Why did you join the division?
I joined Division 6 because it aligned well with my teaching and research interests.
How long have you been a member?
I joined APA in 1997, when I started as an assistant professor.
How did you become a division volunteer or leader?
In 2012, I was asked to be the membership chair. It was my first experience in a leadership role within APA, and I truly enjoyed it. Volunteering deepened my sense of belonging to APA and strengthened my professional identity as a psychologist.
What do you get out of your involvement?
Involvement in Division 6 has been very rewarding. I've learned a lot about the workings of APA, especially their advocacy work to promote funding for psychological research and the protection of animal research. Additionally, I've had the opportunity to meet a wonderful group of people who are part of Division 6.
What do you value most about being a biological psychologist?
There is still a lot that we do not know about how the brain works. There are always new things to learn in the field that studies the connection between brain functioning and behavior. I am naturally curious and enjoy the challenge of keeping up with a rapidly evolving field.
What issues do you think will be front and center for all psychologists in the coming year(s)?
I believe that artificial intelligence is a topic that all psychologists will need to address in the years to come. While the advantages of AI are undeniable, there are significant challenges in overseeing its implementation in educational settings, therapy, academic writing, and other areas.
What’s something you want people to know about your division?
Division 6 is a welcoming place for anyone interested in the biological basis of behavior. It has many established investigators who are happy to mentor students and new investigators.
What is your favorite place to travel to? What is next on our travel list?
So far, my favorite vacation has been to Ireland. I loved Dublin. This summer, I am taking a cruise that starts in Greece and ends in Turkey. I plan to spend a few days after the cruise exploring Istanbul.
If you weren’t a psychologist, what would you be?
I think I would be an anthropologist or a historian. Even if I had not chosen to be a psychologist, I would still want to study human behavior.
What can you not live without?
Something to read. I read to relax and would find it very stressful not to have a book available.
What is the best way to spend a day off?
Reading
Tell us a fun fact about yourself.
I like Jane Austen fan fiction books. Especially books involving the characters of Pride and Prejudice or Persuasion.
Contact: Cynthia Crawford