In this episode, we explore the relationship between empathy, community, and mental health vis a vis social media and AI.

• How can social media lead people to hyper-focus on themselves, and what's the cost of that self-focus?
• How can AI create filter bubbles that isolate people from community?
• How does community and belonging counter some of the more dangerous risks posed by social media and AI?
• What can everyday people do to bolster their social wellness?

About Janelle:

Janelle S. Peifer, PhD, LCP, is an associate professor of psychology at the University of Richmond. She leads Peifer Psychology (peiferpsychology.com) as a speaker and consultant for higher education institutions and organizations committed to fostering environments where all individuals can thrive and reach their full potential. In addition, as a licensed clinical psychologist, she founded The Center for Inclusive Therapy + Wellness (inclusivetherapywellness.com) and leads Fleurish Psychotherapy (www.fleurishpsychotherapy.com). Dr. Peifer earned her PhD in Clinical and School Psychology at the University of Virginia Curry School of Education and is an alumna of Wake Forest University. Her research examines college student development centering on questions of identity/culture, and mental health, with a focus on complex trauma. She has contributed to over 50 public scholarship and media engagements in venues such as HBO, The Boston Globe, SELF, The New York Times, The Guardian, and Science.

00:00 Intro & research

02:53 The connection b/w empathy & happiness

06:10 The cost of hyperindividualism

08:08 How social media leads to self-focus

13:20 How we're driven by pain & pleasure

15:25 How empathy can be misdirected

21:04 Community costs commitment

24:40 Idealized self-view in social media

28:59 How to become less individualistic

31:10 Using AI as a stepping stone