Jessica Gall Myrick, Ph.D., is an assistant professor in The Media School at Indiana University. Her research examines the impact of emotions on media processes and effects, with an emphasis on how media use can lead to beneficial and pro-social outcomes. If you've ever had a rough day, your instinct might be to read, watch or listen to something funny to get you smiling again.
For example... a funny cat or kitten video.
There's no denying how common (and accessible) cat videos are, or their ability to make you laugh and/or let out a sigh of compassion.
Recently, researchers have found that watching cat videos actually has a positive effect on your health.
Researchers from Indiana University of Bloomington surveyed around 7,000 volunteers about cat videos. They found that cat videos are viewed at least 26 billion times and have more views-per-day than any other category of YouTube content.
What else did researchers find?
Jessica Gall Myrick, PhD, discusses why she decided to conduct this study and how cat videos can boost your health.
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Down in the Dumps? Watching Cat Videos Can Boost Your Mood
Guest
: Jessica Gall Myrick, PhD
From the Show: Health Radio
Summary: This just in: no longer feel bad wasting time surfing YouTube for hilarious cat videos.
Air Date: 6/29/15
Duration: 10
Host: Melanie Cole, MS
