Vancouver — Mika Maruyama, Clark College psychology professor, will discuss the crucial role pets can play in early childhood development when she presents “Why do we need a pet? Effects of animals on children’s socio-emotional development” at 4 p.m. Feb. 18 on the campud in the Ellis Dunn Community Room, Gaiser Hall, Room 213, 1933 Fort Vancouver Way. The free, public event is part of the Faculty Speaker Series.
Maruyama will discuss how pets can improve a person’s health and well-being by lowering blood pressure, reducing anxiety and, in the case of children, strengthening emotional development. Maruyama’s research suggests that interactions children have with pets can help develop empathy. Likewise, studies show that when children regularly mistreat animals, we need to pay attention — as it could be a warning sign of further interpersonal violence later in life.
Maruyama teaches both general and lifespan psychology at Clark College. A native of Japan, she has studied the psychological relationship between animals and human development in both American and Japanese society, as well as other social issues. Maruyama earned her bachelor’s degree from Utah State University and both her master’s and doctorate degrees in psychology from Portland State University. She began teaching at Clark in 2011.
Driving directions and parking maps are available at www.clark.edu/maps. Individuals who need accommodation due to a disability in order to fully participate may contact Clark’s Disability Support Services Office at 360-992-2314 or 360-991-0901 (video phone) or email dss@clark.edu within one week of the event.
