Dr. Sadeq Fallahtafti, a postdoctoral scholar Psychology, researches the intricacies of romantic relationships with prestigious and generous support from the YAS Foundation.

Dr. Fallahtafti’s co-founded and practices psychotherapy at a clinic in Iran and has played pivotal roles in national projects and clinical settings. His research at the University of Calgary Personal Relationships Lab explores the darker side of relationships. His is primarily focused on the complexities of infidelity, revenge, unforgiveness, and other aspects of interpersonal relationships. His work is supervised by Dr. Susan Boon, PhD, a professor in the Department of Psychology.

Dr. Fallahtafti’s postdoctoral research position is made possible through funding the YAS Foundation, a charitable organization that supports promising research initiatives. Founded by Rouzbeh Yassini-Fard, a technology entrepreneur and philanthropist widely known as the “father of the cable modem,” the Foundation’s mission is to build stronger bridges between the seemingly disparate modern North American culture and ancient Persian cultures. The YAS Foundation has donated millions of dollars supporting education, medical, research, cultural grants, and scholarships to universities and colleges across North America.

“The support from the YAS Foundation has been instrumental in making my postdoc position possible,” he explains. “Their generous funding has allowed me to engage in meaningful research on important social issues, expand my academic portfolio, and collaborate with experts in the field, all while contributing to the broader understanding of interpersonal relationships.”

The funding generously provided by the YAS Foundation provides the opportunity for Fallahtafti’s to further his expertise in clinical psychology and Early Maladaptive Schemas through qualitative research of romantic revenge and unforgiveness. In his research, he will explore how ingrained emotional patterns, such as punitiveness and subjugation may influence vengeful behaviors. In conjunction, he will also focus on understanding how unrealistic beliefs about love can lead to destructive interpersonal relationships.

“My postdoctoral experience at UCalgary has been incredibly beneficial,” he says. “The psychology community is welcoming and intellectually stimulating, offering ample opportunities for collaboration and growth.” The funding provided by the YAS Foundation will help support his work on significant studies under Dr. Boon’s supervision.