iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Reposted by Dr Bethany Thomas (she/her)

BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 18/09/2026

We're delighted to announce that Dr Catherine Talbot and Dr Graham Scott are the newly elected co-chairs of the BPS Cyberpsychology Section! Please join us in welcoming them to their new roles. We look forward to the expertise, energy and leadership they will bring to the section 🥳🎉

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Dr Bethany Thomas (she/her) @brthomas.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

Now I can look forward to celebrating at graduation next year, and in the meantime getting these findings published and into the world ☺️🎉🎓

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Dr Bethany Thomas (she/her) @brthomas.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

Open materials including scripts, anonymised datasets, pre-registrations, and analysis are publicly available on my Open Science Framework project: osf.io/4nbu9 - this also includes The Gaming Language Dictionary we developed which I am particularly keen to extend and refine in future research!

osf.io

OSF

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Dr Bethany Thomas (she/her) @brthomas.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

You can find my thesis “Investigating the construction, expression and salience of gamer identity for female single-player, narrative role-playing games gamers.” at: research.edgehill.ac.uk/en/studentTh...

research.edgehill.ac.uk

Investigating the construction, expression and salience of gamer identity for female single-player, narrative role-playing games gamers.

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Dr Bethany Thomas (she/her) @brthomas.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

Immensely grateful to my supervision team Professor Linda Kaye and Dr Andrew Levy for their support and guidance, and for my viva examiners Dr Rachel Kowert and Dr Helen Wall for such an enjoyable and memorable defence - possibly my favourite experience of the entire process!

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Dr Bethany Thomas (she/her) @brthomas.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

Finally #PhDone ⭐ After submitting my thesis in March I passed my Viva with minor corrections on the 4th of June and, after receiving confirmation of award approval from the board of studies yesterday, I can finally re-introduce myself (officially) as Dr Thomas!

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BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 09/07/2026

Well done to our 2026 award winners: Best Oral Presentations - Bethany Thomas (Day 1) & Christine Redmond (Day 2), Best Work-in-progress Presentations - Evelyn Murray (Day 1 ) & Thomas O'Fee (Day 2), Best Posters - Aisha Patel and Jessica Warner (Joint Day 1 Winners) & Anmarie McCarthy (Day 2)...

Picture of some of the prize winners from BPS Cyberpsychology conference 2026. Pictured from left to right: George Farmer, Annmarie McCarthy, Thomas O'Fee, Aisha Patel, Bethany Thomas, Evelyn Murray.

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BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 09/07/2026

Finally, some key thanks to those individuals that make this happen: We had an amazing team of student ambassadors who are vital to helping the conference run so thank you to Ai Salt, Thomas O'Fee, Gareth Bilton and Connor Eves...

Picture of some of the student ambassadors and york stewards at the BPS Cyberpsychology conference 2026. Pictured left ro right: Fatou Sonoko, Sunnivah Waterman, Fraser Carsey, Thomas O'Fee, Evelyn Murray, Connor Eves, Bethany Thomas, Gareth Bilton and Ai Salt.

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BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 13/07/2026

A rare photo of some of our section committee members we managed to get at our annual section conference this time last week for #Cyber26 at York St John University ⭐️

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Reposted by Dr Bethany Thomas (she/her)

BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 04/08/2026

Today we're sharing our guide for adding audio name badges and pronunciation guides to email signatures, promoted by the #SayMyName project which aims to improve equality, diversity, and broader discussions about respecting culturally diverse identities and de-colonising higher ed./academia!

The background is dark purple with white text and images of two screenshots from the Name Coach website. The first screenshot shows the homepage for "Name Coach" with the navigation bar at the top. The dropdown menu under "Our Services" is displayed, showing options such as Business, Education, and Personal Namebadge. The second screenshot, positioned below the first, shows the section for creating a personal Namebadge. A purple button labeled "Get your Namebadge" is highlighted. Instructions are listed to the left of the screenshots in white text, detailing steps to navigate the website. An orange arrow connects the steps with the corresponding sections of the screenshots. Instruction text reads:
1. Go to the Name Coach website
2.Go to 'Our Services' from the homepage ribbon
3. Select 'Personal Name Badge' from the drop down menu
4. Click 'Get my name badge'. You'll then be presented with a form...

The image has a dark blue background with white text instructions in the upper section. It guides users on how to complete a form, with an emphasis on recording a name badge pronunciation. A small section at the bottom right contains a screenshot demonstrating the interface for recording name pronunciations with options such as using a phone, web recorder, or file uploader. Instructions for recording a name badge pronunciation with options, text reads:
5. Complete the form as required, and then at the end of this you can record your name badge
As well as recording your name badge, you can also add pronouns and the phonetic spelling of your name (optional)
At the end of the form you can record your name badge in one of three ways

Three buttons on screenshot of form are highlighted, they read: Phone. Web Recorder. Uploader.

The image is divided into two main sections, each illustrating instructions for recording a name badge on a website. The left side is a text block with steps and instructions. The right side shows two screenshots from the website interface. In the text block on the left, a step-by-step guide details how to record your name badge using a ‘Web Recorder’ or upload an audio file. The top right screenshot shows a selection interface with options labeled "Phone," "Web Recorder," and "Uploader." The "Web Recorder" is selected, marked with a red arrow. Below is a recording interface with a timer and a "Record" button marked with a red arrow.
The bottom right screenshot displays the "Uploader" option selected, pointed out by a pink arrow. Below is an upload area with dashed borders, instructing users to drag a file or “Browse for file." It supports ".mp3," ".mp4," ".m4a," and ".wav" file formats.

Instruction text reads:
6. Record your name badge
* To record your name badge directly via the website, select ‘Web Recorder’ and follow the instructions on the site (see top right image).
* If you prefer, you can upload an audio file of your name pronunciation instead - meaning you can use text-to-speech tools to create the audio for you.To do this, select ‘Uploader’ and upload your audio file into the drag and drop area (see bottom right image).
* You can listen to your recording and re-record as needed.
7. Once you have completed your recording click ‘Submit’ and finish to see the Name Coach dashboard with your name badge

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Reposted by Dr Bethany Thomas (she/her)

BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 21/08/2026

The Cyberpsychology Bulletin (August, 2026) newsletter is out 📢 This latest edition of the Cyberpsychology Bulletin, the official newsletter of the BPS Cyberpsychology Section, is all about #Cyber26 - our recent annual section conference we held in July at York St John University.

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Reposted by Dr Bethany Thomas (she/her)

BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 02/09/2026

Important opportunity for our Cyberpsychology network in the UK - have your say and give feedback on the BPS's draft ethical guidelines for the use of AI in psychological research 🚨 Find the full details on the consultation and breifing page here: www.bps.org.uk/consultation...

bps.org.uk

https://www.bps.org.uk/consultations-and-briefings

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Reposted by Dr Bethany Thomas (she/her)

BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 04/09/2026

🌟 We're offering small research funds for Cyberpsychology Section members at ANY career stage 🌟 ℹ️ Find details, eligibility & how to apply under the 'Funding' tab: 🔗 www.bps.org.uk/member-netwo... Deadline for applications: 30/09/2026 #BPS #Cyberpsychology #ResearchFund #Grants #Research

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Dr Bethany Thomas (she/her) @brthomas.bsky.social · 01/04/2026

Sign the petition for a public inquiry into the impact of #Section28 - with censorship of LGBTQ+ lives increasing internationally and in the UK, it’s important we look back historically on the impact on this law and to ensure this never takes place again petition.parliament.uk/petitions/76...

petition.parliament.uk

Petition: Launch a public inquiry into the impact of Section 28 on LGBTQ people

We call on the Government to launch a public inquiry into the impact of Section 28 of the Local Government Act (1988) which specified that Local Authorities could not intentionally promote, through ma...

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Reposted by Dr Bethany Thomas (she/her)

BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 06/02/2026

Saves the Dates - we've outlined all key dates and deadlines for our Section's Annual Conference below! These may be subject to change, but we will update you if they do across our social pages 🌟 More event info @ www.bps.org.uk/event/cyberp... #Cyber26

Graphic titled ‘cyber2026 key dates & deadlines’. A blue background with a list of important conference dates.
5 February: Online submissions system and registration opens.
10 April: Deadline for all submissions and conference ambassador applications (highlighted and circled).
8 May: Notification of outcome.
15 May: First draft conference programme released.
22 June: Deadline for conference registration (highlighted and circled).
At the bottom, contact information is shown: email bps.enquiries@planit-live.com and a link to https://www.bps.org.uk/event/cyberpsychology-section-annual-conference-2026 for more information.

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Reposted by Dr Bethany Thomas (she/her)

BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 09/02/2026

📣 Call for Abstracts/Submissions – Now Open! We’re now accepting abstracts for the BPS Cyberpsychology Annual Conference 2026. This is a great opportunity to share your work, connect with peers, and contribute to key conversations shaping the future of cyberpsychology! Scroll for more info #Cyber26

Call for Abstracts for the BPS Cyberpsychology Section Annual Conference 2026. Conference dates are 6–7 July 2026 in York, UK. Submission deadline is 3 April. Logos for the British Psychological Society Cyberpsychology Section and York St John University appear at the bottom on a purple gradient background.

Submission information for the BPS Cyberpsychology Section Annual Conference 2026. Abstracts must be submitted via the online Oxford Abstracts portal. Key dates listed include submission system opening on 5 February, abstract deadline on 10 April, notification on 8 May, draft programme on 15 May, and registration deadline on 22 June.

Conference information for the BPS Cyberpsychology Section Annual Conference 2026. Dates are 6–7 July 2026. Venue is the Creative Centre at York St John University, Lord Mayors Walk, York. Image shows the exterior of the Creative Centre building.

Abstract guidelines for the BPS Cyberpsychology Section Annual Conference 2026. Abstracts should be up to 250 words, excluding the title, and should include the topic, relevance to the conference theme, and main content. A note advises reading the full submission guidelines before submitting.

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Reposted by Dr Bethany Thomas (she/her)

BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 10/02/2026

Today is Safer Internet Day 🌐 The internet is not just a technological space - it is a psychological one. The BPS Cyberpsychology Committee is committed to advancing research, practice, and policy that promote safer, more inclusive, and psychologically healthy online spaces. #SaferInternetDay

Graphic titled Safer Internet Day. A dark blue background with the date February 10th 2026.

Graphic features some text that says: The internet is not just a technological space — it is a psychological one too.

Creating a safer internet goes beyond cybersecurity measures alone. It requires an understanding of human behaviour, social interaction, identity, power, and vulnerability in digital contexts.

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Reposted by Dr Bethany Thomas (she/her)

BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 11/02/2026

If you didn't know, today is International Day of Women and Girls in Science 🌟 The theme of International Day of Women and Girls in Science (IDWGIS) 2026 is: Synergizing AI, Social Science, STEM and Finance: Building Inclusive Futures for Women and Girls. #IDWGIS #Cyberpsychology

Slide titled “IDWGIS 2026” describing the theme: “Synergizing AI, Social Science, STEM and Finance: Building Inclusive Futures for Women and Girls.” Text explains the need for integrated approaches to inclusive development.

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BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 05/02/2026

🚨 The BPS Cyberpsychology Annual Conference 2026 website is NOW LIVE 🚨 We’re excited to officially launch the site for the BPS Cyberpsychology Annual Conference 2026, taking place across two days in York on 6–7 July 2026! #Cyber26

Announcement that the conference website is live for the BPS Cyberpsychology Section Annual Conference 2026, taking place 6–7 July 2026 in York, UK. Background image shows York cityscape with the River Ouse, flowers in the foreground, and York Minster. British Psychological Society Cyberpsychology Section and York St John University logos appear at the bottom.

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BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 03/02/2026

We've had quite a few questions recently about how to join our section, so we've put together this thread for more info for those who are interested in being part of our community shaping, and exploring research across #cyberpsychology and related disciplines ☺️👇️ #BPS #PsychologyCommunity

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BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 08/12/2025

We’re SO excited to announce that the BPS Cyberpsychology Section Annual Conference 2026 will be hosted at York St. John University! 📅 When? Monday 6th - Tuesday 7th July, 2026 📍 Where? York, UK More details, including registration and call for submissions, coming soon! #Cyber26 #Cyberpsychology

Graphic image with bold text 'Save the Date'. The background image is of the York Minster in the UK. The top text reads 'BPS Cyberpsychology Section Annual Conference 2026' below this text reads '6-7 July, 2026 | York, UK'.

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BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 02/02/2026

Did you know, we have a dedicated Careers and Outreach team on our committee? ...who ensure we spread the word about cyberpsychology as much as possible! #cyberpsychology #BPS #cyberpsychologycareers

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BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 10/12/2025

Opportunity to showcase your brand at the BPS Cyberpsychology Section Annual Conference 2026 to expert researchers, and our wider cyber community 🗣️ We have a range of sponsorship tiers, to learn more get in touch with our team: cyber.mns@bps.org.uk #Cyber26 #Exhibit #Conference #Cyberpsychology

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Dr Bethany Thomas (she/her) @brthomas.bsky.social · 08/12/2025

#Cyber26 announced next year!! Save the date! 👏☺️

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Dr Bethany Thomas (she/her) @brthomas.bsky.social · 05/12/2025

Stardew Valley is one of my favourite games, so I'm very grateful to have been able to contribute a chapter to The Psychgeist of Pop Culture: Stardew Valley 🌾👩‍🌾 🐓🌟 The PDF is free to download, and you can purchase the book to support the series here: playstorypress.org/books/the-ps...

media.tenor.com

a pixel art of a woman standing next to a man in a blue sweater .

ALT: a pixel art of a woman standing next to a man in a blue sweater .

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Reposted by Dr Bethany Thomas (she/her)

BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 04/12/2025

🗣️ Did you know you we have a section newsletter, updating our members about upcoming events, news and committee activities? If you're a member and you've not received the Bulletin before, or you're a new section member, make sure you don’t miss out on our upcoming issue using the guide below 🌟

A continuation of the step-by-step guide within the “My BPS” account. Step 3 shows the “Preferences” section with a boxed area labeled “Email” and a checked option reading “Please send me information by email.” Hand-drawn arrows point to the checkbox. Below, Step 4 highlights a boxed “Cyberpsychology Section” option with a checked “Latest news” box. Text at the bottom states that setup is complete and encourages the reader to watch their inbox.

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BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 03/12/2025

Another, longer, virtual event series could be Pomodoro Party/Writing Sessions ⏳📝 Like mini writing retreats, using productivity techniques like body-doubling - creating a space for finally starting (or finishing) that thing we’ve all said “we’ll get done by monday” for the last three months!

media.tenor.com

why do you write like you 're running out of time?

ALT: why do you write like you 're running out of time?

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BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 03/12/2025

One idea we have for a casual event, hosted virtually via our Circle page, is a Cyber Coffee & Chat ☕ 💻 These would be occasional informal catch ups for our member community. These could be a relaxed 30-45 minute morning or lunchtime period where section members can drop in, connect, and catch up.

media.tenor.com

a man in a suit is drinking from a cup that says ' mrs. pepper ' on it

ALT: a man in a suit is drinking from a cup that says ' mrs. pepper ' on it

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BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 03/12/2025

🗣️ We want to hear your thoughts about future cyber section events! We've been putting together some ideas, but we want to plan things that you want to be part of - so we’d love to hear your feedback about the kind of events our members would enjoy and be interested in attending 🌟 #Cyberpsychology

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BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 03/12/2025

🚨 Quick Update! 🚨 We’re still currently unable to access our BlueSky messages. If you’ve messaged us and haven’t heard back, that’s why! We have created a handy LinkTree (found in our bio) which will take you to our other socials where you can message us. Thanks so much for your understanding! 💙

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BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 24/11/2025

Deadline next week!! Don't forget to register your interest to join the BPS AI task group if you haven't already 📢

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BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 27/11/2025

We’ve been made aware we might be having some issues with our contact emails - we might be the cyber section but it seems we get tech issues just like everyone else 👩‍💻 If you’ve emailed us recently and not received a reply please message our page on LinkedIn so we can get back to you ASAP!

media.tenor.com

a man is using a dell computer while a woman looks on

ALT: a man is using a dell computer while a woman looks on

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Reposted by Dr Bethany Thomas (she/her)

BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 19/11/2025

📢 Call for Papers: Special Issue on AI & Technology in the Social World Psicologia Sociale – Social Psychology Theory & Research is seeking submissions on how AI and tech shape social life: relationships, perceptions, ethical/moral implications etc. More info here: drive.google.com/file/d/1cNEX...

drive.google.com

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Dr Bethany Thomas (she/her) @brthomas.bsky.social · 13/11/2025

📣 PhD/ECR researchers who are a part of the BPS Cyberpsychology section - several small grants are open to support your research and/or dissemination of research! The deadline is 5/12/25 so make sure to put something in soon. #Cyberpsychology #PhDers #PhDfunding #ECRs #scholarshipopportunities

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BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 10/11/2025

👋 Meet the Committee! Today we're introducing Dr Dawn Branley-Bell (@thecyberpsyche.bsky.social) who serves as Past Chair on the BPS Cyberpsychology Section Committee. Dawn has chaired our section for the past 3 years, completing her term at the 2025 conference in Birmingham 🌟 #Cyberpsychology

Woman with medium length copper, curled hair smiling, she has a small silver nose ring/piercing and is wearing a long sleeved slightly sheer brown top with black geometrical pattern/shapes.

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BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 10/11/2025

Should we do a 're-introducing the committee' post for @daniellehope25.bsky.social? 😆 Don't let the change name stop you from keeping up with Dr Danielle (now) Hope's exciting research and work!

Still image from film 'Wicked' of Ariana Grande, playing Glinda the Good, dressed in a light pink long sleeved dress with arms wide and open calling for attention. In the background is corn fields, hills and a train track. The bottom text is a line from the film 'Everyone! I have an announcement...'

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BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 05/11/2025

🌟Excellent opportunity for Cyber section members🌟 The BPS is seeking members to join the #AI Task Group, which will play a central role in shaping guidelines for psychologists working with AI. 🔗 Full details, contact info, and interest submission form at: bit.ly/bps-AI-task-group #Cyberpsychology

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Reposted by Dr Bethany Thomas (she/her)

Dr. Rachel Kowert @drkowert.bsky.social · 03/11/2025

There is a disconnect between what digital leaders face and how they’re trained, representing a systemic failure that requires investment in training and ongoing support to sustain leaders, protect communities, and ensure the viability of digital gaming spaces. www.salgaming.com/news/underst...

salgaming.com

Understanding The Needs Of Video Game Digital Communities — Shine A Light Gaming

Gaming communities need leaders who can keep people safe. But most community managers and moderators get zero training before they start. Players expect freedom and protection from harassment and hate...

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Reposted by Dr Bethany Thomas (she/her)

BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 04/11/2025

👋 Meet the Committee! Today we are introducing Carol Brooks, a Cyber and Organisational Psychologist who serves on the Careers, Industry and Outreach team on the BPS Cyberpsychology Section Committee, as well as a reviewer for the Cyberpsychology bulletin 🌟 #Cyberpsychology #CyberBulletin

Woman smiling warmly with short brown/grey hair tucked into a black beanie, wearing a dark waterproof jacket with a fuzzy/fluffy collar. She is taking a selfie next to a lake in nature with some grass and a tree behind her.

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BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 03/11/2025

If you want to find out more about Catherines research, check out her latest empiricle research paper - using mixed-methods, to explore the impact of a co-designed #socialconnectivity app on #OlderAdults and #digitalloneliness below 🤩 @catherinetalbot.bsky.social #cyberpsychology #digitalhealth

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Reposted by Dr Bethany Thomas (she/her)

BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 28/10/2025

👋 Meet the Committee! Today we're introducing Dr Graham Scott, who was a founding member of the BPS Cyberpsychology section 🤩 He serves as treasurer on the committee, and has also been conference lead for the past few years! #Cyberpsychology #psycholinguistics #ghosting #onlinedating

Man with dark brown grey hair and a beard smiling, wearing rounded black glasses and a check blue, red and white shirt with a yellow lanyard.

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BPS Cyberpsychology @bpscyberpsychology.bsky.social · 27/10/2025

👋Meet the Committee! Today we're introducing Dr Danielle Paddock (she/her), who is part of our social/communications team on the BPS Cyberpsychology Section Committee 🌟 #Cyberpsychology #identitydevelopment #digitalidentity #wellbeing #digitalwellbeing

Women taking a selfie smiling with her hair pulled back behind her head, wearing rounded brown glasses, and a black and white striped short-sleeved top.

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