Recently, Amber Efthemiou, a senior undergraduate research assistant and lab manager here in the FF-PTG Lab, gave a step-back presentation online regarding her senior thesis investigating attitudes towards older adults’ mental health. In her presentation, she explored the two forms of empathy, cognitive and emotional, and presented some of the data collected from her
ongoing study thus far.
Amber presented two hypotheses which were covered in great detail throughout the presentation. She also explained the possible implications of her research and the background that laid the foundation for her hypotheses. For example, Amber cited literature that suggests personal care aids that scored higher in levels of emotional empathy were more willing to help
patients. Following this information, she explained what factors have been shown to affect empathy, such as relationship closeness, similar experiences, personality, and mindfulness.
After the foundation was laid for her hypotheses, Amber went on to describe the methods, participants, and preliminary results involved in her study. She presented the study’s findings thus far and explained their relation to her hypotheses.
After presenting, Amber took a “step-back” to allow her fellow lab members to analyze her findings and provide any suggestions or ideas to improve the study or suggest changes. The goal of this process is to allow others to review and possibly make connections the author may not see. Each lab member gave helpful input to potentially provide new ideas.
Amber’s study is ongoing, and we look forward to seeing the final results of her research within the next few months!
FF-TIP LAB 