San Diego State University psychology lecturer Sara Roldan continues to bridge the worlds of science, storytelling, and mental wellness, this time on stage at Comic-Con International 2025.
Roldan joined an interdisciplinary panel of psychologists, writers, and content creators for “I Want to Play a Game: A Deep Dive into Squid Game from a Psychologist’s Perspective.” The session explored the psychological underpinnings of Netflix’s hit series, examining class inequality, moral choice, and human behavior under extreme pressure.
“Squid Game is more than a show about survival,” Roldan explained. “It’s a study in what drives people when they’re pushed to their limits, their values, fears, and the systems that shape them. I wanted to highlight how storytelling can help us understand the emotional and societal struggles that define real life.”
Roldan’s analysis drew from her research on restorative practices, mental wellness, and neurodivergent inclusion, themes that have become central to her teaching and public engagement. Through her work, she advocates for using pop culture as a powerful platform for mental health awareness and education.
Beyond Comic-Con
This year, Roldan’s reach extended beyond San Diego. She recently delivered a TEDx talk on how video games can be used as therapeutic tools, helping individuals develop emotional regulation, empathy, and problem-solving skills through interactive storytelling.
“Video games often get dismissed as distractions,” she said. “But when used intentionally, they can foster connection, build resilience, and help players process complex emotions. It’s about redefining what healing and learning can look like.”
She also participated in L.A. Comic Con (Sept. 26–28) and is slated to appear in a panel on Doctor Who at the Comic-Con Museum on Oct. 18, where she’ll explore the long-running series’ philosophical and psychological themes of identity, time, and moral choice.
Connecting Psychology and Pop Culture
At SDSU, Roldan integrates these same ideas into her courses and mentorship. She encourages students to explore how media, comics, and games reflect deeper truths about mental health and society.
Her approach aligns with a growing trend in psychology and the arts — using popular culture as a bridge to discuss real-world challenges in accessible, human-centered ways.
“Stories connect us,” Roldan said. “Whether through a comic panel, a TV episode, or a video game, they give us language to talk about what it means to be human — and that’s where growth begins.”
Roldan’s innovative work exemplifies SDSU’s commitment to interdisciplinary learning, creativity, and community engagement — showing that healing, too, can be found in the stories we tell.
