FROM THE EDITOR...
Welcome to the inaugural issue of Perspectives
in Psychology. As the title suggests, the purpose of this
publication is to present outlooks on a diverse set of topics
which illustrate students' unique approaches to the complex questions
raised throughout the study of psychology. Produced entirely by
University of Pennsylvania undergraduates, Perspectives in Psychology
is intended as a forum for student research and writing.
The first two articles present original research carried out by
their authors. Christina Varughese's study examines the influence
of sex role identification in childhood Depression. In a study
involving coping mechanisms, Brian Pinsky looks at how members
of Israeli society deal with stress from the political strife
currently threatening their nation. This edition also contains
three literature reviews. In the first, Dara Gruen illustrates
how Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa can be characterized
as forms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. The first of Elizabeth
Franklin's two literature reviews explores the possible causes
of homosexuality. The second investigates the effects of social
support on health. Next, in an article involving emotional responses
to music in films, Hilary Schaefer proposes several empirical
methods that could be used to study individuals' reactions to
various aspects of a film score. Finally, Chris Przybyszewski
relates his personal experience with a close relative's Bipolar
I Disorder.
We hope that Perspectives in Psychology will contribute
to the expression of views, sharing of ideas, and stimulation
of thought that is fundamental to scholarship within psychology,
as well as within a university community. Enjoy this first issue!
-Bernadette Spina
