Emotions
Articles tagged with Emotions
How do rats determine whether to approach or avoid distressed peers?
Researchers identified a key brain pathway in rats that helps them decide whether to approach stressed pups or avoid stressed adult peers. The insular cortex and prefrontal cortex work together to process social information, with the pathway playing a crucial role in making these decisions.
Feeling good, feeling free – autonomy the key to happiness, says SFU study
A new Simon Fraser University study suggests that freedom is a better gauge of happiness than positive feelings or pleasure. Autonomy, the feeling of being free to make choices, was found to be a stronger indicator of life satisfaction.
Scientists engineer a tool to “edit” brain circuits and enhance memory
Researchers develop molecular tool called SynTrogo, which enables selective dismantling of synaptic connections in brain circuits. By harnessing astrocytes, the system reduces synapse number while strengthening remaining connections, leading to enhanced long-term potentiation and improved memory.
ECU research finds single school mental health checks may miss students in need
A study by Edith Cowan University found that tracking students' moods over several weeks provides a more accurate picture than a single snapshot in time. Repeated mood monitoring can help identify students who may be struggling with mental health challenges.
Study reveals how dreams affect our emotions in day-to-day life
A recent study found that more fear in dreams is associated with worse mood in the morning, but individuals with better emotion regulation strategies tend to have more fear in their dreams. Additionally, emotional complexity in dreams may have a protective effect on mood.
Should emojis be used in workplace communications?
A new study by the University of Ottawa found that emojis can negatively affect perceptions of competence and appropriateness in professional settings. The researchers discovered that using positive emojis with negative messages can create a sense of dishonesty, while negative emojis can lower overall competence perception.
Why we’re skeptical of the emotions we see on our screens
Researchers found that viewers question the sincerity of fear or sadness expressed about climate change in simulated news reports, text messages, and TikTok posts. Emotional expression can serve an important role in helping people find a community, but it may not necessarily persuade others.
Emotions in motion: How movement may signal mental health issues
A recent study published in Gait & Posture found that analyzing a person's walk and getting up from a chair can identify elevated depression and anxiety symptoms. The researchers used machine-learning models trained on data from participants' movements combined with information about their mental state, achieving high accuracy rates.
Struggling to identify emotions may increase vulnerability to TikTok addiction
A study published in Frontiers found that young people with attachment anxiety and difficulties identifying emotions are more susceptible to short video addiction. Mental training, such as mindfulness and attention regulation, can help prevent this addiction by strengthening emotional awareness and cognitive regulation.
Tulane University study reveals how the brain fine-tunes fear as threats fade
A Tulane University study reveals how the brain regulates defensive behavior and fine-tunes fear responses as perceived threats diminish. Researchers identified distinct roles for neurons in the central amygdala, which help determine whether an animal responds with intense escape behavior or freezing.
How do people quickly respond to scary sounds?
A new brain pathway has been identified that enables humans to quickly detect and respond to 'scary' sounds, leading to increased self-reported fearfulness. This pathway is associated with better hearing ability in noisy environments.
Emotions drive our eating choices
A study found that individuals trying to diet are more likely to choose unhealthy snacks when feeling negative emotions, but emotional awareness is the key to maintaining healthier eating habits. Practicable strategies like mindfulness exercises and checking in with feelings can help dieters stay on track.
Ultraprocessed food consumption and behavioral outcomes in Canadian children
Higher ultraprocessed food consumption in Canadian preschoolers was associated with increased emotional symptoms by age 5. Replacing UPF with minimally processed foods may support healthier behavioral development and long-term mental health.
Science of fitting in: Do best friends or popular peers shape teen behavior?
A groundbreaking longitudinal study reveals that peer influence is specialized, with best friends primarily shaping internal emotional states and academic behaviors, while popular peers set the standard for public image and social media engagement. The findings suggest that adolescents use different mental calculations to navigate thei...
College students who spend hours on social media are more likely to be lonely – national US study
A national US study of tens of thousands of college students found that excessive social media use is linked to higher odds of loneliness. Students who spent 16 hours or more on social media per week were 38% more likely to feel isolated.
Climate policy support is linked to emotions - study
A study by Anglia Ruskin University found that feeling fearful is associated with greater support for climate policies, while feelings of dread lead to lower support. The researchers suggest that evoking manageable levels of fear can motivate people to engage and support solutions.
FAU study finds teen ‘sexting’ surge, warns of sextortion and privacy risks
A new study finds that nearly 1 in 3 teens have received a sext, and almost 1 in 4 have sent one. Sextortion is also common, with nearly half of teens who sent a sext reporting being targeted.
How tech-dependency and pandemic isolation have created ‘anxious generation’
Experts like Amber Chandler suggest solutions such as no-tech public spaces, phone-free bedtimes, and hands-on problem-solving to help teenagers cope with unprecedented anxiety. Chandler's book offers evidence-based strategies to nurture belonging in a 'scared new world'.
How many times will we fall passionately in love? New Kinsey Institute study offers first-ever answer
A new study from the Kinsey Institute found that passionate love is relatively infrequent, occurring about twice in a lifetime. The research surveyed 10,036 single adults aged 18 to 99 and found that 14% had never experienced passionate love, while 28% experienced it once.
Sport: ‘Football fever’ peaks on match day
A study published in Scientific Reports found that football fans' mean stress level was 41% higher on the day of a major match compared to non-match days. Participants experienced increased heart rates, peaking during the match, and were more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as drinking alcohol.
Neuroticism may be linked with more frequent sexual fantasies
A new study found that people with neurotic personalities report having more frequent sexual fantasies. In contrast, those who are more conscientious or agreeable tend to have less frequent fantasizing. The study analyzed data from over 5,200 adults in the US and explored links between personality traits and sexual fantasies.
In Sweden, young adults feel most dissatisfied while the oldest thrive
A new study reveals that young adults in Sweden report lower life satisfaction, a weaker sense of meaning, and higher levels of loneliness, anxiety, and depression compared to older age groups. In contrast, older Swedes are among the happiest in the world, with strong close relationships and less loneliness.
One-third of young people are violent toward their parents
Researchers found that nearly one-third of young people experience physical aggression towards their parents between ages 11-24. This behavior is linked to factors such as parental conflict, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADD), and physical punishment.
Truth hurts: Prosocial liars perceived as more moral
In a study, participants preferred feedback providers who provided overly optimistic feedback to avoid hurting others, even if it meant telling the truth. This suggests that people strategically adjust their preferences for honesty based on social cues and prioritize the well-being of others.
More than just ‘daydreaming’ – dissociation is the mind’s survival tactic
Dissociation is a complex survival mechanism in response to overwhelming trauma, affecting memory, identity, and perception. Research confirms its prevalence among individuals who have experienced trauma, and effective dissociation-specific treatment options are needed.
The intimate animal explains the evolution of relationships
Animal studies reveal complex dynamics of sex, fidelity, and monogamy in various species like wolves, dolphins, and swans. The intimate animal explores the evolutionary roots of human attachment and love.
Takeaways are used to reward and console – study
A study found that ordering takeaway meals is a popular self-gifting option for both rewarding good days and consoling bad days. The research suggests that this may be due to the convenience of taking away daily cooking duties, while also providing a indulgent treat.
Autistic and non-autistic faces may “speak a different language” when expressing emotion
Researchers found that autistic and non-autistic individuals produce distinct emotional facial expressions, with autistic adults exhibiting more unique and complex expressions. The study suggests that these differences in facial expressions may contribute to difficulties in recognizing each other's emotions.
Behind and Beyond the Brain Symposium brings together researchers to discuss end-of-life experiences
The symposium brings together researchers to discuss end-of-life experiences, exploring biological processes, cultural interpretations, and spiritual approaches. It features lectures by prominent international experts, including Christof Koch, Michael Rera, Daniel Kondziella, and Jim Tucker.
New analysis of wellbeing interventions shows there are multiple routes to better mental health
A new analysis of wellbeing interventions shows that there is no single route to improving mental health, with mindfulness, compassion-based approaches, yoga, exercise and positive psychology interventions all showing moderate benefits. Combining physical activity with psychological interventions appeared particularly promising.
Scientists trace facial gestures back to their source. before a smile appears, the brain has already decided
A new study published in Science uncovers how the brain prepares and produces facial gestures through a temporally organized hierarchy of neural codes. The research found that multiple brain regions work in parallel, each contributing different timing-based codes to generate coherent facial gestures.
Socializing alone: The downside of communication technology
A review of over 1,000 studies found that technology communication reduces engagement and positive emotional responses compared to in-person interactions. In-person communication has been shown to have health benefits, including reduced anxiety and improved educational outcomes.
Smile and the world will trust you: How mimicry shapes first impressions
Researchers found that smiling faces are associated with higher trustworthiness, confidence, and attractiveness. Facial expressions play a crucial role in social judgments, with emotional mimicry influencing character trait evaluations.
Scientists unravel neural networks that guide guilt and shame-driven behaviors
Researchers reveal that harm causes stronger guilt, while sense of responsibility triggers shame, influencing compensatory behaviors. The study also identifies distinct neural activity for guilt and shame-driven decisions, shedding light on the cognitive processes guiding these emotions.
Holding back laughter
A research team at the University of Göttingen investigated how laughter can be regulated and found that social cues can strongly interfere with these efforts. The results showed that suppression and distraction were effective strategies to hold back laughter, while cognitive reappraisal could reduce how funny the jokes felt.
Anxiety is reversed for lab mice rehomed in fields
Researchers found that lab mice rewilded for two years showed reduced and even reversed fear response to the elevated plus maze. The study suggests that a range of experiences can increase a sense of agency, reducing anxiety in animals and humans alike. After living in fields, mice returned to their original levels of anxiety behavior.
The Intimate Animal, a new book from Kinsey Institute Executive Director Dr. Justin Garcia
Dr. Garcia's book delves into the surprising science behind human connection, exploring how technology, social norms and loneliness impact our ability to form meaningful relationships. With warmth and clarity, he reveals the science behind why we crave connection and how intimacy anchors us in the world.
USC study reveals hidden cellular layers in the brain’s memory center
Researchers at USC have identified four distinct layers of specialized cell types in the CA1 region of the mouse hippocampus, a structure vital for memory formation. This discovery changes our understanding of how information is processed in the brain and could explain why certain cells are more vulnerable in diseases like Alzheimer's ...
FAU study finds connection between poor mental health and dark web use
A new FAU study reveals significant mental health differences between dark web users and surface web users, with dark web users reporting substantially higher levels of depressive symptoms and paranoid thoughts. The study also found substantial differences in suicidal thoughts, non-suicidal self-injury, and digital self-harm.
Structural racism and cultural misunderstanding compound grief for Black British and Black Caribbean communities, study finds
A new study by the University of Bristol highlights how bereavement experiences and support needs among Black British and Black Caribbean communities are poorly understood. The research found that structural racism, cultural misunderstanding, and lack of tailored end-of-life support intensify grief, leading to mistrust in services.
Most people struggle to spot pain in horses - study
Research found that most people are poor at recognizing pain in horses, but those with more experience are better equipped to identify subtle cues. Higher levels of social anxiety also influenced pain recognition, particularly in humans, highlighting the need for education and training on equine welfare.
Golden retriever and human behaviours are driven by same genes
Researchers identified 12 genes linked to canine behaviour also associated with human traits like anxiety, depression, and intelligence. The study provides insights into understanding dog emotional worlds and tailoring training or care to suit their needs.
Queens Cancer Center Oncology nurse receives Alliance CRP RISE Award for Advancing Cancer Research
Linda Bulone, a Queens Cancer Center Oncology nurse, received the 2025 Alliance Clinical Research Professionals Research Integrity Service Excellence (CRP RISE) Award. She has significantly increased clinical trial participation, expanded early screening efforts, and supported reductions in late-stage diagnoses.
‘Breathing’ robots reveal how fear spreads through touch
Researchers found that people can sense breathing changes through physical contact, which affects their own body's response to fear. The study used a furry robot with a hidden motorized ribcage to mimic human breathing, tracking participants' heart rates to measure physiological arousal.
FAU study finds small group counseling helps children thrive at school
Researchers found that small group counseling improved students' anger management, academic and life skills, feelings of connectedness and safety. Students learned practical strategies and developed social-emotional skills, leading to a positive perception of the school environment.
Brain activity goes to extremes in soccer fans
A study published in Radiology found that soccer fans' brain activity is triggered by positive and negative emotions when watching their favorite team play. The researchers used fMRI to examine the brain's response to goal sequences from matches, revealing patterns of neural activation associated with social identity and fanaticism.
Scientists can now explore mechanisms behind attachment issues
Researchers found that impaired maternal care and increased stress hormone signaling led to health, behavioral, and attachment issues in mouse pups. Long-term stunted growth trajectories and anxiety-like behavior were observed after just 1 week of limited bedding.
Exercise counteracts junk food's depression-like effects through gut-brain metabolic signaling
Researchers found that voluntary running exercise mitigates cafeteria diet-induced behavioral changes via hormonal and microbial pathways. The study revealed specific metabolites, such as anserine and indole-3-carboxylate, were decreased by the cafeteria diet but partially restored by exercise.
Researchers launch survey to unlock the secrets of vivid memory
The team aims to build an anonymized database representative of the whole population by collecting two vivid memories from participants. The findings will inform new ways to help people remember in more detail and understand human memories across the lifespan.
After cancer: study explores caring-healing modalities for survivors
Researchers found that group-based interventions, mindfulness-based techniques, and expressive therapies can reduce emotional distress and build resilience in people with cancer. CHMs like peer support and psychoeducation help patients reclaim their sense of self.
Touching your face may reveal hidden stress, University of Houston study finds
Researchers found that facial self-touching, particularly around the nose, chin, and cheeks, strongly correlates with stress levels during cognitive work. The study also suggests that this behavior may be an evolutionary, self-soothing mechanism to regulate stress.
Astrocytes are superstars in the game of long-term memory
A new study reveals that astrocytes, a type of glial cell, are responsible for stabilizing memories through repeated engagement. The researchers found that Fos activity in astrocytes only occurs during recall, and that these cells can be activated to produce stable memories.
Self-efficacy and test anxiety matter for mathematics performance; co-teaching less so
A recent Finnish study found that students' self-efficacy in mathematics is a key factor contributing to their motivation and performance. High self-efficacy predicted better performance, regardless of prior achievement level. In contrast, co-teaching showed no significant benefits on mathematics performance.
FAU joins Neuroarts Academic Network to bridge art, brain and healing
Florida Atlantic University has joined the Neuroarts Academic Network, a global initiative exploring how creative expression can improve brain health and transform care. The partnership aims to harness the power of aesthetic experiences to enhance brain function and support emotional well-being.
Empathy as a double-edged sword: Study reveals hidden mental health risks for youth during war
A decade-long study found that children with early-developed empathy were more likely to experience anxiety and depression during the Israel-Hamas war, highlighting the dual role of empathy in mental health. The research suggests that empathy can be both a strength and a vulnerability in the face of mass trauma.
From memory to melody: how positive memories elevate musical performance
Researchers found that recalling positive autobiographical memories before a performance enhances valence and arousal, leading to improved performance. This is attributed to increased sympathetic nervous system activity, which regulates involuntary bodily functions.
Raising money for a charity? Don't bark up the wrong tree.
A Dartmouth study found that people without pets donate more than cat owners, who in turn give more often and diversely. The researchers analyzed over $70 billion in donations from approximately 63 million donors, suggesting that personality traits may play a role in philanthropic behavior.
Are schools making young people lonelier?
A Flinders University study suggests schools can be emotionally unsafe spaces where social hierarchies and exclusion shape student feelings and belonging. The research highlights the role of bullying and undesirable social connections in fostering loneliness among young people.
Partnerships boost life satisfaction
A new study by researchers in Germany and the UK found that living in a partnership leads to a sustained increase in life satisfaction, with the greatest gain occurring at the transition from singlehood into a relationship. The positive effect lasts for at least two years, regardless of age, sex, income, or education.