Panka Bencsik
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New study explores effect of violent crime on individuals’ mental health
Conventional wisdom has long held that people who live in violent neighborhoods suffer consequences whether they’re direct victims of crime or not. A new study from Assistant Professor Panka Bencsik has begun to scientifically test that hypothesis—which is an important part of quantifying violent crime’s overall costs and negative impacts. “This paper shows how [people] still suffer from crimes occurring close to home,” Bencsik said, information that could be useful to policymakers who want to promote mental health. Read MoreMay 15, 2026
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Slow traffic, fast food: The effects of highway congestion on fast-food consumption
According to new research from Panka Bencsik, assistant professor of medicine, health and society, on days when highways are more congested, particularly during weekday afternoon rush hour, people are more likely to choose the fast-food option. Read MoreFeb 20, 2025
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NEW FACULTY: Vanderbilt’s newest faculty share their unique academic collaborations
Vanderbilt University welcomes 74 new faculty across its nine schools and colleges for the 2022–23 academic year. Here, some of the university’s new faculty share their academic collaborations. Read MoreSep 21, 2022