The Research

AOCMF is supporting a series of experiments called HVP, THE
HUMILIATION AND VIOLENCE PROJECT
. Led by Dr. Wendy Mendes, professor of psychology at Harvard University and director of the Health and Psychophysiology Lab, with Nichole Argo and Katrina Koslov as co-investigators, this research aims to understand the process by which images of violence and humiliation affect physiological responses and behavior. The use of psychophysiological (skin conductance, heart rate and impedence, hormone levels, etc.) and neuroimaging methods capture activation of the brain and body as individuals interact with media and/or out-group members, shedding light on how individuals' emotions and beliefs may change — even without their awareness.

Findings from the HVP project will be used to generate policy recommendations
for media persons and government officials. This strategic endeavor will be
headed by Dr. Jay Winsten, Director of the Harvard School of Public Health.

Visit Harvard's Health and Psychophysiology Laboratory