[Faculty of Modern Social Studies Student] Selected for presentation contest hosted by the Japanese Psychology

Yuma Tanaka (3rd year), Psychology major in the Faculty of Faculty of Modern Social Studies, applied to the "Undergraduate and High School Student Presentation Contest 2026 - Let's Start with Unreserved Questions" organized by the Japanese Psychology, and was selected as one of the final 20 teams.

This contest is an initiative in which high school students and undergraduate students interested in Psychology present their own questions about social issues. Ms. Tanaka presented on the topic of "An Examination of the Decision-Making Process in Clothing Selection for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder." Her interest in this topic stemmed from a conversation with someone with autism spectrum disorder whom she knows personally. When that person mentioned that they "wear clothes chosen by their mother," she wondered "why is it difficult for them to choose their own clothes?" and began her research.

Ms. Tanaka reflects, "This was a topic I wouldn't have thought to tackle on my own, but thanks to my seminar professor and everyone who cooperated, I was able to take on the challenge. Finding the right question was a major achievement." She also plans to seek expert advice on experimental methods during upcoming interviews with researchers.

Ms. Tanaka aspires to become a certified psychologist in the future, supporting people with developmental disabilities. "Choosing clothes is something we do every day, so I want to lighten that burden as much as possible. I want to use my research to help solve problems and provide support," she says. Her goal is to further develop her research and contribute to creating a society where people with developmental disabilities can live more easily.

(Source: School Public Relations)