Eastern Student Abigail Caselli of Woodbury Participates in Psychology Summer Research Institute

2016 Jun 6

Eastern Connecticut State University's Psychology Department hosted its second annual Summer Research Institute from May 16-20. After a rigorous application process, 10 students were selected to participate and were introduced to this year's topics, which included stress, psychophysiology and behavior analysis. The students were mentored by James Diller, associate professor of psychology, and Carlos Escoto, professor of psychology.

Abigail Caselli '16 of Woodbury participated in the 2016 psychology summer research institute. Caselli's research project was titled, "The Relations Between Heart Rate and Self-Critical Perfectionism from Induced Stress." Caselli's major is Psychology.

Students were provided with background as well as intensive instruction. The program chose outstanding students who wanted to expand their knowledge in the field outside of the classroom. "Undergraduate research is a big push for the University," said Escoto. "This program fits with Eastern's mission by having students participate in these learning opportunities outside of the classroom."

Rachel Pilver, a former participant, assisted this year's students with their studies. The students received information to guide them in how to review literature, use the American Psychological Association style guide and statistical analysis to create their independent projects. When the weeklong seminar ended, each student presented their research and discussed their findings. "Despite the short timeframe, some research produced statistically significant results," said Escoto.