.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in Research: Overview and Recommendation for a Culturally Humble Approach
Dr. Chandra Char provides an overview of an equitable approach that engages communities is essential in every step of the research process, from data collection to results dissemination using a community-focused design.
Spotlight Interview with Dr. Stephanie Brezinski, a Post-Doctoral Fellow in Psychosocial Oncology
Nicholas Powers, the Communications Chair of the Student Advisory Council, interviewed Dr. Stephanie Brezinski. She is a postdoctoral fellow in psychosocial Oncology who shares her experience as not only a postdoctoral fellow but also in a unique subspecialty of health psychology.
Disorders of the Gut-Brain Interaction: A Cross-Cultural Concern that CAN be Treated!
Drs. Ellen Joseph and Tiffany Duffing discuss the gut-brain interaction and the disorders that occur as a result. They described the significant impact of discrimination within marginalized communities experiencing these disorders of the gut-brain interaction while advocating for the need for changing the patient’s experience in order to better treat and provide relief for these individuals.
Health Research Council Promotes EDI-Related Research
Dr. Joshua Eyer described how our Division has utilized targeted strategies to implement and amplify research related to DEI from webinars and programming to awards.
The Role of Health Psychologists in Treating Chronic Pain and Comorbid Depression
Madeline Foster provides an overview of the intersectionality between chronic pain and depression as well as the role of a health psychologist in the treatment of this comorbidity.
Looking Back to Step Forward: A Reflection on the “Emerging Adulthood” Era of Professional Identity Development
Dr. Grace Kao shares about the experience of many psychologists as they develop in their career, emerging adulthood. She offers normalization of career progression and how she has shaped her professional identity through the differing stages.
Careers in Health Psych Spotlight: An Interview with Dr. John Ruiz, Editor of the Health Psychologist
Dr. John Ruiz provided insights into his experience as a growing professional and gave advice on how to navigate finding one’s own way into becoming an accomplished psychologist.
What’s Inside
This Spring issue is jam-packed with a variety of remarkable articles to start off the first issue of the new year!
False Peaks
Dr. Andrew Dunkle shared his voice as an early career psychologist in the exploration of expanding one’s career from the beginning in order to attain the broader professional life one hopes for.
Communicating with the Child Dying of Cancer: Professionals’ Attitudes, Practices and Observations
Dr. Debra Newborg created an overview of her dissertation that researched a provider’s experience and comfort in having conversations with children and their families when the child is dying of cancer. She sheds light on some of the beliefs providers have about the risks and benefits of having these incredibly difficult conversations with children.