The Demystifying Psychology Discussion Group met on 15 September in Jane's absence. 

​We had a most enjoyable time raising and discussing issues drawn from politics and our lives. 

Time passed quickly, however we definitely missed Jane's skills in interpreting issues and expanding our understanding of them through the lens of psychology. 

We are looking forward to Jane's return on Tuesday 20 October in Room 1 from 9:30 to 11:30 am!   

Heather Wallace

Our August gathering was well attended and rich in conversation – both evidence-based and reflective.

Melody Finnerty, long-time group member and experienced Social Worker (Retired) played a key role in today’s discussion with her presentation of compelling and thought-provoking data on our prison systems. 

The following is Melody’s report:

Australia’s Growing Prison Population
The group discussed why Australia’s prison population is increasing and why more prisons are being built.
Several statistics were provided to support the discussion. These included that, on average, 41% of prisoners were on remand, awaiting trial or sentencing; 51% had a diagnosed mental health or behavioural condition; and 45% of people released from prison returned with a new sentence within two years.
The group also explored statistics relating to the categories and types of offences represented within the prison population. This prompted discussion about whether the growth in imprisonment reflects an increase in serious crime, changes in sentencing and remand practices, or a greater emphasis within society on punishment.
A key question was raised: Does Australia have a shortage of prisons, or does it have a shortage of effective alternatives to imprisonment?
The discussion considered whether prisons alone can address offending, particularly given the complex social issues that can contribute to criminal behaviour, including mental health problems, substance dependence, homelessness and disadvantage.
The group considered whether, in cases where community safety can be maintained, greater use of alternatives to incarceration—such as treatment, rehabilitation, supervision and community-based programs—could be more effective in reducing reoffending.
The discussion ultimately raised a broader question: Should the primary response to offending be punishment and incarceration, or should greater emphasis be placed on rehabilitation and addressing the underlying factors that contribute to crime?

​As Melody’s report indicates, there were many related topics included in our fearless and enlightening discussions. Enjoy the following related links.

Koori Court: https://www.mcv.vic.gov.au/about/koori-court
Benalla Magistrates Court: https://www.mcv.vic.gov.au/court/benalla-magistrates-court
Family Violence protection: https://www.legalaid.vic.gov.au/going-court-family-violence-intervention-order-affected
Australia’s Court systems: https://www.shine.com.au/resources/legal-news/different-australian-courts-how-do-they-work
What is Justice? https://ethics.org.au/calling-out-for-justice/

Enjoy an excellent read over favourite cuppa.

A bit of housekeeping:

Please note this September change: the Demystifying Group will meet at 9:30am – 11:30am on 15 September in Room 1 at the Benalla Seniors and Community Centre, 18 Fawckner Drive, Benalla.

I look forward to catching up with this fabulous group same place, same time on  
25 October.


Jane Rushworth
0437 621 575

There is no shortage of topics for discussion in this 5th year of the Demystifying Psychology Discussion Group. If discussing events/people and adding a psychological overlay to these piques your interest feels free to contact the Convenor for information about the purpose of the group and how to join.
July’s discussion included:

• 4Corners  episode on keeping younger in the episode “The Race to Reverse Aging” . Described on the ABC website as “From IV drip bars to recovery studios to plush longevity clinics and online biohacking, the longevity industry is booming. Dr Norman Swan examines whether the race to slow aging is outpacing the science.”  For this and other episodes got to: https://iview.abc.net.au/show/four-corners?utm_source=google_feed&utm_medium=syndicated_content&utm_campaign=iview_google_feed
• Curiously the majority of group members are first born! And about half of thee group members are from largeish families (by today’s standards). Psychologist Alfred Adler, described as having “pioneered” the psychological study of birth order, suggested a child's position in the family shaped personality and behavior. Modern large-scale research suggests minimum impact of birth on broad personality development. Good news for this of us who have historically been relegated the title of “bossy eldest” 😊.

Just for fun here are the “classic” (now debunked) archetypes of birth order.

• For a short time, we reflected on “things I would do differently”, and writing a letter to our younger self.  Quite a few said “yes” to doing some things differently, others not. The American Psychological Association has an interesting (though a bit dry) piece of research “Adult Age Differences in the Response to and Regulation of Recent Versus Long-Term Regrets” at https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2026/05/regret-feelings-mellow-age

Click the blue underlined text under “Read the journal article” for document. Little time was spent on this topic before we moved to …

•  The very complex topic of “Are we letting today’s kids down by being “soft” on them?” as exampled by apparently lenient legal responses to poor adolescent behaviour. Not surprisingly there is a wealth of on-line information relevant to this topic. This TedTalk frames the topic in terms of understanding what to expect when raising teenagers. 

https://www.ted.com/talks/tony_mccabe_raising_teenagers_what_i_wish_someone_had_told_me_earlier
 
The July discussions, ranging from healthy ageing and birth order to regret and raising teenagers, all explored a common theme: how our early experiences, relationships, choices and society influence who we become throughout life. Together, these topics highlighted that while we are shaped by our past, people continue to learn, adapt and grow at every stage of life.
 
Topics of interest “raised but no time to follow” for August:

• Foundations of Australia economic model.
• Manosphere and “toxic males”.
• When should we give our children a mobile phone?

NOTE: No group for September.
Enjoy the links and cheers.

​Jane Rushworth
Convenor 0437 621 575 ​

​Pass the word around & all welcome - Demystifying Psychology Course begins Thursday 9 July 2026 10:00 – 12:00 Room 1, Benalla Seniors and Community Centre, Fawckner Drive, Benalla. Thereafter every second Thursday of the month until December.
​
Why Do Some People Guard Their Views So Strongly?

One of psychology's enduring questions is why people respond so differently to new ideas. Some readily reconsider their opinions when presented with new evidence, while others hold firmly to their views despite persuasive arguments.

Most people are neither completely open-minded nor completely rigid. They may be flexible about some issues yet highly protective of others, particularly those linked to personal values, life experiences or identity.

Two concepts help explain this behaviour. A psychological theory is an evidence-based explanation of how people think, feel and behave. A social norm is a shared expectation about acceptable behaviour within a group. These norms develop through families, schools, workplaces, religion and communities, often becoming accepted without question.
​
Several psychological theories explain why people guard their views. Cognitive Dissonance Theory (Festinger, 1957) suggests that conflicting information creates psychological discomfort. Rather than changing their beliefs, people may dismiss or reinterpret the new information.

​​Confirmation Bias describes the tendency to notice evidence that supports existing beliefs while overlooking information that challenges them. Motivated Reasoning (Kunda, 1990) suggests people often search for reasons to defend a preferred conclusion instead of evaluating evidence objectively.
  
Beliefs are also shaped by the groups to which people belong. Social Identity Theory (Tajfel & Turner, 1979) proposes that group membership forms part of personal identity, so criticism of a group's beliefs can feel personal.

​Psychological Reactance (Brehm, 1966) explains why pressure to change someone's mind may actually strengthen their original position.

Communities with strong social norms, such as the Amish or those where Sharia law guides aspects of daily life, demonstrate how beliefs can be reinforced through shared values, traditions and expectations. These examples illustrate the influence of community rather than making judgments about particular belief systems.

Perhaps psychology's most valuable lesson is that these processes influence everyone. Recognising this tendency encourages curiosity, respectful discussion and an appreciation that thoughtful people can honestly reach different conclusions.

References:

1. 1.Brehm, J. W. (1966). A Theory of Psychological Reactance.
2. TED Talk https://youtu.be/YgMlTCtnsFg?si=vwqhIEoNMbHQoyG8 - how people react to having their freedom threatened.
3. Festinger, L. (1957). A Theory of Cognitive Dissonance.
4. Kunda, Z. (1990). "The Case for Motivated Reasoning." Psychological Bulletin, 108(3), 480–498. https://fbaum.unc.edu/teaching/articles/Psych-Bulletin-1990-Kunda.pdf
5. Tajfel, H., & Turner, J. C. (1979). "An Integrative Theory of Intergroup Conflict."

See you all soon ..

• 14 July 2026, 9:30 am – 11:30 am, Room 1, Benalla Seniors and Community Centre, Fawckner Drive, Benalla.

Jane Rushworth
0437 621 575

​Demystifying Psychology Course starts: Thursday 18 June 2026
When: Third Thursday of each month, June–November
Time: 10.00am – 12.00pm
Where: U3A Room 1, Benalla Seniors & Community Centre, 18 Fawckner Drive, Benalla

​Discussion Group Continues ...
When: Third Tuesday of each month, June–November
Time: 9.30am – 11.30am
​Where: U3A Room 1, Benalla Seniors & Community Centre, 18 Fawckner Drive, Benalla

The Right to Free Expression – a Community Example

The group explored a comment added to a recent post by an organisation that welcomed community members to participate in their celebration event. The added comment included the word “pedo” (paedophile), erroneously linking the organisation to highly offensive and unlawful behaviour. Concern about the use of the word “pedo” was raised by the community and the post was removed.

The discussion prompted thoughtful conversation about:

• the role and responsibilities of Facebook monitors and moderators;
• possible legal implications of defamatory or harmful online comments;
• the personal impact such posts can have on individuals and organisations;
• and the role of bystanders — whether people speak up, stay silent, or help calm conflict online.

We reflected on how social media can quickly inflame emotions, but also how respectful intervention and community standards can help maintain safer online spaces.

We also discussed: -
​
Fanny Finch – Australia’s First Woman Voter Fanny Finch was a business and land owner who voted decades before women officially gained voting rights in Australia. Voting was then restricted to property owners – expected to be men, however she legally met the criteria and quietly made history.  

Recommended Viewing

• Anne with an E – a fresh retelling of Anne of Green Gables.
• Hidden Figures – the inspiring true story of three brilliant African American women mathematicians whose work helped power NASA’s Space Race achievements.

​
Thought Provoker – We also discussed the work of comedian Ricky Gervais, whose humour often tackles uncomfortable issues such as racism and bullying, and also the concept of wilful ignorance — deliberately avoiding facts or truths because they may be uncomfortable or require personal responsibility.

Next meeting: 9:30 – 11:30 am, Tuesday 16 June

Jane Rushworth

Last week our group explored four scenarios built around the theme “the worst thing I ever did,” prompted by the recently released film The Drama. Before we began, I reassured everyone that our conversation would not spoil the film for those yet to see it. Happily, that proved correct—no spoilers, but plenty of opinions.

Each scenario was discussed in detail. Interestingly, we did not dwell on the film’s most dramatic element—the potential school mass shooting—but instead focused on the more everyday (and perhaps more recognisable) human behaviours. There was general agreement that three of the scenarios felt incomplete. We wanted to know more—always a sign the story has done its job, even if it leaves us slightly dissatisfied.

The scenario involving a person using their partner as a physical shield drew particularly strong reaction. “Unattractive” was the polite version. The bully’s confession also raised questions, with several members noting we lacked a clear sense of consequences. And the chief bridesmaid’s story prompted thoughtful discussion about how her cousin’s permanent injury shaped her emotional response and near-withdrawal from the wedding.

One of our aims is to link these discussions to psychological theory, and this session provided fertile ground. Cognitive Dissonance was evident in the tension between how people see themselves and what they have done. Moral Disengagement helped explain how individuals justify behaviour that, viewed plainly, is difficult to defend. And Fundamental Attribution Error reminded us how quickly we judge others’ character while quietly excusing our own lapses.

Overall, the discussion confirmed that while dramatic events capture attention, it is the smaller, messier human behaviours that keep us talking—sometimes long after the film has finished.

See you all next Month: Tuesday 19 May at U3A Room 1 – 18 Fawckner Drive Benalla.

​
Jane
0437 621 575

Our discussion this month ranged widely touching on belonging, human traits, ethics, gender perspectives, and the history of drugs.

Belonging
We explored IVF, DNA, and the language of belonging, including terms like “outcast” or “difficult.” The group reflected on how both biology and language shape identity, influencing whether people feel included or marginalised within families and communities.

Traits – science and manifestation
We considered whether narcissism is genetic, environmental, or both. The discussion highlighted how traits emerge through a complex interplay of inherited predispositions and environmental influences over time.

DNA and ethics
With the rise of commercial DNA testing, we noted the ethical tension between personal curiosity and concerns about privacy, consent, and unintended family consequences. A suggested talk by Professor Emma Kowal explores how a simple gift of a DNA test can reshape ideas of kinship and belonging.

​Drugs, dependency, law and politics
Discussion highlighted shifting public attitudes to addiction, the balance between punishment and harm minimisation, and why some substances are legal while others are not. A handy summary: https://bit.ly/4rXszOF
 
​Next meeting: Tuesday 21 April 9:30-11:30 am

​Jane Rushworth

​Welcome back to this and the many 2026 Benalla U3A groups.

True to form, our general chat soon wandered into more thought-provoking territory, this time sparked by a media report describing an alleged assault involving a trans male prisoner placed within a women’s prison. Unsurprisingly, the topic generated energetic discussion and, before long, a mind map appeared (see photo), reflecting just how layered and complex the issues quickly became.

Using the mind map as our reference point, ChatGPT (free version) was asked to summarise the mind-map.

This is ChatGPT’s mind-map summary: Central to the discussion was the corrections/prison system, with its responsibilities for placement decisions, inmate safety, and risk management.

Medical and psychiatric professionals were noted for their role in assessment and classification processes. Police and the legal system were recognised for investigation, charges, human rights considerations, and duty of care issues.

Participants also identified the roles of social workers, policymakers, and the media, each influencing outcomes in different ways.

Further stakeholders included prison advocacy groups, staff unions, family members, and the broader public, all of whom shape debate, policy, and perception.

Overall, the exercise reinforced a key insight: events like this rarely stem from a single decision or actor, but from the interaction of policy, law, professional judgement, operational practice, and social context.

The response, much like our own discussion, pointed not to any single source of accountability, but to a web of organisations, systems, and professional perspectives.

Looking forward to the next meeting:

• 9:30 am-11:30am
• Tuesday 17 March
• U3A Room at Benalla Community and Seniors Centre 18 Fawckner Drive, Benalla

The Demystifying Psychology Discussion Group meets on the 3rd Tuesday from 9.30am to 11.30am in Room 1.  Commencing 17 February.  The Demystifying Psychology introductory course commences in Semester 2.
​
Convenor:  Jane Rushworth 0437 621 575

“Sometimes you just have to take your own advice — have a break and forget the report".

​Thanks for your interest in our little adventure: Canberra, down that stunning NSW coast to Tathra, then across to Jindabyne, over Mt Kosciuszko and home via Albury. It was a pet-friendly trip all the way, and a lovely reminder of just how much joy (and dopamine!) our animals add to our world.

This month we took the long way around to the topic of managing ideology in the face of apparent reality.  To get there we first discussed:
​
The corporatised “bookends” of life

• Current failures in the childcare sector show how children and women often bear the burden of profit-driven practices.
• At the other end of life, caring for a rapidly ageing Baby Boomer population is becoming increasingly complex.

“Rent a womb” / Baby Bonus

• The 2004 Baby Bonus used financial incentives to boost birth rates. Critics argued it reduced women’s reproductive autonomy by treating childbirth as a demographic tool rather than supporting long-term wellbeing.

When miracles become problems

• Innovations can shift from marvels to concerns within a generation.
• Smartphones, once astonishing, now raise serious issues for children’s safety—prompting new age-based legislation in Australia.
• Each generation has a responsibility to pass on its “miracles” thoughtfully, with lessons attached.

Some of our strategies for managing ideology in the face of apparent reality:

• Keep the “book-ends” out of the ASX, improve the status of workers in these areas, share the parental workload/responsibility to a more gender equitable state, and, for those that have them, review investments and attend Shareholder meetings to demand the shift to not-for-profit. (Yes, we acknowledged how counter-productive the later could be for some incomes, but small steps …).
• Local Grass-roots solutions - Community programs like Wangaratta’s Grit and Resilience Program strengthen social connection and inclusion across diverse groups, promoting wellbeing through inclusive local action.

         (See -  https://www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Community/Grit-Resilience)

Ethical dilemmas can be broadly managed using these 5 suggestions (Source ChatGPT 26112025):

• Get clear on the real issue – What’s the actual ethical question, once you strip away personalities and side stories?
• Check the facts – Make sure you know what’s true, what’s assumed, and what’s hearsay.
• Consider who’s affected – Think about the people involved and the possible short- and long-term impacts.
• Weigh options against principles – Compare your choices with basic values, common-sense ethics, and any relevant guidelines.
• Talk it through – Getting another perspective often helps. And once you decide, be open about how you reached that decision.

The curtain falls on the 2025 series of Demystifying Psychology  Discussion Group at the end of year lunch at:

• Location: Ruby Blue Café (67 Nunn St Benalla – back room)
• Time: 11:45 – 2:00pm
• Date: Tuesday 16 December 
• Individual purchases off the menu.

The 2025 Demystifying Psychology Group will reconvene from February on the 3rd Tuesday of each month with a new time of 9:30am to 11:30am.

Jane Rushworth
​0437 621 575
​(Report edited using ChatGPT 26112025)

We've received an email from Jane from the mid NSW coast reporting that ... "Lots of beach walking is working wonders!" with this quite beautiful photograph attached. A newsletter report may appear on this web page in due course...but in the meantime ...

Media Team

In our first hour we asked: Are we becoming saturated with world events? Most of us felt global news is valuable, yet not always accurate. Every era has felt significant, but today’s constant flood of information can be exhausting. Some even wondered if we have the right to tune it out.

We also reflected on how lucky we are. Many remember parents or grandparents speaking of the World Wars. Living in Australia we’ve enjoyed a relatively peaceful life compared to much of the world. In earlier conflicts news travelled slowly; fighting was face-to-face and veterans rarely spoke of it. The Vietnam War and television marked a turning point, making conflict immediate for distant audiences.

Now a drone can destroy a community hundreds of kilometres away and within minutes footage appears on mobile phones. Combatants are more distant than ever, yet the images reach us faster and closer. Balancing global concerns with local and family life is challenging, and keeping our personal integrity matters.

After a cuppa break we swapped ideas on staying grounded and informed while facing information and disinformation from multiple perspectives. Our top tips:

1. Curate news intake.
2. Practise “information hygiene.”
3. Stay grounded in routine.
4. Maintain social support and discussion with boundaries.
5. Consume mindfully.
6. Engage without overloading.

 
We agreed staying informed matters, but we can manage world events by building habits that protect mental health, limit exposure to constant negativity, and create a sense of agency.

Here’s a sample of psychological ideas that help explain some reactions:

• Information Overload (Cognitive Load Theory).
• Mindfulness & Attention Regulation.
• Stress and Coping (Lazarus & Folkman).
• Learned Helplessness (Seligman).
• Self-Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan).
• Social Comparison Theory (Festinger).
• Selective Exposure & Confirmation Bias.
• Media Effects & Desensitisation—frequent exposure to disturbing images can dull responses or heighten anxiety; mindful breaks help counteract this.
• Positive Psychology & Resilience—gratitude, optimism, and focusing on controllable actions improve mental health during stressful times.

 
Thanks to those who shared the following reading/viewing:

• Max Blumenthal – Charlie Kirk’s Story Falls Apart (YouTube).
• Chris Hedges – Where Is America Going and Should You Leave? (YouTube).

Both authors are experienced journalists now working outside mainstream media. Their independence brings insight but fewer editorial checks. Treat their work as one perspective and cross-check major claims with diverse sources. (Source: ChatGPT_20.09.2025)

Finally, we discussed the “Hundredth Monkey” notion—the idea that once enough members of a group learn something, the knowledge spreads magically. (Source: Hundredth Monkey Effect – Wikipedia)

Next Gathering:
Date/Time: 21 October, 10:00–12:00 Noon.
Location: Room 1, Benalla Seniors Community Centre, Fawckner Drive.


​Jane Rushworth

That was the spirit of our conversation this month.

What began with a simple question about a favourite scarf became a wide-ranging discussion on identity, politics, and how we make sense of global events. The scarf was mistaken for a Palestinian keffiyeh, traditionally worn for sun protection, but now widely recognised as a symbol of Palestinian nationalism. Its patterns hold meaning – olive leaves for resilience, a fishnet for connection to the sea, and bold lines for ancient trade routes.

From there, our talk travelled widely:

• Suggested readings included Balcony over Jerusalem (John Lyons), A Very Short History of Israel-Palestine (Alan Papple), and Palestine: A to Z (Kate Thompson).
• We touched on unexpected side topics, such as how Nobel Peace Prize nominations work and even how someone becomes a saint.
  • https://www.nobelpeaceprize.org/nobel-peace-prize/nomination/
  • https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-27140646
• Big questions arose: Who makes high-level decisions about war? Are they competent? How do moral values develop in children (Piaget) and adults (Kohlberg)?
  • https://www.simplypsychology.org/piaget-moral.html
  • https://www.simplypsychology.org/kohlberg.html​
  
  

A key theme was the gap between global decision-makers and humanitarian suffering. With constant access to world news, we asked: how do we live with the knowledge of others’ pain when we feel powerless?

Finally, our focus turned homewards: Why did the Australian Government seem to take so long to make a strong statement on the crisis?

• https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1BHPpVYLzk/

From a scarf, to Gaza, to Canberra — this month’s session reminded us how the global and local are often inseparably linked.

Join us at the next discussion group:

• Date: September 16
• Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
• Location: Room 1, Benalla Seniors and Community Centre.

​
Enquiries: Jane Rushworth 0437 621 575.

​This month our group took on a big question: How do our personal ethics play out at local, national and international levels?

Values are what we believe—our core convictions. Ethics are how we behave, especially when those beliefs are tested. Values influence ethics, but ethics involve broader judgments—often shaped by collective agreements, laws, or professional standards.
Source: The Ethics Centre – Ethics Explainer

We started by looking at the local picture, where ethics are often easier to recognise. In our families, towns, and neighbourhoods, ethical behaviour is reflected in how we treat each other, how our local council engages with the community, and how local groups operate. When something goes wrong, we usually know about it—and we can speak up or get involved. There’s a sense of immediacy: we can see the impact of ethical or unethical choices.

When we zoom out to the national level, ethical issues become a little more complex. We can still identify ethical principles in public policy—how we treat older people, refugees, First Nations communities, or how governments respond to climate change. We also discussed the role of political leadership and how national decisions may (or may not) reflect ethical thinking. For example, are policies guided by integrity, or convenience? Is climate inaction shaped by lobbyists rather than shared values?

The further we zoom out, the murkier it becomes.

At the international level, such as in the ongoing Israeli/Gaza tragedy, we found it even harder to detect ethical considerations at work. We asked ourselves: do ethics even have a place here? In many global issues—foreign aid, climate agreements, trade deals, and human rights—it seems that political ambitions often override shared values. The challenge is distance—both physical and emotional. It’s harder to feel connected and harder to believe our values still matter when decisions are made behind closed doors, often by many players with competing interests.

So—is it easier to live out our ethics locally?

Most of us agreed: yes, it is. It’s more personal. We know the people. We can act directly. And if something feels wrong, we often have a way to speak up or take action.

We also agreed that local ethics can and do influence bigger systems. When we stand up for fairness or honesty in our own backyard, we’re setting a standard. Movements that start small—such as climate action, equality, or community care—can ripple outward and shape policy at state, national, and even international levels.

In the end, we circled back to a simple idea:

Ethics and values aren’t just abstract or distant. They are evident in how we speak, act, vote, consume, and show up for each other—whether that’s on our street, in Canberra, or across the world.
​
Next meeting:

• Time/Date: 10:00am – 12:00pm, Tuesday 19 August
• Location: Room 1 Benalla Seniors Community Centre, Fawckner St.

Everyone is welcome to join in the Demystifying Psychology Discussion Group – there are no pre-requisites. Call with any queries …
Convener – Jane Rushworth h0437 621 55

We enjoy strong attendance at our discussion groups—and there's always room for new participants. If you're curious about joining, you're most welcome to attend one or two sessions after a quick chat with the convener.
​
This month’s opening question was: “Why do good people allow bad things to happen?”
Together, we explored this through the various rabbit holes of our shared curiosity.

We began with a hopeful statement: “A good person will always help people in need, which I think I do any chance I get.” The trouble is that’s not always true—even for the best of us. So, does falling short make someone “bad”? Not necessarily.

​Here are some of the reasons we uncovered for why good people don’t always live up to their own ideals:
​
The Bystander Effect – “when we don't give help or offer aid to someone because we believe someone else is likely going to.” In other words, responsibility is diffused.

• Brain Food (September 2017) ‘Why Don’t We Help Those in Need:  The Bystander Effect’
• ‘To Help or Not Help’ Darley J M and Latane B (1968)  Bystander intervention in emergencies - diffusion of responsibility, Journal of Personality & Social Psychology 8 377 – 383

​​
Fear of reprisal or harm – from, for example, peers, community, country or world. Such a fear can impact individual’s/group’s capacity to oppose atrocities.

• Staub, E. (1989). The Roots of Evil: The Origins of Genocide and Other Group Violence. Cambridge University Press.

Obedience and Authority – sometimes occurring in the face of moral conflict. Milgrims well reported research would be unlikely to gain ethic committee consent today.

• Milgram, S. (1974). Obedience to Authority: An Experimental View. Harper & Row.

There are many more reasons why good people let bad things happen. These include obedience to authority, social conformity, lack of awareness, and gradual escalation (remember the “Tadpole and the Mad Scientist”?). Other factors such as self-interest or comfort, learned helplessness, delegation to institutions like Child Protection Services, and burnout can also prevent people from acting.

Our next gathering is:

• Time/Date: 10:00am – 12:00 pm 15 July 2025
• Location: U3A Room 1 @ Seniors Community Building

Jane

The Content and Discussions groups held a lively chat about what’s stood out to them this year in our U3A Demystifying Psychology course. The main question we tackled was simple: “What’s made an impression on you?”

From there, we shared thoughts and ideas and often challenged ourselves to see where those ideas originated and where they might lead. Could the outcomes reflect our personal and community values? If not, what could we do to change that?

Given this group’s strong interest in social equity, the conversation naturally turned to housing and homelessness. We explored how these topics connect to the course’s theme of Perceptions – and how our perceptions shape the way we approach real-world challenges.

A sample of our topics:

• Family-friendly workplaces: We talked about how, despite progress, women still earn less than men and men often face career setbacks if they take parental leave. Change seems to move at a glacial pace.
  More here
• Economic planning and families: We explored how countries like the Nordics prioritise families in their economic decisions and what Australia could learn.
  The Nordic Model
• Single-parent households: With 90% of single-parent households headed by lower waged women, we considered the impact on child development and the impacton future leaders.
• How perceptions are shaped: Is “success” about money, well-being, or both? What would communities look like if well-being was the foundation of economic planning?
  Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness

• Global wealth shift and housing: We discussed the housing shortage, the impact of global and national wealth changes, and how unemployment figures into Australia’s economic health.
  NAIRU and unemployment explained

         Income distribution visual
 
The aim of the program is to link real-world topics to an appropriate psychological theory. This month it was agreed Maslow’s hierarchy of needs was relevent: basic needs like shelter and safety must be met before community involvement can grow.

Abraham Maslow's famous hierarchy of needs is depicted as a triangle with self-actualisation at the very top. 

​Right before his death, Maslow wanted to add another level to the hierarchy: Self-transcendence. ​ Curious? Here’s a short video on the extension of Maslow’s Hierarchy to include Self-transcendence

​Next Meeting of the Discussion Group: 10:00am – 12:00 Tuesday 17 June
U3A Room @ Benalla Senior Community Centre, Fawckner St.
 
Queries: Jane 0437 621 575

​This month’s session had the group diving deep — not just into politics, but also into ourselves. With Developmental Theory as our backdrop (thank you, Erikson), we acknowledged we’re in the “Integrity vs. Despair” chapter of life. That means we’re in prime position to reflect, share hard-won insights, and — let’s be honest — call things out when we see them.
 
The political systems discussion unfolded in layers. We looked at our role as observers: Do we stay politely on the sidelines, or do we “yell” when needed? There was a fair bit of nodding (and some chuckling) as we considered when we’ve chosen to speak up and when we’ve let things slide — sometimes out of wisdom, sometimes sheer fatigue.
 
A recurring theme was how our lens shapes what we see — and how it might change over time. Many of us acknowledged that lived experience (and a few grey hairs) can either sharpen our views or soften them. The Trump era stirred up lively comparisons — was he a product of a broken system or a master of political theatre? Narcissistic personality or cunning strategist? Opinions varied, as you’d expect, but discussion remained respectful, with a few “well, that depends who you ask” moments that kept things grounded.
 
We also reflected on history — Hitler’s rise, political movements across time — and how these inform our present fears and hopes. Several members contributed fascinating reading suggestions, adding extra layers to our ongoing conversations.
 
All in all, it was a rich, reflective session — part political unpacking, part life review, and full of shared wisdom (with a good splash of humour thrown in).
 
Links recommended by participants:

• Elaine Ingham: American microbiologist and soil biology researcher and founder of Soil Foodweb Inc. She is known as a leader in soil microbiology.
  
• Reasons why people voted for Trump: Bernie Sanders. 
  

Next meeting - 
10:00 am – 11:55am Tuesday 20 May
U3A Room 1 Benalla Senior Citizens Community Centre, Fawckner Drive, Benalla


Jane
0437 621 575

This month’s discussion started with a question: “How do we make sense of the world?” At first, the group sat in silence, eyes searching the room, waiting for someone to respond. After a moment, the first comments emerged, and the conversation quickly expanded to include history, politics, religion, and evolutionary theory.

The mention of the Darwin Awards (https://darwinawards.com/) sparked lively discussion, with comments that took the topic in unexpected directions. This reminded me of the phrase “survival of the fittest,” which has influenced modern society since Charles Darwin introduced the concept in the late 1830s. Darwin, widely regarded as the father of evolutionary theory, continues to shape how we understand human progress (https://www.britannica.com/biography/Charles-Darwin).

Some members found the Darwin Awards absurd, as reflected in their remarks.

Yet, beyond the humour and debate, the conversation revealed deeper values and personal perspectives. One comment stood out—regarding former U.S. President Donald Trump’s reported ambition to win a Nobel Peace Prize. While some saw this as a pursuit of prestige, others argued that his success might diminish the award’s significance.

Throughout these discussions, the varied tones of voices reflected individual attitudes, much like the message conveyed in the accompanying cartoon.
This led to another question: “What is truth, and how does discernment come into play?” Although time didn’t allow for a full exploration of this topic, one clear takeaway emerged—despite the diverse worldviews in the room, there were no raised voices, hostility, or disrespect.

​As a new U3A member, I deeply appreciate this environment, where open discussion can take place in a safe and respectful space.

In psychological terms, these conversations align with the study of perception and human development. Concepts from Developmental Psychology, such as Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and Erikson’s Stages of Psychosocial Development, help explain how people form their worldviews based on personal experiences and social influences.
​
Eve Davies

Great news! The Demystifying Psychology Discussion Group has dropped its pre-requisites—now, everyone is welcome to join our lively conversations.

Born in 2021 amidst the early days of COVID-19, Zoom's rise, and a collective desire to stay connected during unprecedented isolation, our group began as a spontaneous experiment. Since then, it's flourished into a dynamic forum where we discuss whatever piques our interest since our last meeting.

While we've previously gathered at spots like the Northo Hotel and Ruby Blue Café, we now convene in U3A Room 1, a favourite venue in the bustling U3A calendar.

Please note, this isn't a therapy group—unless, of course, you find sharing great ideas therapeutic!

Come for the conversation, stay for the camaraderie. We look forward to welcoming you!
This months’ discussion opener was an invitation to fill the gaps in the sentence “I thought/felt … until …. happened, and now I think/feel … “. However, in true discussion group style, we covered these topics instead:

• Women as perpetrators of violence
• Social Learning Theory - https://www.mytutor.co.uk/answers/1864/A-Level/Psychology/How-does-the-social-learning-theory-explain-aggressive-behaviour/
• Characteristics and impacts of “gaslighting” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gaslighting
• Observations about “change” – being the only constant - over the last 60-90 years.
• The use of AI in, for example, ChatGPT, in developing the course content for Demystifying Psychology – “Perceptions”.

Someone suggested that next month we discuss relationships and how to avoid the messy ones.
​
Remains to be seen what we actually do discuss .. no matter, it will be fun and insightful. 

Next Meeting:
Date/time: 18 March 10:00 - 12:00
Location: U3A Rm 1, Fawckner Drive, Benalla

Two and a half hours 'just whizzed by' during the Demystifying Psychology Discussion Group's break up gathering at Zeus on December 19!  

Break-Up Details

• Date: 19 December
• Time: 12:00–2:00 pm
• Location: Zeus Coffee Co, 123 Bridge St East, Benalla (next to McDonald’s)
• Menu: Lunch Menu
• Booking Name: "Jane"

​
Discussion Highlights

1. LGA Election Update
   • Seven Councillors were sworn in on 26 November.
   • Watch the event: Council Stream
   • Councillor details: Council Website
2. Jon Ronson's "Psychopath Night"
   • Psychopathy prevalence: 1:100 in the community, 4:100 in corporate settings.
   • Debate on nature vs. nurture influences.
   • Psychopaths employ manipulation techniques like gaslighting and deception.
   • Recovery after encounters, as shared by guest speaker Mary Turner, author of The Psychopath: A True Story (Read More).
   • More insights: ABC Article 

​​
Closing Note
Discussion group members, thank you for making this discussion group a space for thought-provoking conversations over the years. Appreciation also to Bev and Heather for their skilled recording of Benalla U3A activities, and to the U3A Committee for all the "behind the scenes" work that forms the foundation of an exceptional Benalla U3A.
​
2025 Demystifying Psychology Discussion Group details:

• Date: third Tuesday of the month - starting 18 Feb 2025
• Time: 10:00 am - 11:50 pm
• Location: U3A Rm1 Community Centre Fawkner Drive. 

See you at Zeus Coffee Co for lunch 12:00 - 2:00pm on 19 December.

Jane
0437 621 575

Housekeeping First:

At the request of the group and with the support of the U3A committee, I am pleased to confirm that the 2025 Demystifying Discussion Group will be held on the 3rd Tuesday of each month from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. A big thank you to everyone involved! 
​.
However, I understand that this schedule may not work for everyone. If that’s the case, perhaps the "Perceptions of Difficulty" course group, which meets on the 3rd Thursday from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, might appeal to you.
 
This Month's Discussion:

Our latest discussion was sparked by a recent media report about cursing robotic vacuum cleaners (link 1 below). This led us to delve into artificial intelligence (AI)—our experiences with it, the concerns we have, and how it may shape our lives in the future.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, few members have fully embraced AI, and many were cautious.

There was a shared curiosity about the role AI already plays in our daily lives. We asked ourselves: What other household tools could be crude, rude, and even spy on us?

As we examined this further, it became clear that we have been living with and integrating AI into our lifestyles for many years. For example, mobile phones have become extensions of ourselves, Netflix keeps us binge-watching on cold winter days, and our cars talk to us—although sometimes they direct us through paddocks or even waterholes! One neighbour even sets a robotic mower in motion regularly. There are countless examples of AI in our daily routines, yet the introduction of AI apps like ChatGPT often evokes fears of robots taking over the world.

Further Reading:

The University of Adelaide hosted an intriguing conference on Responsible AI (date to be confirmed). Link 2 will take you to one of the presentations, which highlights 10 examples of AI that are already part of our daily lives and explores key questions like "What do we need to be talking about now?" and "What are the next steps?"

For those looking to dive deeper, there are also several insightful essays on this topic. Simply paste the essay title into a search engine for more information. Link 3 will take you to the essay titled "A Unique Opportunity for Australia: Bridging the Divide Between Fundamental AI Research and Usable, Embodied AI."

Plenty of food for thought here!

Link 1 - https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-10-11/robot-vacuum-yells-racial-slurs-at-family-after-being-hacked/104445408

Link 2 - https://www.atse.org.au/media/eslffd02/2-13-solar-10-examples-of-ai-that-are-here-now-and-have-been-embraced-by-the-general-public.pdf

Link 3 - https://www.atse.org.au/media/cfbp0xow/3-13-milford-a-unique-opportunity-for-australia-bridging-the-divide-between-fundamental-ai-research-and-usable-embodied-ai.pdf
 
Disclosure: I wrote this report then asked ChatGPT to "Refine" it. You have just read the result. 

Next meeting: Thursday 21st November
Location: Ruby Blue Cafe Nunn Street.


Jane Rushworth

Discussions at our September session were bold and insightful, but before diving into the topics, we’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Benalla RSL. For the past three months, Heather and Paul have been incredibly kind and generous, providing us with a warm and welcoming space. We’ve truly appreciated their hospitality and support.  

Ruby Blue will re-open its beautifully renovated café on October 1 at 64 Nunn Street.  

Today's discussions spanned a variety of topics. Below are some of the key issues along with links for further exploration: 
 
Roles and functions of Councillors and Chief Executive Office (CEO):
Information can be found at Version No. 021, Local Government Act 2020 - see attached document.

• Mayor and Deputy Mayor - page 41
• Councillor - page 48
• CEO - page 67

Sex or Gender?

• Sex is usually categorized as female or male but there is variation in the biological attributes that comprise sex and how those attributes are expressed. 
• Gender refers to the socially constructed roles, behaviours, expressions and identities of girls, women, boys, men, and gender diverse people.

https://www.coe.int/en/web/gender-matters/sex-and-gender#:~:text=Sex%20refers%20to%20%E2%80%9Cthe%20different,groups%20of%20women%20and%20men.

Child Gender Transition - this Australian legal opinion describes "only when there is no dispute between parents or those with parental responsibility, the medical practitioner and the young person themselves with regards to:

• The Gillick competence of the adolescent;
• A diagnosis of gender dysmorphia;
• Proposed treatment for gender dysmorphia."

https://www.wattsmccray.com.au/age-of-consent-gender-transition-australia/

Shakespeare had much to say about gender. He questioned gender expectations of his time, explored gender fluidity and put the spot-light on identity, power and societal norms.  If you enjoy this podcast link to "Gender in Shakespeare" 'it is one of a fascinating series.

https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/the-stage-show/wherefore-shakespeare-02-gender-twelfth-night-macbeth/103773498

Gender fluidity has an extensive well-documented history across many cultures;

These two links include the tale of Billy Lee Tipton (December 29, 1914 – January 21, 1989) who was an American jazz musician, bandleader, and talent broker. Tipton lived and identified as a man for most of his adult life; after his death, friends and family were surprised to learn that he was transgender.

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transgender_history
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Billy_Tipton

Cultural recognition of gender fluidity.

"Throughout history, many cultures have recognized gender identities other than male and female. Nonbinary people have often occupied unique positions in their societies, serving as priests, artists, and ceremonial leaders. Here are some nonbinary genders recognized by cultures around the world."
https://www.britannica.com/list/6-cultures-that-recognize-more-than-two-genders#:~:text=The%20Bugis%20ethnic%20group%20of,and%20dressing%20in%20men's%20fashions.

Next Meeting:  Ruby Blue Cafe, 64 Nunn Street Benalla, Thursday 17 October.2 - 4pm 

Jane Rushworth

October's Local Government Elections influenced this month's discussion about effective leadership and the importance of supporters. The discussion group began about 4 years ago and during that time we have had a few opportunities to look closely at one of America's most enigmatic leaders - past president Donald Trump. Now we have an opportunity to apply some of our discussions and discoveries to emerging and re-emerging local leaders.

We looked at the role of an effective councillor. 

• https://www.vic.gov.au/proposed-determination-allowances-mayors-deputy-mayors-and-councillors-consultation-paper-july-2021/overview-roles

We reflected on our personal values and how these compare to Local Government Core Values.

• https://www.govpilot.com/blog/refine-your-local-core-values-the-five-principles-of-local-government-govpilot

We took a look at the role of the voters and how criticism differs from critiquing.

• https://www.aec.gov.au/About_AEC/25/theme2-voting-any-way-you-can.htm
• https://www.betterup.com/blog/how-to-give-and-receive-constructive-criticism-at-work#:~:text=The%20big%20difference%20between%20constructive,often%20lacks%20guidance%20or%20support.

Finally, we referred back to Des Hunt's "Preferred Coping Styles" as a tool to assist in making the decision about who will receive our very precious and powerful votes in the October LGA Elections.

In summary, we are more likely to choose a suitable candidate if we understand our own values and can identify these values reflected in a potential leader. 

The idea for Demystifying Psychology Discussion Group was a group initiative arising from the Demystifying Psychology Content Group. The Content group looks at psychological concepts and frameworks; the discussion group applies these to everyday events including local, national and global events such as the enigmatic Donald. The discussion group is not a therapy group, rather it is a sharing of ideas and theories about events. The role of the Convener .. moi ... is to link the discussion to psychological theories.  

The Discussion Group meets on the 3rd Thursday of the month (excluding January). A knowledge of core Psychological concepts is a prerequisite for participation in the Discussion Group. Hence the prerequisite for Discussion Group participation being the completion of the 5 session Content group.

Meetings are currently held at the RSL Building in Nunn Street. Many thanks to Paul Hartland (RSLL President) and Heather Hartland (RSL Secretary) for their very thoughtful hospitality. The RSL has an amazing and extensive memorabilia collection over two floors connected by a lift. This exhibition is highly recommended.

NEXT MEETING:
Day/date: Thursday 19 September 
Time: 2:00 - 4:00 pm
Location: RSL Building - Nunn St., Benalla.

​Jane Rushworth

This month the group went "solo" after I needed to isolate while caring for a very sick wee grandie... who is back on his feet again.

Thank you to the group for accommodating that last minute change, and in particular, thank you to Graeme for the attendance roll and to Gabija for the notes in this report.

"The discussion was lively and mostly centred on the politics of the day and the current state of the world, with plenty of solutions offered .

1.Rudd's apparent change of attitude toward Donald and why:

• Personal gain.
• Politics - keeping the peace if Trump becomes the next President and keeping us safer in the Pacific region.
• Assassination attempt made Trump even more popular.
• What hold might he have over his opponents.
• Previous doubters are now singing his praises.

2. Politics generally.

• Leaders (seem) skilful in manipulation to stay in power.
• We don’t know what goes on behind the scenes - no transparency.
• Idea that we "Keep your enemies close" - (Vance now could become Vice President).

3. The world seems unsettled - 

• Do these feelings spread by “osmosis” once enough people feel the same?
• Does psychology explain this?
• General anxiety about what lies ahead.
• What impact do big events such as COVID and climate change have on the psyche of the world?
• Is this why people are on a short fuse - fear, anxiety, feeling helpless/hopeless?
• What is the point of anything when there is nothing we can do about it?"

Thank you to Gabija and all group members. Perhaps we will continue this discussion when we meet again. The oft reported, and not limited to this group discussion, sense of futility might be an interesting starting point.

NEXT Meeting:
Date/Time: 15 August 2:00 - 4:00pm
Location: RSL Building Nunn Street

Keep warm and see you soon,

Jane
Convener
0437 621 57