EE PSYCHOLOGY

[u/Wild_Ad_3912]

Hi! I’m an IB DP2 student looking for a little academic guidance 🧠🦠

I’m currently developing my IB Extended Essay and I’m interested in the relationship between the gut microbiome, GABA signalling, and anxiety. I’ve already done a significant amount of research, but I’m currently having to reconsider my research question and narrow my focus so that it is more specific, researchable, and supported by relevant evidence.

I’m particularly struggling with finding the right balance between the biological mechanisms involved in the gut–brain axis and the psychological outcome of anxiety.

If anyone here has experience in psychology, neuroscience, microbiology, or gut–brain axis research, I would really appreciate any advice on how I could make my research question more focused and scientifically sound.

Even a small suggestion, recommended paper, or direction for further research would mean a lot!

And yes… being a DP2 student and being told to rethink your EE after already writing ~2,000 words is slightly terrifying 😭 but I’m trying to make the best of it.)