Add BrightSurf on Google Email

American Psychological Association


Mind changing can be risky

Researchers found that leaders who change their moral minds are perceived as hypocritical and less effective, but framing the change as a result of a transformative experience can mitigate this perception. The study suggests that taking a moral stance without underlying beliefs can backfire if a leader needs to change their mind later.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateJun 8, 2017

The Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology (HiTOP): A new model that addresses limitations of traditional taxonomies

The Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology (HiTOP) proposes viewing mental health as a spectrum, rather than categorizing it. This system simplifies diagnosis by recognizing that most patients have co-occurring disorders and classifying psychopathology at multiple levels of hierarchy.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Abnormal Psychology·DateMar 24, 2017

Low birth weight babies at higher risk for mental health problems later in life

Babies born with extremely low birth weight are at risk for mental health problems such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and anxiety. The studies found these risks began in childhood and extended into adulthood, with significantly higher levels of depression and social problems among adults born with extremely low birth weight.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychological Bulletin·DateFeb 13, 2017

Sexism may be harmful to men's mental health

A recent study published by the American Psychological Association found that men who conform strongly to traditionally masculine norms are more likely to have poorer mental health outcomes. Furthermore, these individuals are also less likely to seek psychological help, highlighting the potential harm of sexist attitudes on men's menta...

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Counseling Psychology·DateNov 21, 2016

Black students feel less welcome at schools with excessive suspensions

Research shows that black students in high schools with a large discipline gap perceive less fair and inclusive treatment, feeling less like they belong. Schools can address this by providing diversity training for teachers and staff, using mindfulness and stress management techniques, and exploring alternative discipline methods.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Educational Psychology·DateOct 24, 2016

Tinder: Swiping self esteem?

Research suggests that using Tinder leads to lower levels of self-worth and increased negative perception of body image among both male and female users. The study, conducted by the American Psychological Association, involved 1,044 women and 273 men who reported less satisfaction with their bodies and looks compared to non-users.

Focus on future to save more money

Research presented at the American Psychological Association's annual convention found that focusing on one's future can help individuals make better financial decisions. The study, which surveyed over 700 adults in the US, discovered that those who spent more time contemplating events yet to come scored significantly lower in impulsiv...

When it comes to empathy, don't always trust your gut

A study published by the American Psychological Association found that systematic thinking is more effective than intuition in accurately inferring another's feelings. The research involved over 900 participants and three out of four studies relied on professionals and managers, highlighting the importance of empathic accuracy in workp...

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateJul 22, 2016

Veils, headscarves may improve observers' ability to judge truthfulness, study finds

Researchers found that veils and headscarves can actually improve observers' ability to detect truthfulness in witnesses, contrary to common court assumptions. The study's results suggest that the presence of a veil may compel observers to pay attention to more 'diagnostic' cues, leading to higher accuracy rates in lie detection.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalLaw and Human Behavior·DateJun 28, 2016

Take a picture, you'll enjoy it more

Researchers found that people who take photos of their experiences enjoy them more than those who don't. Photo-taking increases engagement, making the experience more pleasurable. However, the effect is limited to active participation and not when taking pictures interferes with the experience.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateJun 9, 2016

Study: Facing suicide attempts as a teenager could predict heart disease later in life

A study found that teenage boys and girls close to someone who tried to kill themselves may face a higher rate of risk factors for heart disease in their twenties. Young adult men had higher blood pressure and systemic low-grade inflammation, while young adult women were more likely to be overweight/obese and have high blood pressure.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalHealth Psychology·DateJun 7, 2016

More than a myth: Drink spiking happens

A study by the American Psychological Association found that 7.8% of college students reported being drugged, with women more likely to be victims and experience negative consequences. The research highlights the need for interventions targeting those who engage in drink spiking, focusing on consent and the dangers of overdosing.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalPsychology of Violence·DateMay 24, 2016