The Modern Heart

Exploring a world where cultures collide and technology tempts the mind.

Karen Wu Ph.D.

Top 17 Fears of New Fathers During Pregnancy

Why is fatherhood so scary? Researchers analyzed Reddit posts on the subreddit PreDaddit and found the top 17 fears of new fathers.

8 Factors That Contribute to a Cat’s Personality

What determines a cat’s personality? A recent study reviewed research from the last three decades and identified eight important factors.

3 Reasons People Don't Adopt Black Cats

Why don’t people want to adopt black cats? Researchers identified three reasons for the “black cat bias”, or people's prejudice against black cats.

Why Orange Cats Are So Special, According to Science

Are orange cats really as special as they seem? Researchers discovered that orange cats may indeed differ from others in their behavior.

What a Cat’s Personality Says About Their Owner

Researchers found that a cat’s personality and well-being can be traced back to the owner’s personality traits.

There is no need to see your partner through rose-colored glasses

Idealization Is Unnecessary in Romantic Relationships

Should you look for a partner who idealizes you? A new study suggests not.

Cat Breeds and Their Personalities, According to Research

Does nurture or nature matter more for a cat’s personality? Researchers studied the personality of breeds and the heritability of behavioral traits.

13 Research-Driven Ways to Make a Cat Happier

Given the many dangers of the outdoors, cat advocates recommend keeping pet cats indoors. But how can we keep indoor cats happy? Scientists weigh in based on the current research.

Is There a Link Between Disease and Racism?

Why are we seeing increased racism and prejudice during the coronavirus pandemic? A new study explains the link between infectious diseases and racism.

11 Reasons People Adopt Health Behaviors During Pandemics

Why do some people follow protective behaviors during pandemics, while others defy them? Researchers examined data from the swine flu and SARS pandemics.

Does Envy Lead to Antisocial Behaviors?

Is it bad to feel envy? Researchers induced envy in participants and examined whether they helped or harmed a stranger.

Do Attractive Social Media Profiles Hinder Commitment?

Do attractive social media profiles pose a threat to committed relationships? A recent study suggests this could be the case.

Status Boosts Men’s Attraction to Beautiful Women

Can status be romantically appealing in women? Researchers conducted three studies to examine the impact of status and beauty on women’s attractiveness.

Daddy Issues and Dark Triad Predict Sexual Attention-Seeking

Can sexy selfies be traced back to daddy issues and Dark Triad traits?

5 Reasons Some Men Decide to Remain Childfree

Why do men choose to be childfree? Researchers interviewed 11 childfree men to understand their motivations and experiences.

The Hidden Power of a Family-Style Meal

Can a family-style meal lead to greater harmony?

What Your Wedding Spending Says About Your Marriage

How much did you splurge on your wedding? Find out what this says about your marriage.

No Need to Play Dumb: Smart Women Are Welcome on Tinder

Is smart sexy? A new Tinder study looks at the impact of education on swiping right.

5 Reasons Why Social Pain Is Real

Has anyone ever told you that you were being too sensitive? It turns out that your pain is real.

10 Surprising Ways to Spot a Narcissist on Social Media

Worried about falling in love with a narcissist? Research has identified some ways that you can spot one through social media.

4 Reasons Why Baby Talk Is Good for Couples

Annoying or loving? Find out what science says about couples who baby talk.

Not Everyone Loves a Narcissist

We may feel defenseless against the lure of a narcissist. We may feel like they always win. But is this the case?

Why Your Checklist Won't Help You Find Love

What happens when you use checklists, search filters, and preconceived notions to find your perfect partner?

4 Ways Our Brains Fool Us When It Comes to Love

Many of us have been told that our brains will lead us down the right path. But are our brains really so wise in matters of love? Or do they lead us astray?