Hard science can begin to look like astrology when it comes to researching the importance of birthdays and season of birth (SOB).  Birthdays are proven to influence everything from your success in school and sports to your physical health.  Birthdays can serve as temporal landmarks that enhance motivation—or deepen depression….

Alternative sports, including swimming, martial arts, and archery, have the potential to help adults with ADHD better manage their symptoms  While some of the best sports for ADHD symptoms may seem unconventional, the nature of these immersive activities offers a unique way to cope with a potentially challenging mental health…

Rare mental disorders are often depicted in horror movies in ways that are 1) inaccurate; and 2) exploitative.  That being said, creative inspiration has to come from somewhere. Extraordinary mental health disorders like mass psychogenic illness and Capras syndrome might benefit from the Hollywood treatment. Just make sure you remember…

Halloween is one of the most popular U.S. holidays—this October, we’re set to spend a whopping $10.5 billion on treats, Halloween costumes, and decorations. The psychology behind Halloween costumes is intriguing: Studies show that when costumes render us anonymous, we may feel more confident displaying malicious behavior towards others.  More…

Shame: There is something wrong with me as a person. Guilt: I’m a person who may have done something wrong. What is the thing that causes you to lay awake at night; the thing that causes you shame? I promise that you’re not damaged beyond repair. You’re not unlovable. You’re…

A division of the School of Medicine at the University of Virginia has conducted extensive research into the “past life memories” of children. These spontaneous child “reincarnation” stories usually have elements in common, like the violent death of the previous personality and intense emotions.  Some critics use psychological explanations like…

Workplace manipulation happens when a supervisor or coworker uses guilt, shame, coercion, or other tactics to exploit another member of the team.  If your boss is a workplace manipulator, watch out for traits and behavioral qualities that indicate they might have dark personality traits.  Dark personality traits (narcissism, machiavellianism, psychopathy)…

Intermittent explosive disorder (IED) is characterized by short, intense outbursts of anger that can leave destruction in their wake.  People with IED may have brain abnormalities that foster impulsivity.  IED can be misdiagnosed as bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder (BPD), or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). To calm someone during an…

Infertility is often experienced as a crisis, and women tend to carry more of its physical and emotional burden.  Some coping strategies are more compatible with fertility treatment and infertility depression than others.  Though psychologists usually discourage avoidant and escapist strategies, active distraction can reduce stress. More people benefit from…

Alcohol plays a social role in many college students’ experiences, as they celebrate the end of final exams or football victories. While there’s nothing wrong with having a drink if you’re of legal drinking age, it’s important to have a game plan first, which is where our safe drinking tips…

Financial infidelity involves engaging in dishonest spending habits while in a relationship by lying about or otherwise concealing purchases and bills from your partner.  Spending habits can be tricky to discuss, and admitting that you aren’t always the best with your money isn’t easy to do, either. But the potential…

It may be possible to live like a rich person even when you’re on a budget. The hedonic treadmill influences how much money you need to feel wealthy.  High-net-worth individuals tend to have low neuroticism and an internal locus of control. You can feel rich by spending money on experiences,…