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Lipscomb study links caffeine to to increased body image concerns among college women
A new Lipscomb University study reveals that caffeine consumption may heighten body image concerns and anxiety among college-aged women, particularly impacting their social physique anxiety (SPA)—the anxiety one feels about how others perceive their body. The research, led by Rachel Shannon, a 2024 psychology graduate, and supervised by Dr. Jaclyn Spivey, head of Lipscomb’s undergraduate psychology program, explores the effects caffeine-containing items like coffee and dark chocolate may have. Shannon’s findings suggest that caffeine could contribute to body dysmorphia and heightened SPA among women. “I wanted to focus on body image dissatisfaction because there is a lot more literature already on women with body image dissatisfaction,” said Shannon, explaining her…
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The Christmas of 2000-something: sage and tradition
Editor’s Note: As part of a practicum assignment, students were asked to reflect on their favorite Christmas memories. This series, written in a more personal style, captures the unique moments and traditions that make the holiday season special. The smell of sage filled the house as Mom whisked the eggs for her famous Christmas Brunch. The kitchen buzzed with activity—my mom, aunt, and I cooking side by side, laughter bubbling up as we tasted and adjusted recipes. The sage was our not-so-secret ingredient, but it made everything feel uniquely ours. Christmas mornings in our overflowing Southern home were always loud, chaotic, and filled with love. That year, 2000-something, was my…
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Lipscomb updates alcohol policy: grants off-campus drinking privileges
Lipscomb University recently updated its alcohol policy to permit students aged 21 and older to consume alcohol off-campus, provided they return to campus sober and remain responsible. This change marks a shift from previous rules, which prohibited alcohol consumption and possession for all students, regardless of age or location. However, the university remains dedicated to maintaining a safe, substance-free campus in alignment with its Church of Christ values. The 2024-2025 student handbook clarifies that “Intoxication is prohibited for all members of the Lipscomb community, regardless of age, on and off campus at all times,” and that “Alcohol possession and/or consumption is prohibited on campus … [and] at any Lipscomb-sponsored event…
