How can we help ourselves and others who are struggling with depression or the impact of sexual assault? Professor Todd Kashdan, Ph.D., will discuss these issues in his upcoming talk, titled “Dissecting Resilience: New Insights from Scientific Research on Rape, Depression, and Everyday Adversity,” sponsored by the Center for Meaning and Purpose in the Department of Psychology. The talk will take place at 4 p.m. Nov. 8 in the Behavioral Sciences Building room 107. This event is free and open to the public.

Improving quality of life for survivors

Professor Kashdan will examine the ways people can improve the quality of their lives and help others who have experienced adversity. In his talk, he will discuss new research about adults dealing with the impact of their experiences. Topics will include what happens during the days following sexual assault, outcomes for depressed adults over a 10-year follow-up, and harnessing negative emotions. Three larger truths about resilience will be discussed, in addition to strategies for improving your own resilience and helping others.

Psychologist, professor, and author

Professor Kashdan holds a Ph.D. in clinical psychology and has published over 185 peer-reviewed journal articles. His research interests include fostering and sustaining happiness, stress and anxiety, mindfulness, and self-regulation. Professor Kashdan was also the recipient of the Distinguished Scientific Award for Early Career Contribution to Psychology in 2013 and the Distinguished Research Fellow Award from the International Society for the Quality of Life in 2012. He is the author of several books, including Curious and The Upside of Your Dark Side, and serves as a scientific advisor for Time, Inc., National Geographic, and Merck.