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social neuroscience

·July 13, 2023·4 min read

Better ‘Mind Reading’ Skills Linked to Enhanced Cooperation

A new study reveals that individuals with stronger 'mindreading' abilities, or the capacity to understand others' feelings and intentions, are more successful in cooperative tasks. This trait, also known as 'theory of mind,' is not directly tied to intelligence and can potentially be improved through training programs.

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·June 26, 2023·4 min read

Sense of Purpose May Shield Against Loneliness

A sense of purpose in life, irrespective of its nature, can be a robust defense against loneliness. A new study, involving over 2,300 Swiss adults, found fewer instances of loneliness among individuals who led a purposeful life.

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·June 26, 2023·6 min read

Six Degrees of Connection: A Mathematical Take on Social Ties

Scientists used mathematics to explain the social phenomenon of six degrees of separation. Their work suggests that the balance between the cost and benefit of maintaining social connections shapes the global human social network.

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·June 24, 2023·6 min read

Adolescent Stress Shapes Motherly Behavior

Stress during adolescence alters brain functions, influencing postpartum social behavior in mammals. The research utilizes optogenetics and calcium imaging techniques to understand neuronal communication in mice that experienced psychosocial stress during adolescence.

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·June 20, 2023·6 min read

Social Bonds Protect Aging Brains

Social isolation can potentially harm brain structure and cognitive performance, suggesting an increased risk of conditions like Alzheimer's dementia. The study indicates a lack of quality social interaction can lead to a decrease in the hippocampus's volume, crucial for memory formation and retrieval, and poorer cognitive performance.

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·June 7, 2023·6 min read

Social Participation Paves the Way for Successful Aging

A recent study found a correlation between social participation and successful aging among people aged 60 and above. The researchers discovered that those engaged in volunteer work or recreational activities were more likely to maintain excellent health over a three-year period.

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·May 24, 2023·5 min read

Gender and Education, Not Politics, Shape Our Social Skills

Gender and education, rather than political beliefs, are significant factors in people's social skills. Researchers analyzed qualities such as agreeableness, ability to pick up on subtle cues, and self-reflection among 4,000 UK participants.

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·May 17, 2023·7 min read

The Power of Friendship Counters Early Life Stress

A new study, based on 36 years of data from nearly 200 baboons, indicates that strong social bonds formed in adulthood can counteract the negative effects of adversity experienced early in life. These hardships, similar to human experiences of growing up in a tumultuous environment, can shorten their lifespan.

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·May 15, 2023·7 min read

Two Types of Neurons in Cerebellum Influence Motor and Social Behaviors

Researchers reveal distinct roles for two types of neurons in the cerebellum. The study offers compelling in vivo evidence that a specific group of excitatory glutamatergic neurons plays a key role in acquiring motor and sensory/emotional behaviors.

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·May 10, 2023·6 min read

Game On: Online Gaming Networks’ Influence on Mental Health & Social Connections

Researchers investigated the role of online gaming in social connectivity and mental health. The findings suggest that online gaming can foster a sense of community and social support, especially for those lacking real-life support. However, individuals with depressive symptoms showed a decrease in communication over time, highlighting the need for additional support systems within these digital communities.

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·May 9, 2023·5 min read

Context Matters: Oxytocin Influenced by Context of Social Touch

The hormone oxytocin, which is released in social bonding and touch, functions like a dimmer switch, influenced by the situation, according to researchers. A study of 42 women found oxytocin levels were higher when their partners stroked their arms first, then fell, only to increase again when a stranger did the same thing. When the stranger touched their arms first, there was no change in oxytocin levels. The research has implications for administering synthetic oxytocin, such as in nasal sprays, to treat mood-affecting conditions.

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·April 29, 2023·5 min read

Social Connections Combat Dementia and Prolong Lifespan

Spending time with family and friends not only gives us a positive psychological boost, it can also reduce dementia risks and improve longevity, a new study reports. Researchers found those with strong social connections have a lower risk of mild cognitive impairment, dementia, and death. The study reports improving social connections and frequently taking time to spend with others has positive implications for health and cognition.