Psi Chi convention showcases student research in psychology

This spring, the University of Georgia Franklin College of Arts and Sciences hosted the annual Psi Chi (International Honor Society for Psychology) Convention, an event showcasing undergraduate psychology students’ research. Organized by the Franklin College Department of Psychology, the convention reflected the department's commitment to academic rigor, collaboration, and exploration in psychology.

The event featured a range of student projects, showcasing the diverse interests fostered within Franklin College. One team, including Caroline Gibbs (BS Psychology `25), Emma Morton (BS Psychology `24, Minor in Human Development and Family Sciences `24), and Morgan Cohn (BS Psychology `25, BS Biology `25), studied undergraduate understanding of infant development, focusing on early growth patterns. This study seeks to address deficiencies in the current literature on undergraduate developmental knowledge and to reevaluate the priorities in undergraduate infant development education.

“Interdisciplinary research opportunities in Franklin College are readily available – and rewarding,” Gibbs said. “The supportive faculty, engaged professors, and diverse student community have strengthened my teamwork and critical thinking skills, and the variety of perspectives has enriched my experience.”

Cohn appreciated Franklin College’s flexible programs. “The chance to add biology as a second major through Franklin was a turning point for me. Connecting with students from different academic paths has been motivating and shows the college’s dedication to broad learning.”

Ashley Langford (BS Psychology `25, Minor in Philosophy `25), shared her first research presentation study on conscientiousness and self-other agreement perceptions, testing how much others agree with a person's self-assessment of their traits and behaviors. “Psychology at Franklin College is engaging, and Dr. Miller’s guidance in the personality studies lab was key to my success,” Langford said, praising the college’s mentorship. Ashley was awarded Best Poster Presentation for her session.

Anahat Kaur (BS Psychology `25, Minor in Studio Art `25, Minor in Human Services `25) explored how political leanings shape moral judgments using creative experimental setups. In her study, Kaur examined the effects of inducing disgust in controlled environments through carefully crafted scenarios to evaluate emotional responses. Specifically, she explored whether introducing an aversive stimulus, such as spraying a potent unpleasant smell, would intensify or reduce participants' reactions compared to baseline conditions. “I particularly enjoyed observing participants firsthand—it gave me a sense of contributing something meaningful,” she said.

The Psi Chi Convention highlighted Franklin College of Arts and Sciences’ role in advancing scientific training in psychology and interdisciplinary work, as well as supporting student passions. By offering a space for undergraduates to address real-world questions, the event captured the vibrant, curious spirit of the students of Department of Psychology.

Image: Alumna Anahat Kaur with the poster presentation of her research