Society, Culture and Health

We explore the complex relationships between societal factors, cultural beliefs and health, working towards solutions for improved health and wellbeing for all.

About

The research theme blends insights from medicine, psychology, sociology, anthropology, and public health. This research theme delves into the intricate relationships among societal factors, cultural beliefs, and health outcomes. Researchers within this theme are focused on examining how social and cultural factors (such as discrimination, identity, isolation, or disadvantage) influence health behaviours, access to healthcare, and the presence of health disparities. They also study the effects of social determinants of health—such as economic status, education, and environment—on health outcomes both for individuals and across populations.

Theme Leads: Jonathan Mond and Tegan Cruwys (Interim)

Groups

Collaborative Health, Education, Self and Society (CHESS) Lab

The CHESS lab is a multi-disciplinary research group working together to collaboratively solve real-world problems “in the wild”. We are particularly interested in applied research focusing on education, health and wellbeing.

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A group of people standing on a hill, looking care free and happy.

Health and Identity Lab

Our research examines the ways our mental and physical health are shaped by our social relationships and social connectedness.

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Projects

Non-Ischaemic Cardiomyopathy: Novel Strategies for Risk Stratification and Management

The foundation of this research is a systematic review of the current literature and a conclusive definition of arrhythmogenic substrates in patients with nonischaemic mixed CMP.

Student intake

Open for Honours, Masters, MPhil, PhD students

Process mapping and learning (PmapL)

Student intake

Open for Doctor of Medicine and Surgery, Honours, Masters, MPhil, PhD students

People

Dr Suzanne Estaphan

Associate Professor Gerry Corrigan (gcorrigan@csu.edu.au)

Social Identity in Education

In this program of research, we examine the role of social self-concepts -- social Identities -- as students and as customers of education on subsequent learning approaches, subjective belonging, sense of entitlement, engagement, and psychological well-being.

Student intake

Open for Honours, Masters, MPhil, PhD students

People

Dr. Kennith Mavor (St. Andrews University)

Social Identity, Self-Concept and Belonging in Education

This project examines the origins and impact of social identity, self-concept and sense of belonging, with a particular focus on the implications for equity and access in Higher Education.

Student intake

Open for students

People

Ms Amy Fulton (student), Co-investigator
Mr Riom Pala (student), Co-investigator
Dr Ken Mavor (University of St Andrews), Co-investigator
Dr Ewan Bottomley (University of Aberdeen), Co-investigator

Technology, Art and Innovation: toward new paradigms in health professional education

This project by the SMP Collaborative Health Education, Society and Self (CHESS) Lab examines the use of arts, technology, self expression, and innovative teaching approaches in higher education.

Student intake

Open for students

People

The 3D Printed Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Regeneration

We are currently developing a set of materials that show high potential in facilitating and enhancing cellular growth and tissue regeneration using biochemical technology and 3D printing technology.

Student intake

Open for Honours, Masters, MPhil, PhD students

People

Professor Luke A. Connal

News

The team of researchers and collaborators from the Know Me Dementia Project

Knowing the person behind the dementia diagnosis

The Know Me Dementia program is evaluating if a 4 minute digital story about the life of a person living with dementia can support care staff to provide better person-centred care.

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Photo of Victoria Thomas, PhD Scholar by Dave Fanner/ANU

Injuries of the moral kind

Making tough decisions that conflict with your values can result in what psychologists call 'moral injuries'. ANU experts are working to understand this better.

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