Negative reinforcement is a frequently misused term that diminishes its value as a powerful tool for behavior change. You may be puzzled by the claim that negative reinforcement is actually a good... Read more »
Our culture presents a confusing array of messages about bodies, eating, and health. We see media images that promote unrealistic (and generally unreal) bodies, sensationalized news stories about “health,” and an ongoing... Read more »
Have you ever opened a boring work email or looked at a plain photo, yet felt an unexpected wave of sadness or negativity? You aren’t imagining things, and you aren’t “just being... Read more »
Many students turn to exercise to cope with stress, but new research suggests the benefits extend beyond physical fitness. A recent study indicates that physical activity not only improves mood but also... Read more »
For many people, difficulty concentrating is a familiar experience during periods of stress or emotional turmoil. Whether it’s the mind drifting during a conversation or zoning out in front of a screen,... Read more »
Why do some people experience more severe depression than others, even when facing similar life challenges? Many factors contribute, but a new study points to two important ones: how people interpret past... Read more »
Simon, P. D., Salanga, M. G. C., & Aruta, J. J. B. A. (2025). The distinct link of perfectionism with positive and negative mental health outcomes. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 16, 1492466. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2025.1492466 Key Takeaways... Read more »
Autistic individuals may struggle with friendships due to challenges with social communication, understanding nonverbal cues, and navigating social expectations. These difficulties can lead to misunderstandings, anxiety, and difficulty forming and maintaining friendships.... Read more »
Problematic online gaming behavior refers to excessive gaming that negatively impacts daily life, relationships, and mental health. It may relate to basic psychological needs by serving as a coping mechanism when these... Read more »
Mind-wandering is a common cognitive process where attention shifts from the current task to unrelated thoughts or internal experiences. It’s often spontaneous and can be either positive or negative. Rumination is a... Read more »