Ayanna Patel (She/Her)

Student, Durham University

About Ayanna Patel

Hi! My name is Yanna, and I’m a first-year Psychology student at Durham University. 

My research project (supervised by Professor Zanna Clay) explores how empathy emerges and matures in young children across cultures. I feel that today, empathy is more important than ever. In an increasingly digital world, social connections are changing and the erosion of deep passions, interests, and morals are leading to more individualistic societies. Understanding how empathy develops could help us to nurture its growth and contribute to more cohesive and compassionate communities. 

Additionally, I hope to highlight the importance of recognising both the similarities and differences in psychological development across cultures. By doing so, I aim to promote greater inclusivity within the scientific community and support the development of culturally sensitive approaches to research and practice.

I am a/an:

Alum: Undergraduate Leadership & Research Programme

University

Durham University

Laidlaw Cohort Year

2026

Research Topic

Psychology

Area of Expertise

Social Sciences

I am from:

United Kingdom

I speak:

English

My hobbies/interests are:

Cooking/Baking Gym Music Running/jogging Swimming Travelling

Influencer Of

Details

Online Elsewhere