Social Instincts

Covering the science and psychology of human behavior

Mark Travers Ph.D.

3 False Beliefs Found in Chronically Unhappy People

New research shows we can improve our happiness. Here's how.

How Many Years of Life Will a Bad Relationship Cost You?

Or, put differently, how many years will a good relationship earn you?

Two Personality Differences Found in Boys and Girls

New research explores personality differences in early adolescence.

Three Pillars of Permanent Happiness

New research in psychology sheds light on the factors that shape our happiness.

Would Moving to a New City or Country Make You Happier?

New research examines geographical effects on people's happiness.

14 Traits Found in Highly Religious People

Psychologists explore the trait of religiosity in relation to the Big Five.

4 Tips to Manage Your Mindset Through the Pandemic

Psychologists are working hard to understand COVID-19. Here's what they know so far, and how it can help you cope.

What Do Guys Think of Other Guys' Beards?

A new study suggests men have stronger opinions about beards than women do.

A Billion People May Be Biased Against this Zodiac Sign

Chinese people have strong opinions about certain zodiac signs, say researchers.

What Verbal "Tells" May Reveal About Someone's Personality

New research explores the relationship between personality and word use.

Female Extraverts Differ from Male Extraverts in Two Ways

New personality research explores the link between extraversion and gender.

Do You Have a "Future-Anxious" Personality Type?

Understanding your anxiety about the future is especially important during Covid-19.

5 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Setting a Goal

Understanding your motivations is key to setting the right goals.

4 Traits Found in Psychologically "Healthy" Individuals

Researchers identify the personality markers found in well-adjusted individuals.

The One Question to Ask Yourself When Facing a Moral Quandary

Psychologists offer a new perspective on moral reasoning.

Two Hidden Traits Found in High Achievers

Curiosity and industriousness are two traits found in highly successful people.

One Mindset Change That Can Make You More Successful

Cognitive biases hinder our success. Here's one way to not let that happen.

The One Trait That Conspiracy Theorists Have In Common

New research explores the profile of a conspiracy theorist.

For Women, Low Sexual Desire Comes in Two Forms

New research explores the types of women who experience low sexual desire.

4 Types of COVID-19 Vaccination Attitudes

New research explores nuances in people's COVID-19 vaccine attitudes.

Understanding the "Orgasm Gap"

New research explores differences in orgasm frequency between men and women.

11 Signs That You May Have High Covid-19 Anxiety

New research examines the factors linked to Covid-19 anxiety.

3 Ways to Stay Goal-Focused During the Pandemic

Psychology can teach us how to stay on track in turbulent times.

Who Has More COVID-19 Depression, the Rich or the Poor?

New research examines the connection between SES and well-being during COVID-19.

These Personality Traits Predict COVID-19 Compliance

New research explores which personalities are most likely to follow pandemic rules.

Who Falls Asleep Faster After Sex, Men or Women?

Evolutionary psychology offers a surprising answer.

5 Signs That You Are a Highly "Mindful" Individual

New research suggests that mindfulness is related to these five traits.

4 Ways to Mend a Wounded Relationship

In a troubled relationship? Relationship science can help.

52 Reasons Why People Engage in Breakup Sex

New research explores why people have sex with their exes.

The Top 12 Relationship Problems, According to the Experts

Research finds ‘fading enthusiasm’ to be the top concern in long-term romances.

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