Psychological Well-Being Across Borders: Cultural Perspectives on Crisis Response

AUK held a new session of the Faculty Speaker Series (FSS) featuring AUK faculty, Dr. Rita W. El-Haddad, associate professor of graphic design & Dr. Stavros P. Hadjisolomou, associate professor of psychology.
 
The talk focused on their joint research project on how individuals across different cultures respond emotionally to distant yet threatening global events. The Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24 2022, created a unique opportunity to examine this question through empirical research. AUK's contribution showcases the importance of incorporating diverse regional perspectives in understanding global psychological phenomena. This research emphasizes the importance of considering cultural and individual differences in psychological resilience, while offering evidence-based insights for crisis intervention strategies in an increasingly interconnected world.
 
The key takeaways from the research include the effects of such events vary widely across countries and individuals, with those in more stable regions or with greater personal stability often experiencing different outcomes. Additionally, exposure to negative news on social media plays a significant role in shaping well-being, highlighting the need for media awareness during times of crisis. The research also underscores the importance of tailored solutions, as one-size-fits-all interventions have proven ineffective; instead, culturally sensitive and personalized approaches are crucial for addressing diverse needs. Moving forward, it is essential to track well-being beyond the immediate phases of a crisis to assess long-term impacts and identify effective interventions. Finally, global collaboration is key, with expanded international research partnerships offering a broader understanding of how crises affect individuals worldwide.
 
The talk attracted not only AUK’s community but also members of the general public. Their enthusiasm added a dynamic layer to the event, as they engaged deeply with the concepts and posed thoughtful questions. This interaction exemplified the Faculty Speaker Series’ ability to bridge academic discourse with broader community engagement. 
 
The session concluded with a one-on-one interaction between Dr. Stavros, Dr. Rita, and attendees, fostering further dialogue on the research matter and inspiring a shared passion for discovery.
 
 

Dr. Stavros and Dr. Rita during their talk
  

Group photo of the session’s attendees