The HUFS Psychology Research Center 

Welcome to our research lab, where we are dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge and a deeper understanding of human behavior and experiences. Our research endeavors revolve around the core principle of conducting studies to comprehend individuals within the specific contexts that shape their lives.

Digital Psychology: In our lab, we explore the intricate relationship between individuals and digital technology. We investigate how digital literacy, online behavior, and the use of digital media impact mental well-being (e.g., body image and eating disorder; Seo, Lee, & Wessbecher, 2022; Lin, Raval, & Lee, 2021) and human interactions (e..g, hidden camera; Kim & Lee, 2021) in the digital age. Additionally, we have published studies on the psychological interventions aimed at enhancing digital literacy (Ko, Lee, & Kim, 2022) and online game addiction (Lee, Ko, & Lee, 2019). 

Prevention: Our research team delves into the psychological and behavioral factors that underpin prevention in mental and physical health. We aim to uncover insights that empower individuals to better prepare for and mitigate challenges. Suicide prevention (Morris et al., 2015)and cancer prevention programs has been conducted (Teegarden et al., 2011; Morris et al., 2011; Servaty-Seib et al,, 2013; Taub et al., 2013). Currently, we are in the process of culturally adapting the Body Project for the Korean context and implementing it.  We have also conducted research on the challenges faced by healthcare professionals in special situations like the COVID-19 and MERS outbreaks. This research has led us to propose preventive approaches that can be taken in such disaster situations in the future (Hwang et al., 2023; Shim & Lee, 2023; Kang & Lee, 2022; Bae et al., 2022; Lee et al., 2021; Kwon et al., 2021; Shin & Lee, 2020). We are also conducting research on drug addiction and prevention efforts in this area (Choi & Lee, 2023).  

Older Adults: We focus on understanding the unique psychological needs and challenges faced by older adults. We seek to gain insights into the aging process, caregiving dynamics (Lee & Montelong, 2016), and support systems, all of which play a crucial role in promoting the well-being of older adults. Recently, we have been conducting research on the impact of aging anxiety in middle-aged women on mid life crisis (Lee, Park, & Lee, 2019) and on luxury shopping (Ko & Lee, in press). Our research efforts have also included studying effective teaching pedagogy for graduate students in counseling psychology to provide counseling for older adults.

International Psychology: We have been conducting research on the cultural adaptation of major counseling psychology theories and scales, which were originally developed in the Western context, to make them applicable in the Korean context (Lee, Kim, & Shin, 2023), including recommendations for the national qualification management of psychological counseling services (Shin & Lee, 2021) and multicultural counseling curriculum for graduate students specializing in counseling (Kim, Shin, Lee, 2019). Our research endeavors have encompassed studies directed towards international students, exploring the unique experiences and challenges they face (Lee, 2014; Ciftci & Lee, 2014, Pistole & Lee, 2014)