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How accurate are first impressions on a first date?

Researchers from McGill University found that people who report greater personal well-being are easier for others to perceive on a first date. This suggests that individuals with higher self-esteem and life satisfaction may be more authentic in their interactions, making them more accessible to accurate interpretation.

SourceMcGill University·JournalJournal of Research in Personality·DateFeb 9, 2021

Timing of maturity, feelings about ethnicity and race can positively affect black males' self-concept, well-being

A new study explored the relationships between pubertal changes, ethnic-racial identity, and mental health in young African American and Caribbean Black males. The study found that positive levels of ethnic-racial identity buffered the effects of early puberty, leading to higher self-esteem and lower symptoms of depression. The finding...

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateMay 5, 2020

Treating obesity benefits children's mental health

Treating childhood obesity is associated with improved psychological outcomes, including enhanced self-esteem and body image. Losing weight appears to be less crucial for improving self-esteem, but still important for bettering body image.

SourceWiley·JournalPediatric Obesity·DateFeb 5, 2020

Depressed by Facebook and the like

Researchers found a positive correlation between passive Facebook use and depressive symptoms in individuals with an increased need for social comparisons. Long-term use of social networks can also lead to lower self-esteem and greater depressive tendencies.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalBehaviour and Information Technology·DateJul 18, 2019

Yea, team! Winning fans see self-esteem boost

A new study suggests that watching college football games with friends can significantly boost self-esteem in fans of the winning team, while fans of losing teams may experience a decrease in mood. The study found that social connections and shared experiences play a crucial role in enhancing self-esteem.

SourceOhio State University·JournalCommunication & Sport·DateFeb 20, 2019

Narcissists less likely to support democracy

Research suggests that people with narcissistic tendencies are more likely to reject democratic institutions, preferring strong leadership or authoritarian rule. In contrast, those with a positive self-view and high levels of trust in others tend to support democracy more strongly.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalBritish Journal of Social Psychology·DateDec 5, 2018

LGB students at higher risk of self-harm

Researchers at Lancaster University and other institutions found LGB students are more likely to experience self-harm and suicidal thoughts due to low self-esteem. The study highlights the need for targeted support and prevention efforts in universities and public policy to address discrimination and improve acceptance of LGB individuals.

SourceLancaster University·JournalArchives of Suicide Research·DateNov 26, 2018

Bullying 'follows' LGB people from school to work

A new study by Anglia Ruskin University finds that around one in three LGB individuals who are bullied at school will experience similar bullying in the workplace. The study also examines the impact on job satisfaction and mental health, finding a negative association between bullying and job satisfaction.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalManchester School·DateNov 7, 2018

Bad boss? You may be making things better -- or worse!

A recent study reveals that employee anxiety, self-esteem, and leadership behavior perception can impact a leader's influence on organizational functioning. Followers and leaders can buffer against undesirable effects of dark-side traits like dishonesty, disagreeableness, and carelessness.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateOct 23, 2018

Intimate partner violence doesn't end with the relationship

A University at Buffalo social work researcher identifies four key barriers to forming new relationships for women who have experienced intimate partner violence (IPV), including vulnerability, shame, low self-esteem, and communication issues. Her study highlights the need for resources to support survivors in moving beyond abusive rel...

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateJul 11, 2018

Seeing yourself as Einstein may change the way you think

A virtual reality simulation of Albert Einstein's body reduces age stereotypes and enhances cognitive performance in those with low self-esteem. Participants with low self-esteem who experienced the virtual Einstein body performed better on cognitive tasks and showed reduced implicit bias against older people.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJul 9, 2018

Healthy eating linked to kids' happiness

A study published in BMC Public Health found that healthy eating is associated with better self-esteem and fewer emotional problems in children, regardless of body weight. The study analyzed data from over 7,600 children in eight European countries and found that adherence to healthy dietary guidelines was linked to improved wellbeing.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateDec 13, 2017

Self-identifying as disabled and developing pride in disability aid overall well-being

A study from Oregon State University found that people who experience stigma are more likely to self-identify as disabled and develop pride in their disability. The researchers also discovered that severe impairments lead to greater stigma, which can increase the likelihood of self-identification. Developing disability pride is associa...

SourceOregon State University·JournalRehabilitation Psychology·DateAug 28, 2017

How fear of death affects human attitudes toward animal life

A study from the University of Arizona found that reminding people of their mortality increases their willingness to kill animals. The researchers used terror management theory, which suggests that humans use self-esteem as a buffer against fear of death. When participants received a self-esteem boost, the effect of the death prime was...

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateApr 24, 2017

Bullies and their victims obsessed with weight-loss

Teenagers involved in bullying have a higher preoccupation with weight loss than their peers, with 42% of bullies and 55% of victims showing extreme obsession. Clinicians should target emotional wellbeing and self-esteem issues when treating victims of bullying.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateMar 29, 2017

Study links athletic performance to mortality

Researchers found that basketball players scored more points after being presented with death-related prompts, boosting their self-esteem and performance. Participants who thought about death performed 40% better in a second game and attempted more shots, suggesting a subconscious effort to regain a protective sense of self-esteem.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Sport and Exercise Psychology·DateOct 31, 2016

Tinder: Swiping self esteem?

Research suggests that using Tinder leads to lower levels of self-worth and increased negative perception of body image among both male and female users. The study, conducted by the American Psychological Association, involved 1,044 women and 273 men who reported less satisfaction with their bodies and looks compared to non-users.