Joseph McFall, Ph.D. Keynote Speaker from Fredonia, NY

It has been said that humans are the most rational of species, but our behavior is riddled with inconsistencies, ironies, and contradictions. For example, has a do-it-yourself project ever led to a much larger repair bill? Have you ever spent hours on a failing task, determine to finish even if it meant giving up more pressing concerns? Ever ignore symptoms or excuse contrary evidence to stick with a previous health decision? Ever stick around in a bad relationship without hopes of long-term happiness? These and many, many more fascinating reasoning errors and decision-biases plague our social lives, influence health care, determine governance choices and policy, and guide business outcomes. As a Life-Span Developmental Psychologist specializing in everyday cognition, I conduct and present research into decision-making processes and the factors that lead to problem-solving effectiveness. My colleagues and I have found fascinating age, collaboration, and cultural variations in the use of decision making heuristics, problem-solving strategies, and choice processes. I enjoy tailoring the presentation of classic and breaking findings to the domain and format of interest of the attendees. Attendees can learn how to apply latest research to their own endeavors. Formats available: -Interactive presentation -Motivational talk -Keynote address -Research colloquium -Seminar -Workshops