Unexpected Sounds Boost Dopamine, Leading to Riskier Decisions

Summary: A new study shows that unexpected sounds can cause dopamine bursts in the brain, which may lead to riskier decision-making. Researchers found that participants were 4% more likely to…

Men Show Higher Genetic Risk for Schizophrenia and Related Disorders

Summary: Researchers have found that schizophrenia shares genetic risk factors with bipolar disorder and major depression, with these vulnerabilities being more significant in men than in women. This new study…

Stress Fuels Impulsive Behavior in Response to Boredom

Summary: Research shows a strong link between impulsivity, boredom, and stress, with highly impulsive individuals reacting more to boredom by releasing more of the stress hormone cortisol. This physiological response…

New Brain Stimulation Target Could Treat PTSD

Summary: A new study suggests that neurostimulation targeting specific brain circuits may help treat PTSD in veterans. Researchers found that veterans with damage to brain areas connected to the amygdala,…

“Sleeping on It” Helps With Rational Decision Making

Summary: A new study reveals that while snap judgments heavily influence decisions made immediately, “sleeping on it” helps people make more rational choices. Researchers found that participants who made instant…

100+ Genes Linked to Anxiety Disorders Identified

Summary: A large-scale genetic study involving over 1 million participants has uncovered more than 100 genes associated with anxiety. Researchers found that these genes contribute to the development of anxiety…

AI Conversations Help Conspiracy Theorists Change Their Views

Summary: AI-powered conversations can reduce belief in conspiracy theories by 20%. Researchers found that AI provided tailored, fact-based rebuttals to participants’ conspiracy claims, leading to a lasting change in their…

High Doses of ADHD Meds Linked to Increased Psychosis Risk

Summary: Adults taking high doses of amphetamine-based medications for ADHD, such as Adderall, face a five-fold increased risk of developing psychosis or mania. The risk was highest for those taking…

Neural Circuitry Behind Social Group Preferences Discovered

Summary: Scientists have identified the brain circuitry that drives spiny mice to prefer larger social groups. The study shows that neural signaling from the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) to the…

Near Death Experiences May Strengthen Human Interconnectedness

Summary: A new study shows that out-of-body experiences (OBEs), including near-death experiences, can dramatically increase empathy and transform how individuals connect with others. Researchers suggest this may result from “ego…