Social Psychology
Articles tagged with Social Psychology
Young people are aware of and normalize hidden design features of video games that encourage spending
A study by UOC researchers reveals that young people are not fooled by monetization systems in video games; they often accept them as part of the gaming experience. The study highlights various systems that encourage consumption, such as loot boxes and virtual currencies, and shows a consistent relationship between these mechanisms and...
Refugees reveal hidden trauma of life in the UK
To create change, new leaders should read the room
GPS data reveals why pedestrians in Phnom Penh rarely walk the shortest route
Beyond acute-phase support: how “ibasho” aids disaster mental health recovery
Researchers propose that ibasho, community-led spaces of belonging and social purpose, support long-term recovery and resilience. By restoring routines, roles, and neighborhood connections, ibasho helps individuals regain stability, dignity, and a sense of purpose after disasters.
Ground-breaking study finds immigrants face a host of hurdles in the workforce
Feeling regret? Your feelings may mellow as you age
New research suggests sexual arousal could blind people to rejection cues
New UH tool measures whether lactating mothers’ psychological needs are being met
Stereotypes of autism in TV and film may be linked to delayed diagnosis, Stirling study finds
Researchers found that portrayals in media lacked diversity, often focusing on white, socially awkward male characters. Autistic participants felt that such portrayals were exaggerated and simplified, limiting public understanding and self-understanding.
How honor cultures and shame societies shape mental health
Atimiaphobia is a culturally specific psychological concept tied to honor cultures and shame societies, manifesting as intrusive thoughts and compulsive conformity to social norms. Researchers validated the Atimiaphobia Scale, revealing positive correlations between atimiaphobia and anxiety, as well as lower social intelligence.
Selling yourself short: new research shows how sexualized dating profiles can undermine long-term appeal
New research examines how sexualized online dating profiles shape viewers' perceptions and relationship intentions. Sexualized profiles are judged more negatively and elicit less interest in long-term relationships. However, adding a human bio can soften the negative effect, particularly for men viewing women's profiles.
First psychiatric admission marks the beginning of a long-term illness for most patients
A 20-year follow-up study by the University of Copenhagen reveals that nearly all patients who initially admitted to hospital psychiatry returned, with significant consequences on their education, family life, and health. The researchers emphasize the importance of early and comprehensive assessments to provide better support and preve...
Can dopamine bend time to shape memory?
Researchers found that dopamine signaling at event boundaries can distort time perception, making memories of distinct events feel more separate. This process allows the brain to construct a more organized format for memory retrieval.
Perceptions of cultural foreignness may lead to job discrimination
Research suggests that cultural foreignness stereotypes can lead to job discrimination against Asian, Arab and Latino American applicants. In experiments, participants rated these groups as less hirable than Black American candidates with similar resumes.
Impact of China’s “wolf warrior diplomacy” on public opinion in East Asia
Researchers found that exposure to aggressive diplomatic messaging reduces favorability towards China in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. In contrast, perceptions of the US are less affected, with limited persuasive power.
TikTok’s muscle dream is a nightmare for young men
A new study found that young men who viewed idealized fitness or supplement videos on TikTok reported lower fitness satisfaction and stronger intentions to use creatine, a popular muscle-building supplement. The researchers highlight the need for targeted media literacy education and responsible social media practices.
New study finds a simple rule behind how social norms spread
Researchers found that people follow a two-stage process, sampling behaviors at first and committing once enough evidence accumulates. The Tolerance Principle predicts when people have seen enough regularity to treat a pattern as a rule despite some exceptions.
Why do some people act on climate change while others stay silent?
The study found three distinct types of climate supporters: activists, anxious individuals who want to help but struggle with motivation, and hierarchy enhancers who use radical tactics for competitive reasons. Understanding these differences can inform effective communication strategies for climate movements.
Pediatric investigation study reveals urbanization shapes mental health of youth in China
A recent study found that children from rural China are more prone to emotional issues, while urban children show more behavioral problems. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions and underscore the impact of environment on mental health outcomes.
Recordings of local forest soundscapes help to improve wellbeing
Researchers found that listening to one-minute recordings of forest sounds made people feel better, reporting more positive emotions and less stress. Local temperate forests produced the strongest effects, with familiar sounds triggering stronger feelings of awe and calm.
Emoji’s have feelings too, new study reveals
A new study by Bournemouth University found that the brain reacts to emojis in a way similar to seeing real human faces, with neural responses occurring within 145-160 milliseconds. This suggests that emojis can be processed by the brain as meaningful emotional signals during online interaction.
Values, not just politics, shape Israeli opinions on hostage deals, study finds
A comprehensive study found that personal values are primary drivers behind how Israelis form and maintain opinions on hostage negotiations. The research suggests that these deeply held principles provide a cognitive foundation for navigating high-stakes dilemmas.
Research uses AI to examine social exchanges and interactions
A new study analyzed thousands of textual descriptions of two-person social interactions using generative AI, resulting in a comprehensive taxonomy of categories. The findings provide a data-driven framework for understanding the structure of social situations, including associations with conflict, power, and duty.
Study of Tommy Robinson’s social media reveals how online influencers mobilise supporters without direct calls to action
Researchers found that far-right influencer Tommy Robinson used his Telegram channel to comment on events and legitimise violence during anti-immigration protests in 2024, shaping followers' interpretations of events without issuing direct instructions. The study identifies key tactics used by influencers to create emotional conditions...
Can optimism protect against dementia?
A recent study published in Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that individuals with higher optimism have a lower risk of developing dementia. After analyzing data from the Health and Retirement Study, researchers discovered a 15% lower risk associated with a one-standard-deviation increase in optimism.
If you’re a perfectionist at work, your boss’ expectations may matter more than your own, research finds
A new study from University of Florida finds that employee perfectionism impact depends on alignment with supervisor's expectations and clarity in understanding. When employees' standards match supervisors', they experience less uncertainty, better performance, and higher job satisfaction.
Should emojis be used in workplace communications?
A new study by the University of Ottawa found that emojis can negatively affect perceptions of competence and appropriateness in professional settings. The researchers discovered that using positive emojis with negative messages can create a sense of dishonesty, while negative emojis can lower overall competence perception.
Study: Affirming racial and gender identity supports mental health
A new study by Aldo Barrita found that affirming one's racial and gender identity can be a source of psychological strength, not just vulnerability. The research suggests that stronger cohesion with intersectional identities is positively associated with resilience and negatively associated with depressive symptoms.
When an orgasm is consistently absent, women may see it as less important
Researchers found women devalue orgasm only when it's consistently absent across partners. This shift in expectations helps soften the effects of not experiencing an orgasm on relationships, but also contributes to the orgasm gap over time.
Going from serving the nation to serving a prison sentence
New Flinders University research highlights the struggles faced by incarcerated veterans in Australia, citing a lifelong pattern of hardship, trauma, and missed support. The studies recommend steps for governments to take immediately to address these gaps and reduce re-offending.
Why feeling alone may matter more than being alone
Two studies suggest that loneliness is not just a lack of connection, but how people experience those connections, with increased risk of disease and death associated with feelings of lonelier-than-objective isolation. Daily life perceptions of social threat also contribute to self-reinforcing sequences of emotional states, behaviors, ...
Normative messaging bridges the partisan gap in pandemic risk-taking, study shows
Research shows that targeted interventions highlighting personal impact on others can alter behavior among partisans. Both Republican and Democratic voters reduced risk-taking when presented with a simple message asking to choose the safer option for themselves and others.
Beyond the obstetrical dilemma: Why are humans helpless at birth?
Researchers explore human infant helplessness as a unique aspect of human development, highlighting its role in social collaboration and cultural innovation. Human infants' helplessness is characterized by well-developed sensory systems and weak motor skills, making them dependent on caregivers for extended periods.
Chaplain support at primary care buprenorphine clinic addresses mental health needs of patients
A team-based buprenorphine clinic incorporated a trained chaplain into patient care, providing a psychologically safe space for conversation and supporting patients in identifying recovery capital. The clinic reported successful outcomes, with eight patients achieving at least 12 months of sobriety.
Why a canceled meeting feels so liberating
A study by Gabriela Tonietto and colleagues found that unexpectedly gained time feels subjectively longer, leading people to choose longer activities. Participants in the study opted for longer tasks or leisure activities when given extra time, as they perceived it as more abundant.
The dehumanization effect: New PSU research examines how abusive supervision impacts employee agency and burnout
Disposable vapes ban could lead young adults to switch to cigarettes, study finds
A new study by the University of Bristol found that the UK's disposable vapes ban may lead to an increase in cigarette smoking among young adults. The research, published in PLOS Global Public Health, suggests that some individuals may turn to cigarettes as an alternative to disposable vapes.
First degree female relatives’ suicidal intentions may influence women’s suicide risk
A large population study found that female relatives' suicidal intentions may influence women's suicide risk, with shared familial environment and social factors having a key role. The study also found that genetic factors only partly explain the observed sex difference in suicidal behaviors.
Apocalyptic beliefs are no longer fringe—and they’re shaping how people respond to global threats
A new study reveals that apocalyptic thinking is no longer fringe and significantly influences how people interpret and respond to global threats. Beliefs about the end of the world are diverse and predict how individuals perceive and react to risks like climate change, pandemics, and emerging technologies.
Nearly half of UK adults happy to use ChatGPT as a counsellor, study finds
A new study suggests that over 40% of UK adults are happy to use ChatGPT for mental health support due to long waiting times for traditional services. However, experts caution that AI should not replace human healthcare professionals and raise concerns about the potential impact on education and physical health.
Children’s development set back years by Covid lockdowns, study reveals
A study from the University of East Anglia found that Covid lockdowns disrupted children's ability to self-regulate, leading to slower growth in executive functions. Reception-age children, who normally learn to socialize and navigate classroom routines, showed significant setbacks in cognitive flexibility and self-regulation skills.
Having a ‘growth mindset’ helps entrepreneurs adapt to setbacks
A new study by North Carolina State University reveals that entrepreneurs with a growth mindset are more resilient when faced with venture-related setbacks. They are also more optimistic about future success, less discouraged, and more likely to put in effort to find solutions.
Loneliness linked to fear of embarrassment: teen research
A University of the Sunshine Coast study found that teens who avoid socializing due to fear of judgment report greater loneliness and lower trust in friendships. Parents and teachers are advised to help teens find low-pressure ways to connect with peers, as empathy is a valuable skill decreasing among this age group.
Hairdressers could be a secret weapon in tackling climate change, new research finds
Research from the University of Bath's Centre for Climate Change and Social Transformations reveals that hairdressers can prompt climate conversations and inspire change. Salon owners reported successful conversations with clients about sustainability, leading to changes in habits such as water and energy usage, and even dietary choices.
Science of fitting in: Do best friends or popular peers shape teen behavior?
A groundbreaking longitudinal study reveals that peer influence is specialized, with best friends primarily shaping internal emotional states and academic behaviors, while popular peers set the standard for public image and social media engagement. The findings suggest that adolescents use different mental calculations to navigate thei...
Heads or tails: Does it matter what part of a therapy dog gets patted?
A UBCO study found that all forms of touch with therapy dogs contribute positively to participants' emotional wellbeing, regardless of which part is interacted with. The research suggests that simple interaction with a therapy dog can make a difference in reducing stress and improving overall well-being.
Frictionless AI comes at a human cost to learning, growth and connection
Researchers warn that AI's friction removal could eliminate desirable difficulties, weakening learning and motivation. Effortful engagement strengthens learning and memory, while loneliness serves as a signal to form human connections.
Relatedness and positive attitudes drive trust in AI and its developers
The study found that people's everyday experiences with technology play a crucial role in shaping trust around the world. Human-centred approaches to AI design and governance are essential for building trust, as simply improving technical performance is insufficient if people feel disconnected or powerless.
Confidence in your relationship can improve individual well-being
A new study found that improvements in relationship confidence have the biggest impact on individual outcomes, including improved mental health, better sleep, and reduced substance use. Relationship confidence involves trusting that a partner can handle challenges and feeling assured of building a lasting future together.
FAU study finds teen ‘sexting’ surge, warns of sextortion and privacy risks
A new study finds that nearly 1 in 3 teens have received a sext, and almost 1 in 4 have sent one. Sextortion is also common, with nearly half of teens who sent a sext reporting being targeted.
How many times will we fall passionately in love? New Kinsey Institute study offers first-ever answer
A new study from the Kinsey Institute found that passionate love is relatively infrequent, occurring about twice in a lifetime. The research surveyed 10,036 single adults aged 18 to 99 and found that 14% had never experienced passionate love, while 28% experienced it once.
What makes healthy boundaries – and how to implement them – according to a psychotherapist
Psychotherapist Lynn Somerfield emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries in relationships, work, and personal beliefs to promote emotional well-being. She advises that healthy boundaries strengthen connections with others while preserving individual identity and energy.
How cultural norms shape childhood development
A new cross-cultural study suggests that children's behavior in situations involving fairness, trust, forgiveness, and honesty is shaped by local cultural norms. As children enter middle childhood, their behavior aligns with community values, refining their understanding of social norms and cooperation.
Uncommon names are increasing globally: Reflecting an increase in uniqueness-seeking and individualism
A global trend of uncommon names has been observed in various nations, including Germany, the US, UK, France, Japan, China, and Indonesia. This increase reflects broader sociocultural changes emphasizing individuality and distinction.
Mental health crisis: Global surveys expose who falls through the cracks and how to catch them
Dr. Ronald C. Kessler's decades-long research transformed international understanding of psychiatric disorders and suicide prevention. His work exposes the global scope of mental health challenges and highlights key factors in prevention.
Political division in the US surged from 2008 onwards, study suggests
A study by the University of Cambridge found that US political divisions increased by 64% from 1988 to 2024, with most of the change coming after 2008. The shift was driven by liberal Americans moving in a more progressive direction on social and political issues.
Psychological therapies for children who speak English as an additional language can become “lost in translation”, study warns
A study warns that current school-based mental health support for children from multilingual backgrounds can be less effective and inaccessible due to linguistic and cultural challenges. The researchers found that conversations were often 'lost in translation,' leading to reduced parental engagement and attendance.
Exploring how age influences social preferences
Researchers discovered that while older rats were as social as younger ones, a subpopulation preferred familiar peers. Altering neural communication reversed this preference, enhancing approach towards new peers. This suggests a distinct neural system underlying aging-related social behavior.