HIGH POINT, N.C., March 27, 2015 – Dr. Sadie Leder Elder, assistant professor of psychology at High Point University, recently presented a poster, titled “Examining the Impact of Risk Regulation and Destiny vs. Growth Beliefs on Perceptions of Romantic Comedies,” at the annual Society for Personality and Social Psychology conference held in Long Beach, California.

This research represents a collaborative effort between Elder and her undergraduate research assistants, Alex Ortowski and Emmie Doherty, both HPU seniors.

“Romantic comedies are a popular form of movie,” explains Elder. “As such, we wanted to examine who is likely to endorse the ideals portrayed in this film genre.”

Results indicate that situational circumstances may impact how one feels toward romantic comedies. For instance, relationship status, as well as exposure to rejection, impacted adoption of romantic comedy ideals.

“Interestingly, singles may respond to the ‘one true love’ aspect of romantic comedies, while those who are in relationships may respond to the theme, ‘love conquers all,’ that emerges as characters overcome obstacles,” Elder says.