UROP Project

The Impact of Suicide-Related Language on Helping Intentions and Perceptions Among Young Adults

suicide prevention, language, stigma
Research Mentor: Ms. Sara Prostko, She/her
Department, College, Affiliation: Psychology, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: sprostko@psy.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required:
Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 6, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
  • Day: Wednesday, September 2
    Start Time: 1:00
    End Time: 1:30
    Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/97009417827
  • Day: Wednesday, September 2
    Start Time: 1:30
    End Time: 2:00
    Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/97009417827

Project Description

This research project aims to examine how suicide-related language influences helping intentions, perceptions, and attitudes toward individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts. Participants will be asked to complete a brief online study in which they watch short video scenarios and respond to questionnaires about their reactions and beliefs. The goal of our findings is to improve our understanding of how communication about suicide may impact stigma and to encourage more effective, compassionate responses to individuals in crisis.

Research Tasks: Research assistants will assist with participant recruitment, study administration, data collection, data analysis, and maintaining research records while gaining hands-on experience in suicide research. This opportunity is ideal for students interested in clinical psychology, mental health research, or suicide prevention research and provides valuable experience in research methodology, ethical conduct of human subjects research, and professional collaboration under the supervision of Dr. Thomas Joiner.

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Research assistants interested in this role are required to have strong attention to detail, proficient organizational and communication skills, and the ability to maintain participant confidentiality while following research protocols. It is required that applicants are reliable, professional, and able to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment. An interest in clinical psychology, mental health, or suicide prevention research is highly recommended, but not required. Previous coursework in psychology or research methods, and familiarity with programs such as Qualtrics are beneficial but not required.

Mentoring Philosophy

My mentoring philosophy is centered on collaboration, growth, and learning through experience. I encourage students to take initiative and try tasks independently before seeking guidance, and believe that confidence and problem-solving skills are connected and develop through practice. That being said, I am committed to providing support, constructive feedback, and a welcoming environment where questions are encouraged and mistakes are viewed as opportunities to learn and grow from. In the lab, I strive to foster a collaborative environment where everyone feels comfortable contributing ideas, asking questions, and supporting one another. As a mentor, I aim to build relationships based on mutual respect and open communication while helping students develop both personally and professionally. My goal is for each person to leave this role with stronger research skills, greater confidence, and a meaningful learning experience that supports their future endeavors. I hope research assistants gain not only technical research experience but also the independence, curiosity, and critical thinking skills that will serve them for years to come.

Additional Information


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