Latest

brain development

·July 17, 2024·4 min read

3-Year-Olds Understand Intentions Through Active Mirror Neurons

A study shows that by age three, children can understand others' intentions using active mirror neurons. This discovery highlights the early development of the "resonance" system, crucial for social cognition. Researchers found that preschoolers' mylohyoid muscle activates when anticipating goal-directed actions. These findings could aid early diagnosis of conditions like autism spectrum disorder.

Featured Neuroscience

·July 17, 2024·6 min read

Conduct Disorder Linked to Widespread Brain Structure Changes

A study reveals that young people with conduct disorder exhibit significant changes in brain structure, particularly a smaller cerebral cortex. The findings indicate lower surface area and volume in multiple brain regions, which may impact behavior, cognition, and emotion.

This shows the outline of a head and a brain.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·July 16, 2024·5 min read

Reflective Thinking Boosts Teen Brain Resilience to Violence

Teens who engage in "transcendent thinking" can counteract the negative effects of violence exposure on brain development. This type of thinking involves considering broader ethical and societal implications of social issues.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·July 15, 2024·5 min read

Adolescent Boys Show Aggression When Masculinity is Threatened

A new study reveals that adolescent boys respond aggressively to perceived threats to their masculinity, particularly in environments with rigid gender norms. Researchers found that boys whose motivation to be masculine is socially pressured are more likely to exhibit aggression.

This shows an older man looking in a mirror.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·July 11, 2024·4 min read

Study Shows Narcissism Declines with Age

A study reveals that narcissism decreases from childhood to older adulthood, though individual differences remain stable over time. People who are more narcissistic as children tend to stay that way as adults.

Featured Neuroscience

·July 10, 2024·5 min read

Critical Brain Development in Toddlers at 16 Months

Researchers found that 16-month-old toddlers engage more brain regions to develop cognitive skills like inhibitory control. Using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), the study showed increased brain activity in the prefrontal and parietal cortex. Despite no observable improvement in skills, significant brain changes were noted between 10 and 16 months. This highlights 16 months as a crucial period for developing the ability to follow instructions and control impulses.

Featured Neuroscience

·July 10, 2024·7 min read

Brain Study Reveals How Curiosity Arises in Kids

A new study reveals how the brain triggers curiosity in response to visual ambiguity. Researchers identified brain areas that assess uncertainty, sparking curiosity. Using fMRI, they found that lower confidence in recognizing images leads to higher curiosity. This discovery highlights the deep biological roots of human curiosity and its role in creativity.

Featured Neurology Neuroscience

·July 5, 2024·5 min read

Early Inflammation Linked to Midlife Cognitive Decline

A new study finds that higher inflammation in young adulthood is associated with reduced cognitive function in midlife. Researchers discovered that inflammation due to factors like obesity and smoking can impact memory and processing speed.

This shows a woman, leaves, and a brain.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·July 5, 2024·6 min read

Prenatal Cannabis Use Impacts Brain Development

A new study suggests prenatal cannabis exposure may influence long-term brain development and mental health. Researchers used data from the ABCD Study to examine neuroimaging of children exposed to cannabis in utero.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·June 28, 2024·4 min read

Digital Devices Hinder Kids’ Emotional Regulation Development

A new study reveals that using digital devices to manage children's tantrums hampers their ability to regulate emotions later in life. Researchers found that frequent use of tablets or smartphones for calming children results in poorer anger management skills.

Featured Neuroscience Psychology

·June 25, 2024·5 min read

Empathy in Kids Linked to Poorer Health Amid Parental Conflict

Empathetic children aged 7-9 show poorer health and higher inflammation levels when exposed to interparental conflict. The research highlights the physiological impact of empathy in stressful home environments. The findings suggest a need for educational programs to help empathetic children set boundaries. This could improve their long-term health outcomes.

Brain Cancer Featured Genetics Neuroscience

·June 25, 2024·4 min read

Cancer Genes Crucial for Nervous System Development

Research using C. elegans shows the oncogene Src, known as SRC-1 in nematodes, is vital for nervous system development by guiding axons. The study highlights Src's normal role in growth and differentiation, which, when mutated, leads to cancer. This work could inform new therapies for neuron damage in spinal cord injuries and stroke. Findings also resolve previous discrepancies about SRC-1's function.