Latest

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.

Prozac May Rewire the Brain by Loosening Rigid Neural Circuits

A new study shows that fluoxetine, better known as Prozac, does more than increase serotonin—it changes how brain cells handle energy and rebuild connections. After two weeks of treatment, parvalbumin interneurons in the prefrontal cortex became less rigid, with mitochondrial energy genes reduced and plasticity genes upregulated.

Postpartum Depression and Psychosis Risks Surge After Childbirth

A large Swedish study of 1.8 million pregnancies found that mental ill health around pregnancy has risen in recent years, with risks spiking after childbirth. While depression and psychosis rates drop during pregnancy, postpartum depression is 20% more likely within weeks 5–15, and psychosis risk is up to seven times higher in the first 20 weeks.

This shows a woman drinking soda and a shadow of a woman.

Sugary Drinks Linked to Depression Through Gut Microbiome

A new study shows that sugary drinks don’t just affect physical health—they may also raise the risk of depression in women by disrupting the gut microbiome. Researchers found that high consumption of soft drinks was linked to both a greater likelihood of major depressive disorder and more severe symptoms, particularly among women.

This shows a person playing an instrument.

Positive Memories Boost Musicians’ Performance by Reframing Stress

A new study reveals that recalling positive memories before stepping on stage can significantly boost musicians’ performance. Professional wind instrumentalists who reflected on positive experiences showed higher nervous system activity, greater emotional positivity, and stronger arousal compared to those recalling negative or no memories.

Early Clues to Autism and Schizophrenia Risk Found in DNA

Summary: Researchers have built a detailed map of DNA methylation changes in...

Most Daily Actions Run on Habit, Not Conscious Choice

New research shows that nearly two-thirds of daily behaviors are triggered by habit rather than conscious decision-making. Participants often acted automatically in familiar settings, reflecting learned associations.

Mini Brains Expose Neural Signatures of Schizophrenia and Bipolar

For the first time, lab-grown mini brains have revealed how neurons misfire in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Using machine learning to analyze electrical activity, researchers identified distinct firing patterns that served as biomarkers, distinguishing patient-derived organoids from healthy ones with over 90% accuracy.

Parenting Styles Shape Teen Anxiety

A new study shows that both mothers and fathers significantly shape their adolescent children’s social anxiety, but in different ways. Warmth, affection, and acceptance from either parent reduce anxiety, while rejection, coldness, and controlling behaviors heighten it.

This shows a dog and toys like balls and ropes.

Dogs Can Classify Objects by Function, Not Just Appearance

A new study demonstrates that some highly gifted dogs can categorize objects not just by appearance, but by how they are used. When taught words like “pull” or “fetch,” these dogs later applied the concepts to brand-new toys through natural play, without training or explicit labeling.

This shows a happy pregnant woman cradling her belly.

Fetal Movements Boost Maternal Attachment

A new study shows that fetal movement frequency in late pregnancy is directly tied to stronger maternal-fetal attachment. Using an actocardiograph, researchers objectively measured movements and found that higher activity was associated with greater emotional bonding, even when controlling for other factors like maternal mood or gestational age.

This shows two people and a digital outline of a person.

When Machines Become Our Moral Loophole

A large study across 13 experiments with over 8,000 participants shows that people are far more likely to act dishonestly when they can delegate tasks to AI rather than do them themselves. Dishonesty rose most when participants only had to set broad goals, rather than explicit instructions, allowing them to distance themselves from the unethical act.

This shows a woman's face and network lines.

AI Spots Subtle Facial Cues Linked to Early Depression Risk

Depression’s earliest signs can be hard to spot, but a new study shows AI can detect them in subtle facial movements. Japanese students with subthreshold depression were perceived as less friendly and expressive by peers, despite not seeming nervous or fake.