Social Instincts

Covering the science and psychology of human behavior

Mark Travers Ph.D.

Only Children: Are They Really All That Different?

New research compares the personalities of adults with and without siblings.

Once a Narcissist, Always a Narcissist?

New research explores the evolution of narcissism over the lifespan.

Who Thrives in Confusing Situations?

New research explores the personality types that respond best to confusion.

Another Look at Male Personality and Ejaculate Quality

New research seeks to verify a controversial finding in personality research.

Why Some Narcissists Are Obsessed with IQ

A new study finds an interesting twist in the way narcissists view intelligence.

Where Does Rejection Sensitivity Come From?

A new study explores the possible developmental sources of rejection sensitivity.

The Lost Art of Thinking for Pleasure

People around the world prefer to be distracted than to think good thoughts.

Men and Women (Sort of) Speak Two Different Languages

A new study finds that men tend to use more abstract language than women.

Men View Their Exes More Favorably Than Women Do

A new study finds that men view past relationships with more fondness than women.

How to Solve a Hard Problem (In Your Sleep)

Our brains don't turn off when we fall asleep—but can they solve hard problems?

The Racial Wealth Gap Is Not Improving, But We Think It Is

New research explores misperceptions about racial economic equality in America.

Is It Possible to Change Your Personality?

New research says yes, but it depends on your follow-through.

How to Commit to an Exercise Routine

New research identifies personality traits that predict success in the gym.

How You Hold a Baby May Say Something About Your Personality

New research examines personality differences between left and right-cradlers.

Is It Safe to Take Benzodiazepines During Pregnancy?

New research examines the postnatal effects of benzodiazines and z-hypnotics.

Should You Take a Break From Facebook?

A new study explores the pros and cons of the "social media vacation" trend.

The Key to Female Attractiveness?

A new study suggests that nubility, not fertility, is the key to attractiveness.

There's No "I" in Love

New research explores adult romantic attachment styles and pronoun use.

Are You a Morning Person, Night Person, or Neither?

New research adds two new "chronotypes" to the familiar morning/night dichotomy.

How Do We Choose Our Online Friends?

A new study compares friendship formation online versus in person.

Do Fatty Foods Deplete Serotonin Levels?

A new study examines the molecular connection between diet and depression.

Would You Like to Live Forever?

New research explores attitudes towards life-extending technologies.

Can Psychedelic Experiences Cure Alcohol Addiction?

A new study hints at a novel and promising treatment for alcohol use disorder.

Can a Law Change an Attitude?

A new study finds that same-sex marriage legalization reduces anti-gay bias.

The Truth About Gossip

Researchers tracked thousands of conversations to uncover gossip's hidden insights.

Feelings of Despair May Fade With Age

New research examines women's personality trajectories from mid- to later-life.

Can Marijuana Improve the Quality of Your Relationship?

A new study finds heightened intimacy among couples who use marijuana together.

How Women's Voices Change Across the Menstrual Cycle

A new study examines the vocal characteristics of "high fertility" women.

The Magic of Mushrooms

There is mounting evidence that psilocybin can effectively treat depression.

At What Age Is Our Sense of Optimism at Its Highest?

New research charts the trajectory of optimism over the lifespan.

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