Who is Dr. Pam?

I am a media psychologist, professor, writer, consultant, parent, and dog lover. I started in media production and business before taking a deep dive into psychology applied to media and technology. I translate psychological science into usable insights and practical tips for navigating a digital world.

Technology isn’t going anywhere, so whether we’re users or creators, we need to learn to use it well. I write about enhancing digital literacy and healthy media-tech relationships at any age, including the challenges of digital parenting. I also explore how an information-rich environment influences meaning-making and how our brains, bodies, and minds respond to and engage with media.

Why subscribe?

Subscriptions are free and give you full access to new posts and the website of archived articles, along with notifications, so you’ll never miss an update.

What you will get

You will get a balanced, jargon-free look at media and technology in plain English, an honest evaluation of research findings, and general myth-busting about media worries to help you make more informed decisions.

I encourage you to ask questions, suggest topics, and make comments. Participation in discussion strings is always welcome. To find out more about the company that provides the tech for this newsletter, visit Substack.com.

My “why”

I have two main goals: 1) to use psychological science to help all of us (adults, children, and adults raising children) understand what’s going on when we use and consume media so we can make good choices and develop healthy behaviors, and 2) to help content and technology producers understand their impact so they can make more purposeful and positive choices. 

I have published academically, including a text on positive psychology and popular media. I have written a blog for Psychology Today since 2007 and I also co-host a free monthly webinar and podcast on staying safe and smart online. (See Cyberwise.org for links and sign-ups).

I am lucky to talk with journalists about media use and popular culture and am frequently quoted in publications such as The NY Times, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and ABC News.

How I got into media psychology

I started my career as a creative designer and media producer. I segued into business and marketing but became preoccupied with meaning construction, finally arriving at psychology. After some time as a therapist, I was drawn back to the increasing impact that media, technology, and information flows have on our lives.

While I have the degrees to show for my efforts, but my wisdom about media and tech has been hard-earned from roles as a producer, an academic, a researcher, a consultant, and, most of all, a parent.