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Study provides insights on bouncing back from job loss

A new study published in the Journal of Employment Counseling found that high levels of self-regulation predict better well-being, job search clarity, and job search self-efficacy. The findings suggest that employment counseling efforts should help individuals improve their self-regulation to achieve positive outcomes after job loss.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Employment Counseling·DateSep 10, 2020

An averted glance gives a glimpse of the mind behind the eyes

Scientists found that when someone is caught staring, their brain sends a signal that the gaze is not significant, allowing others to ignore it. This study sheds light on how social dynamics shape visual attention and reveals the brain's ability to perceive intentions behind an averted glance.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 3, 2020

Just read my face, baby

A new study by the University of Rochester and University of Toronto found that couples who accurately perceive appeasement emotions, such as embarrassment, have better relationships. In contrast, couples where either partner feels negative emotions, regardless of whether those emotions are accurately perceived, have poorer relationships.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalPsychological Science·DateMay 20, 2020

Neuropsychological and psychological methods are essential

The collection of articles highlights the importance of neuropsychological and psychological applications in neurorehabilitation, addressing various etiologies and recovery outcomes. Innovative treatment methodologies such as solution-focused brief therapy and holistic milieu-oriented neurorehabilitation are also discussed.

SourceIOS Press·JournalNeuroRehabilitation An International Interdisciplinary Journal·DateApr 8, 2020

Esports gamers face same level of psychological pressure as pro-athletes, study finds

Researchers found that esports players faced 51 different stress factors, including communication problems and concerns with live audiences, mirroring the mental conditions experienced by pro athletes. The investigation recommended psychological training for top players to develop effective coping strategies.

SourceUniversity of Chichester·JournalInternational Journal of Gaming and Computer-Mediated Simulations·DateNov 12, 2019

Hush, baby -- the dog is whimpering!

A new study reveals that dogs communicate distress more effectively than cats, and pet ownership is associated with increased emotional sensitivity to negative animal vocalizations. Dog whines are rated as sad as human baby cries, while cat meows sound sadder only to cat owners.

SourceAarhus University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateAug 21, 2019

How is urban green space associated with mental health?

This observational study found that exposure to more tree canopy was associated with a lower likelihood of psychological distress and better self-rated general health. However, no green space indicator was consistently linked to depression or anxiety, and low-lying vegetation had mixed results.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 26, 2019

Does genetic testing pose psychosocial risks?

A new special report by The Hastings Center examines the psychosocial impacts of genetic information, highlighting both potential harms and limitations. Studies suggest that genetic testing can have negative effects on individuals and families, particularly in contexts where stigmatization or anxiety is heightened.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHastings Center Report·DateJul 8, 2019

Live better with attainable goals

A study of over 970 participants found that perceiving personal goals as attainable is crucial for later cognitive and affective well-being. Life goals also hold predictive power for specific domains, such as social relationships and health.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalEuropean Journal of Personality·DateFeb 15, 2019

UBC researcher adopts play-by-play method to understand how counsellors can promote health

A UBC researcher has developed a method to analyze behaviour change counselling sessions, enabling counsellors to identify what makes interventions work. By examining minute details of interactions between clients and practitioners, the new approach helps counsellors promote positive changes in their patients.

Explaining happiness

A study by researchers at the National Research University Higher School of Economics found that people tend to attribute their happiness to internal factors such as personality traits and control over their lives. However, when they are unhappy, they often blame external factors outside of their control.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalThe Journal of Positive Psychology·DateNov 8, 2018

WEIRD science

Researchers found that traditional personality traits, like the Big Five, may not be universal across cultures. To improve psychological science, experts recommend considering socioecological theory and diversifying study samples from non-Western populations.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 5, 2018

Five out of five? Study reveals psychological influences in online reviews

A study by University of East Anglia researchers found that the length of time between product consumption and posting affects review quality, with early reviews being more negative and later ones more positive. The study also discovered that geographical and cultural distances influence how reviewers rate experiences.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalInternational Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management·DateOct 26, 2018

Do lovers always tease each other? Study shows how couples handle laughter and banter

Couples who handle laughter and being laughed at similarly tend to be more content in their relationship. However, being afraid of being laughed at can have negative effects on relationship satisfaction and trust. Researchers found that those who enjoy laughing about others but not being laughed at often argue more frequently.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalJournal of Research in Personality·DateOct 16, 2018

American girls read and write better than boys

Research by American Psychological Association reveals that girls exhibit better reading and writing ability than boys as early as the fourth grade. The achievement gap widens further with age, particularly for writing tasks. Experts attribute this to factors such as peer pressure, learning disabilities, and differences in brain function.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateSep 20, 2018

How looking at the big picture can lead to better decisions

A study by Ohio State University researchers found that people make more efficient decisions when they consider the long-term consequences and maximize overall value for the group. By creating psychological distance from a decision, individuals can see beyond immediate considerations and allocate resources effectively.

SourceOhio State University·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·DateJul 13, 2018

Goal conflict linked to psychological distress

Research at the University of Exeter and Edith Cowan University found that goal conflict and ambivalence are associated with symptoms of anxiety and depression. The study involved over 200 young adults aged 18-35, who reported experiencing psychological distress due to conflicting goals.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateMay 25, 2018