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Same-gender couples interact better than heterosexual couples

A new UC Riverside study found that same-gender couples have higher-quality interactions both inside and outside their relationships compared to heterosexual couples. The study also showed that women in male-dominated relationships tend to have the largest social networks, while men with men have smaller ones.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateOct 7, 2020

Social similarity and suicide risk

A study found that social similarity reduces individual risk of suicide for those under 45 living with others who share similar characteristics, such as employment status and ethnicity. However, high ethnic homogeneity in isolated areas may increase suicide risk among specific populations.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 5, 2020

Project Raphael brings improved health to disadvantaged populations

The Raphael Project, a social incubator at Bar-Ilan University, has successfully addressed the most pressing health needs in Israel's Galilee region. Through academic-community partnerships, it has implemented various health-promoting activities, resulting in tangible improvements in health for disadvantaged populations.

SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalBMC Public Health·DateAug 11, 2020
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Early adversity and adult stress hormone levels

Researchers found that early adversity in wild female baboons elevated glucocorticoid levels by up to 14% in adulthood. The study suggests that early experiences of adversity and social relationships have independent effects on adult stress responses.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 3, 2020

Social bonds in adulthood don't mediate early life trauma

A study of wild female baboons found that early life trauma had a significant negative impact on adult glucocorticoid concentrations, which are a measure of health. Despite having strong social relationships as adults, the stress hormone levels were still significantly higher in those who experienced trauma in early life.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 3, 2020

Human presence weakens social relationships of giraffes

The study reveals that human presence disrupts the complex social structures of Masai giraffe populations, leading to weaker relationship strengths and exclusive social associations. Giraffes living near humans have reduced social interactions and are more likely to encounter livestock and predators.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateJun 9, 2020

'Playing hard to get' really works; here's why

Researchers found that making the chase harder increased a potential mate's desirability, as those who are selective in their partner choices are perceived as more valued. Participants who exerted efforts to see a potential partner were also rated as more sexually desirable than those with little effort.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateJun 8, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Zoology: Western gorillas may be territorial

A study in Scientific Reports suggests western gorillas may be territorial, with groups defending the centers of their home ranges against neighboring groups. The authors monitored eight groups across a 60 km2 area and found that gorillas tend to avoid feeding areas visited by other groups the previous day.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 12, 2020

Even fake illness affects relationships among vampire bats

A new study found that vampire bats' social relationships change differently depending on the type of behavior and relationship. The lead author injected the bats with a bacterial extract to make them feel sick without harming their health, observing how it affected their social interactions.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateMar 4, 2020

Maintaining social relationships is important for more than finding a mate

Florida Scrub-Jays' social lives reveal that maintaining relationships is crucial for both breeders and helpers, reducing costs of territory defense and predation risk. The study shows that helpers associate with many more individuals than breeders, increasing the importance of connecting individuals in the social network.

SourceArchbold Expeditions, Inc.·JournalPeerJ·DateFeb 12, 2020
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Men who receive home care from spouse more likely to feel burdensome than women

A new study by University of Michigan researchers found that men who receive caregiving from their spouses are more prone to feeling guilty and depressed due to negative spousal exchanges. In contrast, wives in caregiving relationships show less susceptibility to these effects, suggesting a difference in gender dynamics.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateNov 11, 2019

Bound by blood

A study by researchers at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute found that vampire bats form lasting social bonds, even when released back into the wild. The bats' social networks were tracked using miniaturized computers weighing less than a penny, showing daily changes in their relationships.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 31, 2019

Positive relationships boost self-esteem, and vice versa

A meta-analysis of over two decades of research found a robust reciprocal link between positive relationships and self-esteem across the lifespan. The study analyzed 52 studies involving over 47,000 participants and found that both positive relationships and high self-esteem shape each other's development.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateSep 26, 2019
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Developmental psychology -- One good turn deserves another

Children between 3-4 years old value generosity and benevolence as a general norm, while older children (5-6) develop a more complex concept of fairness that includes reciprocity. The study suggests that reciprocity norms are not fully developed until around age 5.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalJournal of Experimental Child Psychology·DateSep 18, 2019

Sisters improve chances of reproduction in Asian elephants

Young Asian elephant females are more likely to reproduce when living near a maternal sister, according to a study by the University of Turku. The presence of a maternal sister also improves annual female reproduction rates.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateJul 24, 2019
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

For infants, distinguishing between friends and strangers is a laughing matter

A new study by New York University researchers found that five-month-old infants can differentiate between laughter from friends and strangers. The ability to detect the nature of social relationships is thought to be an early emerging tool in human infancy, possibly due to a detection system using vocal cues.

SourceNew York University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 11, 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

Bridging the 'liking-gap,' researchers discuss awkwardness of conversations

Conversations are fundamental to relationships, but people often feel anxious about them. Researchers found that people tend to rank their ability to have a conversation low, but this is not as bad as it seems. In fact, people are very forgiving in conversations and can enjoy talking to strangers.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·DateFeb 8, 2019
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

How friendly mice can affect their lonely cagemates

A novel video-based behavioral analysis system, MAPS, shows that group-housed mice form stronger social relationships and are closer in proximity to isolated mice than those reared separately. This study provides insight into the effects of early social experience on adult social behavior.

SourceWaseda University·JournalCommunications Biology·DateJan 23, 2019

Meaningful life tied to healthy aging

Researchers found that high ratings for engagement in worthwhile activities are associated with strong personal relationships, healthy lifestyles, sound mental and physical health. High ratings predict healthy lifestyles, increased relationships and socializing, and reduced loneliness, depression, and health issues.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 7, 2019

Low skilled, low paid workers of the world don't unite, research shows

A new study led by Dr Constantine Manolchev from the University of Exeter Business School found that low-skilled workers in insecure employment do not form a unified 'precariat' to resist their bosses. The research contradicts the idea that these workers are united by working contexts.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEconomic and Industrial Democracy·DateDec 14, 2018
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Social relationships more important than hard evidence in partisan politics

A Dartmouth study finds that social relationships and pressure to conform to group opinions play a significant role in shaping political beliefs, often ignoring essential information. The research provides insight into the formation of extreme partisan groups and their evolution into echo chambers.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateNov 13, 2018

Research affirms the power of 'we'

Researchers analyzed 30 studies of nearly 5,300 participants to find that couples who frequently use first-person pronouns like 'we' and 'us' tend to have healthier and happier relationships. The study's findings support the idea that interdependence is key to relationship success, and 'we-talk' is a strong indicator of this.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateOct 4, 2018

Where you live might influence how you measure up against your peers

A recent study reveals that people tend to compare themselves more strongly in situations of social tightness, such as job interviews, or collective, interdependent social situations. The researchers found a link between cultural tightness, interdependence, and social comparison across individuals, situations, and cultures.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 19, 2018
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

We are predisposed to forgive, new research suggests

A study by Yale psychologists found people form stable impressions of good strangers but quickly adjust their opinions of bad ones. This flexibility may help explain why we forgive and sometimes stay in bad relationships.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateSep 17, 2018

Friending God increases purpose in life in the socially disconnected

The study found that religious beliefs can compensate for lost purpose in socially disconnected individuals, but do not restore it to the same level as human connections. People who rely on religion instead of social connections may feel more connected to God but still experience lower levels of purpose and direction in life.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Personality·DateAug 30, 2018

Our perceived birth status can affect our adult relationships

Research found that people who believe they were unwanted or unplanned pregnancies tend to have more insecure relationship styles as adults. This perceived birth status affects attachment styles, leading to increased anxiety and avoidance in relationships. The study suggests that revealing such information can increase insecurities and...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateAug 15, 2018
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Primates adjust grooming to their social environment

Researchers found that primates choose grooming partners based on various factors, including reproductive state, social relationships, and dominance rank. They also consider the social environment, adapting their choice to maximize benefit. This study reveals impressive cognitive abilities in primates.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJul 10, 2018

Are you really into me?

A new study published in Computers in Human Behavior found that uncertainty about a potential partner's romantic intentions decreases their sexual desirability. In contrast, feeling confident about a partner's interest and acceptance predicts higher levels of sexual desire. The research suggests that certainty serves as a gut-feeling i...

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateJun 7, 2018

'Phubbing' can threaten our basic human needs, research shows

Research shows phubbing can negatively affect relationships by threatening people's fundamental need to belong. The study found that increased phubbing significantly impacted communication quality and relationship satisfaction.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalJournal of Applied Social Psychology·DateMar 26, 2018
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Adult chimpanzees play more than adult lowland gorillas in captivity

A study published in PLOS ONE found that adult chimpanzees exhibit more frequent and longer play sessions compared to adult lowland gorillas in captivity. This suggests a difference in their level of social cohesion, with chimpanzees living in highly cohesive groups and gorillas having lower levels of social affiliation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 7, 2018

Coral reefs are in trouble -- how can people adapt?

An international team of scientists has developed a strategy to help people living in tropical coastal communities adapt to climate change. The key ways to build up adaptive capacity include ensuring assets, providing flexibility, learning about adaptation options, investing in social relationships, and empowering individuals.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJan 30, 2018

Study reveals high relationship quality in same-sex couples

A new study of 25,348 individuals in the UK and 9,206 in Australia found similar levels of relationship quality among gay/lesbian couples as heterosexual counterparts. The study provides evidence against common misconceptions about same-sex relationships being conflictual or unhappy.

SourceWiley·JournalFamily Relations·DateDec 13, 2017

Delivering bad news? Don't beat around the bush

A study by BYU linguistics professor Alan Manning and the University of South Alabama's Nicole Amare found that most people value clarity and directness over extended buffers when delivering bad news. Participants ranked directness as a top characteristic they valued most in receiving bad news.

SourceBrigham Young University·DateOct 5, 2017
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

How do close relationships lead to longer life?

Research highlights benefits of social connections on physical and mental health, with decreased risk of mortality associated. The special issue emphasizes the need to integrate social relationships into public health priorities.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateSep 7, 2017

Riding a romantic roller coaster? Relationship anxiety may be to blame

A recent study in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships explores how high levels of relationship anxiety impact partner experiences. Researchers found that individuals experiencing anxiety about their partner's commitment tend to experience increased volatility in their feelings about the relationship.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateJun 19, 2017

How listening to music in a group influences depression

New research published in Frontiers in Psychology found that group music listening can either exacerbate or alleviate depression, depending on the individual's coping style. Younger individuals with tendencies towards rumination are more susceptible to negative outcomes from group interactions.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMay 24, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Love hormone is released during crises

When a partner shows less interest in the relationship, oxytocin levels increase to promote attention and motivation towards the partnership. However, this 'crisis hormone' may have limits to its effectiveness, particularly if the relationship is deemed lost.

SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalHormones and Behavior·DateMay 18, 2017

That's what friends are for

A new study by Dr. Rebecca Graber reveals that best friendships play a vital role in building resilience to adversity and surviving difficult times. The research found that participants who had high-quality best friendships experienced improved psychological resilience over time.

SourceBritish Psychological Society·DateApr 21, 2017

Predator threat boosts friendships among guppies

Researchers found that Trinidadian guppies developed stronger and more stable social bonds when they thought predators were in the area. This coincided with smaller social groups, indicating a possible trade-off between forming strong relationships and living in larger groups.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 2, 2017

People matter

A new study by Arizona State University reveals that changes in cooperation among communities and households are more impactful on system connectivity than the loss of key animal species. The researchers used a multiplex network analysis approach to understand how social relationships influence resource sharing and exchange.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 30, 2016
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Health determined by social relationships at work

A meta-analysis of 58 studies and 19,000 participants found that identifying with the workplace is associated with improved health and lower burnout. The study suggests that a sense of belonging and community in the workplace is key to better psychological and physiological health.

SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Review·DateOct 3, 2016
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Maintaining healthy relationships: University of Waterloo studies identify a promising way

A University of Waterloo study found that thinking about the future helps people shift their focus away from current feelings and mitigate conflicts in romantic relationships. By envisioning their relationship a year into the future, individuals can adopt a more positive perspective and show more forgiveness.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateJul 28, 2016

Even mild vision impairment has influence on quality of life

Research reveals a significant association between visual health and social determinants of general health, including education, socio-economic status, and ethnicity. The study found that even mild vision impairment can have a substantial impact on daily life, increasing the risk of unemployment and mental health issues.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateJul 28, 2016

Opposites attract -- unless you're in a relationship

A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that single individuals rate dissimilar faces as more attractive and sexy than self-resembling faces. In contrast, people in relationships tend to find faces resembling their own more attractive.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJul 14, 2016

Do witchcraft beliefs halt economic progress?

A study by American University Economics Professor Boris Gershman found a negative correlation between witchcraft beliefs and trust, eroding social capital and cooperation. In regions with widespread witchcraft beliefs, mistrust and property destruction are common, stifling economic progress.

SourceAmerican University·JournalJournal of Development Economics·DateMay 9, 2016
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Developmental psychology: Friendship wins out over fairness

A study published in the Journal of Experimental Child Psychology found that pre-school children prefer to share with a friend who already has an abundance of stickers than with a stranger. The results suggest that social relationships take precedence over fairness as a motivation for sharing behavior.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalJournal of Experimental Child Psychology·DateFeb 29, 2016