Sylvia A. Malcore, PhD, ABPP
Assistant Professor
Ferris State University
Social & Behavioral Sciences
When I was asked to apply to become the next editor for The Health Psychologist, I was cautious. Like many in our field, I felt I was already overcommitted to a number of projects, and the prospect of adding another item on the to-do list was daunting! When I was informed the e-zine could be discontinued, I felt empowered in championing the role. The Health Psychologist supports an important means of connection, communication, and professional networking within health psychology.
The e-zine can trace its roots back to a paper newsletter. It is a less formal way to share information than in a peer-reviewed journal, offering a streamlined pathway for health psychologists and others to connect and dialogue. Over the years, The Health Psychologist has adapted to the changing needs of Division 38 and its membership. During my tenure, I hope to build upon this foundation to further strengthen our professional relationships and communication. The Health Psychologist, fills a specific niche, separate from listservs, social media, and peer-reviewed journals. I believe that by leaning into the connection potential of The Health Psychologist, it could foster relationships within Division 38, expand membership, and continue to explore diverse new horizons in health psychology.
The first issue of The Health Psychologist during my tenure as editor offers a number of relevant and timely topics, such as pain diagnostics. Because pain diagnosis remains the source of some debate, we have located it in our Conversation Corner. The issue also includes clinically relevant articles on perfectionism in dance culture, shame in the context of binge eating disorder, and insights into a recent measure of disability appraisal. An article on artificial intelligence (AI) recognizes timely American Psychological Association (APA) guidelines focused on AI ethics in health psychology. Finally, Division 38 President, Shawna Ehlers, PhD, highlights current events in the Division, and the Chair of the Student Advisory Council, Kendall Fugate-Laus shares an interview with Claire Conley, PhD on methods for infographics.
I look forward to my time with The Health Psychologist, and I welcome your feedback on how it can best serve you!
Sylvia A. Malcore, PhD, ABPP
Board Certified in Clinical Health Psychology
Editor-in-Chief, The Health Psychologist
