Summary: Researchers have identified a rare type of brain cell whose overactivity may contribute to schizophrenia-like symptoms, such as cognitive deficits and disrupted sleep. When scientists reduced the activity of…
Category: Psychology
Music and Nature Work in Harmony to Ease Stress and Lift Mood
Summary: The viral phrase “touch grass” may be more than internet humor—science shows that engaging with nature and music can significantly boost emotional and physical well-being. A new review found…
Swap 30 Minutes of Sitting for Light Activity to Boost Next-Day Mood
Summary: New research reveals that replacing even 30 minutes of sitting with light physical activity—like walking or doing household chores—can boost mood and energy the following day. The study tracked…
Lack of Sleep in Teens Linked to Higher Suicide Risk
Summary: Teenagers who sleep less or experience frequent night awakenings are significantly more likely to attempt suicide later in adolescence, according to a major longitudinal study. Researchers analyzed data from…
Ketamine Fails to Outperform Placebo in Major Depression Trial
Summary: A large randomized and blinded clinical trial has found no additional benefit of repeated ketamine infusions over standard inpatient care for treating major depression. The study compared ketamine with…
Hearing Voices May Stem from the Brain Misreading Its Own Inner Speech
Summary: A new study reveals that auditory hallucinations in schizophrenia may arise when the brain fails to recognize its own inner voice as self-generated. Normally, the brain predicts the sound…
When a Hug Turns Dark: How Manipulative Partners Use Touch
Summary: Touch can strengthen bonds and calm stress, but not all affection is sincere. A new study reveals that people with “dark triad” traits—narcissism, psychopathy, and Machiavellianism—often use physical touch…
Why Teenage Songs Define Us: The Science of Musical Memory
Summary: A global study reveals that our most emotionally resonant music tends to come from our teenage years—typically peaking around age 17. This “reminiscence bump” marks the period when our…
Child Abuse Leaves Lasting Biological Scars on the Brain and DNA
Summary: New research reveals that child maltreatment leaves measurable biological “scars” on DNA, altering brain structure and function. Using a genome-wide epigenetic analysis, scientists identified four key methylation sites—ATE1, SERPINB9P1,…
Feeling the Music: Touch Amplifies Emotional Power of Sound
Summary: A new study shows that combining touch with hearing profoundly intensifies emotional responses to music. Using a custom-built device that transforms sound into tactile vibrations, researchers found that people…
