Psychology

Brain

Why teens can’t help tuning out mom’s voice 

 Teens often tune out what their mom is saying. Normal brain changes during adolescence could explain why, new research shows.

Psychology

Prevention programs can help reduce teen dating violence

Teen dating violence has many forms and affects an estimated one-third of teens. New studies explore what programs may help prevent this harm.

Psychology

Five tips to consider when dating goes wrong

When dating is more hurtful than loving, it may be time to ask if there may be big trouble — and harm — ahead.

Psychology

Lying won’t stretch your nose, but it will steal some brainpower

The science of lying shows that most people don’t lie often. But when they do, it takes a surprising toll on their brains.

Humans

Is the sky really blue? It depends on what language you speak

English speakers talk about color a lot but rarely about smell. Researchers are learning how those who speak other languages sense the world and why differences arise.

Psychology

Addiction can develop when reward-seeking changes a teen’s brain

Over time, the pleasure disappears and craving grows. That craving causes stress that can drive people to use drugs or pursue unhealthy behaviors again and again.

Brain

Americans tend to see imaginary faces as male, not female

When people see imaginary faces in everyday objects, those faces are more likely to be perceived as male than female.

Psychology

New training builds ‘mental’ muscles in athletes

The training builds focus and resiliency while limiting the self-doubt that can cripple competitors’ ability to perform at their peak.

Psychology

We all imagine being friends with celebrities. Is that a bad thing?

One-sided relationships with celebrities and fictional characters are normal. They also can boost self-esteem and empathy.

Psychology

To excel at basketball, it’s mind over matter

Get your head in the game. Top basketball coaches value psychological traits more than physical ones when recruiting players, says a new study.

Psychology

Discriminatory policing takes a toll on teens and tweens

Black teens and tweens are several times more likely than white youths their age to be harmed by police.

Humans

Want to improve your reading skills? You might just need more space

A simple change by publishers and Web designers could help kids — both with and without dyslexia — read faster and better.