Episodes
Psychology of Values: The Hidden Compass Guiding Your Life
In this episode of The Psychology of Us , Professor RJ Starr explores the profound impact of focusing on your values and how they shape every aspect of your life. Why do some decisions feel effortless while others leave you c...
Stereotypes, Discrimination, and the Reality of Asian Women
In this special guest-hosted episode of The Psychology of Us , Cultural Psychology student Lilian Chantarakorn sits down with her professor, RJ Starr , for a powerful conversation on the stereotypes, discrimination, and objec...
Ghosting: Why People Disappear and the Psychology of Avoidance
Have you ever been ghosted? One day, you're talking to someone—maybe a friend, a romantic partner, or even a family member—and then, without warning, they vanish. No explanation. No goodbye. Just silence. Ghosting is one of t...
Psychology of Procrastination: Why We Put Things Off
Why do we procrastinate, even when we know it will make things harder in the long run? Is it laziness, a lack of discipline, or something deeper? In this episode of The Psychology of Us with Professor RJ Starr , we break down...
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Beyond the Stereotypes
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is one of the most misunderstood mental health conditions, often misused as a casual label for neatness or perfectionism. But what is OCD really? In this episode of The Psychology of Us wit...
McVulnerability: When Online Emotion Becomes a Performance
In this episode, Professor RJ Starr is interviewed by graduate student Gabriella Jamison to explore the concept of McVulnerability —a term describing the curated, performative nature of emotional sharing on social media. They...
Psychology of Gaslighting: Reclaim Your Reality
Have you ever walked away from a conversation questioning your own memory, your perception—even your sanity? Gaslighting is one of the most insidious forms of psychological manipulation, designed to make you doubt your realit...
Psychology of Moral Panic: Fear, Backlash, and Culture Wars
Why do societies erupt into moral panic? Why does every cultural shift spark outrage, fear, and reactionary backlash? In this episode of The Psychology of Us , Professor RJ Starr breaks down the psychological forces behind mo...
Aging: The Afternoon of Life, a Journey to Meaning and Freedom
SPECIAL EPISODE: In this special edition episode, we explore the beauty and complexity of aging, diving into the emotional and psychological growth that comes with embracing life’s later chapters. Aging isn’t about becoming l...
Political Theater: Psychology of Manipulating Emotions and Shaping So…
In this episode of The Psychology of Us with Professor RJ Starr , we delve into the fascinating world of political theater and its profound psychological impact on society. As we witness the beginning of a new presidential ad...
Psychology of Jealousy: Why We Feel Green with Envy
Jealousy is a universal emotion—uncomfortable, complex, and often misunderstood. In this episode of The Psychology of Us with Professor RJ Starr , we explore the roots of jealousy, from its evolutionary origins as a survival ...
Psychology of Division: Why Some Leaders Thrive on Conflict
Why do some leaders and public figures seem to thrive on creating division? In this episode of The Psychology of Us , Professor RJ Starr explores the psychological principles behind divisive behavior. From the manipulation of...
The Impact of Social Media on Self-Esteem and Identity
In this episode of The Psychology of Us with Professor RJ Starr , we explore how social media is shaping the way we see ourselves and each other. From the dopamine rush of likes to the pressure of curating the "perfect" profi...
Psychology of Dying: A Continuation, Not a Conclusion
In this profound and thought-provoking episode of The Psychology of Us, Professor RJ Starr explores one of life’s greatest mysteries: the act of dying. Is death truly the end, or is it part of a greater continuum that we don’...
Cultural Anxiety: Psychology of Collective Experience
In this episode of The Psychology of Us with Professor RJ Starr , we dive deep into the concept of cultural anxiety, exploring how it arises during periods of significant societal change and rapid transformation. From its his...
Emotional Intelligence: Navigating Your Feelings and Actions
In this episode of The Psychology of Us with Professor RJ Starr , we dive into the transformative power of emotional intelligence (EI). Discover how developing self-awareness and self-regulation can help you better understand...
Unpacking Self-Awareness: Understanding Your Inner World
In this episode of The Psychology of Us , Professor RJ Starr takes you on a journey into the transformative power of self-awareness. What does it really mean to know yourself? Why is it so essential for personal growth, meani...
Introduction Episode
In this debut episode of The Psychology of Us , Professor RJ Starr introduces listeners to the podcast's mission of exploring the fascinating world of human behavior, relationships, and shared experiences. Drawing from his ex...