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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.

Mom’s Childhood Trauma May Influence Kids with ADHD and ASD

A new study finds that mothers’ adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)—including abuse, neglect, or household dysfunction—may affect children diagnosed with ADHD or autism. Mothers who faced early trauma were more likely to have children who reported similar experiences and to exhibit traits of neurodevelopmental conditions themselves.

Immune Signals Shape Social Behavior and Anxiety in the Brain

New research reveals that the immune molecule IL-17 can influence behavior by acting directly on specific regions of the brain. IL-17 reduces neuron excitability in the cortex to enhance sociability, while in the amygdala, it increases excitability and induces anxiety.

Childhood Adversity Weakens Brain Connectivity, But Support Protects It

New research shows that difficult early-life experiences are linked to weaker white matter connections across the adolescent brain, which may lead to lower cognitive performance. These “communication highways” in the brain are essential for functions like language and mental arithmetic and are shaped by early environmental influences.

This shows a teen boy working on a laptop while listening to music.

ADHD and Music: Why Background Beats May Boost Study Focus

A new study explored whether young adults with ADHD are more likely to listen to background music during daily tasks. The survey, involving over 400 participants, found that individuals with ADHD prefer listening to music—especially stimulating music—while studying or playing sports.

ADHD Drugs Linked to Heart Effects

A large new analysis of 102 clinical trials finds that ADHD medications have overall small effects on blood pressure and heart rate in both children and adults. These cardiovascular effects—mostly modest increases—were consistent across stimulants and non-stimulants, with guanfacine being the exception, lowering these parameters.

The Subtle Power of Self-Deprecating Humor

Self-deprecating humor, when used thoughtfully, can help people regulate emotions, build trust, and foster connection—especially in therapeutic settings. Far from being purely negative, this type of humor signals humility, self-awareness, and confidence.

How Psilocybin Lifts Mood Without the Hallucinogenic Trip

Researchers have uncovered two key brain mechanisms—specific neurons and a serotonin receptor—that help explain how psilocybin produces long-lasting antidepressant effects. Their study identified pyramidal tract neurons in the medial frontal cortex and the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor as essential to the therapeutic action of psilocybin.

Listening Builds Trust, But Stories Change Minds

A new study challenges the widely held belief that high-quality, nonjudgmental listening is essential for persuasion. While good listening improves how people feel about a conversation and reduces defensiveness, it doesn’t enhance the impact of persuasive messages.

Study Reveals Brain Circuits That Drive Political Passion and Intensity

A new study has identified specific brain networks that regulate the intensity of political engagement, regardless of ideology. By analyzing Vietnam War veterans with localized brain injuries, researchers found that damage to the prefrontal cortex increased political fervor, while damage to the amygdala reduced it.

This shows the outline of a child and adult.

Childhood Adversity Dulls Joy and Deepens Daily Emotional Swings

A new study reveals that adverse childhood experiences make adults more emotionally reactive—not only to negative events, but also to positive ones.

Psychedelics May Enhance Intimacy, Attraction, and Sexual Expression

In the first study of its kind, researchers found that psychedelic use can positively affect sexuality, romantic relationships, and gender expression. Surveying nearly 600 users of substances like psilocybin, LSD, and ketamine, the study revealed that many participants reported increased partner attraction, improved intimacy, and enhanced sexual experiences.

This shows a couple on chairs facing each other.

Fear of Emotions Fuels PTSD-Related Conflict in Romantic Relationships

New research reveals that fear of emotions may explain why individuals with PTSD symptoms often struggle to communicate with romantic partners. The study found that people with higher PTSD symptoms were more likely to fear strong emotions, which led to less constructive and more conflict-driven communication styles.