Interpersonal Skills
Articles tagged with Interpersonal Skills
To improve social and political dialogue, tell people what you're against
A study of nearly 6,000 people found that when people are presented with viewpoints they disagree with in a pro-support frame, they tend to be less open to the idea. However, when framed in oppositional terms, they are more likely to engage. Researchers suggest changing argument framing can help improve dialogue.
If you’re a perfectionist at work, your boss’ expectations may matter more than your own, research finds
A new study from University of Florida finds that employee perfectionism impact depends on alignment with supervisor's expectations and clarity in understanding. When employees' standards match supervisors', they experience less uncertainty, better performance, and higher job satisfaction.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Dog ownership is associated with a stronger sense of community, likely in part because it fosters neighborhood-based connections, per Japanese study
A Japanese study discovered dog ownership strengthens community ties through neighborhood interactions. The study compared dog owners with friends and acquaintances, finding a significant difference in social connections.
Talking with our hands: Duke study reveals how culture shapes our gestures
A Duke University study shows that cultural norms influence gesture use, with Black and White Americans communicating differently. The research highlights the importance of considering nonverbal cues to improve understanding across racial groups.
Research team explores inclusion at conferences
A Bielefeld study analyzes audience questions and survey responses from over 1,300 participants to identify barriers to inclusion at scientific events. Small measures such as behavioral guidelines and free childcare options can have a significant impact on increasing diversity and equity.
Moving abroad as a child becomes a professional superpower in adulthood
A study by Mireka Caselius found that children who moved abroad as kids develop unique skills such as social adaptability and tolerance for stress, making them highly sought-after employees in the global job market. These young adults often pursue careers with an international dimension, reflecting their adaptable nature.
Why do people believe lies?
Researchers used neuroimaging to study how people evaluate honesty in friend and stranger interactions. Participants believed lies more frequently when they promised potential gains, linked to brain regions involved with risk evaluation and reward. Shared brain activity between friendly pairs can even predict deception success.
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.
New screener offers empirical insights to improve veteran transitions
A new online assessment tool, developed by Penn State, assists veteran-serving organizations in identifying individualized risks and providing targeted support. The tool, called the Veteran Transition Screener (VTS), uses predictive models to match a veteran's demographic profile with risk factors linked to poor transition outcomes.
Is writing with AI at work undermining your credibility?
A study of 1,100 professionals reveals that AI tools can make managers' emails more professional but also undermine trust when used for routine communication tasks. Employees perceive AI-generated content as less sincere and question their leadership abilities.
New UK population-based study highlights the strengths of LGBT adolescents
A new UK population-based study reveals that LGBT adolescents exhibit unique strengths, particularly in social connections and caring attributes. The study applies the 5Cs model to compare experiences across different gender and sexuality groups, highlighting the importance of emphasizing challenges faced by minoritised groups.
Research reveals why receiving food before others is a source of discomfort for social diners
A study by Bayes Business School found that people are more concerned about violating the norm of waiting for others to be served than they are about others doing so. The research suggests that restaurants and dinner hosts could improve dining experiences by serving guests at the same time, reducing social awkwardness.
Want better cooperation? Practice niceness
A study conducted in collaboration with researchers from SWPS University found that practicing niceness can increase the propensity to cooperate by strengthening social bonds. The researchers conducted two studies, one measuring everyday niceness and its association with social connectedness and attitudes towards cooperation, and anoth...
New research highlights how parental awe and pride enhance well-being
New research highlights how parental awe and pride can significantly enhance parental well-being. Awe has been shown to strengthen parental life satisfaction, make parents feel happier, and connect them to something larger than themselves.
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.
An app can change how you see yourself at work
A study from the University of California, Riverside, found that a smartphone app can subtly reshape a person's self-image at work. The app, called MindTAPP, uses associative conditioning to pair users with positive affirmations, leading to more favorable views of their workplace abilities and a heightened sense of self-efficacy.
Canada the happiest G7 country: International report edited by SFU expert
Canada ranks highest in the G7 for happiness due to its strong social safety nets and pro-social behavior. The World Happiness Report also highlights the importance of assuming the best of others, as people underestimate the kindness of others and their own well-being is impacted by what they expect from others.
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.
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.
Emoji use may depend on emotional intelligence and attachment style
A study found that individuals with higher emotional intelligence and secure attachment styles tend to use emojis more frequently, while those with avoidant attachment styles send fewer emojis. The study also revealed a gender gap in emoji use, with women using emojis more than men, particularly in interactions with friends and family.
“Jekyll and Hyde” leaders do lasting damage, new research shows
A new study from Stevens Institute of Technology found that 'Jekyll-and-Hyde' leadership takes a sharp toll on employees' morale and job performance. When supervisors alternate between abusive and ethical behavior, it creates uncertainty and erodes confidence in the supervisor's capabilities.
People with fewer resources seen as less trustworthy across cultures, new research shows
A new study reveals that individuals with fewer material resources are consistently viewed as less trustworthy worldwide, including in diverse countries. The research highlights the importance of socioeconomic background in shaping stereotypes.
Dance, dance revolution: New Drexel research shows dance and movement therapy can increase emotional and social intelligence in middle school students
A new Drexel University study reveals that dance and movement therapy (DMT) can foster empathy, positive peer relationships, and cultural self-efficacy among middle school students. The program, developed by Nalini Prakash, aimed to address ethnic bullying and promote cross-cultural connections.
Why some abusive bosses get a pass from their employees
A new study suggests that employees may label abuse from successful bosses as 'tough love,' rather than actual abuse. When a boss is seen as high performer, workers are less likely to show hostility and more likely to think their career can be boosted by success.
New study shows meaningful social interactions boost well-being, but context matters
A new study found that engaging in meaningful social interactions with peers is associated with lower loneliness and greater affective well-being. The research also highlights the importance of context in these interactions, suggesting that online or offline settings have a positive impact on well-being during lockdowns.
Older adults want to express themselves with emojis, they just don’t understand how to
A University of Ottawa study found that older adults understand emoji meanings but are hesitant to use them due to low confidence and technical expertise. The research suggests promoting emoji use can combat ageism and reduce loneliness.
GW research explores how people make a snap judgment about unfamiliar dogs
A new study by George Washington University researchers found that people make instant judgments about unknown dogs based on their facial appearance. The study's lead author, Courtney Sexton, suggests that better understanding canine and human communication is crucial as these animals play increasingly important roles in society.
Can an app improve your romantic relationship?
A new relationship app, developed by a University of Rochester psychologist, has been shown to improve romantic relationships. The app sends daily prompts that encourage meaningful conversations, enhancing awareness and promoting moments of connection among couples.
New research identifies several warning signs that could predict intimate partner violence
Researchers found several warning signs of abuse, including a partner's behavior and reactions to their decisions, which predicted intimate partner violence. These red flags may be used in interventions to help people avoid abusive relationships or support those at risk.
Apology psychology: Breaking gender stereotypes leads to more effective communication
A research team led by a University of Arizona faculty member found that violating gender stereotypes in apologies leads to more effective communication. Women delivering masculine-style apologies were seen as displaying higher levels of assertiveness and enhancing their perceived competence.
New research sheds light on factors influencing trust and bias in societies
Researchers found that people with positive perceptions of their nation's institutions show more favoritism toward fellow citizens. Conversely, a strong identification with one's own nation aligns with previous studies. The study suggests support for national institutions can pose challenges to establishing trust across borders.
Study explores incarceration, employment and re-offense during COVID-19 pandemic
A randomized controlled study found that transitional employment programs had no significant impact on recidivism, but participants were more likely to be employed. Cognitive behavioral interventions showed marginal benefits in reducing reconviction odds.
Friendly teasing or traumatic bullying? Homophobic name-calling leaves scars
A new study found that homophobic name-calling, even from friends, has a negative impact on teenagers' mental health, including depressive symptoms and decreased sense of belonging. The research highlights the importance of clear anti-bullying policies, teacher education, and supportive interventions to prevent such behavior.
What math can teach us about standing up to bullies
A game theory study from Dartmouth College reveals that being uncooperative can lead to a more equal outcome, even for the weaker party. By refusing to fully cooperate, players can resist extortion and ultimately achieve a better payoff.
Using emoji to measure health
Researchers argue that emoji-based language systems can improve communication between patients and physicians, particularly for vulnerable populations such as those with stroke or vocal impairments. The use of emoji can condense surveys and questionnaires, increasing response rates and appealing to patients.
The science of attraction: why do we fall for certain people?
A Boston University-led study discovered that self-essentialist reasoning plays a crucial role in attraction. When individuals assume others share an underlying essence, they're more likely to form connections with them. However, this flawed thinking can restrict who we find attractive, as it's based on superficial similarities.
Improving your work-life balance can make you a more effective leader at work
New research suggests that disconnecting from work at home can boost a leader's energy and effectiveness the next day. Managers who ignored their work email at home felt more refreshed and were rated as effective leaders by their employees.
Job candidates with typo-laden resumes are up to 18.5 percentage points less likely to make it to interview, in part because they are judged by recruiters as having lower mental abilities, conscientiousness and interpersonal skills
Job candidates with typos on their resumes are less likely to get an interview due to being perceived as having lower mental abilities, conscientiousness, and interpersonal skills. This study found that a typo-laden resume can result in a 18.5 percentage point decrease in getting an interview invitation.
Few people seem to find real joy in JOMO
Researchers found that people who ranked high in JOMO also reported high levels of social anxiety, but with mixed results on the nature of JOMO. High JOMO scorers were more likely to report moderate feelings of loneliness despite not being socially anxious.
Good things happen when leaders reflect on their mistakes
Researchers found that when leaders take time to reflect on their errors, they exhibit more humility and improve team performance. A key finding is that learning from mistakes and taking a promotion focus leads to greater humility and improved team outcomes.
In crises like COVID-19, thinking about what really matters can make people more likely to save lives
Research suggests that considering values and beliefs during life-or-death decisions can lead to more effective outcomes. Participants who thoughtfully weighed factors like saving lives were more likely to prioritize it in their choices.
Secondary selling: how salesperson behavior beyond the salesperson-customer dyad increases sales revenues and customer satisfaction
Researchers found that secondary selling, a salesperson's considerate behavior with secondary entities like customers and company property, increases sales revenues and customer satisfaction. The study suggests training initiatives and making secondary selling behaviors visible to customers.
Most young people’s well-being falls sharply in first years of secondary school
Research on over 11,000 UK students reveals a sharp decline in well-being and self-esteem between ages 11 and 14, linked to the transition to secondary school. Students with higher self-esteem at age 11 experienced less significant drops in well-being.
Storytelling helps college students relieve stress, improve confidence during the COVID-19 pandemic
A study by University of Missouri researchers found that storytelling can help college students make sense of the pandemic and reduce stress. The study involved first-year college students who used stories to express personal growth during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, reporting less stress and more confidence in their schoo...
Study uncovers how blind and visually impaired individuals navigate social challenges
A recent study highlights uncomfortable social situations people with blindness face, as well as strategies they use to navigate them. Researchers found techniques for avoiding awkward encounters, recovering from them, and even constructive ways allies can support individuals with visual impairment.
Gesture-based communication techniques may ease video meeting challenges
A new technique, Video Meeting Signals (VMS), uses simple physical gestures to enhance online group video meetings. Studies have shown that VMS improves personal experiences, learning outcomes, and team performance by serving a similar function as subtle face-to-face signals.
Coaching patients to advocate for themselves can offset the effects of doctors’ racial bias
A University of Michigan-led analysis found that training patients to voice their concerns and advocate for themselves can reduce the impact of physicians' racial biases on care. The study showed that 'patient activation' creates more equitable interactions between patients and physicians.
Workplace cyberbullying: Telework comes with new challenges
A recent study published in BMC Public Health found that younger age, managerial position, and frequency of teleworking are associated with cyberbullying victimization. Cyberbullying was linked to increased psychological distress, insomnia, and loneliness, emphasizing the need for effective countermeasures.
Kessler Foundation researchers identify benefits of interpersonal emotion regulation for countering depression in multiple sclerosis
Researchers have demonstrated the efficacy of a six-week interpersonal emotion regulation (IER) intervention for addressing depression often experienced by individuals with multiple sclerosis. IER strategies, such as turning to others for emotional support, significantly reduced depression levels in the treatment group.
Kessler Foundation researchers develop behavioral treatment for deficits of facial affect recognition in multiple sclerosis
Researchers developed EMOPRINT, a five-week behavioral intervention improving facial affect recognition skills in individuals with MS. The study showed significant improvement in facial affect recognition in the MS group compared to placebo controls.
Who you know can make or break employment opportunities for African migrants
Research by University of South Australia found that knowing the 'right' people is crucial for securing a job, while African migrants often struggle due to systemic discrimination and racism. The study highlights the importance of anti-racism work and social networks in migrant labor market integration.
Child abuse investigations may not prevent poor sexual health outcomes in girls
A recent study found that child abuse investigations by Child Protective Services (CPS) do not necessarily prevent poor sexual health outcomes in adolescent girls. In fact, the researchers discovered that girls who underwent investigation were more likely to experience adverse sexual health outcomes, including STIs and pregnancy, befor...
Landmark research shows increase in online sex blackmailing during pandemic
A recent study found that men were twice as likely to be victims of online sex blackmailing during the pandemic. Young people, Black and Native American women, and LGBTQ individuals were also at high risk of this cyber-enabled crime. The study revealed race and sexuality-related differences in rates of sextortion.