Mothers’ dieting habits and self-talk have profound impact on daughters − 2 psychologists explain how to cultivate healthy behaviors and body image

Adopting healthy behaviors and thought patterns around food and nutrition takes time and intentional effort. But it will lead to more lasting change and positive outcomes than quick-fix dieting will.

Ashleigh Gallagher, Senior Lecturer, University of North Carolina – Greensboro • conversation
Feb. 22, 2024 • ~10 min

Health misinformation is rampant on social media – here's what it does, why it spreads and what people can do about it

Studies show that health misinformation on social media has led to fewer people getting vaccinated and more lives lost to COVID-19 and other life-threatening diseases.

Monica Wang, Associate Professor of Public Health, Boston University • conversation
Dec. 13, 2023 • ~11 min

Seat belts and smoking rates show people eventually adopt healthy behaviors – but it can take time we don't have during a pandemic

Public health recommendations have always been a hard sell. Resistance to new behaviors – like the mask-wearing and social distancing advised during the COVID-19 pandemic – is part of human nature.

Randy P. Juhl, Dean Emeritus and Distinguished Service Professor Emeritus of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh • conversation
Dec. 29, 2020 • ~7 min

Racial discrimination ages Black Americans faster, according to a 25-year-long study of families

A study of 800 Black American families shows early experiences of racism have long-term consequences for physical and mental health.

Sierra Carter, Assistant Professor of Psychology, Georgia State University • conversation
Nov. 17, 2020 • ~5 min

Sick of COVID-19? Here's why you might have pandemic fatigue

It's draining and depressing to stay on high alert month after month after month. Understanding pandemic fatigue better might help you strengthen your resolve.

Jay Maddock, Professor of Public Health, Texas A&M University • conversation
Oct. 23, 2020 • ~8 min

Mandatory face masks might lull people into taking more coronavirus risks

Policies meant to improve public health – like mandatory face masks during the coronavirus pandemic – need to take into account how people might adjust other behaviors in response.

Konrad Grabiszewski, Associate Professor of Economics, Prince Mohammad Bin Salman College (MBSC) of Business & Entrepreneurship • conversation
July 20, 2020 • ~6 min

How people react to the threat of disease could mean COVID-19 is reshaping personalities

Human psychology has evolved to avoid situations that could lead to infection. Behavioral choices now could have long-term effects on how people interact with others and the world.

Vivian Zayas, Associate Professor of Psychology, Cornell University • conversation
May 4, 2020 • ~10 min

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