Brain Signature Reveals How We Consciously Experience Emotional Intensity

Summary: Researchers have identified a distinct brain signature linked to the conscious experience of emotional intensity. By combining AI modeling, advanced brain imaging, and realistic experimental scenarios, they measured arousal…

Brain Circuit Model Reveals How Striatum Shapes Everyday Decisions

Summary: 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…

When Gut Rhythms Over-Sync With the Brain, Mental Strain Rises

Summary: 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…

Early Abuse Shapes Adult Sexual Behavior

Summary: 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…

When Music Meets Attention: How Background Tunes Shape Focus

Summary: 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…

Electric Ear Stimulation Boosts Power for Self-Compassion

Summary: 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…

Music May Help Kids Understand Emotions, Even Without Empathy

Summary: Music plays a powerful role in how we perceive and express emotion—and a new study finds that even very young children can match emotions in music to facial expressions.…

Promise of Reward Changes How We Pay Attention

Summary: A new study reveals that our brains treat sensitivity and decision bias as separate processes when rewards are at stake. Using eye-tracking and EEG during a visual task, researchers…

Do Dog Faces Shape Behavior?

Summary: 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…

How Kids Learn What Emotions Really Mean

Key Questions Answered Q: Why do young children struggle to recognize adult emotions?A: Young children rely heavily on facial perception and haven’t yet developed the conceptual knowledge needed to fully…