Binghamton University Researchers Examine Diverse Aspects of Mental Health

At the Mood Disorders Institute, Distinguished Professor of Psychology Brandon Gibb leads research on why some individuals develop depression while others do not. His team examines the roles of brain activity, emotional responses, and family dynamics, particularly during critical childhood and adolescent years, to improve interventions for those at risk.

Professor Christopher Bishop studies anxiety in relation to Parkinson’s disease, specifically its emergence before more recognizable symptoms. With funding from the Michael J. Fox Foundation, he focuses on how anxiety develops and the biological changes associated with it, seeking to uncover its role in the disease's progression and potential treatment avenues.

Associate Professor of Health and Wellness Studies Lina Begdache investigates the impact of daily habits on stress responses. Her research links lifestyle choices to psychological flexibility, revealing how daily behaviors can influence resilience in stressful situations.

Professor Richard Mattson explores the complexities of physical affection in romantic relationships. His team analyzes how personality traits and insecurities can lead to manipulation through touch or other affectionate gestures, shedding light on the less caring aspects of these interactions.

A study by psychology researchers Callon Williams, Emily Zale, Nadine Mastroleo, and Mark Lenzenweger examines how pain affects substance use among young adults aged 18 to 25, challenging stereotypes about young people's health and their coping mechanisms.

Associate Professor Christina Balderrama-Durbin leads the Couple Adjustment to Stress and Trauma (CAST) Lab, researching how individuals and couples react to trauma and stress. Her work focuses on the factors that help some relationships endure while others falter under pressure.

Research by Diego Aragon-Guevara and Professor Jennifer Gillis Mattson delves into the unique challenges faced by autistic college students. Their findings indicate higher rates of anxiety and depression in these students compared to their non-autistic peers, prompting discussions on how best to support this community.

Assistant Professor Phillip Hughes employs data analysis to investigate mental health policies and their impact on access to care. His research emphasizes the importance of reducing barriers to quality mental health and substance-use treatment.

Lastly, Lecturer Jennifer Wegmann examines the concept of stress mindset, proposing that a different perspective on stress might enhance resilience and lead to personal growth.

These diverse projects at Binghamton University highlight a broad range of mental health issues and the innovative approaches researchers are taking to address them.