NW Valley Times

The Epic Lab, situated within the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Grand Canyon University, recently held an open house event. This lab, which focuses on undergraduate research with a particular emphasis on positive psychology, has now moved from a nonphysical concept to a dedicated space. It offers resources such as computers and coffee brewed with beans roasted by Dr. Eric Peterson.

Allison Rogers, a psychology major at the university, is part of a team whose research is poised for publication in the Canyon Journal of Undergraduate Research. Her study addresses depersonalization/derealization disorder among child survivors of sexual assault and explores whether dance can be therapeutic for this condition. "I grew up dancing," she noted, explaining that dance might help process trauma due to its emotional aspect and free agency.

The lab is overseen by psychology professors Dr. Magen Branham and Dr. Eric Peterson, each supervising ten students in their research efforts. "Going into graduate school, it’s super important," Branham stated regarding the significance of gaining research experience.

Dr. Eric Peterson highlighted the focus on positive psychology within the lab's projects: “There is psychology that looks at deficits... Through positive psychology... it’s positive engagement and relationships." The projects aim to enhance individuals' sense of purpose and joy.

Additional studies conducted in the lab include Colin O’Reilly's assessment of self-efficacy among Lopes Academy participants and Logan Demeter's exploration of religious identity as a buffer against stress in college athletes. Senior Kobe Lage is researching interventions like yoga and meditation to alleviate stress in college students.

One major project led by Branham is "The Awe Project," which examines how awe can be applied for psychological benefits using virtual reality.

The Epic Lab embodies Grand Canyon University's mission to foster human flourishing through innovative psychological research.