The following column is the opinion of the author and in no way represents the opinions of Tiger Media Network or Fort Hays State University.
BY MARISSA CASTANOS
You’re sitting on the couch watching Criminal Minds. You think to yourself, “how could anyone be so sick in the mind to do this to innocent people?” Well, this is where you will find out. Welcome to my psychology column. One of the most interesting subdivisions of psychology, in my opinion, is abnormal psychology. One thing I’m most interested in is the diseases of the mind.
Throughout my last months here at Fort Hays State, we’re going to be talking about various serial killers, but also about subjects such as the media’s portrayals of mental illness and various mental illnesses you’ve probably seen before. One thing I want you to remember during these articles is that I am in no way an expert in psychology, as I am still learning, and will continue to learn for the rest of my life. If you are interested in psychology, I greatly encourage you to reach out to different professors in the department at FHSU. You can find these brilliant minds in Martin Allen Hall.
Psychology is more than just a major, it is a study that helps open our minds. This is something that I am dearly passionate about and very excited to write about, and I hope you enjoy reading my column throughout this summer and upcoming school year. I will also note that a majority of the topics you will read about can be extremely triggering, so if you have any issues with mental illness, I encourage you to read them in the company of a trusted friend, adult, parent, or anyone else you are safe with. If you find yourself struggling with the topics discussed, FHSU offers free counseling at the Kelly Center, found on the bottom floor of Picken Hall.
Stay tuned as next week we will discuss the media’s portrayal of mental illness.