In the month of April, Berger students gave presentations summarizing different research articles on stoicism, resilience, and externalizing behaviors. Throughout their tenure at the Institute, Berger provides students with opportunities to engage deeply with complex scientific literature and to practice translating and communicating technical research findings into more broadly accessible forms. Berger students strengthened their understanding of psychological research through peer-led presentations on academic articles exploring themes of stoicism, resilience, and behavioral responses to adversity.
Across all three presentations, a central theme emerged: how different coping mechanisms can have both adaptive and maladaptive consequences for well-being, both psychologically and physiologically. One group presented an article on the relationship between stress, stoicism and how they can increase allosteric load. Another group explored the article about stress and depressive symptoms in pre adolescent African Americans. The last group presented research on externalizing behaviors and the biological effects of early life adversity.
The students practiced analyzing research papers and synthesizing the main points of each one. After each group presented, they opened the conversation up to a discussion and facilitated questions about each of the broader applications for the research. The peer discussion helped to stimulate critical thinking about research findings and encouraged students to develop a better understanding of psychological research within a supportive community.