2026 Updates with Angelina
By: Tejaswini Vutukuri
Posted: 6/19/2026
Involuntary Hospitalization: Virginia vs California
Involuntary hospitalization refers to the admission of an individual to a psychiatric facility for evaluation or treatment, regardless of their consent. This generally occurs when a person is showing indicators of severe mental illness and is regarded as a threat to themselves, a threat to others, or incapable of managing their needs. The goal is to ensure safety, stabilize the crisis, and aid access to necessary treatment.
In Virginia, the process begins when a mental health professional, law enforcement officer, or family member reports that someone might be in danger because of their mental health. If officials believe the person meets the criteria, they can be taken to a facility for a short period, usually up to three days, for evaluation and care. During this time, doctors assess the patient's condition and decide whether longer treatment is necessary. If it is, a court hearing is held to determine if the person should remain in the hospital for up to a month.
California follows a similar process, but it begins differently. Instead of involving a court early, like in Virginia, trained mental health workers or police officers in California can place someone on a 72-hour hold if they meet the same general criteria. After those three days, the hospital determines whether the person is safe to leave, willing to stay voluntarily, or requires additional time in treatment. If more time is needed, the hold can be extended for an additional two weeks or more with special legal steps.
Despite some differences in procedure, both states share the same goal, which is to protect people and give them help during a mental health crisis. Virginia involves a court early in the process, while California's system allows mental health workers and law enforcement to make the first decision.
Turning to the debate, supporters of involuntary hospitalization say it can save lives. They believe that when someone is in a problem, they might not understand how much they need help, and stepping in quickly can prevent tragedies such as suicide, severe self-neglect, and more. The short hospital stay is the first step toward recovery.
On the other hand, opponents argue that it takes away a person's freedom and can be a traumatic experience. Being forced into a hospital may make some people fearful of getting help in the future. There are also concerns about unfair treatment of certain groups and about poor conditions in some facilities. Critics believe that communities should invest more in alternatives, such as crisis centers, mobile mental health teams, and peer support programs, which can help people without forcing them into care.
Involuntary hospitalization continues to have a difficult yet important aspect of mental health care. The challenge lies in achieving an appropriate balance of community resources, improved standards of care, and robust legal protections, which may help lessen dependence on involuntary measures, ultimately benefiting the person.
California Department of Health Care Services. Mental Health Services: Involuntary Treatment. California Health & Human Services Agency, 2024. Accessed 4 Aug. 2025.
Disability Rights California. Understanding the Lanterman-Petris-Short (LPS) Act. 2024, https://www.disabilityrightsca.org/publications/understanding-the-lanterman-petris-short-lps-act. Accessed 4 Aug. 2025.
San Francisco Chronicle. “California Psychiatric Hospitals Face Staffing and Safety Concerns.” San Francisco Chronicle, 2024. Accessed 4 Aug. 2025.
Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services. Emergency Services and Preadmission Screening. 2024, https://dbhds.virginia.gov. Accessed 4 Aug. 2025.
By: Sharon Lee
Posted: 6/12/2026
Journal Analysis: Msx1 and Msx2 Genes in Regenerative Medicine
Abstract from article: Amputation of the proximal region in mammals is not followed by regeneration because blastema cells (BCs) and expression of regenerative genes, such as Msh homeobox (Msx) genes, are absent in this animal group. The lack of BCs and positional information in other cells is therefore the main obstacle to therapeutic approaches for limb regeneration. Hence, this study aimed to create blastema-like cells (BlCs) by overexpressing Msx1 and Msx2 genes in mouse bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (mBMSCs) to regenerate a proximally amputated digit tip. We transduced mBMSCs with Msx1 and Msx2 genes and compared osteogenic activity and expression levels of several Msx-regulated genes (Bmp4, Fgf8, and keratin 14 (K14)) in BlC groups, including MSX1, MSX2, and MSX1/2 (in a 1:1 ratio) with those in mBMSCs and BCs in vitro and in vivo following injection into the amputation site. We found that Msx gene overexpression increased expression of specific blastemal markers and enhanced the proliferation rate and osteogenesis of BlCs compared with mBMSCs and BCs via activation of Fgf8 and Bmp4. Histological analyses indicated full regrowth of digit tips in the Msx-overexpressing groups, particularly in MSX1/2, through endochondral ossification 6 weeks post-injection. In contrast, mBMSCs and BCs formed abnormal bones and nails. Full digit tip was regenerated only in the MSX1/2 group and was related to boosted Bmp4, Fgf8, and K14 gene expression and to limb-patterning properties resulting from Msx1 and Msx2 overexpression. We propose that Msx-transduced cells that can regenerate epithelial and mesenchymal tissues may potentially be utilized in limb regeneration.
Original summary: The article’s introduction talks about how many mammals lack regeneration due to the absence of BCs, which are called blastema cells. This cell is very important for limb regenerative genes in mammals. The article’s introduction also talks about Msx1 and Msx2 genes being an important factor for limb regeneration. The article’s methods that were discussed was that things like cell engineering for example, mBMSCs were transduced to be able to monitor expression of Msx1 and Msx2 genes. There were other methods like using in vitro to compare mBMSCs and BCs on an amputation site in a mouse. Results from the article show that, “Msx1 and Msx2 transduction led to a drastic increase in expression level of these exogenous genes in BICs (100%), which was greater than in BCs” (Taghiyar, Leila, et al). The results also showed that, “these results agreed with the expression profiles of Msx1, Msx2, Fgf8, and Bmp4 under in vitro conditions. Discussion from the article shares that co-expression of Msx1 and Msx2 genes reprogram the mBMSCs into blastema-like cells, making them capable of signalling structures and positions. The authors also propose that Msx1 and Msx 2 gene therapy might be able to unlock regenerative capacities and help people in the future who might need those regenerative abilities.
Assessment of the article: Yes, I do think that this study is generalizable. Yes, the investigators chose the right methods for this study because they did actual experiments that they were able to prove was accurate and showed core mechanisms, for example, the study was able to conserve developmental genes like Msx1 and 2, Bmp4, Fgf8, etc. I think the study can be strengthened if it is possible to test larger animals so that it is most close to human-like models. I also think that the study can be strengthened through analyzing long-term safety to make sure there wouldn’t be any side effects or an overexpression of a gene. Gaps that remain in the literature is that there is a lack of using more human cells because the article talks most about mice. There is also no exploring of potential full limbs or joint regeneration. The study only did regeneration on digit tips.
Thesis statement: Taghiyar, Leila, et al. (2017) demonstrate that overexpressing Msx1 and Msx2 genes can help to regenerate the digit tips of mice that shows a potential growth in regeneration in medicine, functional usage, and clinical application.
Work Cited
Taghiyar, Leila, et al. “Msh Homeobox 1 (Msx1)- and Msx2-Overexpressing Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Resemble Blastema Cells and Enhance Regeneration in Mice.” Journal of Biological Chemistry, vol. 292, no. 25, 23 June 2017, pp. 10520–10533, https://doi.org/10.1074/jbc.m116.774265.
By: Ananya Peterson
Posted: 5/29/2026
Development of OCD Over a Lifespan
Although more commonly diagnosed in adults rather than children, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) may present itself in the form of unwanted thoughts that result in anxiety and the urge to complete some action in order to ease the distress (“Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in Children,” 2025). For example, the child may feel as though if they do not do an action, then something irrationally bad may happen to themselves or others. These anxieties differ from child to child and can cause emotional outbursts. More severe cases of this disorder may include obsessions that result in injury to the individual, such as feeling the need to scrub their hands until they start bleeding. Additionally, they may repeat things out loud or feel an inexplicable urge to do a certain action again and again (“Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder,” 2025). Most children already find it difficult to regulate their emotions by themselves, so without an adult’s awareness of this condition and their guidance, it can be even harder for a child with OCD to have a stable emotional state. OCD in children can affect their social life by making them stand out to other children as someone with strange quirks, and it can impact their concentration in school. This condition may also be misdiagnosed or exist alongside attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in an individual (“What is Different,” n.d.). When left untreated, pediatric OCD can develop further into a chronic condition later into adulthood (“Pediatric Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder,” n.d.). Adults and older adults share many of the same symptoms of OCD with children listed above; they too face specific and extreme obsessions that alter their daily lifestyles compared to someone without OCD. The main difference between adults and children are the comorbidities. Adults are more likely to deal with conditions like major depressive disorder, obsessive-compulsive personality disorder, or substance abuse alongside their OCD; this may be attributed to the fact that adults with OCD have lived with their condition longer than children and find it harder to live with. In older adults, dementia may be a condition that they live with alongside OCD, which further impairs independence or mobility and may even increase the symptoms of OCD (“Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in Elders,” n.d.).
As for treatment, this disorder is usually chronic and there is no treatment to get rid of OCD, but the symptoms can be alleviated through various methods. Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure and response prevention, and acceptance and commitment therapy, are common treatments (“OCD,” n.d.). Children and teenagers especially benefit from therapy and family-based support of their condition. Medications, namely selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or antidepressants, are used to lower the impact of OCD symptoms (“OCD,” n.d.). The dosages differ across age groups as children either do not take medications or they receive lower dosages than adults and elderly patients. Cognitive decline or comorbidities in elderly patients may result in psychotherapy becoming less effective, requiring medicine to manage any symptoms (“Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in Elders,” n.d.).
One ethical consideration to acknowledge is the fact that children and older adults may not be able to consent to medical treatment, so it is up to the family to make the best decision and for the provider to fully inform the family members.
References
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in Children. (2025, June 9). CDC. https://www.cdc.gov/children-mental-health/about/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-in-children.html
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in Elders. (n.d.). AgingCare. https://www.agingcare.com/articles/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-in-elderly-parents-138686.htm
OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder): Symptoms & Treatment. (n.d.). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9490-ocd-obsessive-compulsive-disorder
Pediatric Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) | Texas Children's. (n.d.). Texas Children's Hospital. https://www.texaschildrens.org/content/conditions/pediatric-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd
What is Different About OCD in Kids? (n.d.). International OCD Foundation. https://kids.iocdf.org/what-is-ocd-kids/what-is-different-about-ocd-in-kids/
By: Aminah Moustafa
Posted: 5/22/2026
Journal Analysis: Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors and Major Adverse Cardiovascular Outcomes: A SMART-C Collaborative Meta-Analysis
Article Information
Article title: Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors and Major Adverse Cardiovascular Outcomes: A SMART-C Collaborative Meta-Analysis
Authors: Siddharth M. Patel, MD, MPH; Yu Mi Kang, MD, PhD; KyungAh Im, PhD; Brendon L. Neuen, MBBS, MSc, PhD; and others
Published in: Circulation, Volume 149, Issue 23 (2024)
Link to Article: https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.124.069568
Abstract
Introduction:
SGLT2 inhibitors were originally developed to manage type 2 diabetes by promoting glucose excretion through the kidneys. However, clinical trials revealed that their benefits extended beyond glucose control, particularly in reducing adverse heart failure and kidney outcomes. While some trials showed promise for cardiovascular benefits, results were inconsistent, especially regarding myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke. To address this, the authors conducted a large-scale meta-analysis incorporating all major SGLT2i trials to investigate their impact on MACE and its components across diverse patient populations.
Methods:
This was a collaborative, trial-level meta-analysis involving 11 phase 3, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials, encompassing 78,607 patients. These trials included participants with diabetes at high cardiovascular risk, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and heart failure (HF). The researchers examined outcomes such as cardiovascular death, MI, stroke, and all-cause mortality. Subgroup analyses were performed based on factors like albuminuria, eGFR levels, diabetes status, and history of ASCVD or MI. Statistical heterogeneity and treatment effect modification were assessed using fixed and random-effects models, meta-regression, and the PRISMA framework.
Results:
SGLT2 inhibitors reduced MACE by 9% overall, driven mainly by a significant 14% reduction in cardiovascular death. There was no significant reduction in MI or stroke. Subgroup analysis showed that the benefit of SGLT2i was consistent across individuals with or without diabetes, CKD, or ASCVD. Reductions in cardiovascular death were especially pronounced among those with albuminuria, with heart failure death and sudden cardiac death being the most affected components. Notably, even patients with severely impaired kidney function (eGFR <30) benefited, contradicting earlier concerns that these medications wouldn’t work in this subgroup.
Discussion:
The authors concluded that SGLT2i offer a reliable reduction in cardiovascular death regardless of baseline conditions, which strengthens the case for their widespread clinical use in cardiometabolic diseases. Interestingly, SGLT2i did not significantly affect the incidence of MI or stroke, indicating that their cardiovascular benefits might stem from protective effects on the heart muscle and kidney, rather than on large-vessel atherosclerosis. These results also highlighted limitations of using the composite MACE endpoint in trials, as it may mask drug effects when only certain components (like cardiovascular death) are impacted. The authors cautioned that while subgroup analyses were robust, differences in trial design and definitions (e.g., what counts as “established ASCVD”) may limit how findings apply across all patient types.
Original Summary
Introduction
This study focuses mostly on SGTL2 inhibitors, which were first created to help manage type 2 diabetes by removing extra glucose through the kindyes. But over time, researchers noticed these drugs seemed to also help with the heart and kidney problems. However, results across earlier studies werent always consistent, especially when it came to whether SGTL2 inhibitors reduced heart attack or strokes. Therefore, this meta analysis was done to pull together data from 11 major clinical trials and figure out exactly how effective these medications are at reducing major cardiovascular problems(MACE), including in people with diabetes, kidney disease, or heart failure.
Methods
The researchers combined data from 11 phase 3 clinical trails that were randomized, double-bind, and placebo-controlled, a tidal of over 78,000 patients. These patients either had diabetes with a high risk of heart problems, chronic kidney disease (CKD), or heart failure. The main outcomes they looked at were cardiovascular death, heart attacl (MI), stroke, and death from any cause. They also did subgroup analyses based on things like kidney function, diabetes status, albuminuria, and history of heart disease. Both fixed and random-effects models were used to check for consistency and differences in treatment effect, and everything followed the PRISMA guideline for meta-analysis
Results
The meta-analysis included 78,607 participants from 11 high-quality clinical trials, and the finding showed that SGTL2 inhibitors led to a 9% reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) overall (Hazard Ratio [HR] 0.91;95%). This overall benefit was mainly driven by a 14% reduction in cardiovascular death, which was statistically significant. However, there were no significant reductions in the rates of myocradical infraction (HR 0.95) or stroke (HR 0.96), which means the drugs didnt clearly prevent heart attacks or strokes in most cases.
When looking more closely at subgroups, the cardiovascular death reduction was consistent accross patients with and without diabetes, with and without CKD, and with or without establishment atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease(AVSCVD). This reveals the effects were not limited to just one group. Patients benefitted regardless of their condition. In people with albuminuria (protein in the urine, a sign of kidney damage), the cardiovascular benefit was especially strong. This group saw the largest reductions in both heart failure-related deaths and sudden cardiac death, which are strong among the most serious heart related outcomes.
However, even patients with very low kidney function, which was a group often excluded from past trials, showed clear benefit from SGTL2 inhibitors. This is a huge deal because it challenges the previous assumption that these drugs wouldnt work in advanced kidney disease.
The analysis also found no significant differences in treatment effect accross sexes, age, groups, or racial/ethnic subgroups, suggesting the benefits of SGTL2 inhibitors are broadly applicable. Finally, all-cause morality was also reduced, though to a significantly lesser extent than cardiovascular morality, reinforcing the overall survival benefit of the drug class.
Discussion
This study shows that SGTL2 inhibitors can reduce cardiovascular death accross a wide range of patients, including those with advanced kindey disease, diabetes, or heart failure. That supports their use as a general treatment in cardiometabolic care, not just for glucose control. Even though the drugs didnt significantly reduce heart attacks or strokes, the results suggest that the real benefit may come from protecting the heart muscle and kidneys directly, such as reducing fluid overload, improving heart function, or lowering inflammation. The authors also emphasized that using MACE(used to measure how well a treatment is doing) as a single outcome can be misleading, as it lumps together components that may not all be impacted by the drug, resulting in hiding how strong the reduction in cardiovascular death actually is. While the subgroup analyses were detailed and consistent, there are still limits in applying the results broadly because the original trials used different definitions of cardiovascular disease and had varying lengths to follow up. Also, some trials ended early, which could have affected long-term outcome tracking.
Personal Assessment
I believe this study is valuable because it looks at data from over 78,000 people across 11 high-quality clinical trials. The researchers chose good methods by combining results from known, trustworthy studies, which helped them better understand how SGLT2 Inhibitors affect the heart. The results were clear and these medications lower the risk of dying from heart problems, especially in people with diabetes, kidney disease, or heart failure.
But there were some limitations. Since the study did not look at patient's individual data, we don't know more detailed information such as how long it took for the drug to work or how well people followed the treatment. Also, the results might not apply as much to people who don't have diabetes, kidney disease, or heart problems, since those groups were the main focus. Some of the trails were also a little different from each other. For example, they didn't all define heart disease the same way, and a few ended early which can affect how reliable some comparisons are.
To strengthen future research, scientists could use individual patient data to get more specific information. They should also try to make their group definitions more consistent across studies. Another important step is to study why these medications lower heart-related deaths and possibly affect inflammation, or heart rhythms.
The gaps that remain in the literature are what the exact biological reasons are for the reduced death rates, how the drugs work over longer periods(more than 5 years), and whether they help people who dont have diabetes, kidney disease or heart failure.
Thesis Statement
Patel et al. (2024) found that sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors significantly reduce major adverse cardiovascular events and particularly cardiovascular deaths across patients with diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and heart failure, demonstrating their broad utility in cardiometabolic care even in populations with advanced kidney dysfunction.
By: Aiza Tariq
Posted: 5/16/2026
Financial Healthcare Policies
One of the U.S healthcare policies that impacts psychiatric care, is Financing. The goal of the financing policy is to make sure that stable and sustainable funds are open to give a comprehensive set of services that meets all the patients requirements. One of the positive effects of the financing policy is that it expands insurance coverage. All types of insurance, such as Medicaid and Medicare, makes mental health care more accessible. Another positive effect is the public funding. Public funding can happen through grants and community programs which help support clinics that are less privileged than other clinics. One negative effect of the financing policy is the out of pocket costs. These types of costs are quite high and they remain high, which can affect some people financially. Another negative aspect of the financing policy is the medicaid reimbursements rates for psychiatric services are generally low, which discourages providers from accepting medicaid. Last but not least, another negative perspective of the funding policy is the lack of funding. The lack of funding is towards psychiatric hospitals, mental health clinics, and mental health centers. The lack of funding limits their ability to provide different services, especially in low income areas. One of the people who are most benefitted from this policy are people with insurance, such as medicaid. Low income individuals in states with expanded medicaid, where psychiatric services are covered more, are definitely helped from this policy. Last but not least, children are also benefitted from this policy because of the funding toward school-based and early intervention programs. A type of person who could be potentially harmed from this policy is people in rural or low areas. This is because psychiatric providers may not be common in that area and public funding is also limited. Last but not least, young adults aging out of pediatric services may be harmed from the financing policy because they may fall into cracks in adult care coverage. In summary, when funding and insurance policies are strong, more people get access to help. But when funding and insurance policies are weak, this care can become a luxury—limited to those who can afford it.
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Published: “Mental Health Financing in the United States: A Primer.” KFF, 1 Apr. 2011, https://www.kff.org/mental-health/report/mental-health-financing-in-the-united-states/.
By: Nikita Shah
Posted: 5/9/2026
Journal Analysis: Drama Therapy in Psychology
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https://drive.google.com/file/d/1y2VUGfgJRNVkNvvMeHEgaZvnpJee2tQw/view?usp=sharing
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Drama therapy is an active and experiential psychotherapy modality that involves the intentional and systematic use of drama/theater processes as primary means to achieve psychological growth and change within a psychotherapeutic relationship. At present, drama therapy is in the crucial stage of moving from clinical reports of case studies and vignettes to producing evidence-based practice supported by empirical studies. Drama therapy intervention research is relatively scarce compared to other psychotherapies and psychological interventions. In this article, we conducted a systematic review of drama therapy intervention studies published in the last decade (2007 to 2017). We adopted an integrative approach to systematic review that includes a combination of publications with diverse methodologies and various client groups, interventions, comparisons, and outcomes. Search in four databases and a hand search resulted in 24 drama therapy intervention articles. The results summarize the different approaches used in drama therapy and the populations with which it is being used. In addition, we address some key methodological issues that arise from the different studies. In the last decade, drama therapy research has produced promising results, showing that drama therapy offers effective treatment for various populations. The largest number of studies concerns individuals (adults and children) with developmental disabilities, cognitive impairments, or both (46%). Limitations and recommendations for improving methodology, transparency, and specificity in reporting on future drama therapy and other intervention research are discussed.
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The article starts off by explaining what Drama Therapy is. They state that Drama Therapy is a psychotherapy that uses play, creativity, exploration, and acting out roles/behaviors. They also mention how Drama Therapy is different from theatre because there is a trained therapist in the room who helps to guide and mediate the session. For this systematic review, the researchers wanted to summarize what is currently out there as far as Drama Therapy. They used the PRISMA guidelines for extracting data. Their inclusion criteria included being published in English, being published between 2007-2017, Drama Therapy is the intervention type, and empirical research with quantitative or qualitative data. Exclusion criteria included articles that used the term drama as opposed to Drama Therapy, review articles, and any types of therapists/teachers that are in training. The researchers narrowed it down to 24 articles for the review that focused on Drama Therapy and met inclusion criteria. They found that most of the interventions used a group format, while only about four used individual sessions. The amount of sessions ranged from 1-36, where most studies used short term interventions of about 5-12 sessions. Only about four of the studies had a clear outline and protocol of what to do during the session, whereas the majority only gave a vague outline of techniques used. Furthermore, most of the studies were conducted by trained drama therapists and used ideas such as puppetry, performance, role play, storytelling, combination of art therapy, playback theatre and theatre of the oppressed. This review overall suggests that drama therapy research in the last decade has promising results, and that drama therapy may offer effective treatment that can be studied and assessed systematically.
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I think that this is a solid systematic review. A systematic review was definitely the right route for this research, and was able to show us what information there is on drama therapy over the last decade since it is such a small field of therapy. Some limitations were that there was only so much research done on Drama Therapy compared to other psychotherapies.
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Schaal and Orkibi (2020) found how over the past decade there is lots of information and types of Drama Therapy treatments to help increase the research and information in this field.
By: Ronav Gopal
Posted: 5/1/2026
Psychiatry in Pop Culture: Batman Edition
Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight (2008) depicts the portrayal of Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) in one of the most iconic characters in pop culture, the Joker played by Heath Ledger. Although the film does not explicitly provide a diagnosis for the Joker, his behavior throughout the movie aligns best with Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) and psychopathy. The Joker exhibits traits of these mental illnesses through his lack of empathy for his others and himself, manipulative behavior, impulsivity, and disregard for the law or social norms. His behavior also can be closely related with his diagnosis as he kills without remorse constantly throughout the movie and desires anarchy which leads him to create situations that cause chaos. The film does not dive into his personal backstory, purposely keeping his mental state ambiguous to the audience, adding to the entertainment and mystery of the film. However, the portrayal of the condition was not clinically accurate as the film utilizes the mental illnesses of the Joker as a plot tool to illustrate his motivation or lack thereof in the film to the audience rather than truly portraying what it means to have such mental illnesses. While the portrayal of his emotions and impulsive behavior does align closely with patients diagnosed of such mental illnesses, his outlandish behavior throughout the film is exaggerated and such severity happens in severely rare cases. Furthermore, the portrayal of the Joker in The Dark Knight reinforces dangerous stereotypes that pop culture often amplifies when depicting mental illnesses such as Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) and psychopathy. It depersonalizes mental illnesses by reinforcing the myth that having a mental illness turns you into a chaotic villain that has no remorse for taking human life which often isn’t the case. While it is true that people who are diagnosed with mental illnesses should seek help, it doesn’t necessarily make them inherently dangerous and a threat to society that is portrayed by Heath Ledger’s Joker. The reality is that most patients with psychiatric disorders such as Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) and psychopathy find themselves as victims to violence rather than the ones causing violence. Instead of challenging these stereotypes, the film actually amplified and exacerbated the public’s misunderstanding of mental health by associating these disorders to violence and chaos. This is especially important considering the target audience for the movie which included millions of viewers and critical acclaim that led to the film’s dominance in pop culture that further promoted the misrepresentation of mental illness in the public’s eye.
By: Darya Mason
Posted: 4/25/2026
Involuntary Hsopitalization: Virginia vs Alabam
Involuntary hospitalization is the process of psychiatric hospitalization of a person against their
will (Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board, Involuntary Psychiatric Hospitalization
of Adults). People are involuntarily hospitalized under extreme circumstances such as being a
threat to themselves or others when all other treatment options are not helpful or available.
In Virginia, involuntary hospitalization for psychiatric related conditions is legal. The process
begins with an issued Temporary Detention Order (TDO) and a scheduled commitment hearing
(Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board, Involuntary Psychiatric Hospitalization of
Adults). The TDO must be requested by a petitioner, which is defined as “any responsible
person.” While the TDO evaluation is in place, a mental health clinician who is employed by the
Community Services Board (CSB) must conduct the evaluation as a certified prescreener.
The purpose of the evaluation is for the certified prescreener to see if the individual fulfills the
requirements of the TDO criteria addressed in the statue (Fairfax-Falls Church Community
Services Board, Involuntary Psychiatric Hospitalization of Adults). If the individual meets the
requirements, then the prescreener will recommend the individual to be involuntarily
hospitalized under a TDO. For approved TDO evaluations, the results are documented and then
sent to the hospital and preserved as evidence for the commitment hearing.
After the TDO is issued, a police officer will serve the TDO and take the individual to custody,
and then the hospital (Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board, Involuntary Psychiatric
Hospitalization of Adults). The individual will be in handcuffs for safety purposes for the
individual and the officer responsible for transportation. The individual will then be attempted
for placement in a psychiatric hospital, and the petitioner will receive an update regarding the
individual's psychiatric hospitalization bed information once this information is in place.
The additional state that will be compared to the polices held by Virgina is Alabama. Alabama
has a similar process to Virginia; however, there are some minor differences (Probate Court
Mobile County AL, Involuntary commitment of the mentally ill). Alabama has a similar criterion
to admit individuals for treatment; however, most of the differences remain in the legal process.
Virgina uses a commitment hearing system, and Alabama uses a probate court system.
Involuntary hospitalization may be seen as controversial to some people, whereas other people
may view it as a necessity.
Involuntary hospitalization is a way to provide protection to an at-risk person who is suffering
from a psychiatric condition. This will not only protect the person but will also provide
protection to others within the community or who reside in shared spaces as the at-risk person.
They will be safely escorted to a hospital by a police officer, which will ensure that they arrive at
the treatment center safely (Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board, Involuntary
Psychiatric Hospitalization of Adults). There is also a full legal process behind this, and the
petitioner will receive updates about the person who is admitted. Additionally, there is a
thorough evaluation process to confirm if the individual is actually in need of involuntary
hospitalization. This provides a sense of credibility behind the process and validates the person's
involuntary hospitalization. They will also receive treatment and proper care throughout their
stay at the psychiatric hospital. Overall, the process of involuntary hospitalization provides care
and treatment to at risk individuals who need help but may lack the capacity to make their own
decisions to receive care.
Others may see involuntary hospitalization as unethical, due to the perception that there may be a
lack of consent to recieve treatment. This may be harmful to those who do not believe in
medicine and may stray away from medication due to their personal beliefs. This can also be
harmful for those who are admitted but may not genuinely want to receive care. It is understood
that admitted people may lack the mental capacity to make informed decisions, but I am
specifically addressing those who knew prior to being in this “at risk” state that they do not want
to receive care. If a person is at risk and does not want to receive care for whatever reason, then
this may not respect the boundaries and wishes of the patient. It may also cause trauma and
increase mental health issues for those who have been admitted.
References
Involuntary commitment of the mentally ill. Mobile County Probate Court. (n.d.).
https://probate.mobilecountyal.gov/judicial/involuntary-commitment-of-the-mentally-ill/
Involuntary Psychiatric Hospitalization of Adults. Fairfax County Virginia. (n.d.).
https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/community-services-board/involuntary-psychiatric-
hospitalization-adults
By: Aryan Garg
Posted: 4/18/2026
Journal Analysis: Hebbian Plasticity
Link to article: https://elifesciences.org/reviewed-preprints/91421 (2024)
Copy of abstract: The dominant models of learning and memory, such as Hebbian plasticity, propose that experiences are transformed into memories through input-specific synaptic plasticity at the time of learning. However, synaptic plasticity is neither strictly input specific nor restricted to the time of its induction. The impact of such forms of non-Hebbian plasticity on memory has been difficult to test, hence poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that synaptic manipulations can deviate from the Hebbian model of learning, yet produce a lasting memory. First, we established a weak associative conditioning protocol, where optogenetic stimulation of sensory thalamic input to the amygdala was paired with a footshock, but no detectable memory was formed. However, when the same input was potentiated minutes before or after, or even 24 hours later, the associative experience was converted to a lasting memory. Importantly, potentiating an independent input to the amygdala minutes but not 24 hours after the pairing produced a lasting memory. Thus, our findings suggest that the process of transformation of a transient experience into a memory is neither restricted to the time of the experience nor to the synapses triggered by it; instead, it can be influenced by past and future events.
Original summary of article: Usually, Hebbian plasticity is the view that memory only relies on input-specific changes in a synapse, but this study wanted to determine if there was evidence of non-Hebbian plasticity (changes in a synapse at different places from the original experience). The study took mice and stimulated the lateral amygdala at either thalamic or cortical inputs, and then shocked the mice. They used a few different dependent variables, including the recordings of the mice, behavioral tests, and electrophysiology. They found a few significant results, where homosynaptic ltp (meaning that the same input was stimulated multiple times) consolidated memory, and so did heterosynaptic ltp (different input being stimulated). This happened in both thalamic and cortical pathways. In the discussion, they talk about experiences are stored in modifiable states, which is evidence for non-Hebbian plasticity and could completely rewrite our current knowledge about memory and that there could be different mechanisms required for memory that we have no idea about.
Assessment of study: Since the study is mice, I doubt it’s completely generalizable to humans (although mice are good model organisms for humans, and we obviously can’t test this on humans by taking apart human brains), I doubt that all genetic confounding variables were considered, especially since there wasn’t a very large sample size. I think the methods chosen were the best that the authors could have done, because mice have very similar plasticity pathways to humans. The study could be strengthened by having a larger sample size, and maybe taking samples of the brain and imaging to find the concentrations of biomarkers that indicated that memory formation was happening. Also, this study opens up a lot of new literature gaps, because non-Hebbian plasticity is a relatively new concept, and there have been very few research studies addressing it.
Thesis statement: Faress et. al (2024) finds that non-Hebbian plasticity can convert weak, hard-to remember experiences into strong, lasting memories, showing us that input pathways which aren’t directly involved in the memory can still influence whether the memory is consolidated or remembered.
By: Angelina Le-Hoang
Posted: 4/11/2026
Internships are Disappearing
Up to 40% of entry-level jobs including internships could be soon automated by AI. Entry-level roles are particularly vulnerable because they rely heavily on routine, repetitive tasks such as data entry, basic analysis, and administrative support. According to the Future of Jobs Report, about 40% of employers expect to reduce their workforce where AI can automate tasks, signaling a major shift in how companies structure entry-level work (World Economic Forum, 2025). While this statistic refers broadly to the workforce, entry-level positions are the most exposed. Additional research suggests that nearly half of all work activities could be automated using current technologies, further reinforcing the idea that a significant portion of early-career roles may be at risk (McKinsey & Company, 2023).
This shift is also making it much harder for students to even get their foot in the door. Internships help students prepare for and obtain job opportunities. However, internships are becoming more competitive with about 2.5 times more applicants competing for the same roles. As companies rely more on AI tools, they are hiring fewer interns, which has contributed to a noticeable decline in entry-level opportunities and a surge in competition for the positions that remain (CNBC, 2025). This aligns with real-world data showing that technology internships now receive roughly 2.5× the number of applications compared to previous years, especially in fields like software engineering and data science (ITPro Today, 2025). At the same time, entry-level opportunities are declining overall, meaning more people are competing for fewer positions. This growing imbalance suggests that AI is not only reducing the number of entry-level roles available but also intensifying competition for the ones that remain.
Works Cited
Brynjolfsson, E., et al. (2025). Canaries in the coal mine: AI and entry-level employment. Stanford Digital Economy Lab.
ITPro Today. (2025, August 29). AI’s career ladder crisis: Entry-level tech jobs are vanishing.
CNBC. (2025, September 7). AI is not just ending entry-level jobs—it’s reshaping them. https://www.cnbc.com/2025/09/07/ai-entry-level-jobs-hiring-careers.html
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Teutloff, O. (2025). Winners and losers of generative AI: Early evidence. Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization.
World Economic Forum. (2025). The future of jobs report 2025. https://www.weforum.org/reports/the-future-of-jobs-report-2025
By: Angelina Le-Hoang
Posted: 3/21/2026
Importance of Research due to Changes in USMLE Step 1
In recent years, an important change in medical education has reshaped how residency programs evaluate medical students. In 2022, the United States Medical Licensing Examination Step 1, commonly known as USMLE Step 1, transitioned from a numeric score to a pass or fail result. This shift has had significant implications for how students distinguish themselves when applying to residency programs. As a result, research experience has become an increasingly important part of a competitive medical school application. Understanding why this change occurred can help premedical students, medical students, and parents better understand the current medical training process.
The United States Medical Licensing Examination is a three-step exam required for physicians to obtain medical licensure in the United States. Step 1 is typically taken after the first two years of medical school and focuses on foundational biomedical sciences such as physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and microbiology. For many years, Step 1 produced a three-digit numeric score. That score often became one of the most important elements in a medical student’s residency application. Beginning on January 26, 2022, Step 1 started reporting only pass or fail instead of a numeric score. The goal of this change was to reduce excessive stress on students and encourage a broader focus on learning rather than test preparation alone. However, the change also removed one of the most standardized academic metrics residency programs previously used to compare applicants.
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Historically, Step 1 scores played a major role in the residency selection process. Residency programs receive a large number of applications each year, often far more than they can review in detail. The numeric Step 1 score provided a quick and standardized way for programs to screen applicants from many different medical schools. A high score often suggested strong knowledge of foundational science, academic discipline, and the ability to perform well on rigorous standardized exams. Because the exam was nationally standardized, it allowed residency programs to compare applicants across institutions in a relatively straightforward way. Once Step 1 became pass or fail, residency programs lost that numeric tool for comparison. As a result, they began placing greater emphasis on other aspects of the residency application in order to evaluate candidates more holistically.
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Today, residency programs rely more heavily on several different components of the application. Clinical performance during medical school rotations has become particularly important. During these rotations, supervising physicians directly observe how students interact with patients, communicate with healthcare teams, and apply medical knowledge in real clinical situations. Strong clinical evaluations demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and the ability to think through patient care decisions. Letters of recommendation from physicians have also become increasingly valuable. These letters often provide detailed insight into a student’s work ethic, communication skills, and clinical reasoning. Additionally, the USMLE Step 2 Clinical Knowledge exam still produces a numeric score, so many residency programs now look more closely at Step 2 performance as an academic indicator.
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Another area that has received greater attention is research experience. Research participation allows students to demonstrate intellectual curiosity and a willingness to engage with the scientific process that drives medical advancement. Medicine is constantly evolving as new evidence emerges. Physicians who understand how research is conducted are better equipped to evaluate studies, interpret data, and apply new findings responsibly in clinical practice. Because of this, research experience can help show that a student is engaged in the process of learning how medical knowledge is developed and evaluated.
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When people hear the word research, they often imagine complex laboratory experiments or groundbreaking discoveries. In reality, most research conducted by medical students is far more practical and collaborative. Research experience can include systematic literature reviews, data extraction for larger studies, retrospective chart reviews, quality improvement projects within hospitals, case reports, and poster presentations at conferences. These projects allow students to learn the steps involved in scientific inquiry, from identifying a clinical question to analyzing results and communicating findings. The goal is not simply to accumulate publications. The real educational value comes from understanding how research questions are developed, how data are evaluated, and how conclusions are communicated within the medical community.
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There are also several misconceptions about the role of research in medical education. One common misunderstanding is that research is only important for students who want to pursue careers in academic medicine. In reality, research skills are valuable for any physician. Practicing evidence-based medicine requires the ability to critically read and interpret scientific literature. Physicians must regularly evaluate new treatments, clinical guidelines, and medical technologies. Having experience with research helps doctors understand how studies are designed and how reliable their findings may be.
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Another misconception is that students need to make a major discovery in order for research to be valuable. In practice, most student projects are small pieces of larger research efforts. Even relatively modest projects can teach students essential skills such as data organization, literature review techniques, and scientific writing. Residency programs often care less about whether a student made a groundbreaking discovery and more about whether the student engaged meaningfully with the research process.
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Students also sometimes focus heavily on the prestige of a research institution or laboratory. While mentorship quality certainly matters, early and consistent exposure to research often matters more than prestige alone. Students who participate actively in research over time are more likely to develop a deeper understanding of the process and gain stronger mentorship relationships. Meaningful involvement in research tends to be more valuable than short or superficial experiences.
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For students planning their medical careers, it can be helpful to start thinking about research early in medical school. Many students begin exploring research opportunities during their first or second year. Early exposure allows time to learn the fundamentals of research, build relationships with mentors, and potentially contribute to longer-term projects. Waiting until the final year of medical school can limit the depth of involvement and reduce opportunities for meaningful learning.
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Mentorship is one of the most important elements of a good research experience. Working with experienced physicians or researchers allows students to learn how studies are designed, how results are interpreted, and how scientific writing is developed. Mentors also help students navigate the ethical responsibilities that come with conducting research involving patient data or clinical information. Structured research environments that include active guidance and feedback often provide much more educational value than loosely organized projects.
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Because research experience has become more important for residency applications, many programs and internships now offer opportunities for students to participate in research training. Some of these programs are well-structured educational experiences that teach students the full research process. For example, Improve Life PLLC offers research internships designed to help students learn how medical research is conducted under physician mentorship, including guidance from physicians such as Dr. Waggel. Programs like these aim to provide structured instruction and meaningful participation rather than simply adding a line to a résumé.
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Students should be cautious when evaluating research opportunities. In recent years, some programs have emerged that promise quick publications or minimal effort research experiences. These programs may lack experienced mentorship or meaningful educational structure. Students should look for opportunities where qualified physicians or scientists are directly involved, where students participate actively in the research process, and where mentorship includes instruction in study design, data analysis, and scientific writing. A legitimate research experience should focus on learning and intellectual development rather than simply producing a credential.
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The transition of USMLE Step 1 to pass or fail has changed the landscape of residency applications. Instead of relying heavily on a single exam score, residency programs now evaluate students using a broader range of indicators, including clinical performance, letters of recommendation, and research involvement. For students, this shift encourages a more comprehensive approach to medical education. Engaging in research, developing strong mentorship relationships, and cultivating intellectual curiosity can all contribute to a stronger residency application and a deeper understanding of how medicine advances.
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Ultimately, research should not be viewed simply as a requirement for residency applications. It is an opportunity to learn how scientific knowledge is created, tested, and applied to patient care. Students who engage thoughtfully in research gain skills that will continue to benefit them throughout their medical careers.
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References
Carmody, J. B., & Rajasekaran, S. K. (2020). On Step 1 Mania, USMLE Score Reporting, and Financial Conflict of Interest at the National Board of Medical Examiners. Academic Medicine, 95(9), 1332–1337. https://doi.org/10.1097/acm.0000000000003126
Choudhary, A., Makhoul, A. T., Ganesh Kumar, N., & Drolet, B. C. (2021). Impact of Pass/Fail USMLE Step 1 Scoring on the Internal Medicine Residency Application Process: a Program Director Survey. Journal of general internal medicine, 36(8), 2509–2510. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-020-05984-y
Kay, H. G., Makhoul, A. T., Ganesh Kumar, N., Pontell, M. E., Drolet, B. C., & Whigham, A. S. (2022). Otolaryngology Program Director, House-Staff, and Student Opinions: Step 1 Pass/Fail Score Reporting. Annals of Otology, Rhinology & Laryngology, 132(1), 63–68. https://doi.org/10.1177/00034894221078364
USMLE Timeline for Step 1 Pass/Fail Score Reporting | USMLE. (2020). Usmle.org. https://www.usmle.org/usmle-timeline-step-1-passfail-score-reporting
By: KarishhiniSri Wooputur
Posted: 3/21/2026
Journal Analysis
Link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7370105/
Abstract:
One of the most serious and disabling problems of stroke is pain and a decrease in balance, with the consequent increased risk of falls. The aim of the randomized controlled trial study was to compare the efficacy of three different treatment proposals to improve pain, gait, and balance in chronic stroke patients. Forty patients diagnosed with stroke were divided into three groups: the dry-land therapy group (control group) received sessions that included walking exercises and trunk mobility. The experimental group received Ai Chi aquatic therapy, and the combined group received alternating dry-land therapy sessions and Ai Chi aquatic therapy. The measurement instruments used were: the Tinetti balance and gait scale, the visual analog scale (VAS), 360° turn, single leg stance, and the 30-s stand test (CS-30). After twelve weeks of treatment, the results were significantly better for the combined therapy group and the experimental group compared to the dry-land therapy group (p < 0.01) in the VAS scale, CS-30, and 360° turn, although improvements were also found in the evaluations carried out in the aquatic therapy group. In total, for the Tinetti scale and single-leg stance, the differences between the groups were evident, although not statistically significant (p = 0.001). Aquatic therapy with Ai Chi and the combination of aquatic therapy with dry-land therapy was effective in improving pain, balance, and gait in patients with chronic stroke, thus improving their functional capacity and quality of life.
Summary:
Strokes affect around 15 million people per year and can lead to neurological dysfunction. Strokes primarily affect motor functions; they can create asymmetrical gaits and a reduction of flexion at the knee. A rehabilitation therapy used for stroke patients is water therapy. The aquatic environment can mimic resistance, allowing stroke patients to strengthen their muscles. A study shows that there is a positive correlation between aquatic therapy and gait speed for people suffering from multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, and strokes. The study is single-blind and randomized with participants who suffer from chronic stroke in Spain. The participant criteria include being 35 years or older, the ability to move at least 10 meters with help, the ability to follow verbal commands, and the ability to tolerate interventions. The ethical guidelines implemented by the researchers include written consent and approval from an IRB board. 40 patients were then divided into three groups: dry land therapy, aquatic therapy, and a combination. The tools used to gather data include the VAS tool to measure pain intensity, the Tinetti test to assess balance and gait, the 360-degree turn test for balance, and a 30-second chair stand test for lower leg strength. The researcher would then conduct assessments at the beginning of the study, at the end of the study, and approximately four weeks later, all of which would be blinded to avoid bias. The dry land group had 14 patients with 24 sessions, and each session had a specific target that the patients would work to improve. The aquatic group had 13 participants, and they performed Ai-Chi exercises. Finally, the combined group would alternate days doing both forms of therapy. The conclusion shows that completing aquatic therapy or a combination of therapies can improve the effects of a stroke.
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Analysis:
This study has a high degree of generalizability. The researchers made sure to account for confounding variables, and the participants chosen were of average age. There was a good amount of both men and women, making these findings applicable to a broader population. The statistical analysis conducted was very detailed, as the researchers used a different test for each aspect that the stroke patients were working on. This allows for an operational definition of each aspect, making this experiment replicable. I also think doing a single-blind study makes this experiment even stronger because it prevents any potential bias. However, if the researchers wanted to take it a step further, they could conduct a double-blind study.
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Thesis:
Perez-de la Cruz (2020) found that chronic stroke patients in the combined therapy group showed significant improvements in pain (VAS), balance, and gait compared to the dry-land group, with results reaching statistical significance (p<0.01).
By: Nicole Nguyen
Posted: 3/21/2026
Eating Disorders across a Lifespan
Eating disorders can affect individuals of all ages, presenting differently based on whether the person is a child, adult, or older adult. This essay explores those differences, referencing the National Institute of Mental Health and various studies. For adolescents (ages 13 - 18), the lifetime prevalence of eating disorders is 2.7%, with higher rates in females (3.8%) compared to males (1.5%). Common disorders in this age group include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. Adolescents with anorexia may experience slowed growth and delayed puberty, while binge-eating disorder is often linked to obesity and characterized by a lack of control over eating. In adults (ages 18 and older), the prevalence of binge-eating disorder is 1.2%, with bulimia nervosa at 0.3% and anorexia nervosa at 0.6%. Many adults with these disorders also struggle with mental health issues, like anxiety and mood disorders. Bulimia is particularly challenging to detect, as affected individuals may have a normal weight.
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Older adults, especially those over 50 or 65, often go undiagnosed. Research shows that 69% of older patients with anorexia have late-onset cases, and 60% of these individuals experience major depression. The prevalence of eating disorders in older women is estimated at 3% - 4%, while in older men, it is 1% - 2%. Anorexia in older adults is often linked to age-related challenges, such as difficulties with eating and significant life changes. Treatment usually involves family-based therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Early intervention can help, especially in adolescents, to reverse growth delays.
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CBT is considered the most effective treatment, particularly for bulimia, where enhanced outpatient CBT works better than medication. For adults with anorexia, about 60% see symptom reduction, although weight gain may be slower compared to younger individuals. Research on older adults is limited, but 51.5% of those over 65 receive hospital treatment. Treatment for this group often combines behavioral strategies and medications, but there are no specific guidelines tailored for older patients, and only 42% of those over 50 received successful treatment. Ethical considerations include the need to respect their choices, acknowledge their unique health challenges, and address the stigma surrounding eating disorders in older adults.
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Treatment gaps exist, with only one-third of adults with anorexia seeking help, and older adults often overlooked due to a lack of specialist services. Ethical practice also mandates parental consent and child assent in pediatric cases, while cognitive decline in older adults requires careful assessment of capacity. Age norms must guide treatment goals, as aggressive weight gain in older adults might conflict with medical comorbidities. Adolescents face social stigma tied to appearance, adults may conceal disorders due to shame, and older adults contend with age-based misconceptions that hinder recognition. As eating disorders develop differently across age groups, developing better guidelines to address the unique needs of all age groups, especially seniors, is crucial for improving care.
Works Cited
Hudson, James I., et al. “The Prevalence and Correlates of Eating Disorders in the National Comorbidity Survey Replication.” Biological Psychiatry, vol. 61, no. 3, 1 Feb. 2007, pp. 348–358. PubMed, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17588885/. Accessed 24 July 2025.
National Institute of Mental Health. Eating Disorders. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Dec. 2023, https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/eating-disorders. Accessed 24 July 2025.
Pigott, Andrea, et al. “Epidemiology and Treatment of Eating Disorders in Men and Women of Middle and Older Age.” Current Opinion in Psychiatry, vol. 27, no. 6, Nov. 2014, pp. 431–435. APA PsycNet, https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2014-26594-013. Accessed 24 July 2025.
By: Aryan Garg
Posted: 3/13/2026
Psychiatry in Pop Culture: Good Doctor Edition
From 2017 to 2024, the Good Doctor was a very popular medical TV show, and it is still popular, judging from the fact that I occasionally find clips of the series when scrolling on Instagram. In the show, Dr. Shaun Murphy is a very clearly smart surgeon/doctor, but seems to be socially less developed than we would expect. According to the series, Dr. Murphy has Savant syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder. The main symptom of Savant syndrome is a very clear aptitude for a field, such as math, logic, or in this case, medicine, which is also accompanied with a lack of social development (Treffert, 2009), which is clearly the case with Dr. Murphy.
I believe that the show generally had a fair/accurate depiction of ASD and Savant syndrome. ASD is visible through a variety of symptoms, including repeetivive behaviors, and a difference in processing time. Throughout the show, we can see that Dr. Murphy goes through consistent thought patterns whenever he is attempting to figure out how to diagnose a patient, and he also generally processes medical information very fast, as opposed to social cues. This brings me to Savant syndrome, where there is clear evidence that Dr. Murphy does not pick up on social cues, and often does not do a great job collaborating with other nurses/doctors or communicating his thoughts to them, which makes sense because it is a symptom of Savant syndrome.
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I think the stereotypes of ASD/Savant Syndrome being only shown in people who are very developmentally challenged were proven to be untrue in the Good Doctor. Although Dr. Murphy definitely isn’t as socially developed as the people he works with, he is somewhat socially developed. Also, the stereotype of ASD not being expressed in people who are very smart in their field was challenged, especially because Dr. Murphy was a brilliant surgeon and was extremely smart.
Unfortunately, one view which seemed to be negative was this idea that Dr. Murphy, or in general, people with ASD, weren’t able to think empathetically about others, whether that includes other patients or other doctors. Many times in the show, he was very blunt with patients and not generally able to empathetically communicate with patients, even when he had a very important diagnosis.
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References
Magro, K. (2017). My review of 'The Good Doctor' as an adult with autism. Autism Speaks. Retrieved July 1, 2025, from https://www.autismspeaks.org/blog/my-review-good-doctor-adult-autism
Psychologs Web. (2024, March 4). The Good Doctor: Portraying Autism Disorder through an Interesting Story. Psychologs. Retrieved July 1, 2025, from https://www.psychologs.com/the-good-doctor-portraying-autism-disorder-through-an-interesting-story/?srsltid=AfmBOopjm8sJSo-lQzhSY4y2Mwlj8MsPKH-nIh0Y_K2pcZRRF4hKGXth
Treffert D. A. (2009). The savant syndrome: an extraordinary condition. A synopsis: past, present, future. Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences, 364(1522), 1351–1357. https://doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2008.0326
By: Shreya Siva
Posted: 3/6/2026
Journal Article Analysis
Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32250453/
Abstract:
This article looked at how sleep affects teenagers mood, alertness, and school performance. The researchers gathered data from 28 studies on adolescent sleep patterns and analyzed them together. They found that teens who slept fewer hours or had poorer sleep quality were more likely to feel depressed, perform worse in school, and be less alert during the day. These results support the idea that sleep plays a big role in mental health and daily functioning. The findings also suggest that improving sleep habits could be a useful strategy for helping teens with depression or academic struggles.
Introduction:
Adolescents today often don’t get enough sleep due to school, stress, social media, and irregular routines. Poor sleep has been linked to problems like depression, fatigue, and low academic performance. This study reviews and combines data from multiple research papers to put together rhow sleep length and quality are related to three key outcomes such as mood, alertness, and academic performance. Understanding these links could help improve teen health and school outcomes.
Methods:
The researchers conducted a meta-analysis, which means they analyzed results from 28 studies that had around the same idea and theme toward them. These studies focused on teens aged 10–19 and measured their sleep through self-reports or tracking devices. They also measured levels of depression, academic grades, and alertness. Statistical tools were used to calculate overall effect sizes and determine how strong the links were between sleep and each outcome.
Results:
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Teens who had shorter sleep duration showed higher levels of depression
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Poor sleep was linked to lower school performance
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Teens who didn’t sleep well were less alert the next day
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The effect was strongest for mood, then alertness, then academics
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Overall, sleep had a significant and consistent effect on well-being
Discussion:
This study shows that sleep is not just about rest, it directly affects how teens feel, think, and perform. The strongest connection was between sleep and depressed mood, showing how vital sleep is for emotional regulation. The authors argue that schools and families should focus more on improving sleep routines for teenagers.
Assessment of the Study
This is a really good style of meta analysis that supports existing knowledge by combining many smaller studies. A major strength is the large total sample size, which improves reliability. The use of statistical controls adds to the study’s validity. However, it relies partly on self-reported sleep, which can be biased, and many studies were observational, meaning cause and effect can't be proven. Still, the clear association between sleep and teen outcomes makes it a valuable contribution to mental health research.
4. Thesis Statement
Lo et al. (2020) found that poor sleep in adolescents is significantly associated with higher levels of depression, lower academic performance, and reduced alertness, suggesting that sleep habits play a critical role in teen mental health and daily functioning.
By: Tejaswini Vutukuri
Posted: 2/27/2026
Independence in Healthcare
When we celebrate the 4th of July, most of us picture freedom from oppression and the right to self-determination. However, what does independence mean for individuals living with chronic mental illness or disability?
Independence and illness challenge us to reconsider what freedom means in medical practice for someone managing health issues. Independence is not about complete reliance; it is about having access to support systems that allow us to make our own choices. The current debate over the One Big Beautiful Act illustrates how policy decisions can either promote real independence or create barriers that undermine it.
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The assumption that true independence requires zero assistance is fundamentally wrong. Consider a girl named Maya, a college student with bipolar disorder. She experiences intense productivity followed by severe depression, making it difficult to attend classes and keep her job. The question arises: Is Maya truly independent?
Medicaid recipients are required to work at least 80 hours per month, creating an issue for Maya. Her healthcare access relies on her work performance, which is negatively impacted by her condition. If she loses insurance, she ends up in emergency rooms, which cost more than preventative care.
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Healthcare is a right that all should have. When someone with a psychiatric issue has consistent access to proper medication and therapy, they can live a healthy life. Without this foundation, these opportunities become inaccessible. Effective healthcare policies should include flexible personalized support rather than sticking to a one-size-fits-all standard. In Maya's case, independence involves access to psychiatric care, medications, accommodations, and support systems that align with her condition, allowing her choices in life and treatment, promoting independence.
Unfortunately, healthcare policies often work against these types of independence. The One Big Beautiful Act is a perfect example of this problem. The bill makes significant changes to Medicaid, the government's health insurance program for low-income individuals, by introducing stricter requirements and increasing the difficulty of qualifying for coverage. The bill creates what are called "Benefit Cliffs." This means that if the person earns more money or works slightly fewer hours, they can lose all their healthcare coverage. Imagine someone working with an issue who has offered a small raise at work; they might have to turn those offers down because earning that extra money would make them lose their Medicaid coverage, so they are stuck in that same financial status to keep their healthcare, which makes no sense if their goal is to help people become more independent and feel more liberated.
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The proposed bill could leave millions without healthcare coverage, hindering their ability to focus on survival and other essential needs. Critics argue that Medicaid creates dependency, but they overlook the fact that healthcare is a basic necessity. This bill threatens Community health centers that provide affordable care and promote independence.
If these policymakers were truly considering what real independence entails, and they wanted to help people with chronic conditions before becoming more independent, Healthcare policies would look completely different, rather than punishing people with rigid work requirements. We would have flexible programs, and instead of cutting people off when suddenly they earn more money. We will have gradual changes that reward progress. Having choices and control over life does not mean being abandoned without support; it means being able to manage health conditions while still working towards one's goals.
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As we reflect on the Fourth of July, we must redefine freedom to include everyone, especially in healthcare. The current policies have barriers that force people to choose between health and economic survival. We need to recognize health care as a basic necessity rather than something to be earned. True independence means having access to what one needs to live fully, aligning with the ideal of “Liberty and Justice For All."
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Citations
Hinton, Elizabeth, Amaya Diana, and Robin Rudowitz. A Closer Look at the Medicaid Work Requirement Provisions in the “Big, Beautiful” Bill. KFF, 20 June 2025, www.kff.org/medicaid/issue-brief/a-closer-look-at-the-medicaid-work-requirement-provisions-in-the-big-beautiful-bill/. Accessed 2 July 2025.
Konish, Lorie. “Congress’s ‘Big Beautiful’ Bill Proposes New Medicaid Work Requirements. Here’s What to Know.” CNBC, 25 June 2025, www.cnbc.com/2025/06/25/congress-big-beautiful-bill-proposes-new-medicaid-work-requirements.html. Accessed 2 July 2025.
H.R. 1 – One Big Beautiful Bill Act. 119th Congress, introduced 20 May 2025, passed House 22 May 2025 and Senate 1 July 2025. Congress.gov, Library of Congress. Accessed 2 July 2025.
Myth vs. Fact: The One Big Beautiful Bill. The White House, 29 June 2025, www.whitehouse.gov/articles/2025/06/myth-vs-fact-the-one-big-beautiful-bill/. Accessed 2 July 2025.
Rosalsky, Greg. “The Paperwork Trap: A Sneaky Way to Cut Medicaid in the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’?” NPR Planet Money, 26 June 2025, www.npr.org/sections/planet-money/2025/06/26/g-s1-74544/the-paperwork-trap-a-sneaky-way-to-cut-medicaid-in-the-one-big-beautiful-bill. Accessed 2 July 2025.
Lipsky, Leonard, and Sean Crowe. “House-Passed Budget Bill – the One Big Beautiful Bill Act – Includes Major Changes to Medicaid.” Sheppard Health Law, 30 May 2025, www.sheppardhealthlaw.com/2025/05/articles/federal-healthcare-legislation/house-passed-budget-bill-the-one-big-beautiful-bill-act-includes-major-changes-to-medicaid/. Accessed 2 July 2025.
Ortaliza, Jared, et al. “How Will the 2025 Budget Reconciliation Affect the ACA, Medicaid, and the Uninsured Rate?” KFF, 18 June 2025, https://www.kff.org/policy-watch/how-will-the-2025-budget-reconciliation-affect-the-aca-medicaid-and-the-uninsured-rate/. Accessed 2 July 2025.
By: Jenna Said
Posted: 2/20/2026
Depression Across a Lifespan
Depression is a mental health disorder that affects a person’s mind and emotions. Many people usually think of it as just being sad, but it’s more than that. It can affect someone’s thoughts, sleep patterns, energy, and even their physical health. What's interesting is how it doesn’t look the same in everybody. Children, adults, and older adults all show depression in different ways.
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In adults, depression mostly appears as sadness, feelings of hopelessness, chronic fatigue, or loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy. Some adults sleep too much or not at all, and their eating habits change. They also get physical pain that sometimes doctors cannot explain. Adults can express their feelings and symptoms, which hhelps them get diagnosed faster.
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In kids, depression is harder to recognize. They don’t often say things like, “I feel depressed.” Instead, they might act angry or irritable, perform badly in school, or stop playing with their friends. Some kids complain about stomach aches or headaches but there is no actual illness. Teenagers might pull away from people or get very sensitive. Depression may seem like it would look the same no matter the age of the person, but in reality, it is very different.
Older adults experience depression too, but it is often overlooked or mistaken for signs of aging. Many assume that symptoms like tiredness, memory problems, or withdrawal from activities are just a normal part of getting older, but they can actually be signs of depression (National Institute on Aging, 2023). Because of this, depression in older adults often goes undiagnosed and untreated.
​
Treatment for depression differs depending on age. Adults are commonly treated with a combination of therapy and medication. One of the most effective therapies is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps people change negative thought patterns (Mayo Clinic, 2023). Children and adolescents may also receive therapy, but it often involves the family in the process. Parental consent is required for treatment, but it’s also important to respect the child’s privacy and emotional input. Medications for children are used cautiously because their brains and bodies are still developing, and therefore causing stronger side effects in children. For older adults, treatment is more complex. Doctors must consider other medications the person may be taking and watch for side effects or drug interactions. Therapy can also be harder to access for seniors due to transportation or cognitive issues.
​
Ethical considerations are crucial across all age groups. For minors, informed consent must come from a parent or guardian, but providers must still respect the child’s confidentiality to an appropriate degree. Adults are generally able to provide informed consent themselves. However, with older adults, especially those with cognitive decline or conditions like dementia, it can be difficult to determine if they fully understand their treatment options. In such cases, healthcare professionals must carefully evaluate their capacity to consent and consider involving caregivers or legal guardians when necessary (American Psychological Association, 2022).
Works Cited
American Psychological Association. (2022). Ethical principles of psychologists and code of
Conduct. https://www.apa.org/ethics/code.
Mayo Clinic. (2023). Depression (major depressive disorder). https://www.mayoclinic.org
diseases-conditions/depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20356007
National Institute on Aging. (2023). Depression and Older Adults.
By: Angelina Le-Hoang
Posted: 2/13/2026
Importance of Research in Medical School
Research experience is no longer just an optional resume booster for medical school applications. Research experience can directly influence which specialities are realistically available to an applicant. In the current residency match environment, research serves as a signal of academic interest, resilience, and potential for scholarly contribution. This is especially important for competitive specialities. As a result, students who enter medical school without research may narrow their specialty options.
In medical student forums, many medical school professors and students emphasize that highly competitive specialties often expect meaningful scholarly productivity, such as publications or specialty-specific projects. Even when not formally required, research demonstrates commitment and helps applicants build relationships with faculty mentors. Therefore, research also plays a role in high quality letters of recommendation.
These forums also state that the necessity of research experience varies by specialty. Many contributors to the forums state that specialities like family medicine or internal medicine places a heavier emphasis on clinical experience compared to research experience. However, competitive specialty fields like dermatology or surgery require research experience to be deemed competitive.
Ultimately, having research on a medical school resume expands opportunity. It strengthens applications, demonstrates dedication to a field, and helps students build the professional relationships that influence residency selection. However, it is important to note that entering medical school with no research does not make matching impossible, however it can make an applicant significantly less competitive in certain specialties.
By: Angelina Le-Hoang
Posted: 2/6/2026
Grade Inflation for Premeds
Grade inflation is the phenomenon when students’ grades are higher than the level of student
performance. Across many American universities, particularly elite institutions, A-range grades
have become increasingly normalized. As a result, average undergraduate GPAs have steadily
risen over the past several decades (Crimson Education; Independent Institute). While higher
grades may appear beneficial, this phenomenon presents serious challenges for students
pursuing competitive professional pathways, especially premed students. Because medical
school admissions rely heavily on GPA as a measure of academic readiness, grade inflation can
distort evaluation, weaken academic rigor, and create a false sense of preparedness.
Grade inflation has become widespread across U.S. higher education. At Harvard College,
A-range grades accounted for roughly 24% of all grades in 2005, but by 2025, more than 60%
of all grades awarded were in the A range, with the average GPA approaching 3.8 (Harvard
Magazine; Crimson Education). This dramatic shift shows that high grades have become
increasingly common regardless of performance differences. As grades rise uniformly, they lose
their ability to represent meaningful distinctions in academic achievement. For premed students,
whose success depends on demonstrating academic excellence in rigorous coursework, this
normalization of inflated grades undermines the reliability of one of the most important metrics in
their applications.
One of the most significant consequences of grade inflation for premed students is distorted
academic evaluation. When most students earn A’s, it becomes difficult to distinguish truly
exceptional performance from average work. Admissions committees must compare applicants
from institutions with widely varying grading standards, making GPAs less informative (ESM
Prep). A student with a 3.9 GPA from a school with severe grade inflation may not perform at
the same academic level as a student with a 3.6 GPA from a more rigorous institution. This lack
of standardization introduces inequity into admissions and weakens confidence in GPA as an
objective indicator of readiness for medical school.
Inflated grades may also create a false sense of preparedness among premed students. High
GPAs can give students confidence that they have mastered prerequisite material, even when
their understanding may be incomplete. Once in medical school, where grading standards are
often stricter and expectations are uniform, these students may struggle academically
(Independent Institute). This gap between perceived and actual preparedness can contribute to
stress, burnout, and reduced academic performance, ultimately undermining student well-being
and success.
Grade inflation is a pervasive issue that reshapes the academic landscape of higher education.
For premed students, its consequences are especially serious because grade inflation distorts
evaluation, weakens academic rigor, and fosters unrealistic perceptions of readiness. While
intended to support student morale, inflated grading ultimately diminishes the credibility of
academic achievement and undermines fairness in competitive professional pathways.
Addressing grade inflation is therefore essential to preserving the integrity of premedical
education and ensuring that future physicians are both rigorously trained and accurately
evaluated.
​
Crimson Education US. ‘Soul-Crushing’: Students Slam Harvard’s Grade Inflation Report.
Crimson Education, 2025,
https://www.thecrimson.com/article/2025/10/30/students-react-grading-report/
ESM Prep. The High Cost of Grade Inflation. ESMPrep.com, 2026,
https://www.esmprep.com/articles/the-high-cost-of-grade-inflation.
Harvard Magazine. “Grade Inflation Reaches New Highs.” Harvard Magazine, 2026,
https://www.harvardmagazine.com/university-news/harvard-summers-epstein-grade-inflation-cla
ss-2029.
Independent Institute. “The Pernicious Effects of Grade Inflation.” Independent.org, 29 Nov.
2025, https://www.independent.org/article/2025/11/29/the-pernicious-effects-of-grade-inflation/.
Minding The Campus. “Grade Inflation—Why Princeton Threw in the Towel.”
MindingTheCampus.org, 2014,
https://www.mindingthecampus.org/2014/10/15/grade-inflation-why-princeton-threw-in-the-towel/
By: Ashnie Trikha
Posted: 1/31/2026
Independence in Healthcare
The Declaration of Independence states, that "all men are created equal" and that people have the right to "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness", which define the ideals of our country. However, looking at healthcare in America today, it appears that these rights do not feel legitimate for everyone.
​
Not everyone has the same access to healthcare in the US. People from marginalized communities including low-income families, racial and ethnic minorities, rural communities or people with disabilities face barriers when seeking help. Some don’t have insurance and others live far from the nearest doctor or hospital and for many, care is just too expensive in their situation. Furthermore, individuals face discrimination in access to care because of the inherent inequities and racial biases of the system. The CDC (2024) says these gaps in care or health disparities are differences in health that are preventable and related to social determinants of health such as income, race or where you live.
​
The inequities in American healthcare are the opposite of the statement “all men are created equal”. For one of many examples, people with chronic mental illness often can’t get access to ongoing and affordable treatment. A recent report by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (2023) showed that between 2019 and 2022, more than half of the people seeking mental health or substance use care were unable to get those services at least once. Gaps in care can
come from stigma, treatment costs and shortage of providers.
​
The phrase "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" can also relate to health. Upon discussion about chronic health or mental conditions, we examined the notion that individuals will experience reductions in both their liberty and pursuit of happiness when they do not have consistent access to medical and mental health services. Untreated conditions may curtail one's ability to work, develop or maintain personal relationships, and even be engaged members of society.
​
The core values surrounding "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" found in the Declaration of Independence are still inherently important, but none have been wholly fulfilled by the current healthcare system. We must work to restore the ideals of the Declaration of Independence through taking actional steps to fix the inequity of our healthcare system.
​
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, June 11). What is health equity?
https://www.cdc.gov/health-equity/what-is/index.html
National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2023, July 18). New report shows remarkable lack
of access to mental health care.
https://www.nami.org/nami-news/new-report-shows-remarkable-lack-of-access-to-mental-health
-care/
By: Carter Offhaus
Posted: 1/24/2026
Importance of Internships and Professionalism
Internships are unique learning experiences that bridge the gap between classroom knowledge and real world professional practice. Unlike traditional classes, they require a significant commitment of time, effort, and responsibility from both interns and supervisors, who often spend extra hours mentoring and guiding students. Expressing gratitude for this support is a professional norm and shows respect for their time and effort. A simple thank you can leave a lasting impression and help build strong professional relationships.
​
Professional conduct, such as being punctual, prepared, courteous, and respectful, is very important. Supervisors, such as Dr. Waggel, are looking at more than technical skills, they are also noticing professionalism, work ethic, and how well you work with others. Acknowledging mentorship demonstrates maturity and reliability, which employers and professional schools value. Not showing appreciation can unintentionally harm relationships and future opportunities.
​
In my experience, being professional and showing gratitude has opened doors and strengthened connections. Regularly checking in, thanking supervisors, and taking initiative helped me build strong references and develop good habits that support long term success, all of which started with Dr. Waggel and the internship. These habits, including networking, collaboration, and accountability, are especially important for anyone preparing for professional school or a future career in medicine.
By: Ainika Akuthota
Posted: 1/16/2026
Involuntary Hospitalization in Psychiatry
Involuntary hospitalization in psychiatry can refer to admitting a patient into a psychiatric facility contrary to their will due to them being at a serious risk of harm to themselves and/or to others. Involuntary hospitalization is a serious process that is not done unless other suitable options are not working. In order for a patient to be in this situation, they would have to show clear signs of mental illness disorders or substance use disorders and be considered dangerous to the environment.
​
In Virginia, a patient can be taken into custody by law enforcement or a health professional for evaluation under the ECO (Emergency Custody Order). After this order is in place, a health professional from the Community Service Board or a hospital can evaluate the patient up to 8 hours for adults and 24 hours for minors and decide if they need any further intervention. If the clinician deems that a patient needs further evaluation, then the next step would be to get a Temporary Detention Order from the magistrate to keep a patient in psychiatric hold for up to 72 hours until a hearing. In the hearing, the judge will decide, given the evidence, if a patient needs to stay at a psychiatric facility for further help. During this hearing, the patient is allowed to have an attorney to plead their case and is also allowed to be at the hearing. If they do not agree with the outcome of the hearing, the patient has the right to appeal the decision through the courts.
​
California is another state that has a process for involuntary hospitalization in psychiatry. Their process is very similar to Virginia’s in which a patient can be taken into hold for up to 72 hours if they are deemed as a danger to themselves and/or others. Though a difference in California than Virginia is that an individual can be placed on hold for 14 extra days if deemed necessary. If more than 14 days is required, a court order needs to be present for the patient to be admitted into a state hospital. All patients have the same rights in California as they do in Virginia.
​
In many cases, involuntary hospitalization may be required for the safety of the patient and for their surroundings. It gives patients a safe environment to access treatment and stabilize any dangerous and harmful symptoms. This hospitalization also gives patients a longer period for a chance of recovery that they may not have allowed themselves to access or get if not for involuntary hospitalization. Although this concept has many pros, it also has many potential negative aspects. For example, ethical concerns are a major area of conversation within this topic. Some feel that involuntary hospitalization strips patients of rights that they are rightly given and therefore is unethical. It is also a situation that causes much distress for the patient and their family and may cause negative implications in the process.
Citations
California’s protection & advocacy system. (n.d.). Understanding the Lanterman-Petris-Short (LPS) Act. In California’s Protection & Advocacy System (Report Pub. #5608.01). https://www.disabilityrightsca.org/system/files/file-attachments/560801Ch1.pdf
Corderoy, A., Kisely, S., Zirnsak, T., & Ryan, C. J. (2024). The benefits and harms of inpatient involuntary psychiatric treatment: a scoping review. Psychiatry Psychology and Law, 1–48. https://doi.org/10.1080/13218719.2024.2346734
Emergency custody, temporary detention, and involuntary commitment. (n.d.). https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Departments/DHS/Behavioral-Healthcare/ECO-TDO-and-Involuntary-Commitment#:~:text=The%20involuntary%20hospitalization%20process%20typically,individual%20will%20be%20involuntarily%20hospitalized.
EXPLANATION OF INVOLUNTARY COMMITMENT PROCESS. (2022). In Commonwealth of Virginia, FORM DC-493. https://www.vacourts.gov/static/forms/district/dc493.pdf
Involuntary Psychiatric Hospitalization of Adults | Community Services Board. (n.d.). https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/community-services-board/involuntary-psychiatric-hospitalization-adults#:~:text=is%20also%20available.-,Overview,Temporary%20Detention%20Order%20(TDO)?
Specialist, T. (2025, August 5). What is a Voluntary Psychiatric Hold? | Mental Health Hope. Mental Health Hope. https://mentalhealthhope.com/voluntary-psychiatric-hold/#:~:text=A%205150%20hold%20allows%20mental,e.g.%2C%205250%20for%2014%20days)
Stallman, H. M., & Gupta, V. (2025, January 20). Involuntary commitment. StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557377/#:~:text=Involuntary%20hospitalization:%20Compulsory%20admission%20to,and%20attendance%20at%20psychotherapy%20sessions.
Sullivan, M., Scherban, B., & Bera, S. (2024). Involuntary commitment: a humanitarian treatment. Psychiatric Services, 75(12), 1281–1283. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ps.20240145
Unknown. (2016). Guide to Psychiatric Crisis and civil commitment process in Virginia.
By: Marisa Mazari
Posted: 1/03/2026
Psychiatry in Pop Culture: Gossip Girl Edition
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​In the TV show Gossip Girl, Chuck Bass takes on a very complex character. Throughout the show, he is portrayed as the “bad boy” of upper class New York. Alongside his “bad” behavior, he is usually portrayed as emotionally detached—doing things without concern of the consequences or how it may affect others or even himself. After a series of traumatic events such as losing the love of his life to another man and the death of his father, Chuck begins to see a therapist. It turns out that the therapist was getting paid to extract information from him and provide it to someone else. Due to the plot twists in the show, Chuck was never normally diagnosed; however, he consistently shows clear symptoms of psychological distress. Instead of illustrating this as a psychological breakdown, the show uses it as an opportunity to deepen his dark persona and add to his mysteriousness.
Chuck’s character closely follows the psychiatric conditions of complicated grief and major depressive episodes. The portrayal of these conditions are very accurate in the series. Emotional withdrawal, a lack of interest in serious, long-term relationships, and reckless behavior contribute to many hardships in Chuck’s life. He completely isolates himself, heavily drinks, and even disappears to another country without informing his closest friends or the former love of his life. He becomes overcome by so much pain that he pays people to beat him up. He later claims that he “just wanted to feel something,” representing his inability to feel emotions or pain from the traumatic events that occurred. The show wisely depicted this as the downfall of a rich boy who has gone rogue rather than a mental health crisis.
Stereotypes were strongly reinforced amidst these events. For example, Chuck was never formally diagnosed and his psychiatric conditions were never acknowledged. This reinforces stereotypes about masculinity and emotional repression. In media, males often suppress their emotions or express it through isolation or violent behaviors. Chuck never received treatment for his mental health conditions, as the show focused on stylizing his pain and showing him go out of control. This overtakes his character so much that his suffering becomes part of his allure, as in what the numerous women he gets with see him as: a complicated, savage man. A dangerous stereotype is reinforced, depicting how men tend to silently suffer through emotional pain or act out. The stereotype that suffering is what makes a man strong, and if a man calls for help then he is weak, is represented in these events.
The target audience for Gossip Girl is mainly females, as the show is based heavily on drama, toxic relationships, and love. Not to say that men do not enjoy the show as well if they like the drama aspect! Teenagers and young adults are who this show was made for, and they may take the messages of the show without truly realizing how serious Chuck’s condition was. They may begin to think that not getting help is normal and that acting out is okay. The show fails to show any mental health resources or coping mechanisms, and instead presents trauma as glamorous and romantically appealing. Teenagers or young men who watch this show are subject to the perception that mental illness is “cool” and may develop distorted perceptions of what true emotional challenges look like in men. Females may also gain these same perceptions, but may also be affected in different ways such as becoming drawn to this kind of complexity in men.
Overall, Chuck Bass’ self-destructive tendencies and desire for physical pain can be traced back to the serious psychiatric conditions of complicated grief and major depressive episodes. Although undiagnosed and untreated, Chuck’s conditions improved by the end of the show as he finally gained the love of his life back and married her. While he still suffered mentally, he was doing better than before as he learned to utilize his extremely supportive and loving friends and family as shoulders to lean on when times got tough. This highlights the importance of having people in your life who truly care for your well-being.
Citations:
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Major depressive disorder and the “bereavement exclusion” [PDF]. https://www.psychiatry.org/File%20Library/Psychiatrists/Practice/DSM/APA_DSM-5-Depression-Bereavement-Exclusion.pdf
American Psychiatric Association. (n.d.). Prolonged grief disorder. Psychiatry.org. Retrieved July 15, 2025, from https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/prolonged-grief-disorder
By: Angelina Le-Hoang
Posted: 12/20/2025
Paying for Graduate School: Alternatives to Student Loans
Graduating with an advanced degree is already a major investment. However, recent changes
in federal student loan policies make this investment even riskier. The OBBBA caps how much
students can borrow by implementing limits on graduate student loans and eliminating loan
programs that previously allowed students to borrow enough money to cover the full cost of
attendance. These shifts make federal student loans less reliable and push many students to
find alternative solutions.
Assistantships:
Many master’s and Ph.D. programs offer tuition waivers and stipends through teaching or
research assistantships. These roles allow students to gain valuable experience while receiving
financial support that covers a part of their tuition. According to the Council of Graduate
Schools, assistantships remain one of the most common ways for graduate students to finance
their degrees.
Fellowships:
Another major funding route is fellowships. Programs like the National Science Foundation’s
Graduate Research Fellowship Program (NSF GRFP) and the U.S. Department of Education’s
Graduate Assistance in Areas of National Need (GAANN) provide full tuition coverage and
additional support for living expenses. However, it is important to note that these fellowships are
highly competitive.
Employer Tuition Assistance:
Many employers now offer tuition assistance programs that help employees earn graduate
degrees while working. The Society for Human Resource Management reports that a growing
share of workplaces provide this benefit, which can cover part or all of tuition costs and may
even support work-related graduate programs.
Professional Organizations and Grants:
Professional associations and research institutions often offer scholarships, research awards
and training grants that do not need to be repaid. Organizations such as the American
Psychological Association and the National Institutes of Health provide funding opportunities
that can help cover tuition and ancillary costs of graduate school.
​
Citations
Carlin , D., Godfrey, J., Scott, A., Sowell, R., & Denecke, D. (n.d.). Graduate Study in the United States: A Guide for Prospective International Graduate Students (C. Flagg, Ed.). https://cgsnet.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Grad_Study_In_The_US_FINAL.pdf
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Graduate Assistance in Areas of National Need. (2024). U.S. Department of Education. https://www.ed.gov/grants-and-programs/grants-special-populations/grants-economically-disadvantaged-students/graduate-assistance-areas-of-national-need
​
Novotney, A. (2021). Free money for education. Apa.org. https://www.apa.org/gradpsych/2011/09/cover-money
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NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP). (2024, July 12). NSF - National Science Foundation. https://www.nsf.gov/funding/opportunities/grfp-nsf-graduate-research-fellowship-program
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Tuition Benefits Yield Financial Payback for Employers. (n.d.). Www.shrm.org. https://www.shrm.org/topics-tools/news/benefits-compensation/tuition-benefits-yield-financial-payback-employers
