Psychology and Computers
Technology is a factor in practically every aspect of our lives today and this is no different when it comes to psychology. The same way that technology influences how people behave, work, and think psychologists also employ technology to explore and understand mental illnesses, and also to treat them. Technology also aids psychologists in their research by allowing them to collect and analyze data more efficiently and precisely than they otherwise. From the use of computers in fMRI imaging to the development of electronic symptom evaluation and tracking tools for patients suffering from anxiety and depression technology is an integral part of psychological treatment as well as research.
Technology also influences the way humans interact with the digital systems in which they interact daily. Some of the most famous technology companies in the world have large departments with psychologists who are experts in human cognition and perception. They conduct research to understand how people react to certain designs and make recommendations accordingly. In reality, the majority of the time, when you’re using a piece of technology, be it your phone or Facebook you’re benefiting from collaboration between psychology and computer science.
At Notre Dame, Sidney D’Mello is one of the researchers who are working at the intersection points of computers and psychology. His research is focused on “affective Computing,” which is the study that studies how computers are able to recognize and interpret emotions. For instance, his group has developed a model that could allow a computer to determine when a user is about to become angry or anxious, and can intervene before it happens.