Stephanie sits down with Sisi Peng, a Doctoral Researcher in UCLA’s Department of Communication, to explore her groundbreaking work with the HaseltonLab on societal attitudes toward menstruation. The conversation examines how perceptions are shaped through social media discourse, survey research, and controlled in-lab experiments. They also revisit highlights from Peng’s recent CRSHE seminar, Perspectives on Periods: Joy, Stigma, and Disgust, unpacking the cultural narratives that influence how periods are viewed today and the powerful role digital platforms play in sustaining—or challenging—these beliefs.
Curious about a specific topic? Here’s what we cover:
- 00:36 — Introduction
Meet Sisi Peng, Doctoral Researcher in UCLA’s Department of Communication (Haselton Lab), and overview of her work on societal attitudes toward menstruation.
- 02:25 — Research Focus
How Sisi studies perceptions of periods across social media analyses, surveys, and an in-lab experiment.
- 04:52 — Expectations
She anticipated some negativity—find out what the data revealed.
- 06:29 — Gender Differences
How attitudes toward menstruation vary across genders.
- 10:00 — Inside the Lab Study
Design and measures, including hands-on interactions with a range of menstrual products.
- 13:22 — How the Field Has Evolved
The changing landscape of menstruation research.
- 15:38 — Recruiting Participants
What it takes to enroll and support participants in this work.
- 17:26 — What Teens Are Asking For
Demand for better education around menstrual health.
- 18:26 — Social Media Signals
Using X (formerly Twitter) to evaluate menstrual stigma.
- 21:24 — Biggest Surprises
Findings that challenged assumptions.
- 23:18 — Educating Through Art
Creative approaches to science communication.
- 25:55 — What’s Next
Future directions using an intersectional framework.
- 27:39 — Recommended Resources
Where listeners can learn more.