
Episode #6
Faculty Focus: Understanding Ourselves in the Age of AI
Artificial intelligence is changing the way we learn, work, communicate, and interact with the world around us—but what can psychology teach us about navigating these changes? In the first installment of our new Faculty Focus series, host Samantha Miko sits down with Dr. Randi Spiker, Assistant Professor in Marywood University’s Psychology and Counseling Department, to explore technology through the lens of human behavior and development. Dr. Spiker’s research examines how technology—including generative AI—affects human development, health, and well-being, with a particular focus on adolescents and emerging adults. Her work also explores digital safety, technology-facilitated violence, and the ways our increasingly digital world shapes our experiences and relationships. In this episode, Dr. Spiker discusses her journey into developmental science, common misconceptions surrounding AI, and the opportunities and concerns that come with emerging technology. She and Samantha also explore responsible AI use in education, where we might draw the line between AI supporting our thinking and replacing it, and why understanding ourselves may be just as important as understanding the technology itself. Plus, Dr. Spiker shares insight into her own research, including work surrounding nonconsensual sharing of intimate images, well-being, digital safety, and technology-facilitated violence. Learn More & Connect with Dr. Randi Spiker Dr. Randi Spiker: randispiker.com DIVA Psych Lab on Instagram: @diva_psych_lab Book Chapter/Resource: Navigating Your PhD — navigatingyourphd.com To learn more about Marywood University’s College of Health Sciences, visit marywood.edu/healthsciences . Follow the College of Health Sciences on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube @MarywoodUniversityCHS for new episodes, behind-the-scenes content, and the latest from around the College. CHS Check-In: -Mountain Top Counseling and the PA Play Therapy Association - October 3rd -First Week of October is PA Week -Psy.D Program Virtual Information Session - October 5th






