Mind-Bending: Psilocybin Reshapes Brain Networks for Weeks

Summary: A new study reveals that psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, temporarily disrupts brain networks involved in introspective thinking, like daydreaming and memory. These changes persist for weeks,…

Overestimation of Opponents’ Immorality Fuels Political Divide

Summary: A study reveals that Democrats and Republicans overestimate how much the opposing party approves of clearly immoral acts like theft or animal abuse. This “basic morality bias” is evident…

Reflective Thinking Boosts Teen Brain Resilience to Violence

Summary: Teens who engage in “transcendent thinking” can counteract the negative effects of violence exposure on brain development. This type of thinking involves considering broader ethical and societal implications of…

Beta Brain Waves: A Novel Brain Signature for Depression

Summary: A new study identifies beta frequency neural activity in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) as crucial for recognizing rewards and shaping behavior. This neural signature is altered in patients…

Adolescent Boys Show Aggression When Masculinity is Threatened

Summary: A new study reveals that adolescent boys respond aggressively to perceived threats to their masculinity, particularly in environments with rigid gender norms. Researchers found that boys whose motivation to…

Neural Biomarker for OCD Identified

Summary: Researchers discovered a neural activity pattern that can accurately predict and monitor the clinical status of OCD patients undergoing deep brain stimulation (DBS). The study highlights how this biomarker…

Study Shows Narcissism Declines with Age

Summary: A study reveals that narcissism decreases from childhood to older adulthood, though individual differences remain stable over time. People who are more narcissistic as children tend to stay that…

Taylor Swift’s Positive Impact on Fans’ Body Image and Eating Disorders

Summary: A new study finds that Taylor Swift’s openness about her struggles with body image and eating disorders positively influences her fans’ attitudes. Researchers analyzed thousands of online comments, revealing…

Loneliness Worse for Memory Than Social Isolation

Summary: A new study finds that loneliness impacts memory more negatively than social isolation among older adults. Those who are both socially isolated and lonely experience the greatest memory decline,…

Personality Politics: What Makes a Successful Politician?

Summary: A new study identifies humor, charm, and courage as crucial traits for successful politicians. Researchers found that aspiring politicians embark on challenging careers driven by a mix of ambition,…