Articles tagged with Psychological Assessment
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Researchers found that feeling good encourages individuals to explore values inconsistent with their cultural norms, while feeling bad reinforces traditional stereotypes. This suggests that emotions play a significant role in shaping our cultural identities.
A new project aims to analyze if ethical training programs can prevent doping and unfair behavior in sports by teaching ethical competencies. The online program will be designed to evaluate its effectiveness in preventing doping among young elite athletes aged 12-14.
Researchers discovered that post-traumatic stress disorder impacts stroke patients' recovery and ability to resume normal life, even with minor brain damage. Early testing using simple questionnaires could lead to significant improvements in subarachnoid hemorrhage patient outcomes.
The 'Besieged in Britain' report reveals the psychological damage caused by extreme denials of civil liberties, including severe mental health problems and suicide attempts. The policy has led to men being held under house arrest for long periods, subjected to random police searches, and forced to leave their families.
A new Northwestern University study uses brain-reading technology to show that people can be more accurate in recognizing familiar images when distracted or guessing than when paying full attention. The research suggests that implicit recognition may play a significant role in everyday decision-making and problem-solving.
Researchers found that increased temptation, such as sweets in a gym setting, can actually decrease desire for them. This counteractive self-control theory suggests the mind dampens desire to protect greater goals like good health. The study also applied this concept to other temptations like work and play.
A recent study found that when people are told false information about an event shortly after witnessing it, they become less likely to remember the actual details. However, forcing them to recall what they witnessed shortly afterwards improves their ability to learn and retain false information.
A simple questionnaire can replace a doctor's exam to qualify for a job, providing a more accurate forecast of competency. The test is highly effective, with 98% accuracy, and can help those previously deemed unemployable find suitable work. This innovation brings excellent news for employers, reducing medical costs and litigation risks.
A new study published in Psychological Science found that spending time in nature improves attention and memory processes. Volunteers who took a walk in a park performed better on a task than those who walked downtown or viewed urban scenes.
A recent study published in Psychological Science found that individuals with a higher sense of power experienced less compassion and distress when confronted with another's suffering. High-power individuals' autonomic emotion regulation increased, buffering against their partner's distress.
Research shows nostalgia enhances psychological health by boosting self-esteem and perceptions of social support. Nostalgia also counteracts loneliness and provides a link between past and present selves.
A recent study found that prejudice influences people's perceptions of what ethnic minority faces look like, with prejudiced individuals viewing certain faces as more criminal-looking. The research suggests that this bias may serve as a stereotype-maintaining device.
A new study found that African American adolescent girls whose mothers used psychological control, such as guilt trips and withdrawn affection, reported higher levels of depressive symptoms. In contrast, boys showed no such effect. The researchers suggest a need for parents to strike a balance between giving children autonomy and guidi...
A large study of physicians found that doctors tend to mirror the attitudes of the majority and implicitly favor whites over blacks. This suggests that subtle race bias may affect healthcare quality, but more research is needed to confirm this link.
A study by Frederik Anseel and Wouter Duyck found that employees are more likely to work for companies with matching initials, a phenomenon known as the name-letter effect. The researchers analyzed data from over 100 Belgian employees and discovered a significant correlation between employee initials and company names.
A study of 215 women who underwent BRCA testing found that personal beliefs about inconclusive results are a strong predictor of psychological adjustment. Women with higher levels of worry and distress were more likely to struggle with the uncertainty of their test results.
Long-term cancer survivors are more likely to experience severe psychological distress than adults never diagnosed with cancer. Younger survivors aged less than 65 years old were particularly at risk, the study found. The research aims to raise awareness of psychosocial needs among long-term survivors and encourage routine screening.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University have developed a decision-making instrument called the Test Accessibility and Modification Inventory (TAMI) to address the issue of accessibility for students with special needs. The tool helps test developers apply principles of universal design to create more inclusive assessments.
Researchers Chen-Bo Zhong and Geoffrey Leonardelli found that socially excluded individuals experience a physical feeling of coldness, which is linked to their preference for warm food and drinks. This study suggests that warm chicken soup may be a literal coping mechanism for social isolation.
A study by Brandeis University suggests that age-related differences exist in how people view their past, present, and future expectations. Younger adults tend to be more optimistic about their future, while older adults are more realistic and accurate in their predictions.
A substudy of the IBIS II trial found no significant differences in cognitive assessments between postmenopausal women receiving anastrozole and placebo, but noted more endocrine symptoms such as hot flushes in the anastrozole group.
Researchers at University of Western Ontario developed a method to tap into automatic mental associations of undecided individuals, predicting their future decisions on controversial issues. The implicit association test was used to analyze participants' responses, showing significant correlations between initial and final beliefs.
A new study found biracial Asian Americans are twice as likely as monoracial peers to be diagnosed with a psychological disorder. The research controlled for factors like age and stress but found no difference in life experiences.
Children's ability to plan for the future develops around age 4, with 4- and 5-year-olds performing better than 3-year-olds. Additionally, children's current physiological state can affect their ability to imagine themselves in a specific situation, as seen in studies on pretend scenarios and hunger.
Research by Dr Jane Fowler found strikers experienced higher levels of depression and anxiety, but those actively involved in union activities showed lower symptoms. Unions can support members with financial assistance and counselling to reduce psychological impact.
A new study from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health found that Western cultures tend to emphasize psychological symptoms of depression, while East-Asian cultures emphasize somatic or physical symptoms. The study also revealed a link between cultural differences in thinking styles and symptom reporting.
Researchers used a study on pen choice to investigate Japanese and American cultural differences. Contrary to previous stereotypes, the findings suggest that cultural differences are not due to inherent preferences, but rather how individuals interpret ambiguous situations.
TV portrayals of mental health professionals often depict them as incompetent, untrustworthy, and even buffoons, leading to negative perceptions about seeking psychological services. The study suggests that this can contribute to lower intentions to seek therapy, exacerbating the stigma surrounding mental health issues.
Researchers found that wanting what you have contributes to happiness, but only up to a point. Having what you want also brings happiness, but in moderation. The key to true happiness lies in appreciating the possessions you already own and managing desires for more.
A study found that severe housing damage is a key factor behind socioeconomic disparities in psychological distress after Hurricane Katrina. The research also revealed that blacks were substantially more likely to experience serious psychological distress, with almost one-third reporting high levels of distress.
A study using the ultimatum game found that even when subjects stood to gain the same amount of money, they were happier with fair offers and more disdainful of lopsided deals. The brain's emotional response was linked to regions associated with reward and self-control.
A study by Ohio State University found no improvement in immune status, wound healing, or pain control among participants exposed to aromatherapy oils. However, lemon oil showed a positive effect on moods, while lavender oil had no impact.
A team of psychologists found that people's emotional desire for a mate leads them to believe there are fewer desirable partners available, even when the numbers are equal. This 'value heuristic' affects judgmental decisions in everyday life and can sometimes lead to unrealistic assumptions about reality
A recent study by Kathleen Vohs and Jonathan Schooler found that individuals who believe in their own free will are less likely to cheat and steal money compared to those with weakened convictions. The researchers used a priming method to manipulate participants' beliefs about free will, leading to significant results.
Using neuroimaging, researchers at Harvard University tested extrasensory perception (ESP) and found no evidence for its existence. Despite participants' reports of unexplained knowledge, brain scans showed no difference in response to ESP and non-ESP stimuli.
A national study found a disconnect between explicit and implicit preferences for Democratic candidates Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton. The study, using an Implicit Association Test, showed that Clinton was the preferred candidate among 48% of participants, while Obama had 25% support.
Researchers found that learning different names for things makes it easier to place them into the correct categories. In a series of experiments, participants learned labels for aliens on a computer screen and categorized them into two types, demonstrating that redundant labels facilitate learning of novel categories.
Research suggests glucose powers self-control, which wanes when exercised. Replenishing blood sugar through sugary drinks can improve subsequent self-control efforts.
A meta-analysis of 46 studies on telecommuting involving 12,833 employees found that flexible work arrangements result in higher morale, lower employee stress, and improved performance ratings. The study also showed that women may derive greater benefits from telecommuting, with improved career prospects and better work-life balance.
A study found that liking one's own name can sabotage success for people whose initials match negative performance labels. Researchers analyzed Major League Baseball players' performance and found batters with names starting with 'K' struck out more often. Similarly, in academia, students with initials 'C' or 'D' earned lower GPAs.
A study found that mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) therapy significantly improves psychological symptoms and well-being in RA patients, but has no impact on disease activity. After 6 months, the MBSR group achieved a 35% reduction in psychological distress.
A new study found that only seven percent of white college students showed no racial bias, with nonbiased individuals less likely to form negative associations in general. Nonbiased individuals were more resistant to classical conditioning, which can lead to racial bias in society.
Research reveals that subtle racism is more damaging than overt hostility, impairing cognitive capacity and mental effort. Black volunteers who witnessed unfair but ambiguous hiring decisions performed worse on the Stroop test, indicating they were using all their mental resources to make sense of the unfairness.
New study reveals that overlearning vocabulary through repeated drilling results in no long-term retention, while massing all study on a single topic into a single session reduces long-term retention. Breaks of at least a month between study sessions also improve learning outcomes.
Researcher Dean Simonton has identified key traits of cinematic creative triumph and box-office success, including being R-rated dramas, based on true stories, or having exceptional scores.
A study reveals that monkeys learn through active engagement, mirroring human learning strategies. By generating answers themselves from memory, monkeys outperformed passive training with hints in long-term retention. This finding supports the importance of active learning in both humans and animals.
Researchers used the Stroop task to test grapheme-color synesthetes, finding that opponent incongruent colors made it difficult for them to respond quickly. However, memories of objects associated with those same colors were not affected by color change. These findings suggest that synesthetic colors are perceived in a realistic way.
A study by UC Irvine found that girls in juvenile detention centers face unique psychological issues, including twice as much aggression as boys and high levels of alcohol and drug use. The researchers suggest that training staff to recognize these issues could help improve the situation.
New research reveals counterfactual thinking in readers is about undoing choices, while actors alter problem-solving processes. This challenges previous theories on the nature of this psychological mechanism.
A study by Timothy Salthouse found that cognitive scores vary significantly within test-takers as between age groups, raising questions about the validity of single test scores. Repeating tests over a short period may provide a more accurate range of scores, improving diagnostic workups.
A recent study by researchers from the US, China, and Japan found consistent positive implicit self-esteem among university students from three countries. The study used the Implicit Association Test (IAT) to measure automatic attitudes towards oneself, revealing high levels of positive self-associations across cultures.
Researchers at the University of Illinois found that brain activity patterns differ between two types of anxiety: anxious apprehension (verbal rumination, worry) and anxious arousal (intense fear, panic). The study used fMRI to identify distinct brain regions active in each type of anxiety.
A systematic review found that psychological counseling and learning coping skills can significantly decrease arthritis-related disability and improve quality of life. The study analyzed 27 randomized controlled trials involving 3,409 patients with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
A study found that reaction time slows down during the night and reaches its lowest point in the early morning, affecting cognitive processing stages. The central-slowing hypothesis suggests that this slowdown contributes to impaired driving performance and increased risk of traffic accidents in the early morning.
A Penn State study found that eating pistachios reduced the body's response to stress in individuals with high cholesterol but normal blood pressure. The 3-ounce pistachio diet was most effective in reducing systolic blood pressure and improving vascular relaxation.
A new medical device developed by University of Cincinnati researchers could identify olfactory disorders that may be an early warning sign for Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other conditions. The Sniff Magnitude Test uses a simple observation to measure sniff size when detecting odors.
Research by Dutch social-psychologist Harm Veling demonstrates that our brains selectively remember useful information while suppressing distracting influences. However, this process requires mental energy and breaks down when individuals are fatigued.
Research published in Psychological Science suggests psychologists are adopting improved statistical practices, using more graphs with error bars to report their research and estimating effect sizes. The shift signals a step forward in data interpretation, leading to better conclusions.
A review of 290 studies found that women are more likely to meet diagnostic criteria for PTSD despite males experiencing more traumatic events on average. Women's higher PTSD rates were linked to sexual trauma and emotional responses to traumatic events.
Dr. Paule Miquelon wins Seligman Award for her research on the relationship between hedonism and eudemonism, which suggests individuals who pursue goals through personal choices experience better physical health. The John Templeton Foundation awarded her with a $1000 cash grant and travel expenses to present her research.