When violence is in the air
A study by University of Konstanz researcher Lion Kircheis found a consistently elevated violent crime rate in Seattle on days with wildfires, with 3.6% more assaults reported on smoky days compared to regular ones.
Human Social Behavior
Articles tagged with Human Social Behavior
Why a canceled meeting feels so liberating
A study by Gabriela Tonietto and colleagues found that unexpectedly gained time feels subjectively longer, leading people to choose longer activities. Participants in the study opted for longer tasks or leisure activities when given extra time, as they perceived it as more abundant.
Social background shapes how hard children work, according to a study by UC3M
A study by UC3M found that children from privileged families show greater cognitive effort, but incentivizing rewards can narrow the gap. Classroom incentives can help reduce socioeconomic inequalities by valuing individual progress and rewarding social recognition.
Why some people change only when enough others do
Researchers developed a method to measure individual thresholds for change, finding that personal thresholds vary widely and that combining social network structure and individual thresholds improves real-world interventions. Strategies that target individuals connected to many others who are already adopting the change were most effec...
The dehumanization effect: New PSU research examines how abusive supervision impacts employee agency and burnout
A new study by PSU researchers finds that abusive supervision can fundamentally alter how employees perceive their humanity, leading to severe burnout and decreased collaboration. In contrast, employees with a strong sense of self-efficacy are less susceptible to the dehumanizing effects of a toxic manager.
Does online sports gambling affect substance use behaviors?
A new study found that legalizing online sports betting in the US has led to a significant rise in binge drinking frequency among young men, particularly those who already report binge drinking. The study's findings highlight the need for policymakers to consider the broader behavioral impacts of gambling liberalization.
Vegans develop complex skills to navigate an omnivorous society, new Concordia research shows
Researchers found three types of relational fractures: co-performance, co-learning, and marketplace. Vegans employ strategies such as decoding, decoupling, divesting, and chameleoning to cope with conflicts. These findings are transferable to other contexts, highlighting the need for social skills to navigate moral differences.
SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·TypeObservational study·DateMar 10, 2026
Smartphone use during school hours and association with cognitive control in youths ages 11 to 18
A cross-sectional study found that smartphone use during school hours is associated with reduced cognitive control in youths aged 11-18. The study highlights the need for school-level policies and digital literacy programs to address habitual smartphone-checking behaviors that fragment attention.
Increased risk of bullying in open-plan offices
A study by Linköping University found that traditional open-plan offices increase the risk of bullying, while activity-based offices show no increased risk. The researchers suggest providing private spaces and handling irritation before it escalates as key lessons for employers.
New review calls for deeper, more dynamic understanding of human physiological connection
A new review explores the emerging science of interpersonal physiological synchrony, a phenomenon where people's bodies appear to 'move together' during social interaction. The study suggests that synchrony is dynamic and multi-layered, influenced by context, individual differences, and social interaction.
When you stumble, laughter beats embarrassment
Laughter beats embarrassment when making small mistakes, research from the American Psychological Association finds. Laughing at oneself signals social confidence and reduces tension, while acting embarrassed may be perceived as excessive. The study suggests that humor is socially effective in certain situations but risky in others.
SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2026
Dogs are more like toddlers than cats when it comes to helping humans
Research found that dogs and 16-month-old toddlers exhibited similar prosocial behaviour when searching for a hidden object, with over 75% of them indicating or retrieving the object. In contrast, companion cats rarely showed such behaviour, suggesting domestication may not be enough to produce human-like cooperation.
Study reveals low rates of routine screening for anxiety, intimate partner violence in Oregon
A study from Oregon Health & Science University reveals low rates of routine screening for anxiety and intimate partner violence in primary care settings due to lack of awareness and workflow challenges. The research team developed step-by-step guides for clinicians to improve screening rates.
How AI tools like DeepSeek are transforming emotional and mental health care of Chinese youth
China's youth faces a growing mental health crisis, but AI platforms like DeepSeek offer promising solutions to bridge the gap. These platforms leverage natural language processing and generative AI to provide round-the-clock support tailored to Chinese society.
Psychosocial safety pressures across Australian universities
A landmark report reveals increasing levels of high and very high psychosocial risk across Australian higher education, driven by weaknesses in safety systems. The study offers universities a clear roadmap for action to prioritize staff wellbeing and create workplaces that support the wellbeing of their people.
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.
SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 12, 2026
Sandra Bond Chapman inducted into the storied Philosophical Society of Texas
Dr. Sandra Bond Chapman, founder of Center for BrainHealth, was inducted into the Texas Philosophical Society for her groundbreaking work on cognitive neuroscience and brain health. Her leadership has propelled UT Dallas's Center for BrainHealth into an international hub advancing brain health research.
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.
SourceKinsey Institute·JournalInterpersona An International Journal on Personal Relationships·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 10, 2026
What makes healthy boundaries – and how to implement them – according to a psychotherapist
Psychotherapist Lynn Somerfield emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries in relationships, work, and personal beliefs to promote emotional well-being. She advises that healthy boundaries strengthen connections with others while preserving individual identity and energy.
How cultural norms shape childhood development
A new cross-cultural study suggests that children's behavior in situations involving fairness, trust, forgiveness, and honesty is shaped by local cultural norms. As children enter middle childhood, their behavior aligns with community values, refining their understanding of social norms and cooperation.
Around the world, children’s cooperative behaviors and norms converge toward community-specific norms in middle childhood, Boston College researchers report
Children across the globe exhibit similar cooperative behaviors, such as fairness and trustworthiness, that align with adult norms over age. As children get older, their behavior reflects local norms, but younger children tend to be self-interested.
Psychological therapies for children who speak English as an additional language can become “lost in translation”, study warns
A study warns that current school-based mental health support for children from multilingual backgrounds can be less effective and inaccessible due to linguistic and cultural challenges. The researchers found that conversations were often 'lost in translation,' leading to reduced parental engagement and attendance.
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.
SourceSWPS University·JournalBritish Journal of Social Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2026
Landmark FAU/CSU study: More paid time off keeps US workers from quitting
A landmark study by FAU and CSU found that offering six to 10 paid days off significantly lowers resignations, especially for men. Providing 11 or more days reduces quitting rates substantially for both men and women, highlighting the importance of meaningful time away from work.
SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Strategy and Management·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 29, 2026
How does TikTok shape young peoples' dietary preferences?
A study found that TikTok influences dietary habits by leveraging algorithmic mechanisms, entertainment content, and users' emotional connections. The platform affects food preferences, dining choices, and recipe evaluations among young people.
How to motivate collective action on climate
A Stanford University study found that showcasing past collective efforts on climate change can motivate individuals to take action. The most effective interventions combined evidence of impact with social and emotional benefits, increasing willingness to take public awareness actions by 30% and political actions by nearly 14%.
Physical activity of adolescents and their parents' mood could be linked
A study by SWPS University researchers found that sedentary lifestyle in adolescents can negatively impact their parents' mental health, leading to symptoms of depression. The study also showed that teenagers spend more time sitting than their parents, highlighting the need for family-based health-promoting interventions.
SourceSWPS University·JournalMental Health and Physical Activity·TypeObservational study·DateJan 27, 2026
Why a crowded office can be the loneliest place on earth
A comprehensive review of 233 studies identifies the connection between workplace conditions and loneliness, highlighting the importance of job quality, stress management, and social support. Chronic loneliness harms emotional and cognitive well-being, while interventions such as mindfulness and volunteering can provide relief.
Encouraging students to socialize at an early stage can prevent loneliness
A new preventive intervention called REconnect has been developed to reduce loneliness among university students. The program aims to strengthen social ties and inclusion before loneliness becomes chronic, with encouraging results showing increased life satisfaction and reduced loneliness.
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.
Staying single for longer affects young people’s well-being
Young adults who remain single for longer periods experience a decline in life satisfaction and increasing feelings of loneliness, particularly when entering their late twenties. Entering a first romantic relationship improves well-being across several dimensions, but the effects are less pronounced on depressive symptoms.
SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 14, 2026
FAU study reveals social, family and health factors behind teen bullying
Adolescents bullied or engaging in bullying face lasting mental, physical and social challenges. The study identified socioeconomic disadvantages, race, physical differences, and pre-existing health conditions as risk factors for bullying.
SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalChild Psychiatry & Human Development·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 12, 2026
Like alcohol units, but for cannabis – experts define safer limits
Researchers propose threshold levels for safe cannabis use, aiming to guide consumption and reduce harm. The recommended limit is 8 THC units per week, above which the risk of developing cannabis use disorder increases.
Hobbies don’t just improve personal lives, they can boost workplace creativity too
A study by researchers from the University of East Anglia found that leisure crafting interventions can improve work outcomes, including creativity and meaning, in working adults. Participants who engaged in hobbies reported feeling more fulfilled and creative at work, with a stronger impact on older employees.
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.
How we decide when to shut out information and when to insist on knowing it all
A new study by Tel Aviv University researchers uncovers the psychology behind seeking or avoiding information, revealing a common emotional mechanism. The findings suggest that both behaviors stem from regulating emotions and managing psychological overload, rather than moral responsibility.
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.
Why sexual assault care falls short in rural areas
New research from UT Arlington highlights critical gaps in forensic nursing and the challenges rural nurses face in becoming certified Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE). With limited resources and low case volume in rural areas, tele-mentoring is proposed as a possible solution to support newly trained SANEs.
One in ten boys become addicted to gaming
A study of 800 young people found that around one in ten boys developed computer game addiction, characterized by strong involvement and negative consequences. Parents are advised to address gaming habits early on.
SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalAddiction·TypeObservational study·DateDec 11, 2025
Reciprocity matters--people were more supportive of climate policies in their country if they believed other countries were making significant efforts themselves
A survey of 4,000 Chinese, Indian, Japanese, and US citizens found that people were more supportive of climate policies in their own country if they believed other countries were also taking action. The study's findings suggest that reciprocity plays a significant role in shaping public opinions on climate policy.
Politecnico di Milano: Individual behaviour matters more than we think in spreading epidemics
Research by Politecnico di Milano finds that even a small percentage of individuals who don't follow health measures can significantly increase the infection peak and strain healthcare facilities. The study emphasizes the need to monitor and adapt public health strategies to individual urban contexts, making interventions more effective.
SourcePolitecnico di Milano·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society A Mathematical Physical and Engineering Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 10, 2025
Humans rank between meerkats and beavers in monogamy ‘league table’
A recent study published by the University of Cambridge ranks species based on their levels of exclusive mating. Humans fall between meerkats and beavers in terms of monogamy rates. The study analyzed proportions of full versus half-siblings across various mammal species, including humans. This approach provides a more direct measure o...
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 9, 2025
What’s it take to be Santa? New research shows that even atypical candidates can be successful in the role
A new study of professional Santas found that diverse individuals can succeed in the role despite lacking typical attributes. Atypical Santas have found ways to surmount the odds and become successful in their chosen profession.
Research explores effect of parental depression symptoms on children’s reward processing
A study found that parental anhedonic depressive symptoms are associated with a reduced neural response in children to positive and negative feedback. This suggests a specific risk factor for developing depression in children of parents with this symptom, potentially impacting their ability to engage in activities.
SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of Experimental Child Psychology·TypeObservational study·DateDec 4, 2025
Before the party starts: Parental attitudes linked to college binge drinking
A Washington State University-led study suggests that college students who binge drink have more permissive parents and join fraternities or sororities. Parents with less restrictive attitudes toward drinking are also more likely to have children who engage in heavy episodic drinking.
Researchers release landmark dataset tracking Japan's social psychology through the COVID-19 pandemic
A comprehensive dataset detailing Japanese adults' responses to the pandemic offers unprecedented insights into public attitudes and behaviors. The 30-wave panel survey captures how risk perception, preventive behaviors, and psychological distress evolved over four years.
How AI can rig polls
A new study reveals AI can corrupt public opinion surveys at scale, passing quality checks and flipping predicted outcomes with fake responses. The findings have significant implications for scientific research and policy-making, highlighting the need for transparency and verification of human participation.
The most effective online fact-checkers? Your peers
A recent study by researchers from the University of Rochester, University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign, and University of Virginia found that publicly displayed community notes can effectively curb misinformation on social media platforms. The study analyzed 264,600 posts on X that received at least one community note and found that p...
SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalInformation Systems Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 17, 2025
Admitting imposter feelings may undermine professors’ perceived competence, study finds
Research from Colorado State University shows that faculty sharing internal sense of unease and inadequacy can shape students' perception of professors' overall competence, likeability, and effectiveness. Students found a hypothetical professor who publicly acknowledged feelings of being an impostor to be less hirable than an equally a...
SourceColorado State University·JournalScholarship of Teaching and Learning in Psychology·DateNov 12, 2025
Scientists find evolutionary explanation for “irrational” Dread Risk behavior
Researchers found that humans have an evolutionary tendency to bias behavior against rare but mass mortality events, leading to intense dread and avoidance. This response is favored by evolution as it protects familial structures and genetic lineage.
Between solstices and equinoxes
A Portuguese theatre company collaborated with doctors and patients to develop a play about bipolar disorder, which was performed in front of an audience of over 300 people. The play's emotional engagement helped facilitate the assimilation of scientific information and contributed to reducing stigma surrounding mental illness.
SourceSissa Medialab·JournalJournal of Science Communication·TypeObservational study·DateNov 10, 2025
Social identification with a team boosts fans’ social well-being
A new study suggests that organizations can enhance their supporters' health and well-being by bolstering their social identification with the group. Researchers found that in-group trust acted as the antecedent of social well-being, transmitting the indirect effects of progroup norms and purpose and meaning.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Business Research·TypeSurvey·DateNov 6, 2025
Parents' attachment style may be linked with risk of parental burnout, especially when associated with difficulty in understanding and identifying their emotions
A new study reveals a connection between parents' attachment styles and the likelihood of experiencing parental burnout. The research suggests that difficulty in recognizing and understanding one's own emotions can increase the risk of burnout.
Report outlines roadmap to curb firearm violence by 2040
The report proposes initiatives to reduce firearm violence, including using AI and addressing social causes. It also highlights the need for primordial prevention, which involves changing inequitable social structures to prevent violence.
SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJAMA·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 3, 2025
Less is More: Psychologist lauded for research on why simple explanations often win
Vrantsidis' study explores how people tend to focus on apparent causes and overlook absent ones, leading to oversimplified reasoning. Her findings highlight the importance of considering multiple factors in real-world situations.
Thankful at work: A two-week gratitude journal boosts employee engagement
A two-week gratitude journaling practice increased work engagement in Japanese employees, particularly in absorption and awareness of workplace resources. Journaling also showed benefits for overall well-being, life satisfaction, and competitive motivation.
University of Houston study finds challenging outdoor fun boosts youth development
A new study from the University of Houston reveals that outdoor fun with a focus on challenge, novelty, and guidance can promote positive youth development. The 'Four Types of Fun' model offers a theoretical framework for understanding fun and its role in character building.
Child welfare system involvement may improve diagnosis of developmental delays
A study found that child welfare system involvement in Pennsylvania increased the likelihood of developmental delay diagnoses for infants and toddlers, particularly those in foster care. Early intervention services were also more accessible to these children.
Do fitness apps do more harm than good?
A study published in the British Journal of Health Psychology reveals that commercial fitness apps can have negative themes such as quantifying diet and physical activity challenges, oversimplified algorithms, and aversive emotional responses. The findings suggest a need for user-centered design prioritizing wellbeing over rigid goals.
Ideological polarization and the spread of biased or fake news on Facebook are on the rise, according to a study by the UPF
A study by UPF analyzed 6 million news-related URLs from US media shared on Facebook between 2017 and 2020. The research found that algorithm changes and user behavior contributed to the spread of biased or fake news, exacerbating ideological polarization.
SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalEPJ Data Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 21, 2025