From Andi Stevenson 
Topic/Issue:  'The US Electoral College' 
Resource:  Planet America, Sept 2 2020  You Tube clip 

"During Demystifying Psychology, as we psychoanalysed Donald Trump, the issue of the US Electoral Collage came up. For those like me who haven't got their heads around this concept, the episode of Planet America that aired Sept 2nd has John Barron giving a succinct explanation of how it came to be, what it is and what it does. This episode will be available on iView, or via the internet.   https://iview.abc.net.au/show/planet-america"

If you are short of time, the segment on the Electoral College begins in about 16mins15secs...

Heather Wallace commented on Andi's Facebook post..."Yes, it was a very good, concise explanation of how the Electoral college operates and how an American candidate can win the higher number of elector votes yet because of a negative result in the Electoral College still not be President of USA"

​Farewell August and “hello” Covid 2.0. This is proving to be a more subdued lockdown and a long haul for many. ​  ​Thankfully, we are not as limited as our Melbourne families and friends.

Since May we have rambled around Forensic Psychology and sauntered down paths depending on our interests. Recently we looked at eye-witness testimony and theories of crime.
 
The “Monkey Thief” video and questionnaire proved enlightening. We decided that few of us would make reliable eyewitnesses.
 
Theories of crime were familiar to us. Theorists variously attribute crime to genes, social difficulties, who you hang out with, and plain old free will. Laws, the design of jails, and personal attitudes (amongst other considerations) reflect one or more of these theoretical explanations. We wrapped up this topic by sharing ideas based on:

• Our individual view of crime,
• Government(s) views on crime as demonstrated in laws and funding decisions.

These were “idea joggers” for the discussion:
Description of 4 Theories of Crime  https://schoolworkhelper.net/theories-of-crime-classical-biological-sociological-interactionist/  
Explore your preferred Political Party websites - law and order policies.
Page 10 of Victorian Government (Labor) Community Safety Statement 2017 https://communitysafety.vic.gov.au/media/1072/djr001_g_css01_lr.pdf 
 
In September we will start on a topic of curious interest – the psychological profile of the current President of America. Many have struggled to make sense of his current brand of leadership. We will explore some theories/explanations and, you never know, Benalla U3A just might come up with the answer.
 
Join us next on Wednesday 2 September 10:00 to 11:45am. Use this link
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/72159430694?pwd=WkVwUXI3ckJvWlc3dW1ZZm5mZzRhUT09
Meeting ID: 721 5943 0694
Passcode: 4MysKx

While Forensic Psychology still has us tantalizingly in its grasp, we took a detour on July 17th to look at “change” related to the introduction of the Melbourne/Mitchell lockdown.
 
“Change” – experienced every second of our lives and perversely avoided at all costs by many - was looked at from three perspectives - (1) individual and/or small group, (2) community, and (3) leadership. Three of many relevant theories and commentaries were the focus.

1. Prochaska and DiClemente describe 6 stages of change - ranging from “I have no need to change”, to actively introducing change, and to returning to old behavior patterns. The theory is easily applicable to every-day changes, for example, moving to a new house or introducing exercise, as well as to crisis driven change such as job losses, social distancing and wearing a mask.  
2. Jeroen Kraaijenbrink offered a “glass half full” angle on why the Covid crisis is a catalyst for community/individual change. Pragmatically, he says, we must change anyway; intellectually a crisis shows that change is possible; and socially a crisis creates energy.  
3. The hefty article Crisis Management: Leading in Constant Change (Authors/s unknown) uses a systems approach to analyzing leadership in a crisis.  

U3A could be described as a system. U3A has roles including members, committees, conveners, web, and newsletter coordinators etc. Each role has a distinct task. A change in one of these roles will be experienced to some degree throughout U3A - the system. Likewise, families are systems.
 
This article offers insights into what makes a good leader in a crisis, behavioural and operational responses, and the community ability to thrive over the long term.
 
(Find a potted summary at Demystifying Psychology Powerpoint July 19 slides 3-10)
 
Back on “Forensic” track we touched on the accuracy of eyewitness evidence. Think you would be a fairly accurate eyewitness? Watch the “Monkey Thief” video and join in the quiz (slide 12). Quiz questions and answers will be available on U3A website after 5 August.
 
Discussion on “How to Spot a Liar” was deferred. For the curious, slide 14 will take you on an insightful and curious trip with a former CIA officer as she outlines “How to Spot a Lie”. Seems our untrained eye/ear/gut does rather well at spotting a lie.
 
Discussion Part 2 delved into theories of crime and community/political responses to each (see slides 25).

1. Classical minds view crime is an act of immoral, free will that weakens society. The best response is to deter through punishment supported by more prisons and stricter laws.
2. Biological theory supposes that criminality is an inheritable gene. Find the gene(s), rid the human body of those and, if not possible, then medicate to control behaviour.
3. Sociological perspectives suggest it is who you live with and where you live, usually dysfunctional, that makes crime socially and financially worthwhile. Responses include diversion activities, introducing pro-social alternatives and alleviating poverty.
4. Interactionist theory says hanging out with criminals will likely make you one,  … and offer acceptance, social standing, and power. Responses include a belief in individual capacity for positive change and the power of pro-social interactions.

 
Not surprisingly, time ran out, so we did not view the straightforward and powerful TEDx talk by the highly regarded actor, mentor, and indigenous leader Uncle Jack Charles. Did you know? … as of September 2019, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander prisoners represented 28% of the total adult prisoner population, while accounting for 3.3% of the general population.
 
The “Monkey Thief” Eyewitness quiz and Uncle Jack’s TEDx are priorities for 5 August
 
FURTHER READING

1.  CHANGE AND COVID19

• Science and humanities experts in Monash University's Faculty of Arts offer their views on what is unfolding, the implications, and how it could reshape relationships, governments, and broader society. https://lens.monash.edu/@politics-society/2020/04/15/1380013/how-covid-19-is-changing-the-world
• Crisis Management: Leading Constant Change. https://www.transitionmanagement.us/TMC/tmc_resources_files/44603_CH04_Final.pdf
• Lewis Ryan Dartnell is an author, presenter, and Professor of Science Communication at the University of Westminster. He is best known to the public as a popular science writer, especially for The Knowledge: How to Rebuild our World from Scratch. The following link looks at “From the extinction of the daily commute to transforming our relationship with food, Covid-19 is changing our world already – and in some ways, it looks set to get better.”  https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20200629-which-lockdown-changes-are-here-to-stay

2.  EYEWITNESS QUIZ

• “Monkey Stealing”​ 

3.  HOW TO SPOT A LIE - Former CIA Officer Will Teach You How to Spot a Lie.

​4.   THEORIES OF CRIME

• Mentoring Indigenous Inmates | Uncle Jack Charles | TEDxSydney 2017.

The Demystifying Psychology class is in session as this post 'goes to air'.... these photos were taken at their previous session on June 19.  Great to be able to share these images of the group members in action!  Thanks also to Andi for the terrific screen dump.

Jane has provided these slide shows as follow up to the Zoom Sessions on Forensic Psychology.

Demystifying Psychology Discussion Group -
May 15 - Forensic Psychology (1)
June 3 - Forensic Psychology (2)

​These are powerpoint files - you will need to open Power Point (or Slides) go into Slide Show then From Beginning.  

If you can't open them - watch this space as we are going to try to find a method of uploading them to the website which will enable the  links to the videos to work.  Fingers crossed!

Ten people joined the first Demystifying Psychology “Zoom” Discussion Group on Friday 15 May. Forensic Psychology is the current topic. We started with an outline of a few basic concepts then jumped into some interesting comments and discussions. We are using the free Zoom version so at the 40-minute mark we were logged out … just as we found our rhythm.
 
All U3A members are welcome to join these discussion groups as often as you wish.  You might be interested in the topics, want to exercise the grey matter, or socialise Jetson style. (Enjoy a funny short “blast to the past” at https://youtu.be/0idWiHiasKg). Join us.
 
The relaxation of Covid19 restrictions to allow visitors to our homes is good news for non-tech members who are interested in this discussion group.  This might be an opportunity for tech-savvy members to invite a friend over to join the discussion. Of course, social distancing guidelines continue.
 
This is what happened (and was discovered) at our first discussion group.
 
Technology:

1. Ten participants worked well and there is capacity for a larger group.
2. “Zoom style” discussion group protocol was readily taken up. Muting and “hands up” (actual or the icon) when wishing to speak worked well.
3. Laptops, desktops, iPad, and tablets were used successfully.
4. Clicking the link to the discussion group is a one-step way to join in.
5. When a discussion group is timed out, click on the original link to participate in a further 40-minute discussion group time.

 
Content:

1. Forensic psychology and law are linked.
2. A Forensic Psychologist might assess a client and assist courts to interpret the assessment and its implications.
3. Forensic Psychologists work in many settings as well as courts, for example, schools, child protection, and mental health.
4. Psychopathic and sociopathic characteristics are similar (now called Antisocial Personality Disorder ASPD).
5. What is known about these characteristics comes mainly from forensic (i.e. structured) interviews with people who have come to the attention of courts etc.

 
Discussion:

• The apparent fascination for Forensic Psychology and portrayal of sociopathy and psychopathy in the TV/movie/book worlds.
• Drug dependency and choices made.

 
… and then we were timed out!!
 
Interesting reading/listening:

• TED Talk “Strange answers to the psychopath test” by Jon Ronson  2012
  https://www.ted.com/talks/jon_ronson_strange_answers_to_the_psychopath_test?utm_source=tedcomshare&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=tedspread
• Psychopathy https://blog.allpsych.com/psychopaths-dont-care-about-cute-animals/
• Psychology od stalking https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/allinthemind/the-psychology-of-stalking/3385910

 
Time allocation:
Forty minutes is not enough. Future groups will be extended using the method in 5 above. New extended times are:

• First Wed of each month – 10am to 12noon.  Next discussion group 3 June 2020
• Third Friday of each month – 1pm to 3pm. Next discussion group 19 June 2020

 
These extended times may not fit with some diaries. My apologies. Your contribution is welcome so please feel free to join and leave each discussion group as you need to.
 
Go to https://u3abenalla.weebly.com/demystifying-psychology for :

• How to participate
• Links for discussion groups

 
We are all doing a great job in these historical times.  Keep well.
 
Jane Rushworth
0437 621 575

An Invitation to all U3A members

In April, a call out went to the Demystifying Psychology Group for volunteers for two experimental “zoom” internet meetings. A BIG shout out and thank you to the lovely guinea pigs who joined in the experimental meetings and/or offered great ideas.  The following is based on your input.

Starting 15th May, Demystifying Psychology will host twice monthly “zoom” internet discussion groups. The discussion groups will continue until we receive notification that groups such as ours may recommence. All U3A members are welcome.

The purpose of the Demystifying Psychology discussion group is to enjoy informative, relaxed chats and to share ideas. You can bring a topic, join a topic, or just listen. Have a look at our page on the U3A Benalla website for some pre-covid19 background: 

How to participate:

1. Download the “Zoom” app to your device. View at https://youtu.be/fMUxzrgZvZQ
2. Join one or both monthly meetings on: 

1. 3rd Friday afternoon 2-3 pm (beginning 15 May; link #1 below) and/or 
2. 1st Wed morning 10.30-11.30 am (Beginning 3rd June; link #2 below).

1. Topics will be generated by discussion group participants - current interest is Forensic Psychology
2. Format
   1. 15 minutes - outline of key themes/research/concepts of the chosen topic.
   2. 24 minutes - group discussion.
3. No need to book in - simply join by activating the meeting link. 
4. Curiosity mandatory ... no other pre-requisites.

 
NOTE - help to download Zoom is available:
 PC users - general inquiries - call me 0437 621 57
 Apple users - call Jenny Sawyer (Tech Savvy Convener) 0409 545 18 (Thanks Jenny :))
  
1 Use this link/password/meeting ID for every Third Friday PM discussion group
Join Zoom Meeting  
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/77011313324?pwd=eU5FUWNxQjNoQUhranJFNEQxSlFndz09
Meeting ID: 770 1131 3324
Password: 6Fq8Ce
 
2 Use this link/password/meeting ID for every First Wednesday AM discussion group 
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/72159430694?pwd=WkVwUXI3ckJvWlc3dW1ZZm5mZzRhUT09
Meeting ID: 721 5943 0694
Password: 4MysKx
 
Hope to see you on 15 May.

Keep well everyone.
 
Jane
0437 621 575
janerushworth2101@gmail.com

A bit more research and my skills were up there with U3A colleagues at the Zoom meeting. Such a relief! Seems it doesn't take long to grasp the Zoom system.
 
My take home message from the U3A meeting was that Zoom requires certain systems. These systems include the type of device used (see above), the availability and quality of internet, and user confidence.
 
(Forgive me if I've lost you at this point. I promise you're not being ignored in the search for non-internet ways to stay engaged.)  
 
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
 
We looked at experiments in psychology in week#1. To develop that further I'm proposing an experiment using an Action Research model - sometimes referred to as "give it a go and see". 

​​Having got off to such a great start we’ve been side-lined by a tiny microbe with a very loud message.

I hope you’re able to make the most of this surreal Picasso-esque time in which we know what we’re looking at, but it all seems quite odd.  

​Perhaps like you, my focus has been my “tribe” – my three children and their families. Fears and changes rolled over us daily. Some incomes have gone, staff have been put off, businesses closed, or models changed (three times in one week for a cafe). Now we’re relatively “settled” as well as respectful, intrigued and appreciative of the emerging new “normal”.

​With physiological and safety needs secure (relative to this surreal time) my tribe is talking more about maintaining family and friend contacts in Stage 3 guidelines.

​One of our tribal strengths is humor and irreverence.  And didn’t the toilet paper debacle give us a ripper start (pun fully intended!)  
​
Had we been meeting at U3A, we might have been discussing:

• What theoretical perspectives describe your recent experiences?
• How has your preferred coping style varied? How might others have seen these changes?
• How are you nurturing yourselves? What are your daily self-kindnesses?
• Recent political and economic decisions reflect Maslow’s theory. How?

 
Some interesting links at this time of considerable change.

• Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Demystifying Psychology got off to an excellent start last Friday 21 February. 36 energetic, curious and engaged minds took part in the inaugural information packed session.

​Foundation concepts took up the first hour. Discussions focused on what is psychology, its history (which extends back to Plato), the various schools of psychological thought, ethics (and some pretty dastardly historical examples), the importance of measurement and the psychologist/psychiatrists “bible” – the Diagnostic Statistical Manual.

Then after a well-earned cuppa we settled into the next hour and the first topic - “Personalities and Coping Styles”.

As a U3A “newbie” I really appreciated (as I’m sure those who participated would also) the kindness of members who helped set up the room (Joy and Pat) and oriented me to the IT and photocopier equipment (Bev).  Thank you for your help and warm welcome to U3A.

You’ll find the Session #1 Powerpoint, together with two handouts, below.

Handouts:  
Preferred Coping Styles Inventory (pdf)
Psychological Disorders and Mental States (pdf)

The program runs on the 3rd Friday of the month (2-4pm) up to and including 15/6/2020. Looking forward to Session #2 on 20 March.

Jane Rushworth