The Psychology of Connection Workshop with Dr Newson

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Join Dr Newson in exploring the deep human need for belonging, showing how our physical, emotional, and even spiritual wellbeing depend on strong social bonds. From ancient tribes to today’s communities, being part of a group helps us live longer, healthier lives. 

We unpack how modern subcultures - from video gamers and swing dancers to the BDSM community and Swifties - mirror timeless human needs for unity, identity, and belonging. Whether it’s blowing out birthday candles with family or attending a five-day festival, shared rituals are a way to create powerful moments of connection. 

Workshop highlights:

• Discover seven essential ritual tools that help groups thrive, even in an increasingly polarised world
• Reflect on our own communities, discussing how shared experiences, synchronised behaviour and play can reconnect us in meaningful ways
• Understand the crucial role of social rituals in building trust and making us feel special
• Gain practical ways to bring more connection into your everyday life

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About the facilitator:

Dr Martha Newson is Associate Professor of Psychology at the University of Greenwich, London, and Leader of the Changing Lives Lab Group at University of Oxford. With a background in cognitive anthropology, Dr Newson’s work focuses on belonging and the rituals that bind us, both in everyday life and across extreme or unusual groups—from Brazilian football hooligans to underground rave communities. Her research has been featured on BBC, Sky, Discovery, and across global media, with regular features on the PM programme. Dr Newson also founded Newson Consultancy in 2018 to bring research to the corporate sphere, advising big names such as the Premier League, Guinness, Hyundai, and major football clubs on applying insights from group identity and ritual to improve outcomes in areas like marketing and safety.

Testimonials from our guests

⭐ Truly riveting talks, always enjoy these - a great way to spend an evening with some pals. I'm already looking forward to the next one. - Alexander P 

⭐ Expertly run, talks are always super informative and a lot of fun! Couldn’t recommend these enough! 5 star. - Owen S

⭐ Been to a few talks and all have been super interesting. An enjoyable evening to go to either alone or with friends. The talks make for stimulating conversation. Highly recommend! - Daisy J