Research using surveys to study people and society. Covers consumer studies, dietary change, social-media and mood links, and public opinion.
A new study found that youth cyberbullying is most common between current or former friends and dating partners, with approximately 17.2% of students experiencing cyberbullying within a week. Girls were twice as likely to fall victim to cyber aggression than boys, while LGBTQ youth were four times more likely to be victims.
Research found that employees experiencing envy tend to ruminate on social injustice, leading to ego depletion and decreased productivity. High epistemic motivation can contribute to creative output but also exacerbate negative emotions.
A recent NIH survey found 79% of respondents willing to participate in the Precision Medicine Initiative Cohort Program, a nationwide research effort aimed at personalizing healthcare based on individual differences. The program, which aims to engage 1 million participants, shows promise for improving disease prevention and treatment.
A study by San Diego State University psychology professor Jean M. Twenge found that millennials are less likely to have had sex since turning 18 compared to Generation X peers. The researchers attribute this trend to increased safety concerns, reduced interaction time due to technology, and a risk-averse attitude.
A UBC professor found that government policy professionals give more credibility to reports from academics than think tanks or advocacy groups. The study's results suggest policymakers are skeptical of biased reports and may be relying too heavily on academic research.
A national survey found that over half of US physicians have withheld medical interventions due to cost concerns. Solo practitioners and those with conservative leanings were less likely to ration treatment options. The study highlights the complexities of resource utilization for healthcare providers in the US.
A new Brown University study found that childcare centers in Rhode Island serving low-income children under the federal nutrition subsidy program serve healthier food than those outside the program. The study's lead author suggests that implementing nutritional guidelines and regulations can improve the quality of food served, particul...
A national study led by Michigan State University scholar William Chopik found that living among people with opposing political viewpoints can affect ability to form close relationships and accept perspectives. The study also suggests that segregating into 'red' and 'blue' states may stifle healthy political discourse.
A new report by Advancement Project and the University of California, Riverside reveals stark racial disparities in political participation in California. The study finds that people of color make up the majority of the state's population but face significant barriers to engaging in democracy, including lower rates of voter turnout, co...
A large-scale survey found that lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults report higher rates of severe psychological distress, heavy drinking, and smoking compared to heterosexuals. The study highlights the need for healthcare professionals and public health practitioners to address the unique health needs of this vulnerable population.
A new survey reveals public inconsistencies in prioritizing individual and collective safety in autonomous cars. Participants preferred self-protective vehicles over utilitarian ones, despite valuing the greater good. The findings highlight the need for regulation and challenge programmers to balance ethics and AI development.
A nationwide survey found that Americans spent $30.2 billion out-of-pocket on complementary health approaches, with the majority spent on visits to practitioners such as chiropractors and massage therapists. The average annual expenditure per user was $435 for low-income families and $590 for high-income families.
A new study finds that climate scientists who practice what they preach are more credible and have a greater impact on the public. The research suggests that personal behavior plays a significant role in shaping the perception of scientists' credibility, with a carbon footprint being a key factor.
A study by University of Cologne researchers found that conservatives are happier in a conservative social environment. Life satisfaction depends on time and country, with conservatives generally experiencing more happiness than non-conservatives.
A recent US study found that white male physicians earn substantially more than black male physicians, even after adjusting for factors such as medical specialty and experience. Female physicians also face a pay gap, with lower incomes compared to their male counterparts.
A large study found that same-sex sexual experience has doubled, while acceptance of same-sex behavior quadrupled among American adults between 1973 and 2014. These trends are particularly pronounced among younger generations, with Millennials exhibiting greater acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals.
A recent survey by The Associated Press-NORC Center found that only one-third of older Americans feel financially prepared for retirement. Many are anxious about their savings and rely heavily on Social Security, which is expected to be a significant source of income for the growing older population.
A recent survey by NORC at the University of Chicago found that over half of older Americans plan to work past 65, with many reducing hours or switching careers. The study also highlights the growing size of the older population and its potential impact on the workforce.
A landmark survey by the ATS and Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc. reveals that seven in ten pulmonologists believe hand-held small volume nebulizers are more effective than metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) for managing acute exacerbations of COPD, particularly in severe cases. The survey also highlights gaps in physicians' knowledge about tre...
Research at University of Cambridge reveals that management-imposed flexible hours lead to work-life balance issues, childcare struggles, and health concerns among low-paid supermarket workers. The study highlights the need for better labor protections and more equitable working conditions.
Researchers from Illinois Institute of Technology analyzed over 200 brands on Twitter, finding that fans of eco-friendly, luxury, and nutrition brands tend to follow environmentally focused accounts, resulting in a positive brand image. This approach offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional surveys.
A research team confirms that 97% of climate scientists agree human-caused climate change, with expertise being the primary factor in this consensus. The study drew from seven independent consensus studies and found a consistent picture with high levels of scientific agreement among climate experts.
A recent survey by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that three-quarters of Americans aware of the Zika virus are not knowledgeable about its diagnosis tests or treatment options. Despite this, a majority of respondents expressed support for policy approaches to prevent the spread of Zika in the US.
A survey of older American men who frequent sex work websites found that those over 60 paid for sex more frequently as they aged. The study also revealed that these men sought out specific experiences, such as the 'girlfriend experience', and were willing to pay for non-sexual activities with providers.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that chronological age was the single best predictor of death in three countries, followed closely by self-reported mobility. Telomere length, previously believed to be a powerful biomarker for aging and mortality, ranked lower than other indicators in predicting mortality.
A recent study found that the percentage of Americans who prayed or believed in God reached an all-time low in 2014. The decline was particularly pronounced among young adults, with nearly twice as many saying they did not believe in God as compared to the early 1980s.
The study found that local governance institutions and attitudes contribute to frontier-specific effects, including lower levels of law and order and public goods provision. Frontier settlers have developed a strong sense of autonomy, supporting right-wing parties and politicians who prioritize populist and patriotic statements.
A new survey found significant country-to-country differences in kidney transplant donation rates, varying by up to 35 donors per million population. The variation is attributed to different legal and social standards across Europe, with some countries having more generous organ donation schemes than others.
Researchers used objective datasets to examine US public corruption cases from 1986 to 2014. They found that overall corruption convictions are declining and mainly involve low-ranking officials, contrary to public perceptions of a rising trend.
Research shows that 32% of workers feared losing their jobs, while 38% were anxious about pay cuts. The study found that working in the public sector made staff more likely to fear job losses, while being over 35 and working in routine or semi-routine jobs increased fears of worsening working conditions.
A national survey found that most Americans are willing to pay more taxes to support biodiversity conservation in the Gulf of Mexico. The survey showed that people value preserving biodiversity for future generations and are willing to pay between $35 to $107 more annually for the expansion of the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sa...
A study found that only 27% of actors are from working-class backgrounds, while 73% come from middle-class origins. This disparity affects not only income but also opportunities for auditions and roles. Many working-class actors reported struggling with accents and stereotypes, highlighting the need for greater diversity in the industry.
A large majority of Americans (80%) agree that scientific research needs government funding, but many believe the country spends too little on it. Meanwhile, most respondents trust scientists, with high confidence levels in their leadership.
A new study found that marijuana use among US adults increased by about 20% over the last decade, but problems related to the drug remained steady. The study's findings contradict previous reports of a doubling in marijuana use and its associated disorders.
A recent study by Michigan State University suggests women are more likely to get irked at irritating behavior exhibited by acquaintances and partners. Women's heightened social awareness may contribute to their increased sensitivity to annoyance.
A recent survey found that almost 20% of respondents reported some form of non-prescription medicine misuse or abuse over their lifetime. The study also highlights the risk factors associated with such behavior, including younger age and long-standing illnesses.
A new decision pathway survey has shed light on public concerns about climate engineering technologies. Most people find the risks of these technologies more likely than their benefits, with those concerned about climate change supporting geoengineering policies and investments in renewable resources. However, those least concerned are...
Research found that English towns with a medieval Jewish population have higher tolerance towards 21st-century immigrants. Survey respondents in these towns showed less support for anti-immigration parties and had more positive attitudes towards immigration.
Multinational companies with high corporate taxes take on less debt than those with lower tax rates, according to a new study. The research suggests that higher corporate taxes distort economic activity and lead to reduced debt levels, contrary to previous findings.
Researchers found that people showed less tolerance toward those referred to as 'the mentally ill' compared to 'people with mental illness.' The study involved college students, non-student adults, and professional counselors, showing that language choice can influence attitudes towards mental health.
A University of Oxford study published in Royal Society Open Science found that online social media groups are constrained to around 150-200 people, similar to offline networks. Regular Facebook users averaged 155 and 183 friends, respectively, with women having more connections than men.
Researchers found that workers in majority-white labor markets are more likely to receive unsolicited job leads through social networks and informal approaches. The flow of job leads changes based on the race of people doing the same job, suggesting a preference for white workers.
Astronomers discovered a distant quasar that has apparently run out of gas, leading to a significant decrease in its brightness. The quasar, SDSS J1011+5442, was found to have consumed all the glowing-hot gas in its vicinity, causing it to dim drastically.
A new Boston University study found that most obesity research relying on one-time measures of body mass index (BMI) overlooks the health impacts of weight change over time. The researchers argue that using 'weight histories' in studies clarifies the risks of obesity and shows they are much higher than appreciated.
African-Americans and Latinos show deeper mistrust of physicians due to cultural and socioeconomic factors. Physicians must consider structural competency, including a patient's neighborhood, policies, and institutions, to provide better care.
The 2015 Monitoring the Future survey found decreasing use of illicit drugs, including synthetic cannabinoids and heroin, among teens. Marijuana use remained stable, but perception of its harms continued to decline. Prescription opioid abuse and tobacco product use also decreased, while e-cigarette use remained a concern.
Research at Lund University finds that 75% of employees experience rudeness, leading to stronger social support and increased risk of bullying; training for staff and managers is key to addressing unpleasant behavior.
A nationally representative survey of over 7,000 people in India reveals that more than one in four older individuals on low and middling incomes have an unhealthy midriff bulge. Women are particularly prone to central adiposity, with a significant portion carrying an unhealthy spare tyre.
A new study published in the American Sociological Review found that more than half of children in the US either misperceive or reject their parents' political party affiliations. The study suggests that parent-child communication and social support do not necessarily lead to accurate transmission of political values.
Research published by the Society for Personality and Social Psychology found no significant link between frequent sex and happiness after one sexual encounter per week. Instead, maintaining an intimate connection with a partner is key to overall happiness.
A new study by Michigan State University sociologists found that Americans are more likely to accept a higher gas tax if the revenue is used for energy-efficient transportation, road and bridge repairs, or refunded to taxpayers. The survey of over 3,000 participants showed that an average increase of 51-53 cents per gallon could be acc...
A systematic review of 61 studies found that when missing preferences are included, the majority of those questioned preferred to die at home. However, the large amount of missing data makes it unclear whether home is where most participants with cancer or other conditions preferred to die.
A study at Hospital for Special Surgery found a support group addressing psychological and educational needs of people with lupus to be a valuable resource, increasing knowledge, coping skills, and social support. The program had high satisfaction rates among participants.
A study suggests that health campaigns tailored to teen subcultures can reduce risky behaviors such as smoking and drinking. The 'peer-crowd' campaign, which targets alternative youth, has shown promising results in preventing smoking from being seen as socially acceptable.
A new study reveals that 38% of state public health workers plan to leave the workforce by 2020, with those aged 25-40, racial and ethnic minorities, and those with fewer than 10 years of experience being most likely to exit. The study also highlights pay disparities between different groups in the public health sector.
A new study published in the journal Obesity found that accounting for weight history and smoking habits eliminates the mortality advantage associated with being obese. The researchers analyzed data from over 30,400 participants and found that obesity is harmful to those with cardiovascular disease, contrary to previous studies.
Treatment for opioid use disorders remained low in the US during 2004-2013, with only 18.8% of individuals receiving care. Inpatient and office-based treatments increased significantly over the decade.
Total travel trips and time spent on journeys have remained stable since 1965, but increased distances traveled have nearly doubled, according to the National Travel Survey. The data suggests that investment in transport and car use have expanded employment and leisure opportunities for women and older people.
A survey of 282 adolescents aged 12-18 found that most prefer to know secondary genetic findings, even if not medically actionable until adulthood. The main reasons cited were future planning and reducing anxiety, with some respondents expressing concern about introducing stress in their family.
A new survey from Rice University's Kinder Institute for Urban Research reveals that Copenhagen residents are less welcoming to immigrants, with only 29.5% rating relations between Danes and non-Western immigrants as 'excellent' or 'good'. In contrast, 48% of Houstonians said the same about their city.