Researchers say during group problem-solving tasks, components of the "social brain" are co-activated, but they do not increase their coupling during cooperation as would be suggested by a holistic network. Read More
When we talk to someone from a different socioeconomic background our brain reacts differently than when we address someone with a similar status to our own. Researchers found higher activity in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, an area of the brain associated with language and attentional control when people speak with those of different socioeconomic status. Read More
Playing with dolls as a small child helps develop social skills and empathy. Doll play activates the posterior superior temporal sulcus, an area of the brain associated with social processing and behaviors. Read More
A specialized area of the mouse brain called the SuM specializes in detecting novel experiences. Within this brain area, responses to social novelty, or experiences related to unknown individuals, were segregated from those related to unfamiliar places, before being sent to areas of the brain associated with memory. Read More
People find potential romantic partners more attractive when they have, what researchers called, a "sexy mindset." They also tend to overestimate their chances of romantic success when aroused. The findings suggest the sexual system prepares the ground for forming relationships by biasing interpersonal perceptions. Read More
Belief in conspiracy theories surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic predicts personal resistance to coronavirus vaccination and preventative behaviors, such as mask-wearing. Read More
Study reveals binge drinking is associated with more widespread neural dysfunction than previously believed. In those who binge drink, the visual areas of the brain show unusually high levels of activation. Additionally, those who binge drink have more difficulty in feeling empathy for others. Read More
In a twist on the classic marshmallow test of delay of gratification, researchers found children will wait almost twice as long for a reward if they are told another person will find out how long they have waited. Read More
Lessons from other historic pandemics show social tension accumulated throughout epidemics lead to significant episodes of rebellion. Read More
Prosocial behavior is good for people's health and wellbeing, but not all altruistic acts are equally beneficial for the giver. Read More
Reassessing years of research on Theory of Mind in autism, researchers argue the brains of those with ASD may be able to grasp what others think but may have a more difficult time processing the degree to which others think differently from themselves. Read More
Researchers found more attractive people are more likely to be givers, and givers are generally rated as being more attractive. Read More
