Interpersonal Relationships
Articles tagged with Interpersonal Relationships
New research finds that romance and sexual intimacy don’t diminish with age
A study of single older adults aged 60-83 reveals they still value sexual activity in romantic relationships, with 97% emphasizing its importance. Participants sought romance and physical connection, viewing sex as essential to their partnerships.
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.
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.
Study shows how money matters in dual-income relationships
A new study by University of Cincinnati researchers found that men's sense of fulfillment at work is linked to their partners' views on money. Couples who align on the values of money tend to have higher job satisfaction, while those with differing perspectives experience lower job fulfillment.
New research shows how friends’ support protects intercultural couples
A new study examines the role of social approval in intercultural relationships, finding that supportive friends are a powerful protective factor. The research highlights the unique challenges faced by these couples and emphasizes the importance of building strong social networks to understand and respect their relationship.
Young adults say they’re happy with their friendships. So why do so many still feel disconnected?
A new study reveals that young adults' feelings of disconnection can coexist with rich social lives. Ongoing life changes and delayed intimacy contribute to social ambivalence among college-educated women. However, most young people have supportive friendships and strong social networks.
People with dark personality traits use touch to manipulate their partners
A new study by Binghamton University reveals that individuals with narcissistic, psychopathic, and Machiavellian personality traits exploit touch as a means of control in romantic relationships. They tend to have short-term, tumultuous relationships, often accompanied by violence.
Global study shows why the songs from our teens leave a lasting mark on us
A global study by the University of Jyväskylä found that our most emotionally resonant music comes from our teenage years, peaking around age 17. This 'reminiscence bump' helps explain why songs from adolescence remain meaningful even decades later.
Job changes may cause headaches and insomnia
A nationwide survey of 20,000 people found that those who changed jobs in the past year reported higher rates of health symptoms. Job changers often experience more stress factors, such as late-night shifts and excessive workloads, which can negatively impact mental and physical health.
Study suggests a novel approach for building communication and social connection among individuals with autism spectrum disorder
A new study published in Biological Psychiatry found that individuals with similar levels of autistic traits are more attracted to each other and their brains synchronize in unique ways during passive and active communication. This suggests a novel approach for building social connection among people with autism by tailoring environments.
Phone snubbing more damaging to insecure partners, study finds
Researchers found that people with emotional insecurities react strongly to their partner's phone use, reporting lower self-esteem and greater resentment. Simple steps like creating phone-free zones can help protect relationships.
First dates: It’s not about the place. It’s about the people.
A new University of Georgia study finds that meaningful conversations can form connections on first dates, regardless of the setting. Participants reported feeling close or romantically attracted to others despite not being in an appealing environment.
Parents may have been more likely to cheat than non-parents during the COVID-19 pandemic
Parents and men in particular may be susceptible to infidelity-related risk factors during high-stress life events. A new study reveals that parents reported a higher desire for and engagement in infidelity during the COVID-19 pandemic, with similar patterns observed across genders.
Optimists are alike, every pessimist has their own way
A study by Kobe University found that optimists' brains work similarly when imagining future events, while pessimists' brains show more individuality. This commonality may explain why optimists are seen as more sociable and satisfied with their social relationships.
Friendship promotes neural and behavioral similarity
Researchers found that friends tend to perceive products similarly and exhibit synchronized brain activity when viewed together, even predicting each other's purchasing intentions. As friendships deepen, this similarity strengthens.
Parenthood not lessening loss for widowed people, 25 years of interviews suggest
A recent study of over 5,500 widowed individuals found that emotional loneliness increases significantly after a spouse's death and continues for years. Despite stronger parent-child relationships, particularly among mothers who act as kin-keepers, social and emotional loneliness persists.
1 in 4 LGBTQ+ singles say the political climate is reshaping their dating lives
A new survey by the Kinsey Institute and DatingNews found that 1 in 4 LGBTQ+ singles are changing their dating habits due to the political climate. Gen Z ages 18-25 are particularly affected, with older generations appearing more resilient to its effects.
Relationship insecurity is the link between poor sleep and feelings of jealousy
A new study finds that poor sleep quality is related to relationship insecurity, which moderates the effect of sleep quality on daily feelings of jealousy. Anxious attachment styles are particularly vulnerable to these effects. The study highlights the complex link between sleep and relationships.
Parental engagement associated with better sleep in pre-teen children
A new study found that eating dinner with family and participating in neighborhood activities are associated with longer sleep durations, while family conflict and technology-mediated connections are linked to shorter sleep. High parental engagement is also a key predictor of sufficient sleep in pre-teen children.
Cyberbullying in any form can be traumatizing for kids
A national study by Florida Atlantic University reveals that cyberbullying, including exclusion and rejection, can lead to significant trauma in youth. The study found that almost 9 in 10 students experienced at least one form of victimization, highlighting the increasing ubiquity of digital aggression.
Neuroendocrinology pioneer celebrated at 100: A personal tribute reveals Dr. Seymour Reichlin's lasting legacy
Dr. Seymour Reichlin's remarkable career spanned five decades, marked by scientific excellence, mentorship, and generosity. His influence on neuroendocrinology has been profound, with ongoing contributions at age 100 revealing new insights into Alzheimer's disease and ecstatic mysticism.
Science confirms what an only child already knows: caregiving alone is tough
A study from the University of Missouri found that caregiving stress looks different for adults who are only children compared to those with siblings. Adult only children faced greater emotional and financial strain, while support from friends or extended family improved mental health for caregivers with siblings.
Q&A: What makes an ‘accidental dictator’ in the workplace?
A leadership trap known as the 'accidental dictator' can be avoided by embracing circumscribed empowerment, shared vision, and long-term perspective. Leaders must empower their team members within defined boundaries, engage them in the process of creating a shared vision, and prioritize a long-term perspective to build effective teams.
U of A researchers discover screen time surprise under grandparents' care
A study by University of Arizona researchers found that nearly half of the time American children spend with their grandparents involves interacting with or watching media on a screen. Grandparents may want to watch along with their grandchildren or just want to understand what the children are watching.
Using artificial intelligence (AI) to conduct classroom intelligent analysis of real classrooms
Researchers from East China Normal University developed an AI-driven system to analyze classroom videos, revealing teacher-centered instruction prevails in primary and secondary schools. The study also found that older students engage less in critical discussions and more in structured questions.
Human-AI relationships pose ethical issues, psychologists say
Researchers explore the potential risks of human-AI relationships, including interference with human social dynamics and the risk of AIs offering harmful advice. They call for more research on the psychological process involved, which could help intervene to prevent malicious AI advice from being followed.
Breaking the cycle: unveiling how childhood trauma fuels parenting and abuse
A recent study by University of Fukui researchers found that impaired empathy in parents who experienced childhood trauma increases the risk of abusive parenting, perpetuating a cycle of abuse. The study highlights the importance of targeted interventions, such as mental health support and parenting programs, to break this cycle.
Patients' experience of healthcare should be a greater part of assessing quality
Researcher Randi Olsson Haave emphasizes the importance of patients' experiences and interpersonal relationships in assessing quality. Currently, quality indicators focus on quantifiable aspects rather than experience-based measures.
New study challenges the ‘monogamy-superiority myth’, as non-monogamous people report just as happy relationships and sex lives
A comprehensive meta-analysis of 35 studies involving 24,489 people across the U.S. and Europe found no significant differences in relationship or sexual satisfaction levels between individuals in monogamous and non-monogamous relationships. Non-monogamy is often viewed as inferior to monogamy due to stereotypes and media narratives.
White-collar crimes: ‘Fall from grace’ and the stigma of reentry into society
A Florida Atlantic University study reveals that middle-class white-collar offenders face unique challenges during reentry into society, including stigma, anxiety, and fear of public exposure. Despite these challenges, they tend to secure employment and stable housing more easily than non-white-collar offenders.
Push to return to "traditional" masculinity imposes costs on men, BGU social psychologist maintains
A Ben-Gurion University social psychologist argues that toxic masculinity and traditional gender roles impose significant costs on men, affecting their personal and professional lives. Men are pressured to conform to narrow standards of masculinity, leading to increased stress and negative mental and physical health outcomes.
More than marks: How wellbeing shapes academic success
A world-first study of over 215,000 students found that emotional wellbeing, engagement, and learning readiness are key to performance. Schools must shift towards valuing student wellbeing and academic achievement as integral components of a holistic education.
UC Study: Long sentences for juveniles make reentry into society more difficult
A new study by J.Z. Bennett finds that long sentences for juveniles sever ties made while incarcerated and hinder progress upon release. The research highlights the importance of prison friendships, social connections, and emotional support in facilitating successful reintegration.
Discriminated groups create safe spaces online
Digital safe spaces are created by marginalized groups to feel protected from online harassment and oppression. These spaces, often with strict rules and moderation, provide a sense of community and well-being for their participants.
Teaching kids how to become better citizens
Researchers at Ohio State University developed a social studies curriculum that taught fourth graders 'civic competencies,' including disciplinary thinking and argumentation skills. The results showed significant improvements in students' ability to collaborate, communicate effectively, and consider multiple perspectives.
Impacts of workplace bullying on sleep can be “contagious” between partners
Research by the University of East Anglia found that exposure to workplace bullying can lead to increased symptoms of insomnia in both individuals and their partners. The study also highlights the 'contagious' nature of sleep issues between partners, where one person's sleep problems can influence the other.
Feeling supported and listened to by our partner improves physical and emotional health, according to a study by the University of Granada
A study by the University of Granada found that feeling supported and listened to by one's partner has a significant impact on general health and well-being. The Perceived Responsiveness and Insensitivity Scale (PRIS-SA) tool, adapted from an English scale, measures this aspect of relationships.
Dating is not broken, but the trajectories of relationships have changed
Researchers found that college students' perspectives on relationships haven't changed significantly over a decade, despite cultural shifts. Instead, young adults are taking more diverse pathways through romantic partnering, considering broader outcomes.
PING
Professor Andrew Brodsky's book 'PING' offers a four-part framework to transform research insights into action. The framework includes Perspective, Taking, Nonverbal cues, and Goals, which help individuals communicate more effectively in virtual environments.
For Valentine’s Day: Measure your relationship with a scientific self-test
Researchers at Stockholm University introduce the 'Valentine's Scale', a 7-question scientifically validated scale to measure relationship satisfaction. The scale provides concrete tips for strengthening relationships and has been shown to predict improvements in quality of life and mental health problems.
How we project our values onto loved ones: new study
A new study found that people tend to project their own values onto close relationships, including romantic partners and family members. This bias can lead to misunderstandings and miscommunication, highlighting the importance of recognizing and challenging these assumptions.
Research assesses how infertility treatments can affect family and work relationships
A study of 242 couples undergoing assisted reproductive treatment found that men experienced higher levels of work-family conflict, while women were more affected by stress. The researchers used online questionnaires to assess the couples' emotional well-being and job performance.
Influence of COVID-19 infection experience on fear
Researchers analyzed data from a nationwide survey to understand the relationship between COVID-19 infection experiences and fear levels. The study found that mild infection experiences alleviated fear, while severe symptoms worsened it, and that fear decreased over time.
Conversing with chatbots: What influences trust?
Research reveals that competence and integrity are key factors influencing trust in AI chatbots, with benevolence also playing a role. Personalized chatbots are perceived as more benevolent and competent, but overall trust was not significantly higher than in impersonal chatbots.
Teaching of intercultural communication calls for increasingly diverse approaches
A new study highlights the need for multiple approaches in teaching intercultural communication, focusing on three cultural perspectives: positivist, interpretive, and critical. Effective teaching emphasizes genuine interaction, acknowledging cultural diversity and examining phenomena from multiple angles.
A third of UK public ‘tolerant’ of petty corruption
Researchers found that up to 34% of the British public considered acts like nepotism or bribery acceptable during the vaccine rollout. The study also discovered an association between public tolerance of petty corruption and vaccine rollout speed, with slower rollouts in areas where tolerance was higher. Lead author Dr Franziska Sohns ...
Unlocking Romance: UCLA offers dating program for autistic adults
The PEERS Clinic at UCLA offers a 20-week dating program called PEERS for Dating, aiming to demystify social rules and empower participants to form lasting connections. Participants will learn practical strategies for initiating and maintaining romantic relationships with support from trained coaches.
Risk of domestic abuse increases over time for those exposed to childhood maltreatment
Researchers analyzed data from 12,794 participants and found that those who experienced childhood maltreatment were three times more likely to experience intimate partner violence at age 21. The risk continued to grow over time, with a four-fold increase by age 26.
Bereavement science researcher provides insights on parasocial grief
Preliminary research suggests that grieving a public figure's death can be similar to grieving a personal relationship, with intense emotions and lasting impact. Dr. Wendy Lichtenthal's work focuses on advancing bereavement science and 'meaning-centered' grief therapy for families and caregivers.
How to deal with narcissists at home and at work
Narcissists can be charming early on, but subtle signs indicate a need to get out of the relationship. Brunell discusses how researchers have learned to understand and cope with narcissists in various settings, including workplaces. Strategies for setting clear boundaries and managing situations are also shared.
WVU research finds CEOs innovate — or don’t — based on compensation packages and input from analysts
CEOs innovate based on stock recommendations and analyst feedback, which can foster explorative activities like R&D. However, many sacrifice long-term sustainability for immediate returns, incentivized by their compensation packages.
Reduction in teen pregnancy rates could ‘unravel’ as experts warn against ‘complacency’
Despite significant declines in teen pregnancies in the UK, regional disparities persist, and some outcomes worsen. Experts warn that the 'rates are down, so the job is done' mentality may be detrimental to progress.
Loneliness and isolation: Back to pre-pandemic levels, but still high, for older adults
A new national study reveals that loneliness and social isolation have returned to pre-pandemic rates for older Americans, affecting 33% of adults aged 50-80. Those with poor physical or mental health face even higher rates, highlighting the need for clinicians to screen patients for these issues and connect them with community resources.
What social rejection teaches your brain
A USC study reveals that forming social ties relies on learning from positive outcomes, such as rewards, and tracking relational value. The findings help explain why we are drawn to certain people and how we navigate relationships, with implications for mental health and social behavior.
Entrepreneurs who take funding from close family and friends are more likely to pursue lower-risk growth options
New research from Indiana University finds that accepting funding from family and friends can lead entrepreneurs to make more conservative venture growth decisions. This 'funding-source-induced bias' can result in anticipated guilt, prompting founders to prioritize lower-risk strategies.
Misokinesia, intolerance of others' fidgeting and repetitive body movements, can cause people to experience intense reactions, negative emotions and relationship strain, per qualitative study
A qualitative study reveals misokinesia can evoke strong negative emotions and strained relationships due to intolerance of others' fidgeting and repetitive body movements. The study found personal and social impacts on individuals with this condition.
Home is where the heart is – or is it?
A study by Bayes Business School characterizes four types of 'home' and their psychological benefits, revealing that people in a mobile world may identify with more than one setting. The traditional home is being redefined as a physical building or a space where social interactions occur.
Here’s something Americans agree on: Sports build character
A recent study found that more than 9 out of 10 Americans agree that sports build character and improve health, while ignoring issues such as abuse and burnout. The 'Great Sport Myth' suggests that sports have automatic positive results, but researchers argue that this ignores problems in the sport.