To most people, being ignored is worse than being physically tortured.

At least that's what Purdue University Psychology Professor Kip Williams thinks. Since 1995, Williams has devoted his time to researching and testing the psychological effects of ostracism.

Williams presented his research findings and experimental results Tuesday at the first session of the Bartholomew County Purdue Extension Office All In: Building a Positive Community program. The three-session series is designed to teach adults how to promote a spirit of inclusiveness at home, at work and in the community as a whole.

"Ostracism is ubiquitous and universal," Williams told the crowd of about 50 adults who attended his presentation at Southside Elementary School. "And it's not just with humans."

For more on this story, see Thursday's Republic.