Psychology News

These research articles involve many aspects of psychology such as cognitive psychology, depression studies, mental health, stress, happiness and neuropsychology, Scroll below for more specific categories.

Researchers have developed a computational framework that maps how the striosomal compartment of the striatum governs everyday decision-making. By integrating biology, decision theory, and mathematical modeling, the study reveals that different levels of striosomal activity can push individuals toward impulsive, balanced, or overly complex decisions.
A large-scale study has found that unusually strong coordination between brain activity and the stomach’s slow, rhythmic waves may signal greater mental distress. Using fMRI and electrogastrography on more than 240 people, researchers observed that higher synchronization was associated with elevated anxiety, depression, and stress.
A new study has found that sexual narcissism mediates the link between childhood trauma and compulsive sexual behavior. Researchers compared individuals with and without compulsive sexual behavior, measuring trauma history, sexual narcissism, and hypersexuality.
A new study compared background music listening habits between young adults with and without ADHD, revealing distinct patterns in when and what they listen to. ADHD-screened participants reported more frequent music use during both less demanding tasks and while studying, with a stronger preference for stimulating tracks.
A new study finds that stimulating the vagus nerve via a small electrical pulse to the outer ear can amplify the benefits of self-compassion meditation. Participants who received stimulation alongside meditation training saw larger immediate boosts in self-kindness and gradual increases in mindfulness over time.
Short-nosed dog breeds like Pugs and French Bulldogs are often perceived as calm, affectionate companions—but their behavior is influenced by more than just head shape. A new study of over 5,000 dogs reveals that small body size, lack of training, and pampering by inexperienced owners contribute to many of their less favorable behaviors.
A new study reveals that children’s ability to understand emotions develops through a cognitive shift between ages 5 and 10. While younger kids perceive emotional expressions instinctively through visual cues, older children increasingly depend on conceptual knowledge to grasp emotional nuance.
A new imaging study reveals that young adults with a higher genetic risk for depression show diminished brain activity when processing rewards and punishments. Using data from nearly 900 healthy twins and siblings, researchers found altered activation in brain regions linked to attention and decision-making—well before any symptoms of depression appeared.
Scientists have uncovered how the brain’s 5-HT1A serotonin receptor—vital in mood regulation—functions at the molecular level. This receptor, a common target of antidepressants and psychedelics, prefers certain signaling pathways no matter the drug, but drugs can still vary in how strongly they activate them.
Empathy isn't just innate — it can be trained by associating another person’s happiness with personal rewards. In this study, participants observed a character experiencing good and bad moments, which were paired with gains or losses in their own rewards.