News
Updated: 04/25/24
2024
Motivated gifts: a self-determination perspective
Contrary to previous research, gift-giving might not always impact relationships negatively. Lab director Milla Titova and lab member Sharise Love looked into the effects of "motivated gifts" (gifts given with the intention of asking a favor) on recipients' satisfaction and willingness to help.
2023
UW Research symposium
Lab member Sharise Love presented her research on "Motivated gifts: A self-determination perspective" at the 2023 UW Undergraduate Research Symposium.
During the "big dark'
Dr. Milla Titova says focusing on making your space homey can improve your mental health during the final stretch of the so-called "the big dark".
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is that gas I smell?
Truth is a valued commodity, and the phrase "gaslighting" seems to be the pistol we hold behind our backs, waiting to fire when ready. Dr. Milla Titova's take on "gaslighting": Start overusing the name, and it takes that power away. [link]
are personality tests accurate?
"Most people don't look for evidence; if a test is popular, it must be good, especially if it's monetized." says Dr. Milla Titova.
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bringing joy to others make us feel happier
The studies were conducted among university students in the mid-western United States, where they were trying to find if the individuals reported a greater boost in well-being after trying to make another individual happy vs. making themselves happy. [link]
2022
Can science and happiness go together?
It seems bizarre to study something that seems so subjective. What makes me happy isn’t the same as what makes you happy. But if you’re looking for more of it, there are a few tried-and-true things that will get you a little bit closer. [link]
SPSP
Maya Oledzka and Bella Reynolds presented posters at SPSP 2022 convention. Maya's poster was titled "Connection Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Career Preferences as a Young Adult", and Bella's poster was titled "Thwarted Attempts at Helping Others: Mood Effects and the Role of Beneficence"
2021
the Seattle times
Gift of gratitude: fight holiday perfectionism by focusing on the best aspects of your home. [link]
Seattle anxiety specialists
Dr. Titova's take on Happiness & Well-Being, interviewed by Maya Hsu.
helping others boosts happiness
A new study suggests that kindness & generosity may increase happiness.
one underrated component to long-lasting happiness
And it's not what you think. [link]
the secret to happiness: make others happy!
Our selfish striving for happiness seldom get us there. what if selflessness is the key to happiness? Here are 7 steps towards the goal. [link]
Growth Island Podcast
Jun. 1, 2021: Dr. Titova was a guest on Growth Island podcast.
Top of Mind
Apr. 29, 2021: Dr. Titova was a guest on Top of Mind with Julie Rose.
Forbes
Dr. Titova's research has been featured by Forbes.
Gratitude Board
Undergraduate student Maddie Wilkerson applied findings from research in positive psychology to Elon University’s community. She invited all students, faculty, and staff to practice gratitude via a Gratitude Board. Everyone who participated took a moment to reflect on what or who they are grateful for and share their gratitude on a sticky note on the board.
Progress FOCUSED
A new article about Dr. Titova's research: