Physiological Psychology
Articles tagged with Physiological Psychology
Cohesion in Diversity
A study published in PNAS found that the brain's social perception is more inclusive when a shared national identity is made salient. The research suggests that this neural flexibility can help bridge divisions and foster harmonious intergroup relations. By emphasizing common identities and shared goals, social cohesion can be improved.
The invisible hand of climate change: How extreme heat dictates who is born
A new study reveals that exposure to extreme heat during pregnancy significantly alters the human sex ratio at birth, leading to fewer male births. In sub-Saharan Africa, this is driven by biological factors, while in India, it is influenced by cultural practices and behavioral changes.
Noninvasive brain treatment reduces traumatic memories
Researchers developed a new approach to treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) using noninvasive brain stimulation, which significantly reduced intrusive memories in individuals with the condition. The treatment targeted the hippocampus and surrounding regions, showing promising results in alleviating PTSD symptoms.
Child behavioral problems are associated with decreased heart rate variability in parents, new Concordia research shows
A study of 80 couples found that child- and marriage-related stressors affect self-regulation, particularly in fathers. Lower heart rate variability was associated with more difficult child behavior, with marital stress amplifying this effect.
Scientific evidence that pianists can change timbre through touch
Researchers developed a sensor system to measure piano key movements at 1,000 fps and found listeners could distinguish intended timbres regardless of training experience. Key movement features produce timbre differences, suggesting potential applications in rehabilitation, skill transfer, and human interface design.
Your morning coffee really does make you happier
A new study by Bielefeld University and the University of Warwick found that morning coffee significantly improves mood and enthusiasm in young adults. The researchers also discovered that caffeine's effects on mood are consistent across individuals with varying levels of anxiety or depressive symptoms.
What happens in the brain when your mind blanks
Mind blanking is a common experience characterized by lapses in attention, memory issues, and cessation of inner speech. Studies have shown that it's associated with specific neural signatures and changes in arousal levels, leading to malfunctions in key cognitive mechanisms like memory and language.
Maternal childhood trauma may lead to early metabolic changes in male children
A study of 352 newborn pairs found that maternal childhood trauma can lead to excessive weight gain in male children as early as the first two months of life. This may increase future risk of obesity and diabetes, highlighting a potential intergenerational effect.
The body remembers: OU researchers publish new study on Oklahoma City bombing survivors’ trauma ‘imprint’
Researchers found that cortisol levels were lower in survivors, while heart rate and blood pressure responses were altered. Interleukin 1B was significantly higher, suggesting potential long-term health problems despite healthy symptoms.
Fiber computer allows apparel to run apps and “understand” the wearer
Researchers created a fiber computer that can be integrated into clothing to track health conditions and physical activity. The technology achieved an average accuracy of 70% when individually operated, but increased to nearly 95% when connected collectively.
Breathing and vision may be linked
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet discovered a fundamental mechanism linking breathing to pupil size, which affects vision. The study shows that the pupil is smallest during inhalation and largest during exhalation, impacting visual perception.
Scientific insights into how humans access deep spiritual states
Researchers discovered a common cognitive feedback loop used by Buddhist jhāna meditation and Christian speaking in tongues practices to achieve profound focus and joy. This 'Attention, Arousal and Release Spiral' offers insights into cultivating deep states of tranquility and bliss.
Music makes us move even when we don’t like it, according to new Concordia research
People with musical anhedonia still derive pleasure from groovy tunes, and the urge to move appears to drive their experience of pleasure. Research found no differences in either pleasure or urge to move in anhedonics compared to controls, suggesting that the urge to move may itself generate pleasure.
Generally, things really do seem better in morning, large study suggests
A large study published in BMJ Mental Health found clear time of day patterns in frame of mind, with people generally waking up feeling best in the morning and worst around midnight. The study also revealed seasonal influences on mental health and wellbeing, with better mood during summer months.
An immersive VR exercise session engaged participants in more intense and reportedly enjoyable exercise, with more positive emotions, compared to a workout presented on-screen
A recent study published in PLOS ONE found that immersive VR exercise sessions resulted in more intense and enjoyable workouts compared to traditional screen-based exercises. The research suggests that virtual reality could be an efficient way to improve physical activity and overall well-being.
New study finds neurobiological evidence of peripartum depression in women, distinguishing it from major depressive disorder
Researchers have identified structural grey matter differences in the brains of women with a history of peripartum depression compared to those without. The study found that hormone fluctuations during pregnancy and childbirth may be key to understanding this condition.
A caving expedition yields valuable insight into the challenges of field research
Researchers conducted a caving expedition to gather data on the effects of environmental stressors on human cognition, collecting useful insights despite logistical challenges. The study proposed a framework for future field-based cognitive science research, offering lessons beyond traditional lab settings.
Dog–owner interaction is reflected in heart rate variability
A study at the University of Jyväskylä found that dog and owner heart rates synchronize during interaction, reflecting emotional state. The connection suggests a strong bond between species.
Raising happy eaters: Unlocking the secrets of childhood appetite
Researchers propose a model that examines the complex relationships between children's appetite regulation and environmental influences. The study suggests that temperamental characteristics play a significant role in shaping children's eating behaviors and provide guidelines for better understanding childhood appetite self-regulation.
ABM releases position statement on breastfeeding in emergency situations
The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine has released comprehensive guidelines for protecting, promoting, and supporting breastfeeding in emergency situations. The recommendations aim to safeguard the health and well-being of infants in disasters and conflicts by ensuring safe nutrition and immune protection.
UBC Okanagan researchers challenge high-intensity interval training critics
Researchers at UBC Okanagan challenge assumptions about the validity and suitability of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) for public health. They argue that evidence-based findings show HIIT is enjoyable and effective for a wide range of populations, despite critics' claims.
Digital biomarkers shedding light on seasonality in mood disorders
A new study published in PLOS Mental Health found a relationship between daily sunlight exposure, physical activity, and depressed state. The research used wrist-based activity sensors to collect data from individuals with depression and those without, revealing that more depressed states were associated with lower daytime activity.
Can technology turn exercise pain into pleasure?
Researchers at the University of Bath have developed sensors that track physical changes experienced by exercisers while using VR headsets, allowing game designers to create immersive programs that adapt to a person's abilities and mood. This technology aims to increase user engagement and adherence to exercise.
Individuals vary in how air pollution impacts their mood
Researchers found that air pollution affects people differently, causing some to feel less aroused and more negative. The study suggests that this effect can contribute to increased anxiety risk and inform climate adaptation planning.
The secret to finding balance: improving interoception
A new Reichman University study demonstrates how external representation of physiological signals can improve internal balance. The researchers created an immersive multisensory environment that mirrors the user's breathing pattern, leading to significant improvements in interoceptive sensibility and flow among users.
Researchers leveraging AI to train (robotic) dogs to respond to their masters
A team of researchers is creating a socially assistive model for a robotic dog that adapts its behavior based on the owner's physiological and emotional characteristics. The project aims to improve interactions between humans and robots in home and healthcare settings.
Breastfeeding priorities most important to parents
A collaborative effort between The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine and Reaching our Sisters Everywhere identified key components of a successful breastfeeding journey as defined by parents and families. The findings aim to inform research priorities and promote patient-centered outcomes in infant and young-child feeding.
Understanding the synchronization of physiological states during a live music performance
A study by Waseda University researcher Ryota Nomura found that synchronized heart rates among concertgoers are linked to reliable physiological reactions rather than emotional response. This discovery could lead to better theater experiences and improved performances.
Biological underpinnings of romantic attraction and bonding
A new study reveals that physiological synchrony significantly enhances perceived romantic attraction. Super Synchronizers, who naturally synchronize well in social and nonsocial contexts, are perceived as more romantically appealing. This study integrates experimental and observational methods to investigate the mechanisms of romantic...
“Space at your fingertips” - groundbreaking research unlocks the potential of touch for 3D spatial perception
A new study developed a Touch-Motion Algorithm to explore tactile sensation with spatial components, enabling participants to localize 3D motion through fingertips. The results demonstrated accurate integration of audio and tactile information in challenging environments, opening pathways for enhancing human perception and interaction.
How infections influence our social empathy
Researchers found that acute inflammation from bacterial endotoxin administration led to a significant reduction in empathy for psychological pain in healthy women. The study highlights the impact of inflammation on both physical and interpersonal relationships.
Exploring the effect of the presence of familiar people in interpersonal space
The study found that heart rate decreases and parasympathetic activity increases when interacting with friends, but not strangers. This suggests that social relationships influence physiological responses during social interactions.
The Wim Hof method may reduce inflammation, per systematic review
The Wim Hof method has been found to increase epinephrine levels and decrease pro-inflammatory cytokines, indicating a potential anti-inflammatory response. However, its impact on exercise performance is less clear, with some studies showing benefits and others finding no significant difference.
Patients with Parkinson’s disease who experience freezing of gait have sleep disorders, study shows
Researchers found a correlation between Parkinson's disease and freezing of gait in 20 studies, noting similar brain injury causes both symptoms. Sleep quality deteriorates when dopaminergic medication is stopped, suggesting treatment potential for freezing of gait.
Live music emotionally moves us more than streamed music
A recent study conducted at the University of Zurich found that live performances stimulate a stronger emotional response in the brain compared to listening to recorded music. The researchers used magnetic resonance imaging to measure brain activity during both live and recorded music sessions, revealing a significant difference in amy...
Acupuncture for combat-related posttraumatic stress disorder
A randomized clinical trial found acupuncture to be clinically efficacious and favorably affect PTSD symptoms in combat veterans. The study suggests that further research is needed to explore the efficacy and mechanisms of acupuncture for PTSD treatment.
Monkey see, monkey do: how sideline sports behaviors affect kids
A new study from the University of South Australia found a link between parents' sideline conduct and athletes' behaviours. When parents behaved well, their child was more likely to project positive behaviour. However, when parents behaved poorly, this was related to greater antisocial behaviours in their child.
Having COVID-19 and Long COVID can impact women’s sex lives
A Boston University study of over 2,000 cisgender women found that COVID-19 can impair sexual function, with long COVID having a detrimental effect on arousal, lubrication, orgasm, and pain scores. Women with long COVID had markedly worse sexual well-being, highlighting the need for healthcare providers to address this taboo topic.
Potential link between high maternal cortisol, unpredicted birth complications
A study by Washington State University researchers found a potential link between high maternal cortisol levels and unpredictable birth complications. Cortisol measurements in hair samples revealed elevated stress hormone levels among women who later experienced unexpected birth problems, such as early births or hemorrhaging.
Skin-deep resilience: Hidden physical health costs for minority youth overcoming adversity
A new study from the University of Illinois finds that high-striving minority youth in early adolescence may experience accelerated puberty development, a potential indicator of 'skin-deep resilience,' which can lead to physiological changes such as inflammation and metabolic disorders.
Study shows how birth control pills affect women’s psychological and biological responses to stress
A new UCLA Health study found that hormonal contraceptive pill users processed stress differently at the molecular and psychological level. They also reported a more negative emotional response to stress compared to non-users.
High pressure competitive environment impacts performance of top esport players, new study shows
A recent study conducted by the University of Chichester examines the impact of high-pressure situations on esports players' performance, anxiety, and cognitive symptoms. The research found that university-level competitors performed worse under pressure, while elite players still experienced suboptimal performance and anxiety.
Canadians’ feelings about the causes of obesity are often harmful to self-esteem, new Concordia study shows
A Concordia University study found that Canadians of all sizes hold negative attitudes towards individuals with overweight and obesity, often internalizing these feelings and blaming their own behavior. The study also showed that females are more likely to report weight bias internalization than males.
Purdue sensors measure uric acid levels better than other noninvasive methods
Researchers at Purdue University have developed noninvasive wearable sensors that can measure uric acid levels in human sweat, offering faster and more accurate diagnosis, therapy, and prognosis for conditions like anxiety and hypertension. The sensors, called EPICS, have higher sensitivity and better wearability than traditional sensors.
The emotional function of dreams is not the same everywhere
A study comparing dreams from Western and non-Western populations found that non-Western groups produced more cathartic and socially-oriented dreams, while Western groups had more threatening but less emotionally resolving dreams. The results suggest a strong link between societal norms and the function of dreams.
Wearable bracelet tracks bipolar mood swings: changing electrical signals in skin linked to manic or depressed moods
Researchers developed a wearable device to track bipolar disorder patients' skin electrical activity, detecting manic and depressed phases. The study aims to improve diagnosis and treatment with personalized, rapid interventions.
Small doses of mushrooms can have a beneficial effect on mental disorders
Researchers at the University of Southern Denmark have conducted a study on rats, showing that small doses of psilocybin can increase resilience to stress and reduce compulsive behaviors. The study lends support to the benefits of microdosing as a therapeutic intervention.
University of Cincinnati research examines the molecular mechanism of psychological loss
A new study from the University of Cincinnati explores the molecular mechanism of psychological loss through enrichment removal, identifying a key area of the brain that plays a role in this experience. The research highlights the importance of understanding how loss affects mental health and may lead to novel therapeutic targets.
The “Choreography” between hormones and the brain key to understanding how women adapt to motherhood
A study reviewed the effects of hormone fluctuations on brain structure and behavior in pregnant and postpartum women. The researchers found that estrogen levels triggered plasticity processes in the brain during this time, affecting maternal behavior.
New ‘encyclopedia’ of sedentary behavior emphasizes importance of movement to health
A comprehensive review of sedentary behavior's effects on health found excessive sitting to lead to insulin resistance, vascular dysfunction, and increased body fat. The study emphasizes the need for more research on effective interventions to reduce sedentary behavior.
The need to hunt small prey compelled prehistoric humans to produce appropriate hunting weapons and improve their cognitive abilities
The study found a correlation between the emergence of sophisticated stone-knapping methods and a relative decrease in large prey quantities. Stone-tipped spears with Levallois technology allowed for more substantial wounds, increasing hunting success.
Researchers predict film scores by the activity of facial muscles
A study published in Frontiers in Neuroscience found that the activity of zygomaticus major, heart rate variability, and EEG indicators can predict film scores. The researchers used a machine learning model to analyze physiological data from 21 participants who watched short films and rated them on a scale from 1 to 10.
Shift work may impair memory and cognition, per data on nearly 50,000 Canadian adults
A new study published in PLOS ONE found that exposure to night shift work and rotating shift work is associated with higher rates of cognitive impairment among middle-aged and older adults. Cognitive function tests revealed impairment in memory and executive function, suggesting a potential link between shift work and neurodegeneration.
Team from the University of Ottawa develops new drug discovery platform
A team from the University of Ottawa has developed a comprehensive screening platform and cellular interrogation tool to facilitate novel drug discovery targeting various human diseases. The 'Tango-Trio' platform can identify small molecule modulators for orphan GPCRs, which have significant untapped therapeutic potential.
Old dogs with dementia sleep less deeply, just like people with Alzheimer’s
Dogs with canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CCDS) display altered brain wave activity during sleep, including reduced slow-wave sleep and increased fast beta waves. This research builds on human studies linking disrupted sleep patterns to cognitive decline in Alzheimer's patients.
Octapharma USA grant supports PANS/PANDAS education event at NHIA Conference March 27 in Washington, D.C.
The Octapharma USA grant supports the Immunoglobulin National Society's breakfast symposium on PANS/PANDAS, a subset of pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome associated with strep. The program will focus on diagnosis criteria, pathogenic mechanisms, and current treatment options for challenging cases.
Exercise decreases suicide attempts in those with mental and physical illness: uOttawa study
A new study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that exercise was well-tolerated by patients with mental or physical illness and resulted in decreased suicide attempts. The research debunks the myth that these individuals are not motivated to participate in physical exercise regimes.
The nose knows: study suggests it may be wise to screen for smell loss to predict frailty and unhealthy aging
Researchers found that impaired olfactory identification and sensitivity functions are associated with frailty, suggesting a potential biomarker for predicting frailty and unhealthy aging. The study's findings suggest screening older adults' ability to smell various scents could be as important as testing hearing and vision.
Dogs can smell when we’re stressed, study suggests
A new study found that dogs can differentiate between breath and sweat samples from people before and after a stress-inducing task with an accuracy of 93.75%. The researchers believe that dogs are able to detect changes in volatile organic compounds produced by humans in response to stress.