Dr Amanda Salmon
Researcher biography
Dr Amanda Salmon is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the School of Psychology at The University of Queensland. Her current work investigates how ageing, identity, emotional and motivational processes intersect with physical and social health, including roles in volunteerism and lived-experience supports for older adults.
Drawing on frameworks such as socioemotional selectivity theory, generativity, and stereotype embodiment theory, Dr Salmon explores two inter-linked domains:
-
How older adults engage in prosocial behaviour (for example, older blood donors)
-
The role of assistance animals in supporting wellbeing, independence and social inclusion for older adults and people with disabilities
Her broader research interests include:
-
Psychology of ageing and life-span development
-
Motivation, identity and wellbeing in later life
-
Volunteerism, community contribution and older adult donors
-
Assistance animal ownership, animal-human dyads, and aging-friendly housing/policy
She collaborates with organisations including Australian Red Cross Lifeblood and partners in aged-care, disability and animal-welfare sectors. Dr Salmon is passionate about translating psychological science into evidence-based policy and practice, supporting healthier, more connected ageing.
Keywords: ageing, older adults, motivation, identity, wellbeing, prosocial behaviour, blood donation, assistance animals, human-animal interaction, gerontology