CORSO DI DOTTORATO
Psychology
Milano
Graduates
Coming soon..
Elia Amighetti (https://orcid.org/0009-0009-6776-1836)
My PhD project aims to investigate the relationship between psychological rigidity traits (represented by the construct of Socio-Cognitive Polarization) and individuals' cognitive and social functioning. Specifically, I want to examine the relationship between different levels of polarization and effects both at a purely psychological level (e.g. effects on performance in standardized psychological tasks), and at a behavioral level (analysis of decision-making processes in social and economic domains).
Supervisor: Prof. Alice Cancer
Keywords: Socio-cognitive polarization, decision making, psychological (in)flexibility
Lucrezia Cavagnis (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8991-4623)
My PhD research examines the impact of parental separation/divorce on romantic and relational competence in adolescents and young adults. It explores how these experiences influence relationship stability, commitment, and emotional well-being. Additionally, the study examines several protective factors such as self-efficacy, coping strategies, and social support. The findings aim to identify risk and resilience factors affecting young people’s ability to form and maintain stable relationships.
Supervisor: Prof. Sonia Ranieri
Keywords: Adolescents, young adults, romantic competence, relationships
Angelica Daffinà (https://orcid.org/0009-0007-1292-6897)
My PhD research concerns the analysis and optimization of decision-making processes, with a particular focus on the impact of stress and neuropsychological dynamics. Through a multidisciplinary approach that integrates neuroscience, psychology and advanced assessment methods, the project provides for the development of innovative tools to support decision-making in high-risk contexts. The aim is to understand the electrophysiological mechanisms that influence decisions under pressure, to develop new interventions for stress management, and to define application strategies to improve the quality and effectiveness of decision-making processes in critical contexts.
Supervisor: Prof. Michela Balconi
Keywords: Decision-making, stress management, neuroscience
Cristina Di Vincenzo (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6468-8295)
My PhD research investigate the Cognitive and Psychopathological Characteristics in Patients with Tourette Syndrome. The aim is to investigate the cognitive and psychopathological characteristics in patients with Tourette Syndrome, focusing on the role of the vagal nerve. Initially, we will collect baseline cognitive inhibition parameters in association with physiological parameters such as heart rate variability and pupillary dilation. In a subsequent phase, we will explore the role of the vagal nerve through non-invasive transcutaneous stimulation.
Supervisor: Prof. Alessandro Antonietti
Keywords: Tourette Syndrome, cognitive inhibition, psychopathological characteristics, vagal nerve, heart rate variability, pupillary dilation, non-invasive vagal nerve stimulation
Michele Falcone (https://orcid.org/0009-0008-8215-8210)
My PhD project aims to investigate the impact that the phenomenon of microaggressions can have on the migrant population, and in particular on that specific part of the population considered elderly (over 60 years old). The goal will be to understand what are the main phenomena of microaggression for this particular slice of the population and whether the perpetration of these experiences can lead to a worsening in the quality of life and in the state of health for the victims of these acts. The research structure will make use of a mix methods approach, proceeding first of all to the administration of a questionnaire prepared ad hoc, and then subsequently proceed to the administration of a semi-structured interview in order to better investigate the experiential experiences related to the given microaggressive experiences for each individual participant in the research.
Supervisor: Prof. Cristina Giuliani
Keywords: Microaggressions, elderly migrants, social psychology
Annalisa Magnani (https://orcid.org/0009-0001-3892-5549)
My PhD research focuses on the integration of neuropsychological tests, neuroimaging tools, and biomarkers to identify correlations that can improve diagnostic accuracy and promote early diagnosis of neurocognitive disorder, with a particular focus on the pathological continuum of Alzheimer's disease. In addition, the study will assess the efficacy of primary prevention strategies in slowing the progression of cognitive decline.
Supervisor: Prof. Camillo Marra
Keywords: Neurocognitive disorders, Alzheimer’s disease, early diagnosis, diagnostic accuracy, neuropsychological assessment, biomarkers, neuroimaging, primary prevention
Gloria Marchesi (https://orcid.org/0009-0004-4502-3705)
My Ph.D project investigates the feasibility and effectiveness of an internet-based self-help intervention using Brief Strategic Therapy (BST), compared to a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) intervention and a waiting-list control, in enhancing the psychological well-being of individuals with obesity.
Supervisor: Prof. Giada Pietrabissa
Keywords: Obesity, internet-based intervention, self-help, Brief Strategic Therapy (BST), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, clinical psychology
Giulia Moncalieri (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3330-1507)
My PhD project emphasizes the critical importance of fairness in AI-based test development, addressing bias across all phases: creation, evaluation, administration, and scoring. It focuses on the role of AI in generating test items, developing scoring algorithms, and ensuring that these systems function equitably for all users. The goal is to create educational assessments that are transparent, promote equal opportunities, and uphold the highest ethical standards. By embedding fairness principles into AI algorithms, this research seeks to create more inclusive, transparent, and ethical educational assessments that provide equal opportunities for all individuals.
Supervisor: Prof. Semira Tagliabue
Keywords: Fairness, AI, measurement, psychometric
Maria Adelaide Morabito (https://orcid.org/0009-0001-6910-476X)
My PHD research project aims to analyse the reconfiguration process of values and meanings associated with work within companies today, in order to promote a new perspective on the worker-company relationship for the well-being and productivity of both. Through the framework of qualitative methodology, particularly the phenomenological-interpretative approach, the objectives will be to understand developments, outline the current challenges, and consider possible future implications for business management.
Supervisor: Prof. Caterina Gozzoli
Keywords: Work values, work meanings, employee-organization relationship
Eleonora Noselli (https://orcid.org/0009-0007-8848-0422)
My PhD project aims to design, develop, and test innovative tools for the assessment of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Specifically, the goal is to define a model of optimal cognitive functioning based on data collected from healthy individuals and to outline the cognitive profile of MCI. Cognitive patterns, including their distinctive features and specific trajectories of decline, will be identified through the use of digital and physiological biomarkers obtained from tasks performed in virtual reality environments and data will then be analyzed using machine learning models. The expected outcomes of this research include advancing the early detection of MCI and enhancing diagnostic accuracy.
Supervisor: Prof. Giuseppe Riva
Keywords: Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), assessment, digital and physiological biomarkers, VR, AI
Nikica Polak (https://orcid.org/0009-0005-9306-965X)
My PhD research explores social cognitive abilities in the digital era, focusing on late adolescence and emerging adulthood. More specifically, I want to investigate the relationship between digital media and social cognitive abilities, such as perspective-taking or mentalizing while considering the moderating effects of age and gender.
Supervisor: Prof. Emanuela Confalonieri, Prof. Luca Milani
Keywords: Digital media, social cognition, adolescence, emerging adulthood
Anita Werner (https://orcid.org/0009-0004-4769-8917)
My doctoral project aims to analyze the psychological factors influencing parents' decision to have their children participate in autoantibody screening for type 1 diabetes (T1D) and the impact of a positive diagnosis on caregiver engagement. Using a mixed-methods approach that combines quantitative analysis and qualitative interviews, the research identifies barriers and facilitators to screening participation and tracks the evolution of engagement post-diagnosis. The findings will inform targeted communication strategies and psychological support interventions, improving adherence and the management of T1D.
Supervisor: Prof. Guendalina Graffigna
Keywords: Autoantibody screening, type 1 diabetes, parental decision-making, psychological factors, caregiver engagement
Asrin Yenihayat (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3361-5031)
Is loneliness a gendered construct? The aim of this research is to explore and understand the dynamics of loneliness experienced by women in Türkiye, focusing on the various structural, cultural, and personal factors that contribute to this complex phenomenon. Using a mixed-methods approach and social identity theory, my PhD research seeks to examine how loneliness manifests across different dimensions—social, emotional, and political—and to identify the factors, such as socio-economic challenges, gender-based discrimination, and intersecting identities, that shape both loneliness experiences and social identity.
Supervisor: Prof. Patrizia Catellani
Keywords: Loneliness, social identity, social isolation, women, gender
Luana Amadini Genovese (https://orcid.org/0009-0006-3399-1519)
My PhD research investigates body-brain interactions in chronic pain patients compared to healthy subjects with a psychophysiological approach. Using electroencephalography and electrocardiography, the aim is to identify changes in pain perception and interoception in people with chronic pain in order to design pain-reducing interventions using non-pharmacological treatments.
Supervisor: Prof. Daniele di Lernia
Keywords: Chronic pain, Body-brain interaction, psychophysiology
Alessandra Amoroso (https://orcid.org/0009-0008-5835-2144)
What factors influence the tractability of cases in couples therapy? My research project investigates the key elements of the initial phase of couples' consultations that determine the continuation or discontinuation of the therapy. Through a multi-method approach, it explores the development of the therapeutic alliance, the motivation of the partners, the nature of the problems brought to therapy and the methods used by the therapist.
Supervisor: Prof. Giancarlo Tamanza
Keywords: Couple Therapy, Tractability Factors, Therapeutic alliance, Continuation, Drop-out
Chiara Barone (https://orcid.org/0009-0003-8029-6509)
My Ph.D project is centered on the prevention of pathological gambling, with a particular emphasis on understanding and identifying potential factors that could mitigate the risk of developing gambling-related problems. The ultimate goal is to use these insights to construct and implement more effective protection strategies that can better safeguard individuals from engaging in harmful gambling behaviors.
Supervisor: Prof. Guendalina Graffigna
Keywords: Gambling, Addiction, Prevention strategy
Gianluca Bianchi (https://orcid.org/0009-0008-0417-9374)
My research project focuses on the analysis and psychological interventions applied to the ongoing transition process within the Prison Administration. Adopting a perspective aimed at promoting the well-being of prison staff and inmates, the main objective is to assess the needs, obstacles and intrapsychic processes associated with recent organizational changes, while integrating the contributions of key stakeholders in the development of new intervention and treatment strategies.
Supervisor: Prof. Emanuela Saita
Keywords: Organizational changes, Prison Operators, Inmates, Public Administration, Well-being
Margherita Boltri (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6742-8541)
By combining clinical expertise with technological innovation, my Ph.D. project aims to assess the efficacy of integrating virtual reality exposure therapy into clinical interventions for individuals diagnosed with Eating Disorders (EDs). It focuses on reducing the drive for excessive exercise and the urge to be physically active, both critical factors in EDs' development and persistence. By utilizing immersive virtual environments, the project aims to offer a novel approach to improving treatment outcomes and enhancing patient well-being.
Supervisor: Prof. Gianluca Castelnuovo
Keywords: Feeding and eating disorders, Urge to be physically active, Drive for activity, Virtual reality
Elisa Carletti (https://orcid.org/0009-0007-0407-8488)
My PhD project investigates the lived experiences of women in organizational leadership roles, with a primary focus on identifying contextual factors that support their success and motivation to stay. For a well-rounded analysis, these experiences are compared to those of men in similar roles. The study aims to enrich the literature on women’s career trajectories, which often focuses predominantly on barriers to leadership.
Supervisor: Prof. Caterina Gozzoli
Keywords: Leadership, Gender, Women, Inclusion, Organizational Factors
Katusha Gerardini (https://orcid.org/0009-0006-3903-1308)
My research project aims to investigate the role of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in group creativity dynamics. Specifically, we study the integration of generative AI tools in brainstorming sessions and the adoption of techniques based on AI algorithms in the predictive analysis of creativity with a focus on the business context.
Supervisor: Prof. Alice Chirico
Keywords: Creativity, Artificial Intelligence, Human-AI Interaction
Giulia Magni (https://orcid.org/0009-0004-3686-7041)
My PhD project investigates how the embodiment of metaphorical narratives through new technologies influence cognitive abilities. Specifically, the project will explore the role of technology-mediated embodied experiences in interpersonal synchronization and cognitive processing.
Supervisor: Prof. Claudia Repetto
Keywords: Embodied cognition, Metaphor, Virtual reality
Paolo Mastore (https://orcid.org/0009-0004-4807-5244)
Deloitte Italy has launched a Change Management program (lasting 3 years) that will impact all HR functions to increase efficiency and improve the quality of work for its employees. My PhD Project aims to outline the Change Management model applied by the company, analyzing its distinctive dynamics and assessing its impact on work quality and employee engagement.
Supervisor: Prof. Chiara D’Angelo
Keywords: Change Management, HR roles, HR skills, Case study, Consulting
Aurora Milesi (https://orcid.org/0009-0004-9970-3036)
This research project aims to contribute to clinical and research practice of Collaborative and Therapeutic Assessment (C/TA), focusing on related process and outcomes. It involves analyzing the process of change in clients’ Identity Narratives during TA, as well as observing psychophysiological features during the application of TA techniques. Additionally, the project aims to contribute to knowledge on TA outcomes, by validating of the Assessment Questionnaire and exploring the use of C/TA in medical settings.
Supervisor: Prof. Filippo Aschieri
Keywords: Collaborative Therapeutic Assessment, Psychological Assessment, Personality Testing, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy outcome
Laura Rapisarda (https://orcid.org/0009-0006-0501-7882)
My PhD project investigates how cognitive and motor reserves preserve cognitive and motor functions in individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Multiple Sclerosis. The study examines the brain structures and networks associated with these reserve mechanisms using structural and functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging, aiming to improve our understanding of the protective factors that could contribute to resilience amid neurodegeneration.
Supervisor: Prof. Maria Caterina Silveri
Keywords: Cognitive reserve, Multiple Sclerosis, Mild Cognitive Impairment, Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Eleonora Diletta Sarcinella (https://orcid.org/0009-0004-4993-774X)
My doctoral project deals with the investigation of the potential of nostalgia, as elicited through music and virtual reality, for group creativity and transformation. This research aims to reveal how nostalgia can serve as a transformative tool, enhancing both individual emotional well-being and fostering collective social benefits within diverse contexts.
Supervisor: Prof. Alice Chirico
Keywords: Nostalgia, Complex emotion, Virtual reality, Music
Fariba Soheili (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7326-896X)
My research project explores the psychological adaptation of international students in higher education. Using a mixed method approach we will develop and validate a questionnaire to measure psychological adaptation of international students, aiming to provide both theoretical insights and practical recommendations for supporting the well-being and academic success of international students.
Supervisor: Prof. Margherita Lanz
Keywords: Psychological adaptation, International students, Cross-cultural psychology, Mixed method
Elena Turco (https://orcid.org/0009-0007-7260-2798)
My research interests concern individual differences in decision-making. Specifically, my doctoral project focuses on the development of a new behavioral task to assess risk perception and risk-taking behavior in financial, health and mobility domain. Profiling individual tendencies aims to prevent risk-taking enhancing people awareness and promoting decisions functional to their well-being.
Supervisor: Prof. Paola Iannello
Keywords: Risk-taking behavior, Risk perception, Behavioral task, Individual differences, Well-being
Marta Acampora (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4836-6103)
My research project investigates antibiotic resistance, a global health threat. Stewardship, defined as the development of responsible and conscious practices in healthcare settings, emerges as a frontier to address evolving medical challenges. The project aims to promote awareness among physicians and patients by optimizing prescribing practices through shared decision-making.
Supervisor: Prof. Guendalina Graffigna
Keywords: Antibiotic resistance, Shared decision making, Antibiotic stewardship
Roberta Antonia Allegretta (https://orcid.org/0009-0007-4600-6546)
My PhD project focuses on the development of protocols in the field of neuromanagement, including: the study of inclusive leadership processes, decision-making and leader’s decision awareness, based on multi-method evaluation; neuroempowerment of executive functions, development of training protocols promoting an inclusive environment through the empowerment of hard and soft skills.
Supervisor: Prof. Michela Balconi
Keywords: Decision-making, Executive Functions, Neuromanagement, Addiction
Vittoria Badino (https://orcid.org/0009-0006-4442-9222)
The main research question of this project concerns the assessment of the credibility of children victims and witnesses of Child Sexual Abuse. The project examine, firstly, the perception of children’s credibility held by justice workers, secondly, an assessment of two credibility indicators, namely narrative coherence and narrative completeness of children’s testimonies.
Supervisor: Prof. Sarah Miragoli
Keywords: Child sexual abuse, Child testimony, Credibility of the child witness, Narrative coherence, Narrative completeness
Sabrina Bartolotta (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0909-6868)
My PhD project explores the integration of extended technologies, such as Virtual Reality, into education 4.0. It involves designing and implementing immersive learning experiences and training programs for higher education and corporate settings, assessing their effectiveness, and focusing on the emotional and cognitive aspects of learning concepts and developing soft skills.
Supervisor: Prof. Andrea Gaggioli
Keywords: Virtual reality, Metaverse, User experience, Soft skills training
Federica Bonazza (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0258-1796)
My PhD project focuses on the end of assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment. In the ART setting, there is no defined biological endpoint; the end occurs when it is in the couple's best interest to stop treatment. To date, there is a paucity of data on this complex phase.
Supervisor: Prof. Sara Molgora
Keywords: Assisted reproductive technology, End of treatment, Patient-centered communication
Giulia Brizzi (https://orcid.org/0009-0000-7472-742X)
My PhD research examines how body experience is affected by Multisensory Integration Processes in clinical and non-clinical populations. By making use of Virtual Reality technology, our goal is to explore the potential for modifying and controlling body experience and its underlying mechanisms.
Supervisor: Prof. Giuseppe Riva
Keywords: Body experience, Multisensory integration, Virtual reality
Rossella Caliciuri (https://orcid.org/0009-0003-7417-5719)
My doctoral research explores the significance of scientific reasoning skills for individuals in evaluating information and making informed decisions. It examines both research contexts and everyday situations, focusing on developing scales for scientific reasoning and assessing relationships with socially relevant issues, such as the impact of climate change.
Supervisor: Prof. Margherita Lanz
Keywords: Scientific reasoning Skills, Misinformation, Data literacy, Pseudoscience
Camilla Chiara Colombo (https://orcid.org/0009-0003-4228-1525)
My doctoral research project focuses on the dimensions of ambiguity and uncertainty within romantic relationships in adolescence and emerging adulthood. The study aims to deepen the understanding of unclear and ambiguous practices in light of the attachment theory and to enhance the knowledge of its associated phenomena.
Supervisor: Prof. Emanuela Confalonieri
Keywords: Adolescence, Young adulthood, Romantic relationships
Martina Gnerre (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5917-2972)
My research proposes a system to analyze vocal behavior of miscommunication between pilots and ATC in real flight scenarios. By studying linguistic and acoustic markers, psychological drivers of miscommunication will be identified. The ultimate goal is to establish the foundation for designing an algorithm that can predict instances of miscommunication.
Supervisor: Prof. Federica Biassoni
Keywords: Non-verbal communication, Psycholinguistics, Vocal analysis, Human factor, Aviation psychology
Giuliana Lo Fico (https://orcid.org/0009-0008-4342-8898)
Research project focusing on adoptive families with children affected by Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. Aims to expand scientific knowledge on the topic and develop intervention programs to enhance resources for these families.
Supervisor: Prof. Rosa Rosnati
Keywords: Adoption, Family relationships; Co-parenting, Life satisfaction, Young adults, Teenagers, Well-being, Risky behavior
Marta Mondellini (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9578-4586)
My research aims to investigate the relationship between hedonic stimuli and motivation in the rehabilitation context. Visual, acoustic and social hedonistic stimuli will be inserted into semi-immersive and immersive virtual reality environments. Motivation, emotions, and treatment compliance will be measured by comparing these virtual environments with control virtual environments.
Supervisor: Prof. Alessandro Antonietti
Keywords: Human factor, Motivation, Virtual reality, Rehabilitation
Valentina Poletti (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7458-7498)
My research focuses on studying illness expectations in chronic respiratory diseases. Specifically, I aim to investigate the impact of illness expectations and perceptions on the quality of life and relationships of individuals with sleep apnea, with a particular emphasis on the role of their bed partners.
Supervisor: Prof. Eleonora Volpato
Keywords: Chronic disease, Illness perception, Illness expectation, Mind-body relationship
Daniela Poli Martinelli (https://orcid.org/0009-0005-6692-2890)
The primary focus of my research lies in examining businesses and their commitment to environmental sustainability. Through my project, I'm to gain a deeper understanding of the factors that drive businesses to adopt and uphold sustainable practices throughout their journey and whether ther are differences between FB and non-FB.
Supervisor: Prof. Maura Pozzi
Keywords: Family business, Social representations, Sustainability, Self- entrepreneurship, Identity
Giulia Tallarita (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2142-4454)
My study will evaluate cognitive and psychological aspects of ALE with the aim to characterize the clinical phenotype of the amygdala-orbitofrontal limbic network. My research will explore the effects of clinical variables on cognitive and psychological aspects before treatment and the predictors of cognitive and psychological outcomes of treatment.
Supervisor: Prof. Maria Caterina Silveri
Keywords: Social cognition, Theory of mind, Limbic encephalitis
Ilaria Telazzi (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9929-3349)
Consistently with the Theory of Constructed Emotions, my research focuses on the relationship between emotion regulation and emotional granularity on a daily basis. Along this line of research, I am particularly interested in how this interplay impacts affective experiences and wellbeing in two distinct areas: chronic pain and sleep quality.
Supervisor: Prof. Stefania Balzarotti
Keywords: Theory of constructed emotions, Emotion regulation, Emotional granularity, Chronic pain, Experience sampling methods
XXXVII CYCLE
Carlotta Acconito (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1000-3489)
My research focuses on decision-making processes and aims to outline best practices to guide people through the complexity of decision-making. Having a clear vision of decision-maker’s mechanism, considering the context, and exploring the information communicated to make the best possible choice are the major steps to study decision-making.
Supervisor: Prof. Michela Balconi
Keywords: Decision-making, Neuroscience, Assessment, Communication, Critical Context
Giulia Ciuffo (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4031-0890)
My research mainly focuses on perinatally. Specifically, my Ph.D. project will investigate the antecedents of childbirth-related PTSD, validate the Italian version of the City Birth Trauma Scale, as well as explore the impact of childbirth-related PTSD on the parent-infant relationship.
Supervisor: Prof. Chiara Ionio
Keywords: Pregnancy, Parent-infant Relationship, Childbirth, Trauma, Mental Health
Francesca De Salve (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9784-2914)
My research mainly focuses on young individuals with At-Risk Mental States (ARMS). These individuals are more prone to develop full-blown psychosis, because of both state and trait risk factors. My doctoral project aims at investigating the role of personality traits and mentalizing abilities in this population.
Supervisor: Prof. Oasi Osmano
Keywords: Personality Traits, PID-5, At Risk Mental States (ARMS), Psychopathology, Mentalization
Shata Diallo (https://orcid.org/0009-0001-0333-479X)
My research focuses on social and organizational psychology, specifically Diversity & Inclusion. The Doctoral Research explores how Organizational Culture of Differences (OCDs) impacts the quality of life at work. Quality of life is viewed as fostering creativity, innovation, and balancing productivity with employee wellbeing.
Supervisor: Prof. Caterina Gozzoli
Keywords: Diversity Management, Organizational Culture of Difference, Workforce Diversity, Human Resources Management, Quality of Life at Work
Manuel Faggiano (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6114-1796)
My research interests regard interpersonal relationships, particularly couples. My Ph.D. project focuses on the use of Social Network Sites (e.g., WhatsApp and Instagram) within couples, especially exploring how partners intentionally use those Platforms to communicate things they won’t communicate face-to-face, and outcome of such communication, using a mixed-method approach.
Supervisor: Prof. Silvia Donato; Prof. Ariela Pagani; Prof. Dominik Schoebi
Keywords: Couple Relationships, Interpersonal Relationships, Social Network Sites, Mixed Method, APIM
Valentina Ferrari (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3415-6666)
My field of research concerns green exercise, namely physical activity practiced in natural outdoor places, and its relationship with the connection with nature and community. My work aims to foster a new stream of research concerning the benefits of outdoor green sports for young people while investigating the moderating variables.
Supervisor: Prof. Daniela Marzana; Prof. Chiara D'Angelo
Keywords: Outdoor Sport in Natural Spaces, Sense of Community, Relatedness to Nature, Orienteering
Francesca Grosso (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5232-8313)
My field of research focuses on the mind-body relationship, not understood as a structural dualism, but in a circular and dialectical relationship. As such, I investigate the field of health psychology in order to promote effective interventions and improve the lives of people and patients as active agents.
Supervisor: Prof. Francesco Pagnini
Keywords: Mind-body Relationships, Women's Health, Placebo, Mindfulness
Chiara Manna (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4013-185X)
My research area explores psychological variables in chronic pelvic pain (CPP). CPP significantly impacts patients' daily life. Psychological factors like anxiety, depression, and pain catastrophizing are linked to CPP. The project aims to investigate the role of psychological flexibility in these patients.
Supervisor: Prof. Gianluca Castelnuovo
Keywords: Chronic Pain, Pelvic pain, ACT, Psychological Flexibility, Multidisciplinary
Giacomo Andrea Minazzi (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1262-0701)
My research interest revolves around psychiatric care and group rehabilitation interventions in this field. Specifically, my Ph.D. project aims to identify ways of assessing the 'good functioning' of group rehabilitation activities offered in a residential psychiatric setting in Lombardy, based on a Grounded Theory and according to a PREM approach.
Supervisor: Prof. Cesare Cavalera
Keywords: Psychiatry, Groups, Grounded Theory, PREM Interventions
Carlotta Morozzi (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6837-8331)
The study concerns how competencies learned in non-formal and informal contexts (e.g., volunteering, sports) are enhanced in organizations. Qualitative research will be conducted using observations, focus groups, and interviews with HRs and managers to create a repertoire of competencies and practices to help organizations avoid wasting skills.
Supervisor: Prof. Caterina Gozzoli
Keywords: Informal and Non-formal learning, Skill waste, Organizational culture practices
Eleonora Pagani (https://orcid.org/0009-0003-2488-2108)
My research focuses on the relationship between emotion regulation and well-being. I want to investigate if emotion regulation can be an underlying mechanism of the functioning of well-being by analyzing ER as a theoretical framework for the effectiveness of positive psychology intervention and whether ER is associated with better outcomes after an intervention.
Supervisor: Prof. Stefania Balzarotti
Keywords: Emotion Regulation, Wellbeing, Psychophysiological Measurements, Positive Psychology Intervention, Positive Psychology, Hope
Paleologo Michele (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8075-2450)
My research area focuses on consumer and health psychology. Specifically, I am exploring participatory and multistakeholders research methodologies in the areas of sustainable production and consumption as well as care system improvement.
Supervisor: Prof. Guendalina Graffigna
Keywords: Consumer psychology, Participative Research, Citizen Science, Sustainability, Health Psychology
Sara Petrilli (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9570-2774)
My research focuses on working modalities (remote working, working from office) and workplaces reconfiguration in the New Normal and how they can have an impact on people's identity and meaning-making connected to work.
Supervisor: Prof. Silvio Carlo Ripamonti
Keywords: Workplaces, Work Identity, Meaning Making, Workspaces Reconfiguration
Harriet Pinel (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9775-755X)
My research interests concern the use of nudges to promote behavioral change in workplace environments, mainly related to sustainable behaviors. Specifically, my Ph.D. project concerns the promotion of energy-saving behaviors and the improvement of industrial waste separation in an Italian manufacturing plant. Both qualitative and quantitative approaches are adopted.
Supervisor: Prof. Edoardo Lozza
Keywords: Nudge, Economic Psychology, Workplace, Pro-environmental Behaviors, Sustainability
Marta Pizzolante (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3078-7505)
My research primarily revolves around exploring the influence of aesthetic experiences facilitated by emerging technologies like Virtual Reality. The objective is to examine the combined effects of art and new technology on human well-being, as these experiences have the potential to profoundly affect individuals on emotional and cognitive levels.
Supervisor: Prof. Andrea Gaggioli
Keywords: Aesthetics, Virtual Reality, Transformative Experiences, Complex emotions
Matteo Paolo Robba (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1755-1864)
My research interests concern behavioral finance and sustainable consumption. Specifically, my doctoral project investigates consumers's decision to invest in socially responsible investments (SRI), or a financial approach that combines economical profits with sustainability concerns. The purpose is to understand which psychological and personal characteristics are associated with sustainable investments.
Supervisor: Prof. Paola Iannello
Keywords: Socially Responsible Investments; Investment Decision-making; Financial Market Participation; Individual differences; Sustainability
Maria Sansoni (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5189-7159)
My research focuses on using technologies to assess or implement interventions that target well-being. My first line of research focuses on improving cancer patients' well-being using a multidimensional approach, while the second one, aims at assessing Instagram users' well-being, with particular attention to body dissatisfaction.
Supervisor: Prof. Giuseppe Riva
Keywords: Well-Being, Virtual Reality, Social Media, Cancer, Empathy, Communication
Ester Tommasini (https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2796-0688)
My research focuses on Irisin, a newly discovered hormone released in response to exercise. It plays a crucial role as a regulator of the physical and cognitive benefits derived from exercise. I investigate the effects of exercise on the release of irisin and its impact on wellbeing and cognitive functions.
Supervisor: Prof. Daniela Tavian
Keywords: Health-enhancing Physical Activity, Physical Health, Health psychology, wellbeing, biomarkers, myokines.
Sara Zannelli (https://orcid.org/0009-0009-1645-4107)
My project aims to explain consumers' motivations for buying counterfeit and luxury products. It will investigate luxury consumption practices from the non-academic bibliography and, by scaling the Slippery Slope Framework model in the consumer world, explore consumer barriers and drivers in the counterfeit market.
Supervisor: Prof. Cinzia Castiglioni
Keywords: Counterfeiting, Luxury Goods, Slippery Slope Framework, Consumer Behavior
XXXVI CYCLE
Stefano Besana (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9715-9533)
This study emphasizes transformative experiences' significance in our lives and economy. It explores their profound emotional and cognitive impact, synthesizes literature, applies TED principles to create an emotional space, and investigates effects using qualitative, quantitative, and neuroscience methodologies.
Supervisor: Prof. Andrea Gaggioli
Keywords: Ted, Positive Psychology, Transformative Experience, Experience Design, Immersive Spaces, Change, Psycap, Transformative Experience Design, Positive emotions
Laura Colautti (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7803-3721)
The present research aims at investigating the relationships between decision making (under ambiguous and risky conditions) and executive functions both in healthy older adults and in patients affected by Parkinson's disease.
Supervisor: Prof. Alessandro Antonietti; Prof. Paola Iannello
Keywords: Decision Making, Executive Functions, Cognition, Aging, Parkinson's Disease, Dopamine, Iowa Gambling Task, Game of Dice Task
Giovanni Fumagalli (https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6625-2057)
My research aims at validating an alternative approach for psychopathological diagnosis, called the “Basic and Continuum Diagnostic Model” (BCDM). This system promotes a simple structure for diagnosis, easy to remember and use, and an impressive reduction in the number of diagnostic categories.
Supervisor: Prof. Davide Margola
Keywords: Psychopathology, DSM, PDM, Efectiveness of psychotherapies, Idiographic psychology, Diagnosis, Demand analysis
Valentina Granese (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9066-9861)
By means of a mixed method approach, the aim of my research is to evaluate the efficacy of a group reminiscence therapy intervention in reducing caregiver burden, anxiety and depression, while increasing life satisfaction. The intervention will be applied to a group of caregivers of older adults with dementia.
Supervisor: Prof. Gianluca Castelnuovo
Keywords: Psychology of Aging; Older Adults, Dementia, Caregiving, Cognitive Impairment, Cognitive Stimulation, Active Ageing, Healthy Aging, Technologies and Aging
Martina Sansone (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2074-4045)
The aim of the research is to shed light on how cognitive and socio-emotional factors can interplay in decision-making occurring within complex real-life environments by adopting a neuroscientific multimethod approach, that focuses on the investigation of the neural underpinnings of decision-making processes.
Supervisor: Prof. Michela Balconi
Keywords: Cognitive Neuroscience, Consumer Neuroscience, Neuromanagement, Neuroeconomics, Decision-making, Complex Environments
Giulia Sesini (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2728-7764)
The goal of my research thesis is twofold: to explore the relationship between the affective and symbolic dimension attributed to money and financial practices, and to investigate differences between emerging adult (still structuring their personal and professional life) and mature individuals (with a more stable situation).
Supervisor: Prof. Edoardo Lozza
Keywords: Economic Psychology, Psychology of Money, Consumer Behavior, Money Management, Investment Behavior, Sustainable Practices
Denise Vagnini (https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3796-7202)
My thesis investigates the effects of a multidisciplinary lifestyle group intervention on the psychological health of breast cancer survivors, employing mixed-methods research and assuming a holistic approach to cancer care that draws on theoretical models of the mind-body relationship.
Supervisor: Prof. Emanuela Saita
Keywords: Health Psychology, Psycho-oncology, Breast Cancer, Cancer Patients, Cancer Survivors, Exercise Oncology, Mind-body Interventions, Quality of Life, Cancer Caregivers, Dyadic Coping
This section celebrates the achievements of our PhD students and their contributions to the respective fields.
2023 AWARDS
Federica Bonazza
Award: Best Poster Presentation
Attributed by: XIV National SIPSA Congress (Cagliari, Italy - 25-27 May 2023)
Title of the project: Sequele psicologiche e crescita post- traumatica nei pazienti COVID-19: Uno studio longitudinale a sei mesi dopo la dimissione
Valentina Poletti
Award: Clean Air Grant “Healthy Lungs for Life (HLfL)”
Attributed by: European Respiratory Society (2023)
Title of the project: Breath of Life: Empowering Respiratory Health Awareness in Milan
Francesca De Salve
Award: Young Researcher award
Attributed by: 54th International Annual Meeting, Society for Psychotherapy Research - Italian Area Group, SPR-IAG (Dublin, Ireland - 21-24 June 2023)
Title of the project: Mentalizing in Patients with At-Risk Mental States (ARMS): A Systematic Review of its Role in the psychotic onset
Award: Premio nazionale Angelo Cocchi
Attributed by: IX Congresso Nazionale, Associazione Italiana Intervento Precoce nella Salute (AIPP) (Bari, Italy - 27-29 September 2023)
Title of the project: Personality Traits and Transition to psychosis one year after the First Assessment
Sara Petrilli
Award: Fédération EPN-R
Attributed by: Université Paris Nanterre (2023)
Title of the project: Luoghi del lavoro nel new normal: analisi dei processi identitari e di senso dei lavoratori che sperimentano modalità e nuove configurazioni di lavoro
Ester Tommasini
Award: Best Young Speaker
Attributed by: 2023 Padua Days on Muscle and Mobiliy Medicine (March 29 - April 1, 2023)
Title of the project: Psychological sequelae and post-traumatic growth in COVID-19 patients: A longitudinal study at six months post-discharge
Harriet Pinel
Award: Top Presenter Award
Attributed by: Early Career Marathon of IAAP (International Association of Applied Psychology) (Online, 11-12 Novembre 2023).
Title of the project: Nudge Interventions to Promote Sustainable Behaviors in Organizations
Laura Colautti
Award: Best Poster Presentation
Attributed by: XVI Convegno Nazionale di Psicologia dell’Invecchiamento, Società Italiana di Psicologia dell’Invecchiamento (SIPI) (Pavia, Italy - 26-27 May 2023)
Title of the project: Il potenziale ruolo della creatività nel benessere psicologico dell’anziano: proposta di un training per favorire un invecchiamento attivo
Giulia Sesini
Award: Invited Key-Note Speaker
Attributed by: Early Career Marathon of IAAP (International Association of Applied Psychology) (Online, 11-12 November 2023).
Title of the project: Gender and Money: unveiling gender differences in money management and meanings
Denise Vagnini
Award: Best Poster Presentation
Attributed by: XXII Congresso Nazionale Associazione Italiana Psicologia (AIP) - Sezione di Psicologia Clinica e Dinamica (Lecce, Italy - 17-19 September 2023)
Title of the project: Effects of the “Maudsley eating disorder collaborative care skills intervention” on parental dyadic coping
2022 AWARDS
Giacomo Andrea Minazzi
Award: Best Mini-Talk
Attributed by: XXII Congresso Nazionale Associazione Italiana Psicologia (AIP) - Sezione di Psicologia Clinica e Dinamica (Padova, Italy - 27-29 September 2022)
Title of the project: Yoga e riabilitazione psichiatrica: uno studio esplorativo
Maria Sansoni
Award: Supervisor of the Junior Researcher Program (2022-2023)
Attributed by: Cambridge University (UK) and Columbia University (USA)
Title of the project: Instagram filters and Psychological Well-being: How to protect users from Social Media Perfection
Giulia Sesini
Award: Top Presenter Award
Attributed by: Early Career Marathon of IAAP (International Association of Applied Psychology) (Online, 1-2 October 2022).
Title of the project: The affective dimension of money: a multi-methods perspective
2021 AWARDS
Denise Vagnini
Award: Best Oral Presentation
Attributed by: The 17th HETI International Congress – Federation of Horses in Education & Therapy International (Seoul, Korea - 7-10 June 2021)
Title of the project: Influence of equine facilitated psychological support on the psychological wellbeing of healthcare workers during the initial phase of the phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in Italy
Have a look at PhD candidates' poster presentations for the XXXVII cycle --> Poster XXVII CYCLE