Psychology
- Psychology
Online spaces may intensify teens’ uncertainty in social interactions
Little is known of how teens learn about emotions online and then use that knowledge to cope with social uncertainty during in-person encounters.
- Science & Society
Language models may miss signs of depression in Black people’s Facebook posts
Researchers hope to use social media posts to identify population-wide spikes in depression. That approach could miss Black people, a study shows.
- Psychology
Timbre can affect what harmony is music to our ears
The acoustic qualities of instruments may have influenced variations in musical scales and preferred harmonies.
- Science & Society
Not all cultures value happiness over other aspects of well-being
Nordic countries topped the 2024 world happiness rankings. But culture dictates how people respond to surveys of happiness, a researcher argues.
- Animals
What parrots can teach us about human intelligence
By studying the brains and behaviors of parrots, scientists hope to learn more about how humanlike intelligence evolves.
- Science & Society
Most people say self-control is the same as willpower. Researchers disagree
Psychologists say self-control is about planning ahead to avoid relying on willpower in the moment. Laypeople see things differently.
- Psychology
Here’s how to give a good gift, according to science
Gifting researcher Julian Givi outlines common mistakes gift givers make and how science can help us avoid those costly errors.
- Psychology
Why scientists are expanding the definition of loneliness
Feeling detached from animals, places and routines can cause loneliness, researchers are learning, which may expand the list of interventions.
- Psychology
An apology to Indigenous communities sparks a mental health rethink
The leading U.S. psychological association pledged to embrace Indigenous approaches to healing, which requires rethinking how to address mental health.
- Psychology
Time in nature or exercise is touted for happiness. But evidence is lacking
A review of hundreds of studies finds limited strong scientific evidence to support many common recommendations for leading a happier life.
- Psychology
‘Fires in the Dark’ illuminates how great healers ease mental suffering
Kay Redfield Jamison’s new book examines approaches used throughout history to restore troubled minds and broken spirits.
- Psychology
Boys experience depression differently than girls. Here’s why that matters
Boys’ depression often manifests as anger or irritability, but teen mental health surveys tend to ask about hopelessness.
