Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Would you eat genetically modified food if you understood the science behind it?

A recent study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that people's existing knowledge about genetically modified food is a significant determining factor of their attitudes towards it. Learning the underlying science leads to more positive attitudes, a greater willingness to eat them, and a lowered perception of GM...

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalJournal of Environmental Psychology·DateJun 4, 2019

Alcohol ads in sport fuel drinking culture

A new international study by Monash University and Parisien Laboratory of Social Psychology found a positive link between alcohol sponsorship and attitudes, as well as exposure to specific brands. The research suggests that incidental exposure to alcohol marketing messages influences participants' drinking attitudes.

SourceMonash University·JournalDrug and Alcohol Review·DateApr 29, 2019

Attitudes about health affect how older adults engage with negative health news

A study by North Carolina State University found that older adults are more willing to engage with negative health information when they have a positive attitude towards their health. Participants who completed a checklist designed to make them feel good about their lifestyle choices read more than 50% of the negative articles, compare...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPsychology and Aging·DateMar 5, 2019

Would you zap your brain to improve your memory?

A study by Drexel University researchers explores the public's willingness to use brain stimulation devices, revealing a divide between personal and moral acceptance. Participants were more likely to support using brain stimulation on others to repair cognitive functions than enhance their own abilities.

SourceDrexel University·JournalBrain Stimulation·DateOct 22, 2018

Teachers' views on LGBQ students are changing

A new study published in Springer's journal Social Psychology of Education reveals that American teachers have become more acceptant of homosexuality in recent years. However, many still hold negative attitudes towards LGBQ students, with a significant portion of educators viewing them unfavorably.

SourceSpringer·JournalSocial Psychology of Education·DateOct 4, 2018

Community satisfaction demands interaction

A University at Buffalo sociologist's new study shows that neighboring interactions can positively affect residents' attitudes and behaviors, even in highly disadvantaged communities. The research reveals that community matters in the 21st century, with consistent interactions snowballing into neighborhood investment.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalCity and Community·DateOct 1, 2018

In gut we trust when it comes to choices

A study published by the American Psychological Association suggests that focusing on feelings instead of logic in decision-making leads to increased attitude certainty and stronger advocacy for chosen options. This approach can also change behavior, as seen in experiments where participants who made intuitive decisions shared their ch...

'European Muslims perceive the EU more positively than other Europeans'

A study by the Cluster of Excellence found that European Muslims have a more positive view of the EU compared to other groups. This is largely due to their satisfaction with living conditions and higher political interest. The study also highlights the importance of successful integration in maintaining trust in EU institutions.

SourceCluster of Excellence "Religion and Politics"·JournalEuropean Union Politics·DateOct 27, 2017

Science denial not limited to political right

A new study suggests science denial is not limited to the political right, but a desire to see the world fit one's personal preferences drives it. People of all political backgrounds can be motivated to participate in science denial, particularly when results contradict their existing attitudes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateSep 19, 2017

Shifting attitudes on pre-planned death raises new questions for clinicians

Clinicians must consider alternative modes of responding to challenges posed by pre-planned deaths, where decisionally capable individuals choose the time, place, and manner of their death. The concept raises questions about dignity, care, and terminology surrounding physician-assisted suicide and patient-initiated, self-conducted deaths.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Psychiatric Practice·DateSep 14, 2017

Angry and disconnected people more likely to support Anonymous

Research by University of Kent psychologist Dr Giovanni Travaglino found that anger against the political system is a common factor in explaining support for Anonymous. People who feel angry and powerless are more likely to express their dissent vicariously through Anonymous rather than engaging directly in politics.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalGroup Processes & Intergroup Relations·DateSep 4, 2017

Oxytocin and social norms reduce xenophobia

Researchers found that oxytocin increased generosity towards refugees, but only when combined with social norms. Donations from individuals with a defensive attitude towards migrants nearly doubled when presented with the average donation of their peers.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 14, 2017

Tennis cheats may be predicted by their moral standards

Researchers found a connection between certain moral values and the acceptance of cheating behavior in tennis matches. Players who prioritize ego and status over self-improvement tend to condone cheating. The study suggests that promoting personal success and achievement can help decrease the risk of antisocial behavior in sport.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 20, 2017

Women 'damned either way' on maternity leave

New research reveals that women are 'damned' either way on maternity leave, with negative perceptions of competence in both work and family domains. The study suggests that policies allowing women to balance work and family life are crucial, but may have unintended consequences.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·DateMay 31, 2017

Religious devotion as predictor of behavior

A study published in Evolutionary Psychology Science suggests that sincere religious beliefs are not associated with hostile attitudes toward outsiders. In contrast, those who use religion for non-religious goals, such as social status or group membership, tend to exhibit greater out-group hostility.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalEvolutionary Psychological Science·DateMay 24, 2017

Research shows prejudice, not principle, often underpins 'free-speech defense' of racist language

Researchers at the University of Kansas conducted a study suggesting that explicit racial prejudice is a reliable predictor of the free speech defense of racist expression. The study found that people with high levels of prejudice were sensitive to their own freedom of expression and used the 'free speech' argument to justify their pre...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateMay 3, 2017

Sexism may be harmful to men's mental health

A recent study published by the American Psychological Association found that men who conform strongly to traditionally masculine norms are more likely to have poorer mental health outcomes. Furthermore, these individuals are also less likely to seek psychological help, highlighting the potential harm of sexist attitudes on men's menta...

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Counseling Psychology·DateNov 21, 2016

Reading the right sexual cues

A study found that male and female college students focus on nonverbal emotional cues when making quick judgments about a woman's sexual interest. However, those with rape-supportive attitudes relied more on attire and attractiveness. Cognitive training can improve perceptions of women's momentary sexual interest.

SourceSpringer·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·DateOct 26, 2016