Self determination theory: how to use it to boost wellbeing

A foundational idea in self-determination theory is that we have three basic psychological needs: for autonomy, competence and relatedness.

Mark Fabian, Reader of Public Policy, University of Warwick • conversation
July 1, 2025 ~7 min

Philly psychology students map out local landmarks and hidden destinations where they feel happiest

Public squares, secret gardens and offbeat cafes can offer respite and a sense of community connection, which contribute to happiness.

Eric Zillmer, Professor of Neuropsychology, Drexel University • conversation
June 25, 2025 ~8 min


Stop the ‘good’ vs ‘bad’ snap judgments and watch your world become more interesting

Instant evaluations narrow your perspective and limit your mind’s potential to connect and engage with other aspects of your experiences.

Lorraine Besser, Professor of Philosophy, Middlebury • conversation
June 5, 2025 ~7 min

What makes people flourish? A new survey of more than 200,000 people across 22 countries looks for global patterns and local differences

A global study seeks insights into what helps people feel happy, healthy and satisfied – and what holds them back.

Tyler J. VanderWeele, Professor of Epidemiology, Harvard University • conversation
May 1, 2025 ~10 min

Why sharing meals can make people happier – what evidence from 142 countries shows

Eating with others can boost levels of happiness, according to a new global report that traces the number of times people dine alone or in a group.

Alberto Prati, Assistant Professor in Economics, UCL • conversation
March 20, 2025 ~6 min

Why you should look beyond happiness for a good life

In this podcast episode, a psychologist explains why psychological richness might be the missing piece in your search for fulfillment.

U. Chicago • futurity
Feb. 11, 2025 ~3 min

I’m a sports psychologist and diehard Eagles fan - here’s the behavioral science behind a Super Bowl LIX win

Elite athletes are known to be tough-minded. Research reveals openness is also a key personality trait, one that allows them to execute creative, unscripted plays.

Eric Zillmer, Professor of Neuropsychology, Drexel University • conversation
Feb. 4, 2025 ~8 min

Why neglecting your brain health can make it harder to achieve physical goals

If our brain health isn’t optimal, it’s hard to achieve physical fitness challenges.

Christelle Langley, Postdoctoral Research Associate, Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Cambridge • conversation
Jan. 27, 2025 ~6 min


Happiness class is helping clinically depressed school teachers become emotionally healthy − with a cheery assist from Aristotle

Teachers who took the course reported less depression and better sleep − and needed fewer sick days.

John Sommers-Flanagan, Clinical Psychologist and Professor of Counseling, University of Montana • conversation
Oct. 11, 2024 ~7 min

Young people are getting unhappier – a lack of childhood freedom and independence may be partly to blame

Parents increasingly organise entertainment for their children rather than letting them come up with it themselves.

Fiorentina Sterkaj, Senior Lecturer, Department of Psychological Sciences, School of Psychology, University of East London • conversation
April 10, 2024 ~8 min

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