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American Psychological Association


COVID-19 spurs anxious, upsetting dreams

Research published by the American Psychological Association found that COVID-19 is affecting women's dreams more strongly than men's, with increased anxiety and negative emotions. The studies suggest that changes in dream frequency, tone, and content can help identify those at risk for mental health problems during the pandemic.

When doing good boosts health, well-being

Research by the American Psychological Association found that performing acts of kindness and helping others can improve one's mental and physical health. The study, which analyzed 201 independent studies, showed a modest link between prosocial behavior and overall well-being, with younger givers and women reporting stronger relationsh...

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychological Bulletin·DateSep 3, 2020

When it comes to supporting candidates, ideology trumps race and gender

A study by the American Psychological Association reveals that ideology is a more significant factor than demographics in determining voter support for politicians. Despite expressing prejudice against minorities and women, voters tend to support conservative candidates who align with their ideologies, regardless of race or sex.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateAug 24, 2020

Black women often ignored by social justice movements

A study published by the American Psychological Association found that Black women are often viewed as more similar to Black men than to white women, leading to their exclusion from anti-racist and feminist movements. This 'intersectional invisibility' can result in Black women facing higher rates of police abuses and domestic violence.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalTranslational Issues in Psychological Science·DateJul 13, 2020

Weight-based bullying linked to increased adolescent alcohol, marijuana use

A new study published by the American Psychological Association found that adolescents who are bullied about their weight or body shape may be more likely to use alcohol or marijuana. The link between appearance-related teasing and substance use was strongest among overweight girls, raising special concerns about this group.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychology of Addictive Behaviors·DateFeb 25, 2020

Religious, moral beliefs may exacerbate concerns about porn addiction

A new study suggests that moral and religious beliefs may exacerbate concerns about porn addiction. Researchers found that individuals who morally disapproved of pornography were more likely to report addiction, even with low or average porn use. The findings highlight the need for clinicians to consider these factors when diagnosing c...

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Abnormal Psychology·DateFeb 6, 2020

When caregivers need care

A recent study by the American Psychological Association found that caregivers are more likely to neglect their own health due to cost concerns. The study revealed a significant gap in healthcare access and utilization among caregivers, with 26% having no insurance coverage compared to non-caregivers.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalRehabilitation Psychology·DateJan 23, 2020

Women CEOs judged more harshly than men for corporate ethical failures

A study published by the American Psychological Association found that consumers are less likely to support organizations led by women after an ethical failure, but more willing to forgive them for competence failures. The research highlights the impact of gender stereotypes on consumer perceptions of female-led companies.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateOct 24, 2019

Young teens of color more likely to avoid peers with mental illness

Research reveals that students identifying as black or Latino are more likely to socially distance themselves from peers with a mental illness, indicating persistent mental illness stigma. Targeted anti-stigma interventions may benefit boys of color and Latina girls, who exhibit higher levels of discomfort around mental illness.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalAmerican Journal of Orthopsychiatry·DateAug 5, 2019

Middle-school Latino children report more depressive symptoms after family member arrested

A study found that Latino seventh graders who experienced an immigration-related arrest of a family member reported more severe levels of depression. The level of depressive symptoms increased further when a student had one or both undocumented parents. Researchers stress the need for school counselors, teachers, and administrators to ...

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalCultural Diversity & Ethnic Minority Psychology·DateAug 1, 2019

Missile strike false alarm most stressful for less anxious Hawaiians, study finds

A study by the American Psychological Association found that highly anxious individuals in Hawaii calmed down rapidly after a false missile alert, while those with lower anxiety levels took longer to stabilize. The researchers believe this may be due to the threat of imminent death putting day-to-day stressors into perspective.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateJul 25, 2019

'Racist police officer' stereotype may become a self-fulfilling prophecy

A recent study by the American Psychological Association found that officers worried about appearing racist report lower confidence and increased support for coercive policing. The research suggests a vicious cycle where officers' concerns about stereotype threats lead to decreased moral authority and more aggressive policing tactics.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalLaw and Human Behavior·DateJul 15, 2019

High school seniors losing trust in law enforcement, justice system

A study published by the American Psychological Association found that high school seniors' confidence in law enforcement declined significantly between 2006 and 2017, while their faith in religious organizations and schools remained relatively stable. The researchers also discovered racial and ethnic disparities in trust, with black t...

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateJun 20, 2019

Financial vulnerability may discourage positive negotiation strategies

Research suggests that people who feel financially vulnerable are more likely to approach economic exchanges with a zero-sum mindset, overlooking cooperative and mutually beneficial options. This can perpetuate their financial disadvantage. Negotiation training programs may help them recognize potential for cooperative exchanges.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateJun 13, 2019

Lack of sleep may increase likelihood of teens engaging in risky sexual behaviors

A study published by the American Psychological Association found that teenagers who didn't get enough sleep were nearly two times more likely to engage in unsafe sex than those who slept in extra hours on weekends. The researchers suggest finding a middle ground for teens and encouraging school districts to delay school start times.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalHealth Psychology·DateJun 3, 2019

People in higher social class have an exaggerated belief that they are better than others

Research by Peter Belmi, PhD, found that individuals from higher social classes exhibit exaggerated beliefs about their abilities and are misinterpreted as more competent due to overconfidence. This study suggests that social class shapes attitudes towards one's abilities and perpetuates class hierarchies.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateMay 20, 2019

Insecurities may drive people to save more

A study published by the American Psychological Association found that people who feel threatened to their positive self-image are more likely to save money. The researchers conducted a series of experiments involving over 2,400 participants and found that those with lower social connections also reported saving less.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateApr 8, 2019