The article explains that struggles with common tasks often indicate higher intelligence, as such individuals tend to seek depth, novelty, and meaning, which can lead to difficulties with routines, small talk, and mundane details, but these traits are strengths when understood and managed properly.
2025 was a groundbreaking year in psychology and neuroscience, with studies revealing new insights into brain health, the influence of gut bacteria on social anxiety, the potential of sleep-based memory modification, and the impact of medications and lifestyle on cognitive decline and mental health. Key findings include the role of dormant viruses in Alzheimer's, the cognitive effects of common medications, innovative sleep therapies for emotional memory, and the gut-brain connection in anxiety, alongside practical health tips like optimal coffee timing and genetic influences on caffeine's effects.
A recent study shows that swearing, specifically the F-word, can increase pain tolerance and support greater physical strength by promoting disinhibition, confidence, and focus, suggesting that swearing can be a low-cost, accessible tool to enhance performance in various situations.
A new study challenges the traditional view that self-control leads to happiness, instead finding that higher well-being predicts better self-control over time across different cultures, suggesting that prioritizing emotional health may be more effective for personal growth than relying solely on willpower.
A large international study found that narcissism levels are higher in countries like Germany, Iraq, China, Nepal, and South Korea, with the US ranking 16th, and that young adults and men tend to be more narcissistic across cultures, regardless of whether the society is individualistic or collectivistic.
A 30-year study suggests that childhood friendships have a greater impact on adult attachment styles than parental relationships, with early friendships influencing how individuals form secure or insecure bonds in adulthood more significantly than interactions with parents, especially mothers.
The article discusses super recognisers, individuals with exceptional face memory, and explores their abilities and potential uses for public good, based on research from the University of New South Wales and insights from Dr. David Robertson.
A study found that Machiavellianism and psychopathy decrease with age, while narcissism remains stable, suggesting personality traits associated with manipulation and callousness tend to soften over time, though individual changes require longitudinal research for confirmation.
The film 'Nuremberg' explores the Nazi war crimes trials through the perspective of psychiatrist Douglas Kelley, revealing that Nazis were not mentally different from others and highlighting the moral and psychological complexities faced during the trials, though it is criticized for its reliance on exposition and contrived storytelling.
The article offers psychology-based strategies to improve mood on 'blah' days, including spending time outdoors, keeping a gratitude journal, engaging in creative activities, exercising, practicing mindfulness, and connecting with others, all supported by behavioral science experts.
A study found that nearly 60% of U.S. meditators experience at least one side effect, with 30% facing challenging or distressing effects, highlighting the need for better informed consent and awareness of potential risks in meditation practices.
A study found that experiencing an illusion of owning a younger version of one's face can enhance access to detailed childhood memories, highlighting the link between bodily perception and memory retrieval.
The article explores higher states of consciousness, or awakening experiences, which temporarily expand awareness and alter perception of reality. These experiences can be triggered by psychological distress, contact with nature, or spiritual practices, and often lead to lasting positive changes in outlook. While neuroscientific explanations exist, psychological factors like relaxation and mental quietness play a significant role. Cultivating stillness through meditation and nature contact can increase the likelihood of such transformative experiences.
A fear expert discusses how fear is a primitive response that can be maladaptive in modern life, sharing personal experiences and suggesting ways to face and manage fear effectively.
A recent study indicates that while meditation can be beneficial, it also has potential risks such as anxiety, traumatic memory resurfacing, and dissociation, with nearly 60% of U.S. meditators experiencing at least one adverse effect. The study emphasizes the importance of informed consent and better communication about possible discomforts, suggesting that meditation practices are not suitable for everyone and should be approached with caution.