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What are friends for? Negating negativity

A Concordia University study found that friends can immediately reduce cortisol levels and improve feelings of self-worth in children undergoing negative experiences. The presence of a best friend has far-reaching implications, potentially impacting adult identity formation and overall development.

SourceConcordia University·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateJan 26, 2012

Athletes' streaks not all in our (or their) heads

Researchers analyzed 300,000 NBA free-throws, finding strong support for the hot hand phenomenon, which suggests a streak of positive outcomes is likely to continue. This study sheds new light on an old question, supporting fans' view that the phenomenon exists and opens doors for further physiological and psychological investigations.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 5, 2011

Sick body, vigilant mind

A recent study found that when people have been recently sick, they are more likely to pay attention to and avoid others who might make them sick. This activation of the behavioral immune system is independent of conscious worries and is linked to a faster response in avoiding potentially contagious individuals.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 8, 2011

Hang out at the water cooler, live longer

A Tel Aviv University researcher found that employees with positive relationships with their co-workers are more likely to live a longer life. The study followed the health records of 820 adults who worked an average of 8.8 hours a day and found that those with low social support at work were 2.4 times more likely to die within 20 years.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalHealth Psychology·DateAug 4, 2011

Smoking mind over smoking matter

A Tel Aviv University study found that nicotine patches and gum are ineffective in combating cigarette cravings, which are instead driven by psychological cues. The research suggests that understanding smoking as a habit rather than an addiction can lead to more successful treatment methods.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Abnormal Psychology·DateJul 13, 2010

Women's soccer -- get fit while having fun

A two-year study of 100 untrained adult women reveals that playing soccer improves maximal oxygen uptake, muscle mass, and physical performance compared to running. The study also shows that soccer's fixed time and place make it easier for women to stick to their training than running.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalScandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports·DateOct 2, 2009

Melatonin improves mood in winter depression

A study by Oregon Health & Science University reveals that low-dose melatonin taken in the afternoon can help most people with winter depression whose bodily rhythms are out of sync. The treatment was found to be effective for those who were naturally 'night owls', while morning larks responded better to taking melatonin in the morning.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 1, 2006

A common-sense cure for obesity

The Lancet Seminar highlights the role of adverse environmental factors in childhood obesity and advocates for straightforward solutions. Comprehensive measures targeting energy intake and expenditure are necessary to prevent and treat obesity in children.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 8, 2002

Perspective on life can affect women’s health, according to new studies

Research suggests that a woman's optimism during pregnancy can lead to healthier birth outcomes for her baby. Women with an optimistic outlook tend to exercise more frequently and have better nutrition, resulting in lower birth weight infants. Additionally, women who perceive themselves as higher on the social ladder report better phys...

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalHealth Psychology·DateNov 18, 2000