PSY108: Critically review the analysis conducted by an AI of the following online article: Introduction to Psychology 2, TMA, SUSS, Singapore

Task 1:

Critically review the analysis conducted by an AI of the following online article: Exercise reduces stress, improves cellular health in family caregivers

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/10/181003090339.htm

You will need to assess the following points made by the AI and determine whether or not these points are accurate and valid, and if any additional points could be raised.

Al’s analysis of the online article:

This article presents a study conducted by researchers from the University of British Columbia and the University of California, which explores the effects of exercise on stress reduction and cellular health among family caregivers, particularly those caring for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

Key Assumptions and Claims Assumptions:

The key assumption underlying this study is the belief that regular exercise can reduce stress levels and improve cellular health, specifically by lengthening telomeres, which are associated with slowing cellular aging.

Claims:

The primary claim of the study is that participating in regular aerobic exercise for at least three times a week over a six-month period can lead to reduced stress levels and lengthening of telomeres in family caregivers, thereby potentially slowing cellular aging.

Viability of the Claims
Strengths:

1.  The claims made in the study are supported by the observed outcomes among participants, including improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness, reductions in BMI and waistline measurements, and lower perceived stress levels.
2. The observed lengthening of telomeres in white blood cells after the exercise program provides further support for the claim that exercise can potentially slow cellular aging.

Limitations:

1. While the study provides valuable insights, it is limited by its relatively small sample size and short duration.
2. The study focused specifically on family caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, limiting the generalisability of the findings to other caregiver populations or the general population.
3.  Long-term effects of exercise on stress reduction and cellular health beyond the six- month intervention period are not addressed.

Task 2: 

The AI offers three alternate explanations for the phenomenon described in the online article. Select any ONE of the three alternate explanations listed and conduct further research to expand on the idea proposed by the AI. Use theoretical and empirical evidence to support your arguments. A minimum of THREE citations of academic journals is required.

AI’s alternate explanations for the phenomenon:

1. Social support: Family caregivers who participated in the exercise intervention might have experienced increased social support through interactions with fitness coaches or fellow participants. Social support has been linked to improved psychological well- being and reduced stress levels.
2. Changes in Lifestyle Habits: Engaging in regular exercise might prompt caregivers to adopt other healthy lifestyle habits, such as improved sleep hygiene, healthier dietary choices, or reduced alcohol consumption, all of which could contribute to reduced stress levels.
3. Participant Expectations: Caregivers who volunteered to participate in the study may have had preconceived expectations about the potential benefits of exercise on stress reduction and cellular health. These expectations could influence their reported outcomes, regardless of the actual effectiveness of the intervention.