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Mice prefer rules over fights

A study by IBS scientists found that mice develop 'social rules' to allocate rewards, promoting long-term benefits for both mice. The researchers used brain stimulation to induce a sense of pleasure, and observed that 60% of the mice waited for their turn, leading to more rounds and total reward time.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 7, 2017

Managing risky behavior reduces future incarceration among aggressive juvenile offenders

A two-week intervention program focusing on reducing risky behavior was found to be effective in reducing aggression and future incarceration rates among clinically aggressive juvenile offenders. The program, PHAT Life, taught youth to identify triggers for high-risk behavior and develop coping strategies.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateOct 24, 2017

IUPUI study links juveniles' views of police with likelihood of aggressive behavior

A new IUPUI study found that juveniles who perceive police injustice are more likely to engage in aggressive behavior, particularly those who justify immoral actions. Intervention programs addressing perceptions of police injustice and moral disengagement may help reduce aggression among youth involved in the juvenile justice system.

SourceIndiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis School of Science·JournalChild Psychiatry & Human Development·DateSep 21, 2017

How a girl is raised can influence her adult sporting success

A new study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that female footballers raised with non-traditional values and role models exhibit greater fighting spirit and pleasure in the game, leading to improved performance. This suggests that upbringing plays a significant role in shaping the desire to succeed in sports.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 20, 2017

How do signs of problem gambling differ in men and women?

A new study published in Springer's Journal of Gambling Studies found that men and women experiencing problem gambling display different signs of distress. Women tend to be more emotional and display visible signs of sadness and depression, whereas men exhibit aggression and territorial behavior.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Gambling Studies·DateJun 1, 2017

Low heart rate linked to stalking behaviors in men in SHSU study

A recent study published in Journal of Interpersonal Violence found that males with low resting heart rates were at significantly greater risk of engaging in stalking behavior. Males with heart rates one standard deviation below the mean or lower had nearly three times the odds of having engaged in stalking compared to other participants.

SourceSam Houston State University·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateMay 11, 2017

Study finds superhero culture magnifies aggressive, not defending behaviors

Research by Brigham Young University professor Sarah M. Coyne found that children who frequently engage with superhero culture are more likely to be physically and relationally aggressive. However, the study also suggests that parents can find a balance between allowing their kids to enjoy superheroes while promoting prosocial behavior.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalJournal of Abnormal Child Psychology·DateJan 11, 2017

After the fight, friendship

A new study by Joyce Benenson found that men are more likely to engage in friendly physical contact after competition than women. This finding supports the 'male warrior hypothesis,' which suggests that males broker good feelings after conflict to ensure they can call on allies to defend their group.

SourceHarvard University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 4, 2016

Cuttlefish do not bluff in battle

Male cuttlefish exhibit a hierarchy of threat displays to signal aggressive intent, with frontal and shovel displays predicting subsequent lateral displays. These displays allow rivals to determine the opponent's level of aggression, enabling tactical decisions about contest escalation or withdrawal.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateJul 28, 2016

The taming of the rat

Researchers have selectively bred domesticated rat strains to exhibit tame behavior, with no instances of biting reported. The study also reveals hormonal responses and sex differences in aggression between male and female rats, shedding light on the physiological changes during domestication.