Pandemic decision-making is difficult and exhausting – here's the psychology that explains why

People tend to dislike uncertainty and risk – two things that are hard to avoid completely during a pandemic. That’s part of why it can feel especially draining to make even small decisions these days.

Wesley Ameden, Ph.D. Student in Psychology, Rutgers University - Newark • conversation
April 19, 2022 • ~8 min

Monkeys can sense their own heartbeats, an ability tied to mental health, consciousness and memory in humans

Researchers used a test designed for babies to show that rhesus monkeys can sense their own heartbeats. The finding opens up important paths of research into consciousness and mental health issues.

Eliza Bliss-Moreau, Associate Professor of Psychology, University of California, Davis • conversation
April 11, 2022 • ~5 min

Psychological tips aren’t enough – policies need to address structural inequities so everyone can flourish

For people who struggle to meet their basic needs, it will take a lot more than simple psychological exercises to flourish. It will take systemic change.

Colleen Walsh, Associate Professor of Health Sciences, Cleveland State University • conversation
April 11, 2022 • ~9 min

How shops use psychology to influence your buying decisions

Retailers have a range of strategies to encourage us to spend more - but they can help us to make healthier choices too.

Cathrine Jansson-Boyd, Reader in Consumer Psychology, Anglia Ruskin University • conversation
April 7, 2022 • ~7 min

Climate change: greener lifestyles linked to greater happiness – in both rich and poor countries

Fixing the climate crisis can be a source of pleasure and not just pain.

Stuart Capstick, Senior Research Fellow in Psychology, Cardiff University • conversation
April 4, 2022 • ~7 min

Guilt: when it is useful – and what to do if it takes over your life

The best way to deal with a guilty conscience is to take action that is appropriate to the situation.

Jolanta Burke, Senior Lecturer, Centre for Positive Psychology and Health, RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences • conversation
March 31, 2022 • ~7 min

Don't underestimate the value of giving feedback – new research shows people want to receive it

People tend not to provide constructive feedback – even when it would help the other person.

Pam Birtill, Associate Professor, School of Psychology, University of Leeds • conversation
March 30, 2022 • ~7 min

What’s a little envy amongst friends?

Kennedy School psychologist Jennifer Lerner explains where it comes from, why it’s so powerful, how we can avoid it.

Colleen Walsh • harvard
March 29, 2022 • ~4 min

Kids afraid of getting shots? Here are 3 easy ways for parents to help them

A pediatrician recommends helping your child cope with getting vaccines by employing “The Three P’s” – Preparation, Proximity and Praise.

Lynn Gardner, Associate Professor of Pediatrics and Director of Pediatric Residency Program, Morehouse School of Medicine • conversation
March 29, 2022 • ~5 min

From ghosting to 'backburner' relationships: the reasons people behave so badly on dating apps

If you use dating apps, you might have experienced ghosting, or worse.

Martin Graff, Senior Lecturer in Psychology of Relationships, University of South Wales • conversation
March 23, 2022 • ~6 min

/

56