PsyberSpace: Understand Your World

Leslie Poston
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  • SOCIAL SCIENCES
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PsyberSpace: Understand Your World

If you've ever wondered what makes "reply guys" tick, why we fall for emotionally manipulative language in politics, why meetings suck, or how music can reshape your brain, we have the answers! Tune in to PsyberSpace every Monday morning and understand your world a little better each week. PsyberSpace explores the evolving landscape where psychology, media, culture, and digital technology converge. Each episode unpacks the impact of tech on our minds, our culture, our work, and our society. We explore pressing topics like the ethics of virtual spaces, misinformation and disinformation, media psychology and marketing, the psychology of business in the age of AI, the influence of social media on mental health, and the implications of digital trends for leaders and organizations. Join us as we provide insights for harnessing tech for positive change in personal lives and within the workplace.

  1. 5 DAYS AGO

    Unpacking Our Psychological Reactions to High-Profile Violence

    Understanding Psychological Reactions to High-Profile Violence In this episode of PsyberSpace, host Leslie Poston explores the complex psychological reactions to high-profile acts of violence, using a recent incident involving the death of a healthcare CEO as a case study. The discussion delves into the psychological phenomena of priming, scapegoating, and how media framing affects public sentiment. The episode also examines the collective responses to systemic healthcare failures and the role of digital communication in amplifying emotional reactions. Leslie highlights the importance of understanding these psychological currents to foster a more empathetic and proactive society. 00:00 Introduction to PsyberSpace00:24 Exploring Psychological Reactions to Violence01:08 Priming and Initial Reactions03:36 Scapegoating and Blame10:21 The Role of Media in Shaping Perceptions13:38 Systemic Healthcare Failures and Psychological Impact16:26 Leadership and Crisis Response19:05 Collective Identity and Solidarity22:03 Systemic Review and Institutional Change24:36 Pathways to Meaningful Change26:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Research: Aquino, K., et al. (2021). Vigilantism, Violence, and the Defense of Social Order. Academy of Management Proceedings. Asif, M. (2022). Police legitimacy and approval of vigilante violence: The significance of anger. Theoretical Criminology. Asif, M., & Weenink, D. (2019). Vigilante rituals theory: A cultural explanation of vigilante violence. European Journal of Criminology. Bandura, A. (2002). Selective Moral Disengagement in the Exercise of Moral Agency. Journal of Moral Education. Bandura, A., et al. (1996). Mechanisms of Moral Disengagement in the Exercise of Moral Agency. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. Bateson, R. (2020). The Politics of Vigilantism. Comparative Politics. Bruinsma, G., et al. (2003). Public support for Vigilantism. Chen, F. X., et al. (2022). The vigilante identity and organizations. Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes. Chen, F. X., et al. (2022). Suffering saviors: Relationships between perceptions of interpersonal victimhood, the vigilante identity, and the monitoring and punishment of norm violators. Personality and Individual Differences. Cikara, M. (2015). Intergroup Schadenfreude: motivating participation in collective violence. Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences. Cohen, D., et al. (2022). Collective Vigilantism in Global Comparative Perspective. Comparative Politics. Collins, R. (2009). Micro and Macro Causes of Violence. International Journal of Conflict and Violence Eidelson, R. J., & Eidelson, J. I. (2003). Dangerous ideas. Five beliefs that propel groups toward conflict. American Psychologist. Eisenberg, N., et al. (2010). Empathy-related Responding: Associations with Prosocial Behavior, Aggression, and Intergroup Relations. Social Issues and Policy Review. Goldstein, D. (2003). "In our own hands": Lynching, justice, and the law in Bolivia. Haas, N. E., et al. (2014). Public support for vigilantism, confidence in police and police responsiveness. Kasra, M. (2017). Vigilantism, public shaming, and social media hegemony: The role of digital-networked images in humiliation and sociopolitical control. Kelman, H. G. (1973). Violence without Moral Restraint: Reflections on the Dehumanization of Victims and Victimizers. Kernberg, O. (2003). Sanctioned social violence: A psychoanalytic view - Part I. The International Journal of Psycho-analysis. Kil, S. H., et al. (2009). Securing borders: patriotism, vigilantism and the brutalization of the US American public. Locke, R. (2022). Heroes or Villains? Dianoia: The Undergraduate Philosophy Journal of Boston College. MacNair, R. (2015). Theories Underlying Research in Peace Psychology. McCreery, G. (2014). The Efficacy of Scapegoating and Revolutionary Violence. Philosophy Culture and Traditions. McDermott, C. M., et al. (2016). Individual differences impact support for vigilante justice. Nagengast, C. (1994). Violence, Terror, and The Crisis of The State. Neapolitan, J. (1987). Vigilante Behavior and Attribution Bias. Nivette, A. E. (2016). Institutional ineffectiveness, illegitimacy, and public support for vigilantism in Latin America. Rice, C. (2015). A Group Therapist Reflects on Violence in America. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy. Scott, et al. (2021).  Soares, M., et al. (2018). Police Officers' Perspectives on State (Police) Violence: A Sociomoral and Psychological-Driven Study on Disengagement. Tedeschi, J., et al. (1994). Violence, aggression & coercive actions. Thomas, N. K. (2015). There's Always a Villain to Punish: Group Processes Contributing to Violence and Its Remediation. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy. Trepte, S., et al. (2017). Social Identity Theory and Self‐Categorization Theory. White, A., et al. (2009). Justice by Any Means Necessary: Vigilantism among Indian Women. Zaki, J. (2020). Catastrophe Compassion: Understanding and Extending Prosociality Under Crisis. Trends in Cognitive Sciences. Zmigrod, L., et al. (2020). Cognition and Emotion in Extreme Political Action. Zmigrod, L., et al. (2021). Cognition and Emotion in Extreme Political Action: Individual Differences and Dynamic Interactions. Current Directions in Psychological Science. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    28 min

  2. DEC 9

    Decoding Morals: Why We Think and Act the Way We Do

    Decoding Morality: Vertical vs. Horizontal Morality and Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Motivations In this episode of PsyberSpace, host Leslie Poston digs into the complexities of our moral compass by exploring the dimensions of vertical versus horizontal morality and intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation. Through real-life scenarios and psychological theories, the episode examines how our upbringing, cultural background, and neurological processes influence our ethical decisions. Additionally, the discussion offers practical insights into how understanding these moral frameworks can improve communication, conflict resolution, and personal well-being in both personal and professional settings. 00:00 Introduction to Moral Frameworks01:23 Understanding Vertical and Horizontal Morality05:59 Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Motivation09:18 The Neuroscience of Moral Decision-Making11:53 Clashing Moral Systems13:33 Moral Education and Future Generations15:31 The Impact of Technology on Morality18:02 Applying Moral Insights in Daily Life19:47 Conclusion and Reflection References underpinning this episode: Amodio, D. M., & Frith, C. D. (2006). Meeting of minds: The medial frontal cortex and social cognition. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 7(4), 268-277.  Bicchieri, C., & Muldoon, R. (2011). Social norms. In E. N. Zalta (Ed.), Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy.  Blasi, A. (1980). Bridging moral cognition and moral action: A critical review of the literature. Psychological Bulletin, 88(1), 1-45.  Decety, J., & Cowell, J. M. (2014). Friends or foes: Is empathy necessary for moral behavior? Perspectives on Psychological Science, 9(5), 525-537. Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2000). The "what" and "why" of goal pursuits: Human needs and the self-determination of behavior. Psychological Inquiry, 11(4), 227-268.  Gibbs, J. C., Basinger, K. S., & Fuller, D. (1992). Moral maturity: Measuring the development of sociomoral reflection.  Graham, J., Haidt, J., Koleva, S., Motyl, M., Iyer, R., Wojcik, S. P., & Ditto, P. H. (2013). Moral foundations theory: The pragmatic validity of moral pluralism. Advances in Experimental Social Psychology, 47, 55-130.  Greene, J. D. (2015). The rise of moral cognition. Cognition, 135, 39-42.  Haidt, J. (2012). The righteous mind: Why good people are divided by politics and religion. Pantheon. Huesmann, L. R., & Guerra, N. G. (1997). Children's normative beliefs about aggression and aggressive behavior. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 72(2), 408-419.  Keltner, D., & Kogan, A. (2014). The science of compassion: Origins, measures, and interventions. Annual Review of Psychology, 65, 287-313.  Kohlberg, L. (1981). The philosophy of moral development: Moral stages and the idea of justice. Harper & Row. Narvaez, D. (2010). Moral complexity: The fatal attraction of truthiness and the importance of mature moral functioning. Perspectives on Psychological Science, 5(2), 163-181. Rest, J. R. (1986). Moral development: Advances in research and theory.  Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being. American Psychologist, 55(1), 68-78.  Schwartz, S. H., & Rubel-Lifschitz, T. (2009). Cross-national variation in the size of sex differences in values: Effects of gender equality. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 97(1), 171-185.  Smetana, J. G. (2006). Social-cognitive domain theory: Consistencies and variations in children's moral and social judgments. In M. Killen & J. G. Smetana (Eds.), Handbook of moral development (pp. 119-153). Tangney, J. P., Stuewig, J., & Mashek, D. J. (2007). Moral emotions and moral behavior. Annual Review of Psychology, 58, 345-372.  Twenge, J. M., Baumeister, R. F., DeWall, C. N., Ciarocco, N. J., & Bartels, J. M. (2007). Social exclusion decreases prosocial behavior. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 92(1), 56-66.  Vohs, K. D., & Schooler, J. W. (2008). The value of believing in free will: Encouraging a belief in determinism increases cheating. Psychological Science, 19(1), 49-54.  Welch, M. R., Rivera, R. E. N., Conway, B. P., Yonkoski, J., Lupton, P. M., & Giancola, R. (2005). Deterring delinquents: A rational choice model of theft and violence. American Sociological Review, 70(1), 95-122.  Yarkoni, T., & Westfall, J. (2017). Choosing prediction over explanation in psychology: Lessons from machine learning. Perspectives on Psychological Science, 12(6), 1100-1122.  ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    21 min

  3. DEC 2

    Is Social Media Actually Good for Your Kids? What the Research Really Shows

    Understanding the Positive Impacts of Social Media on Youth In this episode of PsyberSpace, host Leslie Poston discusses the often overlooked benefits of social media for kids and teens. Through a review of recent research and peer-reviewed studies, the episode explores how digital platforms like Discord, Instagram, and TikTok serve as modern 'third spaces' for social interaction, support psychological development, and offer educational and career development opportunities. The episode also covers mental health awareness and the role of social media in fostering global awareness and empathy. Listeners are encouraged to guide young people toward purposeful social media engagement to maximize its benefits. 00:00 Introduction: Debunking the Moral Panic Around Social Media01:27 The Disappearance of Physical Third Spaces02:15 Digital Third Spaces: Modern Gathering Places03:00 The Power of Digital Connections04:49 Building Genuine Online Communities06:16 Social Media and Career Development07:33 Educational Benefits of Social Media09:25 Mental Health Awareness and Support11:00 Fostering Creativity Through Social Media12:42 Social Media and Civic Engagement14:19 Psychological Benefits of Social Media16:07 Broadening Horizons: Cultural Competence18:16 Algorithmic Feeds and Parental Guidance18:52 Conclusion: Maximizing Social Media Benefits References: Anderson, M., & Jiang, J. (2018). Teens, social media & technology 2018. Pew Research Center.  Anderson, M., & Vogels, E. A. (2023). Teens and social media: Key findings from Pew Research Center surveys. Pew Research Center.  Asterhan, C. S., & Bouton, E. (2017). Teenage peer-to-peer knowledge sharing through social network sites in secondary schools. Computers & Education, 110, 16-34. Auxier, B., & Anderson, M. (2022). Social media use in 2021. Pew Research Center.  Best, P., Manktelow, R., & Taylor, B. (2014). Online communication, social media and adolescent wellbeing: A systematic narrative review. Children and Youth Services Review, 41, 27-36. Boulianne, S., & Theocharis, Y. (2018). Young people, digital media, and engagement: A meta-analysis of research. Social Science Computer Review, 36(6), 737-755. Boulianne, S., & Theocharis, Y. (2023). Young people, social media, and political engagement: A meta-analysis. Information, Communication & Society, 26(4), 510-528. boyd, d. (2024). Risks vs. Harms: Youth & Social Media. Data: Made Not Found. https://zephoria.substack.com/p/risks-vs-harms-youth-and-social-media Burke, M., & Kraut, R. E. (2016). The relationship between Facebook use and well‐being depends on communication type and tie strength. Journal of Computer‐Mediated Communication, 21(4), 265-281. Chen, G. M. (2012). The impact of new media on intercultural communication in global context. China Media Research, 8(2), 1-10. Davis, K. (2012). Friendship 2.0: Adolescents' experiences of belonging and self-disclosure online. Journal of Adolescence, 35(6), 1527-1536. Erfani, S. S., & Abedin, B. (2018). Impacts of the use of social network sites on users' psychological well‐being: A systematic review. Journal of the Association for Information Science and Technology, 69(7), 900-912. Gan, B., & Li, H. (2018). Understanding the effects of gratifications on the continuance intention to use WeChat in China: A perspective on uses and gratifications. Computers in Human Behavior, 78, 306-315. Greenhow, C., & Chapman, A. (2020). Social distancing meet social media: Digital tools for connecting students, teachers, and citizens in an emergency. Information and Learning Sciences, 121(5/6), 341-352. Greenhow, C., Galvin, S., & Staudt Willet, K. B. (2023). What should students learn about social media? Teachers' perspectives and practices. Teaching and Teacher Education, 121, 103912. Greenhow, C., & Lewin, C. (2016). Social media and education: Reconceptualizing the boundaries of formal and informal learning. Learning, Media and Technology, 41(1), 6-30. Ito, M., & Martin, C. (2023). Connected learning and the future of libraries. Young Adult Library Services, 19(4), 12-18. Jenkins, H., Shresthova, S., Gamber-Thompson, L., Kligler-Vilenchik, N., & Zimmerman, A. M. (2016). By any media necessary: The new youth activism. NYU Press. Kaye, D. B. K., Chen, X., & Powers, A. (2023). The mobile social media ecology of youth creative production. Mobile Media & Communication, 11(1), 148-167. Kim, Y., & Kim, Y. (2017). The impact of social networking services on Korean adolescents' cross-cultural interaction: Facebook vs. Cyworld. Computers in Human Behavior, 71, 228-237. Kim, Y., & Yang, J. (2023). Cross-cultural interactions through social media: How digital platforms facilitate global understanding. New Media & Society, 25(3), 731-749. Lee, S. J. (2009). Online communication and adolescent social ties: Who benefits more from Internet use? Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, 14(3), 509-531. Li, X., & Carroll, R. J. (2020). Social media and professional networking: A case study of scientists' use of Twitter. Journal of the Association for Information Science and Technology, 71(12), 1483-1497. LinkedIn. (2023). Global talent trends 2023. LinkedIn Economic Graph. Nabity-Grover, T., Cheung, C. M., & Thatcher, J. B. (2020). Inside out and outside in: How the COVID-19 pandemic affects self-disclosure on social media. International Journal of Information Management, 55, 102188. Naslund, J. A., Aschbrenner, K. A., Marsch, L. A., & Bartels, S. J. (2016). The future of mental health care: peer-to-peer support and social media. Epidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences, 25(2), 113-122. O'Reilly, M., Dogra, N., Hughes, J., Reilly, P., George, R., & Whiteman, N. (2023). Potential benefits and harms of social media for adolescent mental health: Understanding adolescent, parent and professional perspectives. Journal of Adolescence, 94, 25-37. Oldenburg, R., & Brissett, D. (1982). The third place. Qualitative Sociology, 5(4), 265-284. Przybylski, A. K., & Weinstein, N. (2023). Digital screen time and human development: Evidence from a large-scale study of adolescents. Nature Human Behaviour, 7(4), 550-558. Richards, D., Doherty, G., et al. (2023). Internet-delivered mental health interventions for young people: Systematic review. JMIR Mental Health, 10(1), e41724. Robinson, P., Turk, D., Jilka, S., & Cella, M. (2019). Measuring attitudes towards mental health using social media: investigating stigma and trivialisation. Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology, 54(1), 51-58. Rutledge, P. (2024). Why Warning Labels on Social Media Will Hurt not Help Kids. The Psychology of Digital Behaviors. https://www.pamelarutledge.com/why-warning-labels-on-social-media-will-hurt-not-help-kids/ Thomas, L., Orme, E., & Kerrigan, F. (2020). Student loneliness: The role of social media through life transitions. Computers & Education, 146, 103754. Vodafone Foundation. (2023). Digital society index 2023: Youth perspectives. Wohn, D. Y., Ellison, N. B., Khan, M. L., Fewins-Bliss, R., & Gray, R. (2013). The role of social media in shaping first-generation high school students' college aspirations: A social capital lens. Computers & Education, 63, 424-436. Wu, J., & Shen, ...

    21 min

  4. NOV 25

    Without Conscience: How Psychopaths Shape Our World

    Understanding Psychopaths and Sociopaths: Traits, Impacts, and Interactions In this episode of PsyberSpace, host Leslie Poston explores the complex and often misunderstood personality types of psychopaths and sociopaths. The discussion delves into how these individuals navigate through life and the distinct behaviors that characterize them. It highlights the dangers when such individuals rise to positions of power, particularly in corporate and political environments, and the impact they can have on organizations and society. The episode also covers practical strategies for dealing with psychopathic personalities in different settings, emphasizing the importance of boundaries, documentation, and emotional distance. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on how this knowledge could influence their views on leadership and personal relationships. 00:00 Introduction to Psychopaths and Sociopaths01:10 Defining Psychopaths and Sociopaths02:55 Corporate Psychopaths: The Hidden Dangers05:20 Psychopaths in Personal Relationships08:02 Psychopaths in Positions of Power13:01 Therapeutic Approaches and Challenges15:21 Practical Strategies for Dealing with Psychopaths17:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts References: Anderson, J. L., Sellbom, M., Wygant, D. B., Salekin, R., & Krueger, R. (2014). Examining the associations between DSM-5 section III antisocial personality disorder traits and psychopathy in community and university samples. Journal of Personality Disorders, 28, 1-23.Babiak, P., & Hare, R. D. (2015). Snakes in suits: When psychopaths go to work. Harper Business.Babiak, P., Neumann, C. S., & Hare, R. D. (2010). Corporate psychopathy: Talking the walk. Behavioral Sciences & the Law, 28(2), 174-193.Boddy, C. R. (2015). Organisational psychopaths: A ten year update. Management Decision, 53(10), 2407-2432.Boddy, C. R., Taplin, R., Sheehy, B., & Murphy, B. (2021). Finding psychopaths in white-collar jobs: A review of the evidence and why it matters. Society and Business Review, 16(2), 170-184.Cooke, D. J., Hart, S. D., Logan, C., & Michie, C. (2012). Explicating the construct of psychopathy: Development and validation of a conceptual model, the Comprehensive Assessment of Psychopathic Personality (CAPP). International Journal of Forensic Mental Health, 11(4), 242-252.Dutton, K. (2012). The wisdom of psychopaths: What saints, spies, and serial killers can teach us about success. Scientific American.Garofalo, C., Eisenbarth, H., & Shane, M. S. (2022). All walks of life: Editorial for the special issue on "The impact of psychopathy: Multidisciplinary and applied perspectives." International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology.Gao, Y., & Raine, A. (2010). Successful and unsuccessful psychopaths: A neurobiological model. Behavioral Sciences & the Law, 28(2), 194-210.Hart, S. D. (1998). The role of psychopathy in assessing risk for violence: Conceptual and methodological issues. Legal and Criminological Psychology, 3(1), 121-137.Henning, J. B., & Wygant, D. B. (2014). Mapping the darkness and finding the light: DSM-5 and assessment of the "corporate psychopath". Industrial and Organizational Psychology, 7(1), 144-148.Kiehl, K. A., & Hoffman, M. B. (2011). The criminal psychopath: History, neuroscience, treatment, and economics. Jurimetrics, 51, 355-397.Landay, K., Harms, P. D., & Credé, M. (2019). Shall we serve the dark lords? A meta-analytic review of psychopathy and leadership. Journal of Applied Psychology, 104(1), 183-196.Leistedt, S. J., Braun, S., Coumans, N., & Linkowski, P. (2009). Psychopathy: From "The Mask of Sanity" to social neurosciences. Revue Medicale de Bruxelles, 30(6), 577-587.Lilienfeld, S. O., Waldman, I. D., Landfield, K., Watts, A. L., Rubenzer, S., & Faschingbauer, T. R. (2012). Fearless dominance and the U.S. presidency: Implications of psychopathic personality traits for successful and unsuccessful political leadership. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 103(3), 489-505.Mealey, L. (1995). The sociobiology of sociopathy: An integrated evolutionary model. Behavioral and Brain Sciences, 18(3), 523-541.Ogloff, J. R. P. (2006). Psychopathy/antisocial personality disorder conundrum. Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, 40(6-7), 519-528.Patrick, C. J. (2007). Handbook of psychopathy. Guilford Press.Paulhus, D. L. (2014). Toward a taxonomy of dark personalities. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 23(6), 421-426.Reid, W. H. (1986). Unmasking the psychopath: Antisocial personality and related syndromes. American Journal of Psychiatry, 143(11), 1452-1453.Rogstad, J. E., & Rogers, R. (2008). Gender differences in contributions of emotion to psychopathy and antisocial personality disorder. Clinical Psychology Review, 28(8), 1472-1484.Skeem, J. L., Polaschek, D. L., Patrick, C. J., & Lilienfeld, S. O. (2011). Psychopathic personality: Bridging the gap between scientific evidence and public policy. Psychological Science in the Public Interest, 12(3), 95-162.Spytska, L. (2024). Symptoms and main differences between a psychopath and a sociopath. Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease.Strickland, C. M., Drislane, L. E., Lucy, M., Krueger, R. F., & Patrick, C. J. (2013). Characterizing psychopathy using DSM-5 personality traits. Assessment, 20(3), 327-338.van Dongen, J. D. M. (2020). The empathic brain of psychopaths: From social science to neuroscience in empathy. Frontiers in Psychology, 11, 695.Venables, N. C., Hall, J. R., & Patrick, C. J. (2013). Differentiating psychopathy from antisocial personality disorder: A triarchic model perspective. Psychological Medicine, 43(9), 1899-1910.Wallace, L., Heym, N., Sumich, A., & Fido, D. (2020). A systematic review on the current conceptualisations of successful psychopathy. Forensic Science International: Mind and Law.Walsh, A., & Wu, H. (2008). Differentiating antisocial personality disorder, psychopathy, and sociopathy: Evolutionary, genetic, neurological, and sociological considerations. Criminal Justice Studies, 21(2), 135-152.Warren, J. I., & South, S. C. (2006). Comparing the constructs of antisocial personality disorder and psychopathy in a sample of incarcerated women. Behavioral Sciences & the Law, 24(1), 1-20.Wellons, S. (2012). The devil in the boardroom: Corporate psychopaths and their impact on business. Pure Insights, 1(1), 42-45.Werner, K. B., Few, L. R., & Bucholz, K. K. (2015). Epidemiology, comorbidity, and behavioral genetics of antisocial personality disorder and psychopathy. Psychiatric Annals, 45(4), 195-199.Yildirim, B. O., & Derksen, J. J. (2013). Systematic review, structural analysis, and new theoretical perspectives on the role of serotonin and associated genes in the etiology of psychopathy and sociopathy. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 37(7), 1254-1296. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    19 min

  5. NOV 18

    The Fire Within: Understanding the Psychology of Anger

    The Paradox of Anger: Understanding and Channeling a Primal Emotion In this episode of PsyberSpace, host Leslie Poston delves into the complex emotion of anger. Exploring recent neuroscience findings, Leslie reveals that anger can activate the brain's reward centers, making it feel satisfying. The episode covers the physiological and psychological mechanisms of anger, its impact on relationships and society, and how it plays out in the digital world. It also discusses cross-cultural perspectives on anger and offers evidence-based strategies for managing and channeling anger constructively, turning it into a force for positive change. 00:00 Introduction to Anger01:36 The Neuroscience of Anger04:06 Anger in the Digital Age06:09 Anger in Relationships07:57 Anger and Social Justice09:27 Health Impacts of Anger11:10 Cultural Perspectives on Anger14:09 Transforming Anger into Positive Action17:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    18 min

  6. NOV 11

    The Invisible Chains: Understanding the Psychology of White Supremacy

    Understanding the Psychology of White Supremacy: Historical Roots and Modern Impacts In this episode of PsyberSpace, host Leslie Poston explores the complex psychology behind white supremacy, tracing its historical roots and examining its current manifestations. The discussion delves into how white supremacy perpetuates racism, sexism, and other forms of oppression. Drawing on extensive research, Leslie highlights how this ideology harms not only marginalized communities but also those who subscribe to its beliefs. The episode also addresses the role of digital media in radicalizing individuals and offers strategies for resisting white supremacist ideologies through education, community building, and systemic reform. Diversify your knowledge about white supremacy and other issues.  Start by visiting Tema Okun's site on white supremacy, subscribing to Portia Burch's Patreon, or reading Caroline J. Sumlin's Substack. 00:00 Introduction to PsyberSpace00:34 Understanding White Supremacy00:59 Historical Foundations of White Supremacy01:30 Psychological Colonization and Institutional Mechanisms02:55 Intersectional Trauma and Systemic Oppression04:45 Cult Dynamics and Radicalization13:23 Online Radicalization and Algorithmic Influence16:48 Counter Narratives and De-radicalization18:54 Conclusion and Call to Action22:27 Post-Credits: Listener Engagement ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    23 min

  7. NOV 4

    Staying Grounded In Turbulent Times

    Resilience and Coping Strategies During Turbulent Times In this episode of PsyberSpace, host Leslie Poston, a business strategist and research psychologist, explores coping strategies to foster resilience and understanding during periods of stress and uncertainty, such as the volatile election period in the United States. Drawing on recent scientific research, Leslie discusses the importance of belief systems, mindfulness, communal coping, and emotional regulation. She highlights practical ways to implement these strategies in daily life to maintain relationships, manage stress, and build community resilience. The episode also addresses the differential impact of turbulent times on marginalized communities and offers actionable steps for personal and communal support, workplace resilience, and civic engagement. 00:00 Introduction to Coping Strategies01:32 Understanding Belief Systems and Resilience02:25 Mindfulness and Positive Emotions03:47 Practical Mindfulness Techniques04:14 Building Personal Resilience06:56 Maintaining Relationships During Turbulent Times09:10 Supporting Marginalized Communities11:54 Workplace Resilience Strategies17:30 Community Engagement and Volunteering19:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    22 min

  8. OCT 28

    Masking Insecurity: Studies in Compensatory Masculinity

    Compensatory Masculinity In this episode of PsyberSpace, host Leslie Poston explores the concept of compensatory masculinity, where men display extreme masculine behaviors when feeling their masculinity is threatened. The episode uncovers the adverse effects on men's health, relationships, family dynamics, workplace efficiency, and politics. It also discusses the impact on political decisions, media portrayal, and crisis management, as well as how art and music challenge these norms. The episode highlights the positive changes possible when men embrace emotional awareness and supportive friendships, rejecting traditional norms. Practical steps for fostering a more inclusive and authentic understanding of masculinity are provided to guide listeners in reshaping these dynamics in their lives. 00:00 Introduction to PsyberSpace00:34 Understanding Compensatory Masculinity02:44 Compensatory Masculinity in Modern Dating04:39 Impact on Family Life07:45 Workplace Dynamics and Masculinity10:50 Political Implications of Compensatory Masculinity12:02 Balancing Leadership Styles in Politics12:33 Gender Dynamics in Crisis Management13:05 Integrative Leadership Trends13:43 Art and Music: Reflecting and Challenging Masculinity15:41 Masculinity in Visual Arts16:51 Television and Film: Evolving Masculine Portrayals17:18 Breaking Free from Traditional Masculine Norms18:09 The Power of Emotional Awareness19:54 Transforming Masculinity in the Workplace21:59 Conclusion: Expanding Masculinity ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    23 min
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If you've ever wondered what makes "reply guys" tick, why we fall for emotionally manipulative language in politics, why meetings suck, or how music can reshape your brain, we have the answers! Tune in to PsyberSpace every Monday morning and understand your world a little better each week. PsyberSpace explores the evolving landscape where psychology, media, culture, and digital technology converge. Each episode unpacks the impact of tech on our minds, our culture, our work, and our society. We explore pressing topics like the ethics of virtual spaces, misinformation and disinformation, media psychology and marketing, the psychology of business in the age of AI, the influence of social media on mental health, and the implications of digital trends for leaders and organizations. Join us as we provide insights for harnessing tech for positive change in personal lives and within the workplace.

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