David Strayer, a U psychology professor known for his research into how cellphones and vehicle infotainment systems distract drivers, also studies how our stressed-out brains may benefit when we spend time in nature unplugged from electrical devices. In 2012, he published a small study showing how backpackers scored 50 percent better on a creativity test after they spent four days on electronics-free Outward Bound treks.  Strayer, more recently, has recorded the brain waves of his students during hiking trips. A reporter accompanied Strayer and students on one such trip and reports in the January 2016 issue of National Geographic (“This is Your Brain on Nature”) on evidence from Strayer and other researchers suggesting nature – from wilderness to city parks to backyards – helps our overstressed brains.  Strayer is available to discuss the subject (except when he teaches Monday, Tuesday, Thursday mornings).
David Strayer office 801-581-5037 | cell 801-949-1271 |Email:  david.strayer@utah.edu