Information Density: Psychology Today – Signal Evidence & AI Readability

[H1] Psychology Today: Health, Help, Happiness + Find a Therapist

[H2]
Today’s Essentials
Today’s Essential Reads

[H6]
Animal Behavior

[H2]
Are You Stressed, Lonely, or Disconnected?
Mary McNaughton-Cassill Ph.D. on May 16, 2026 in Mental Health Matters

Humans may believe we are at the top of the natural pecking order. But where would we be without the animals in our lives?

Humans may believe we are at the top of the natural pecking order. But where would we be without the animals in our lives?

[H6]
Neuroscience

[H2]
Why Smart Folks Are Terrible Listeners
Christopher Willard Psy.D. on May 15, 2026 in Enlightened Livelihoods

The mind wanders. It always will. The practice isn't to stop it, it's to notice when it's happened and come back.

The mind wanders. It always will. The practice isn't to stop it, it's to notice when it's happened and come back.

[H6]
Child Development

[H2]
How Children Organize Themselves to Solve Problems
Isabelle Brocas Ph.D. on May 15, 2026 in Biology, Development, and Behavior

Young children can reach agreement without talking or seeing the whole group. Their secret may be the mix of leaders, debaters, and closers.

Young children can reach agreement without talking or seeing the whole group. Their secret may be the mix of leaders, debaters, and closers.

[H6]
Relationships

[H2]
Why She Wants the Relationship—And Then Wants Out
Tonya Lester LCSW on May 15, 2026 in Staying Sane Inside Insanity

She wanted the commitment more than he did. So why is she the one who wants to leave? The answer will change how you think about your relationship.

She wanted the commitment more than he did. So why is she the one who wants to leave? The answer will change how you think about your relationship.

Machines Have Begun to Think for Us
5 hours

The Body Doesn't Keep the Score?
19 hours

Do You Have Bixonimania?
1 day

Emotional Intelligence and Creativity: New Research and Practices
2 days

[H2] The Latest

[H6]
Imposter Syndrome

[H2]
The Hidden Cost of Imposter Syndrome and How to Break Free
Adi Jaffe Ph.D. on May 16, 2026 in All About Addiction

Feeling like a fraud is common, but the way most high performers cope with it keeps them trapped—sometimes for an entire career.

Feeling like a fraud is common, but the way most high performers cope with it keeps them trapped—sometimes for an entire career.

[H6]
Personal Perspectives

[H2]
Crafting a Relationship With Loss
Paul J Dunion Ed.D. on May 16, 2026 in The Secular Mystic Path

Personal Perspective: We typically deny or resist loss. We don't want loss in our lives, but an adversarial relationship with it makes matters worse.

Personal Perspective: We typically deny or resist loss. We don't want loss in our lives, but an adversarial relationship with it makes matters worse.

[H6]
Anxiety

[H2]
Mental Health Campaigns Can Do More Harm Than Good
Ian MacRae on May 16, 2026 in Silicon Psyche

Are mental health campaigns making you anxious? Constant reminders to monitor your well-being may be causing more harm than you realize.

Are mental health campaigns making you anxious? Constant reminders to monitor your well-being may be causing more harm than you realize.

[H6]
Mating

[H2]
How ‘Puffer-Fishing’ Is a Big Dating Risk
Bruce Y. Lee M.D., M.B.A. on May 16, 2026 in A Funny Bone to Pick

In dating, a "puffer fish" goes from being playful to suddenly guarded, distant, or even combative.

In dating, a "puffer fish" goes from being playful to suddenly guarded, distant, or even combative.

[IMG: Design of a gas centrifuge for enriching uranium. Powdered uranium ore (‘yellowcake’) is first converted to gaseous form by combining it with the halogen fluorine. It is then fed into the centrifuge (top left), in which the U-235 is separated from the heavier U-238, and extracted (top right).]

[H6]
Psychopharmacology

[H2]
World War II and the Genesis of Psychopharmacology
Wallace B. Mendelson M.D. on May 16, 2026 in Psychiatry, a History

Wartime nuclear weapon research led to advances in chemistry, which then made the development of new psychoactive medications possible.

Wartime nuclear weapon research led to advances in chemistry, which then made the development of new psychoactive medications possible.

[H6]
Therapy

[H2]
Why Clients Disregard Evidence-Based Self-Care Skills
Elisa T. Bronfman, Ph.D., and Johanna D. Sagarin, Ph.D. on May 16, 2026 in Aligning for Growth

Though self-care techniques are recommended to clients in psychotherapy, they are often rejected or ignored. But we can increase the use of these recommendations.

Though self-care techniques are recommended to clients in psychotherapy, they are often rejected or ignored. But we can increase the use of these recommendations.

[H6]
Guilt

[H2]
Why High-IQ People Feel Guilty All the Time
Imi Lo MA on May 16, 2026 in Living with Emotional Intensity

Many gifted and intense adults carry guilt that others do not seem to share. The reasons may run deeper than what we consciously see and know.

Many gifted and intense adults carry guilt that others do not seem to share. The reasons may run deeper than what we consciously see and know.

[H6]
Artificial Intelligence

[H2]
Do Psychologists Hate AI?
Tamim Mobayed MA on May 16, 2026 in Emotional Behavior, Behavioral Emotions

Reflecting on whether psychology is problematizing AI, or if concerns are well-founded.

Reflecting on whether psychology is problematizing AI, or if concerns are well-founded.

[H6]
Artificial Intelligence

[H2]
The Existential Ergonomics of Artificial Intelligence
John Nosta on May 16, 2026 in The Digital Self

The enemy of deep thought isn't distraction. It's relief.

The enemy of deep thought isn't distraction. It's relief.

[H6]
Creativity

[H2]
The Fear Creativity Awakens at Midnight
Bernadette Stockwell Ph.D. on May 16, 2026 in The Naked Creative

Creative excitement and anxiety for art-making often manifest together. Acknowledging the body's 'felt sense' may help artists, creatives, and makers conquer fear and manifest art.

Creative excitement and anxiety for art-making often manifest together. Acknowledging the body's 'felt sense' may help artists, creatives, and makers conquer fear and manifest art.

[H6]
Resilience

[H2]
Can Your Partner Handle the Truth?
Susan Krauss Whitbourne PhD, ABPP on May 16, 2026 in Fulfillment at Any Age

Sometimes, people feel they have to shield their partners from a tough truth. Recent research suggests this strategy can backfire.

Sometimes, people feel they have to shield their partners from a tough truth. Recent research suggests this strategy can backfire.

[H6]
Relationships

[H2]
Do Your Close Relationships Help You Reach Your Dreams?
Daniel S. Lobel Ph.D. on May 16, 2026 in My Side of the Couch

Are you sacrificing personal growth to be in relationships with growth-averse individuals? You can neutralize the inhibitive effects and grow to your potential.

Are you sacrificing personal growth to be in relationships with growth-averse individuals? You can neutralize the inhibitive effects and grow to your potential.

[H6]
Personal Perspectives

[H2]
Jung, the Red Book, and a Reckoning in the Middle of War
Hamid Zand Ph.D. on May 16, 2026 in The Behavioral Microbiome

Personal Perspective: Sometimes we face death regretting a life not lived.

Personal Perspective: Sometimes we face death regretting a life not lived.

[H6]
Neuroscience

[H2]
From Horror to Healing: The Neuroscience of Liminal Spaces
Meredith Banasiak on May 15, 2026 in Design With the Brain in Mind

Afraid of what comes next? Liminal spaces like the eerie "Backrooms" reveal how the brain handles uncertainty and navigates transition.

Afraid of what comes next? Liminal spaces like the eerie "Backrooms" reveal how the brain handles uncertainty and navigates transition.

[H6]
Health

[H2]
What's Behind the Rise in "Ozempic Divorce"?
Thomas Rutledge Ph.D. on May 15, 2026 in The Healthy Journey

Nobody warns you that weight loss might cost you your marriage. But the research has known for years. Here's why relationships change after weight loss, and what to do about it.

Nobody warns you that weight loss might cost you your marriage. But the research has known for years. Here's why relationships change after weight loss, and what to do about it.

[IMG: Greg Rakozy_Unsplash]

Feature
[H3] A Focus Beyond Self

Is Your Idea of Well-Being Too Small?

[H6]
Near-Death Experiences

[H2]
At the Edges of Explanation
Alexander Batthyány Ph.D. on May 15, 2026 in Consciousness and Meaning at Life’s End

Some experiences near the edge of life resist easy explanation and expose the limits of our current psychological categories.

Some experiences near the edge of life resist easy explanation and expose the limits of our current psychological categories.

[H6]
Parenting

[H2]
Does Raising Kids Keep You Young?
Jon Patrick Hatcher M.A. on May 15, 2026 in State of Anxiety

New research suggests that both having many children and having none at all can have a surprising impact on lifespans at the cellular level.

New research suggests that both having many children and having none at all can have a surprising impact on lifespans at the cellular level.

[H6]
Marriage

[H2]
Betty Broderick and the Cinderella Complex
Enterprise ADHD Institute on May 15, 2026 in Is This How Normal People Feel?

Betty Broderick gave up everything to build her husband's success. He replaced her anyway. In 2026, women are still making the same mistake.

Betty Broderick gave up everything to build her husband's success. He replaced her anyway. In 2026, women are still making the same mistake.

[H6]
Mental Health Stigma

[H2]
You Don't Have to Climb Mental Health Mountains Alone
Julie Radico Psy.D. ABPP on May 15, 2026 in You Are Enough

Mental health is part of your overall health. Doing routine maintenance and utilizing professional support can help you be prepared when facing challenges.

Mental health is part of your overall health. Doing routine maintenance and utilizing professional support can help you be prepared when facing challenges.

[H6]
Relationships

[H2]
A Writer Finds Her Lost Roots and Gains Love and Hope
Susan K Perry Ph.D. on May 15, 2026 in Creating in Flow

A new and surprising book, "The Wanderers" by reporter Daniela Gerson, details the lost history of her and her wife’s grandparents, who fled Europe in World War II.

A new and surprising book, "The Wanderers" by reporter Daniela Gerson, details the lost history of her and her wife’s grandparents, who fled Europe in World War II.

[H6]
Menopause

[H2]
If Menopausal Women Learn More About Menopause, Sex Improves
Michael Castleman M.A. on May 15, 2026 in All About Sex

Menopause makes most women anxious. A recent study shows that when women learn more about it, they stress less, and suffer fewer and less severe menopausal discomforts.

Menopause makes most women anxious. A recent study shows that when women learn more about it, they stress less, and suffer fewer and less severe menopausal discomforts.

[H6]
Emotions

[H2]
"You Made Me Feel That Way”: The Phrase Obscuring Your Power
Jason N. Linder, PsyD on May 15, 2026 in Relationship and Trauma Insights

"You made me feel" sounds vulnerable but it isn't. It quietly hands your emotional life to someone else, and leaves you waiting for them to change before you can feel differently.

"You made me feel" sounds vulnerable but it isn't. It quietly hands your emotional life to someone else, and leaves you waiting for them to change before you can feel differently.

[H6]
Trauma

[H2]
My Phone Told Me My Brother Was Dead
Ali Shehab on May 15, 2026 in The Human Algorithm

Personal Perspective: A man and his daughter are killed in a military strike. Neither was the target. What does this do to our sense of safety, trust, and grief?

Personal Perspective: A man and his daughter are killed in a military strike. Neither was the target. What does this do to our sense of safety, trust, and grief?

[H6]
Gratitude

[H2]
The One Generalization Couples Should Make More Often
Daniel Menely on May 15, 2026 in Relationship Mechanics

Couples generalize all the time in conflict. One moment becomes proof of who a partner is. But the right generalization can keep the worst interpretation from taking over.

Couples generalize all the time in conflict. One moment becomes proof of who a partner is. But the right generalization can keep the worst interpretation from taking over.

[H6]
Identity

[H2]
The Identity Crisis Behind Mergers in Higher Education
Jessica Troilo Ph.D. on May 15, 2026 in It's All About the Dads

Higher education mergers are often framed as organizational, but for faculty and staff, mergers can feel personal. How mergers disrupt professional identity.

Higher education mergers are often framed as organizational, but for faculty and staff, mergers can feel personal. How mergers disrupt professional identity.

[H6]
Gratitude

[H2]
Living Well in a Troubled World
Wendy Lustbader M.S.W. on May 15, 2026 in Life Gets Better

Personal Perspective: Focusing on the small world of my own life is a necessary solace as the larger world becomes increasingly bleak.

Personal Perspective: Focusing on the small world of my own life is a necessary solace as the larger world becomes increasingly bleak.

[H6]
Artificial Intelligence

[H2]
Iterative Intelligence or Cognitive Surrender
John Nosta on May 15, 2026 in The Digital Self

Access to AI is easy. Keeping your mind engaged while using it is the hard and critical part.

Access to AI is easy. Keeping your mind engaged while using it is the hard and critical part.

[H6]
OCD

[H2]
Existential OCD — Or Is It?
Denise Winn on May 15, 2026 in Helping Humanity Thrive

When existential OCD doesn't exist.

When existential OCD doesn't exist.

[H6]
Artificial Intelligence

[H2]
Can Emotional Intelligence Prevail Over AI?
Christine O'Connell Ph.D. on May 15, 2026 in Generation Kind

As AI reshapes work and leadership, the next generation is proving that empathy, kindness, and human connection matter more than ever.

As AI reshapes work and leadership, the next genera

[IMG: May 2026 magazine cover]

Issue Archive

March 2026
Mar 2026

[IMG: Angelo Formato / Used with permission.]

The Best Ways to Begin Again

By Psychology Today Contributors

The best way to begin something new—in love, work, and life.

[IMG: Zhengtao Er / Used with permission.]

Think Your Way to (Eternal) Youth

By Psychology Today Contributors

It’s possible to reduce your brain age by shifting the way you think. Science now documents that you can reset your brain clock by some surprisingly low-tech means.

[IMG: Tom Gauld / Used with permission.]

Is It Ever Too Late for Couples Therapy?

By Psychology Today Contributors

Some differences can (and should) end a relationship. But when couples aren’t sure of their next move, a skilled therapist can help them find a path to staying together—or to moving apart with respect.

More From This Issue

[IMG: Redbutton AI]

Melding Our Inner And Outer Worlds

By Abigail Fagan

Psychological principles inform the best design choices, according to Leidy Klotz.

[IMG: Zhengtao Er / Used with permission.]

The Lesson I Learned Too Late

By Steven C. Hayes Ph.D.

What a childhood loss taught me about what really matters in life.

[H1] Psychology Today: Health, Help, Happiness + Find a Therapist

[H2]
Today’s Essentials
Today’s Essential Reads

[H6]
Animal Behavior

[H2]
Are You Stressed, Lonely, or Disconnected?
Mary McNaughton-Cassill Ph.D. on May 16, 2026 in Mental Health Matters

Humans may believe we are at the top of the natural pecking order. But where would we be without the animals in our lives?

Humans may believe we are at the top of the natural pecking order. But where would we be without the animals in our lives?

[H6]
Neuroscience

[H2]
Why Smart Folks Are Terrible Listeners
Christopher Willard Psy.D. on May 15, 2026 in Enlightened Livelihoods

The mind wanders. It always will. The practice isn't to stop it, it's to notice when it's happened and come back.

The mind wanders. It always will. The practice isn't to stop it, it's to notice when it's happened and come back.

[H6]
Child Development

[H2]
How Children Organize Themselves to Solve Problems
Isabelle Brocas Ph.D. on May 15, 2026 in Biology, Development, and Behavior

Young children can reach agreement without talking or seeing the whole group. Their secret may be the mix of leaders, debaters, and closers.

Young children can reach agreement without talking or seeing the whole group. Their secret may be the mix of leaders, debaters, and closers.

[H6]
Relationships

[H2]
Why She Wants the Relationship—And Then Wants Out
Tonya Lester LCSW on May 15, 2026 in Staying Sane Inside Insanity

She wanted the commitment more than he did. So why is she the one who wants to leave? The answer will change how you think about your relationship.

She wanted the commitment more than he did. So why is she the one who wants to leave? The answer will change how you think about your relationship.

Machines Have Begun to Think for Us
4 hours

The Body Doesn't Keep the Score?
18 hours

Do You Have Bixonimania?
1 day

Emotional Intelligence and Creativity: New Research and Practices
2 days

[H2] The Latest

[H6]
Imposter Syndrome

[H2]
The Hidden Cost of Imposter Syndrome and How to Break Free
Adi Jaffe Ph.D. on May 16, 2026 in All About Addiction

Feeling like a fraud is common, but the way most high performers cope with it keeps them trapped—sometimes for an entire career.

Feeling like a fraud is common, but the way most high performers cope with it keeps them trapped—sometimes for an entire career.

[H6]
Personal Perspectives

[H2]
Crafting a Relationship With Loss
Paul J Dunion Ed.D. on May 16, 2026 in The Secular Mystic Path

Personal Perspective: We typically deny or resist loss. We don't want loss in our lives, but an adversarial relationship with it makes matters worse.

Personal Perspective: We typically deny or resist loss. We don't want loss in our lives, but an adversarial relationship with it makes matters worse.

[H6]
Anxiety

[H2]
Mental Health Campaigns Can Do More Harm Than Good
Ian MacRae on May 16, 2026 in Silicon Psyche

Are mental health campaigns making you anxious? Constant reminders to monitor your well-being may be causing more harm than you realize.

Are mental health campaigns making you anxious? Constant reminders to monitor your well-being may be causing more harm than you realize.

[H6]
Mating

[H2]
How ‘Puffer-Fishing’ Is a Big Dating Risk
Bruce Y. Lee M.D., M.B.A. on May 16, 2026 in A Funny Bone to Pick

In dating, a "puffer fish" goes from being playful to suddenly guarded, distant, or even combative.

In dating, a "puffer fish" goes from being playful to suddenly guarded, distant, or even combative.

[IMG: Design of a gas centrifuge for enriching uranium. Powdered uranium ore (‘yellowcake’) is first converted to gaseous form by combining it with the halogen fluorine. It is then fed into the centrifuge (top left), in which the U-235 is separated from the heavier U-238, and extracted (top right).]

[H6]
Psychopharmacology

[H2]
World War II and the Genesis of Psychopharmacology
Wallace B. Mendelson M.D. on May 16, 2026 in Psychiatry, a History

Wartime nuclear weapon research led to advances in chemistry, which then made the development of new psychoactive medications possible.

Wartime nuclear weapon research led to advances in chemistry, which then made the development of new psychoactive medications possible.

[H6]
Therapy

[H2]
Why Clients Disregard Evidence-Based Self-Care Skills
Elisa T. Bronfman, Ph.D., and Johanna D. Sagarin, Ph.D. on May 16, 2026 in Aligning for Growth

Though self-care techniques are recommended to clients in psychotherapy, they are often rejected or ignored. But we can increase the use of these recommendations.

Though self-care techniques are recommended to clients in psychotherapy, they are often rejected or ignored. But we can increase the use of these recommendations.

[H6]
Guilt

[H2]
Why High-IQ People Feel Guilty All the Time
Imi Lo MA on May 16, 2026 in Living with Emotional Intensity

Many gifted and intense adults carry guilt that others do not seem to share. The reasons may run deeper than what we consciously see and know.

Many gifted and intense adults carry guilt that others do not seem to share. The reasons may run deeper than what we consciously see and know.

[H6]
Artificial Intelligence

[H2]
Do Psychologists Hate AI?
Tamim Mobayed MA on May 16, 2026 in Emotional Behavior, Behavioral Emotions

Reflecting on whether psychology is problematizing AI, or if concerns are well-founded.

Reflecting on whether psychology is problematizing AI, or if concerns are well-founded.

[H6]
Artificial Intelligence

[H2]
The Existential Ergonomics of Artificial Intelligence
John Nosta on May 16, 2026 in The Digital Self

The enemy of deep thought isn't distraction. It's relief.

The enemy of deep thought isn't distraction. It's relief.

[H6]
Creativity

[H2]
The Fear Creativity Awakens at Midnight
Bernadette Stockwell Ph.D. on May 16, 2026 in The Naked Creative

Creative excitement and anxiety for art-making often manifest together. Acknowledging the body's 'felt sense' may help artists, creatives, and makers conquer fear and manifest art.

Creative excitement and anxiety for art-making often manifest together. Acknowledging the body's 'felt sense' may help artists, creatives, and makers conquer fear and manifest art.

[H6]
Resilience

[H2]
Can Your Partner Handle the Truth?
Susan Krauss Whitbourne PhD, ABPP on May 16, 2026 in Fulfillment at Any Age

Sometimes, people feel they have to shield their partners from a tough truth. Recent research suggests this strategy can backfire.

Sometimes, people feel they have to shield their partners from a tough truth. Recent research suggests this strategy can backfire.

[H6]
Relationships

[H2]
Do Your Close Relationships Help You Reach Your Dreams?
Daniel S. Lobel Ph.D. on May 16, 2026 in My Side of the Couch

Are you sacrificing personal growth to be in relationships with growth-averse individuals? You can neutralize the inhibitive effects and grow to your potential.

Are you sacrificing personal growth to be in relationships with growth-averse individuals? You can neutralize the inhibitive effects and grow to your potential.

[H6]
Personal Perspectives

[H2]
Jung, the Red Book, and a Reckoning in the Middle of War
Hamid Zand Ph.D. on May 16, 2026 in The Behavioral Microbiome

Personal Perspective: Sometimes we face death regretting a life not lived.

Personal Perspective: Sometimes we face death regretting a life not lived.

[H6]
Neuroscience

[H2]
From Horror to Healing: The Neuroscience of Liminal Spaces
Meredith Banasiak on May 15, 2026 in Design With the Brain in Mind

Afraid of what comes next? Liminal spaces like the eerie "Backrooms" reveal how the brain handles uncertainty and navigates transition.

Afraid of what comes next? Liminal spaces like the eerie "Backrooms" reveal how the brain handles uncertainty and navigates transition.

[H6]
Health

[H2]
What's Behind the Rise in "Ozempic Divorce"?
Thomas Rutledge Ph.D. on May 15, 2026 in The Healthy Journey

Nobody warns you that weight loss might cost you your marriage. But the research has known for years. Here's why relationships change after weight loss, and what to do about it.

Nobody warns you that weight loss might cost you your marriage. But the research has known for years. Here's why relationships change after weight loss, and what to do about it.

[IMG: Greg Rakozy_Unsplash]

Feature
[H3] A Focus Beyond Self

Is Your Idea of Well-Being Too Small?

[H6]
Near-Death Experiences

[H2]
At the Edges of Explanation
Alexander Batthyány Ph.D. on May 15, 2026 in Consciousness and Meaning at Life’s End

Some experiences near the edge of life resist easy explanation and expose the limits of our current psychological categories.

Some experiences near the edge of life resist easy explanation and expose the limits of our current psychological categories.

[H6]
Parenting

[H2]
Does Raising Kids Keep You Young?
Jon Patrick Hatcher M.A. on May 15, 2026 in State of Anxiety

New research suggests that both having many children and having none at all can have a surprising impact on lifespans at the cellular level.

New research suggests that both having many children and having none at all can have a surprising impact on lifespans at the cellular level.

[H6]
Marriage

[H2]
Betty Broderick and the Cinderella Complex
Enterprise ADHD Institute on May 15, 2026 in Is This How Normal People Feel?

Betty Broderick gave up everything to build her husband's success. He replaced her anyway. In 2026, women are still making the same mistake.

Betty Broderick gave up everything to build her husband's success. He replaced her anyway. In 2026, women are still making the same mistake.

[H6]
Mental Health Stigma

[H2]
You Don't Have to Climb Mental Health Mountains Alone
Julie Radico Psy.D. ABPP on May 15, 2026 in You Are Enough

Mental health is part of your overall health. Doing routine maintenance and utilizing professional support can help you be prepared when facing challenges.

Mental health is part of your overall health. Doing routine maintenance and utilizing professional support can help you be prepared when facing challenges.

[H6]
Relationships

[H2]
A Writer Finds Her Lost Roots and Gains Love and Hope
Susan K Perry Ph.D. on May 15, 2026 in Creating in Flow

A new and surprising book, "The Wanderers" by reporter Daniela Gerson, details the lost history of her and her wife’s grandparents, who fled Europe in World War II.

A new and surprising book, "The Wanderers" by reporter Daniela Gerson, details the lost history of her and her wife’s grandparents, who fled Europe in World War II.

[H6]
Menopause

[H2]
If Menopausal Women Learn More About Menopause, Sex Improves
Michael Castleman M.A. on May 15, 2026 in All About Sex

Menopause makes most women anxious. A recent study shows that when women learn more about it, they stress less, and suffer fewer and less severe menopausal discomforts.

Menopause makes most women anxious. A recent study shows that when women learn more about it, they stress less, and suffer fewer and less severe menopausal discomforts.

[H6]
Emotions

[H2]
"You Made Me Feel That Way”: The Phrase Obscuring Your Power
Jason N. Linder, PsyD on May 15, 2026 in Relationship and Trauma Insights

"You made me feel" sounds vulnerable but it isn't. It quietly hands your emotional life to someone else, and leaves you waiting for them to change before you can feel differently.

"You made me feel" sounds vulnerable but it isn't. It quietly hands your emotional life to someone else, and leaves you waiting for them to change before you can feel differently.

[H6]
Trauma

[H2]
My Phone Told Me My Brother Was Dead
Ali Shehab on May 15, 2026 in The Human Algorithm

Personal Perspective: A man and his daughter are killed in a military strike. Neither was the target. What does this do to our sense of safety, trust, and grief?

Personal Perspective: A man and his daughter are killed in a military strike. Neither was the target. What does this do to our sense of safety, trust, and grief?

[H6]
Gratitude

[H2]
The One Generalization Couples Should Make More Often
Daniel Menely on May 15, 2026 in Relationship Mechanics

Couples generalize all the time in conflict. One moment becomes proof of who a partner is. But the right generalization can keep the worst interpretation from taking over.

Couples generalize all the time in conflict. One moment becomes proof of who a partner is. But the right generalization can keep the worst interpretation from taking over.

[H6]
Identity

[H2]
The Identity Crisis Behind Mergers in Higher Education
Jessica Troilo Ph.D. on May 15, 2026 in It's All About the Dads

Higher education mergers are often framed as organizational, but for faculty and staff, mergers can feel personal. How mergers disrupt professional identity.

Higher education mergers are often framed as organizational, but for faculty and staff, mergers can feel personal. How mergers disrupt professional identity.

[H6]
Gratitude

[H2]
Living Well in a Troubled World
Wendy Lustbader M.S.W. on May 15, 2026 in Life Gets Better

Personal Perspective: Focusing on the small world of my own life is a necessary solace as the larger world becomes increasingly bleak.

Personal Perspective: Focusing on the small world of my own life is a necessary solace as the larger world becomes increasingly bleak.

[H6]
Artificial Intelligence

[H2]
Iterative Intelligence or Cognitive Surrender
John Nosta on May 15, 2026 in The Digital Self

Access to AI is easy. Keeping your mind engaged while using it is the hard and critical part.

Access to AI is easy. Keeping your mind engaged while using it is the hard and critical part.

[H6]
OCD

[H2]
Existential OCD — Or Is It?
Denise Winn on May 15, 2026 in Helping Humanity Thrive

When existential OCD doesn't exist.

When existential OCD doesn't exist.

[H6]
Artificial Intelligence

[H2]
Can Emotional Intelligence Prevail Over AI?
Christine O'Connell Ph.D. on May 15, 2026 in Generation Kind

As AI reshapes work and leadership, the next generation is proving that empathy, kindness, and human connection matter more than ever.

As AI reshapes work and leadership, the next genera

[H1] News

[H6]
Artificial Intelligence

Machines Have Begun to Think for Us

Cornelia C. Walther Ph.D. on May 16, 2026 in Harnessing Hybrid Intelligence

A new study finds that AI interactions start to alter human performance and motivation in just 10 minutes.

A new study finds that AI interactions start to alter human performance and motivation in just 10 minutes.

[H6]
Trauma

The Body Doesn't Keep the Score?

MaryCatherine McDonald Ph.D. on May 15, 2026 in The Hope Circuit

A provocative new paper challenges the idea that “the body keeps the score.” But does it actually refute it?

A provocative new paper challenges the idea that “the body keeps the score.” But does it actually refute it?

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Artificial Intelligence

Do You Have Bixonimania?

Susan A. Nolan, Ph.D., and Michael Kimball on May 15, 2026 in Misinformation Desk

Be wary of AI medical advice. AI chatbots can misinterpret good research and can be scammed into believing fake studies.

Be wary of AI medical advice. AI chatbots can misinterpret good research and can be scammed into believing fake studies.

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Emotional Intelligence

Emotional Intelligence and Creativity: New Research and Practices

Anthony D. Fredericks Ed.D. on May 14, 2026 in Creative Insights

Emotional intelligence can be an enhancer of innovative thinking. This post showcases compelling research as well as several EI/creativity practices.

Emotional intelligence can be an enhancer of innovative thinking. This post showcases compelling research as well as several EI/creativity practices.

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Appetite

How GLP-1 Drugs Reshape Desire, Not Only Appetite

William A. Haseltine Ph.D. on May 13, 2026 in Best Practices in Health

GLP‑1 drugs appear to change how much we want to eat, and how strongly food “pulls” on the brain. Newer oral versions may soften desire without relying on nausea to curb intake.

GLP‑1 drugs appear to change how much we want to eat, and how strongly food “pulls” on the brain. Newer oral versions may soften desire without relying on nausea to curb intake.

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Gut-Brain Axis

Can Gut Microbes Repair Damage from Microplastics?

Scott C. Anderson on May 13, 2026 in Mood by Microbe

Plastics are everywhere, and evidence is accumulating that they can affect our mood and cognition. The solution may lie in the gut, not the brain, according to new research.

Plastics are everywhere, and evidence is accumulating that they can affect our mood and cognition. The solution may lie in the gut, not the brain, according to new research.

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Psychedelics

Psilocybin for Cocaine Use Disorder

Mark S. Gold M.D. on May 13, 2026 in Addiction Outlook

At long last, there may be a treatment for cocaine addiction—psilocybin. Apparently, psilocybin briefly disrupts and allows the brain to reset so therapy can penetrate and stick.

At long last, there may be a treatment for cocaine addiction—psilocybin. Apparently, psilocybin briefly disrupts and allows the brain to reset so therapy can penetrate and stick.

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Personality

Getting Older Can Mean Your Personality Is Getting Better

Susan Krauss Whitbourne PhD, ABPP on May 12, 2026 in Fulfillment at Any Age

Don't despair if you wish your personality would change. New research shows that there's plenty to look forward to in terms of growth as you get older.

Don't despair if you wish your personality would change. New research shows that there's plenty to look forward to in terms of growth as you get older.

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Boredom

What Makes for a Boring Person?

James Danckert, Ph.D. on May 11, 2026 in Modern Boredom

Behaving as though you lack control over your own life will often lead others to see you as boring.

Behaving as though you lack control over your own life will often lead others to see you as boring.

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SSRIs

4 Things You Need to Know About the New SSRI Guidelines

Justin Garson Ph.D. on May 11, 2026 in The Biology of Human Nature

A major shift in depression care could affect millions of patients.

A major shift in depression care could affect millions of patients.

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Social Media

People Prefer the Truth on Social Media

Art Markman Ph.D. on May 11, 2026 in Ulterior Motives

According to a new study, people may not be as persuaded by false statements as you might think.

According to a new study, people may not be as persuaded by false statements as you might think.

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Autism

New Findings on Conflicts of Interest in Autism Research

Ludmila N. Praslova, Ph.D. on May 10, 2026 in Positively Different

A five-year update on conflicts of interest in ABA autism research finds that most studies are still authored by financially entangled researchers who don't disclose conflicts.

A five-year update on conflicts of interest in ABA autism research finds that most studies are still authored by financially entangled researchers who don't disclose conflicts.

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Parenting

Are New Parents Still Strongly Attracted to Each Other?

Wendy L. Patrick, J.D., M.Div., Ph.D. on May 10, 2026 in Why Bad Looks Good

"I am almost nine months pregnant. Am I still attractive to my spouse?" Research has some good news.

"I am almost nine months pregnant. Am I still attractive to my spouse?" Research has some good news.

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Social Media

4 Ways "Fitspiration" Can Backfire

Christopher Bergland on May 9, 2026 in The Athlete's Way

A 2026 meta-analysis found that "fitspiration" (or #fitspo) content often triggers psychological mechanisms that fuel negative emotions and unhealthy behaviors.

A 2026 meta-analysis found that "fitspiration" (or #fitspo) content often triggers psychological mechanisms that fuel negative emotions and unhealthy behaviors.

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Autism

When the Body Does Not Sound the Heat Alarm

Hari Srinivasan on May 9, 2026 in Giving Voice

As heatwaves intensify, neuroscience may help explain overlooked dimensions of heat vulnerability in autism and sensory-related disability.

As heatwaves intensify, neuroscience may help explain overlooked dimensions of heat vulnerability in autism and sensory-related disability.

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Sex

Sexual Choking May Cause Brain Damage

David J. Ley Ph.D. on May 8, 2026 in Women Who Stray

Sexual choking, increasingly popular, may cause brain injury.

Sexual choking, increasingly popular, may cause brain injury.

[IMG: New research suggests that the guessing-with-feedback exercises found in language learning apps and programs are effective.]

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Education

Why Getting It Wrong First Helps You Learn a New Language

Steven C. Pan, Ph.D. on May 8, 2026 in The Future of Learning

Think guessing is a waste of time? Research says getting it wrong first helps you learn faster. Here’s how.

Think guessing is a waste of time? Research says getting it wrong first helps you learn faster. Here’s how.

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Creativity

What LLMs Are Quietly Doing to Creativity

Rebecca Rolland Ed.D. on May 8, 2026 in The Art of Talking with Children

Two new studies reveal how AI is standardizing creative thinking. Here's what parents, clinicians, and educators need to know, and what we can do about it.

Two new studies reveal how AI is standardizing creative thinking. Here's what parents, clinicians, and educators need to know, and what we can do about it.

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Mating

They’re Just Not That Into You

Gurit E. Birnbaum, Ph.D. on May 7, 2026 in Intimately Connected

Why do people cling to hope when signals of romantic interest are mixed? Our new research suggests that sexual arousal may make signs of disinterest harder to recognize.

Why do people cling to hope when signals of romantic interest are mixed? Our new research suggests that sexual arousal may make signs of disinterest harder to recognize.

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Dementia

Can Walking Reduce the Risk of Alzheimer's Disease?

Scott M. Hayes, Ph.D. on May 6, 2026 in Optimizing Cognitive Performance and Brain Health

Walking can have beneficial effects on cognitive performance, but these effects are influenced by sex and genetic status.

Walking can have beneficial effects on cognitive performance, but these effects are influenced by sex and genetic status.

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Memory

How the Brain Weaves Place and Emotion into Memory

William A. Haseltine Ph.D. on May 6, 2026 in Best Practices in Health

A new study shows how the hippocampus binds place and emotion, replaying threat more vividly during sleep to shape memory, imagination, and future behavior.

A new study shows how the hippocampus binds place and emotion, replaying threat more vividly during sleep to shape memory, imagination, and future behavior.

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Education

Finding the Meaning of a Word Can Be Its Own Reward

Saloni Krishnan Ph.D. on May 5, 2026 in When Words Fail Us

We don’t just learn words, we enjoy learning them. And that enjoyment may be key to remembering what we’ve learned.

We don’t just learn words, we enjoy learning them. And that enjoyment may be key to remembering what we’ve learned.

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Religion

A Reversal of the Religious Gender Gap

Robert N. McCauley Ph.D. on May 4, 2026 in Why Religion Is Natural and Science Is Not

Across a range of cultures and faiths, women tend to be more religious than men. Surprising new data suggests that may be changing in the U.S., at least for young adults. What explains the shift?

Across a range of cultures and faiths, women tend to be more religious than men. Surprising new data suggests that may be changing in the U.S., at least for young adults. What explains the shift?

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Media

Identifiable Monsters: The Appeal of Darth Maul

Troy Rondinone Ph.D. on May 4, 2026 in The Asylum

How the new Disney+ series "Star Wars: Maul—Shadow Lord" highlights our human need to easily identify threatening people.

How the new Disney+ series "Star Wars: Maul—Shadow Lord" highlights our human need to easily identify threatening people.

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Artificial Intelligence

The Collateral Challenge of AI Sycophancy

Cornelia C. Walther Ph.D. on May 4, 2026 in Harnessing Hybrid Intelligence

The future of AI guidance will depend on whether models learn to resist our worst requests and whether we learn to value that resistance. Double literacy makes this possible.

The future of AI guidance will depend on whether models learn to resist our worst requests and whether we learn to value that resistance. Double literacy makes this possible.

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Narcissism

What People Really Think About Narcissism: 5 Insights

Sebastian Ocklenburg, Ph.D. on May 3, 2026 in The Asymmetric Brain

What do people think about narcissism, and how common do they believe it is? A new study investigated and uncovered some common misperceptions.

What do people think about narcissism, and how common do they believe it is? A new study investigated and uncovered some common misperceptions.

[IMG: Depressed Father]

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Postpartum Depression

Can Fathers Get Postpartum Depression?

Peter M. Hartmann, MD, DLFAPA on May 2, 2026 in The Mind Doctor

Fathers can also have postpartum depression. It's most common during months 3-6 after birth. Symptoms are often different from those of mothers, so it is often missed.

Fathers can also have postpartum depression. It's most common during months 3-6 after birth. Symptoms are often different from those of mothers, so it is often missed.

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Conscientiousness

Is It Possible to Be Too Good?

Susan Krauss Whitbourne PhD, ABPP on May 2, 2026 in Fulfillment at Any Age

Being dutiful, orderly, and organized are key facets of conscientiousness. These seemingly admirable qualities may not always work out that well, based on two new studies.

Being dutiful, orderly, and organized are key facets of conscientiousness. These seemingly admirable qualities may not always work out that well, based on two new studies.

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Left Brain - Right Brain

Does Handedness Affect Accidents at Work?

Sebastian Ocklenburg, Ph.D. on May 2, 2026 in The Asymmetric Brain

Have you ever wondered whether left-handers are more likely to have accidents at work? A new study offers insights into this question.

Have you ever wondered whether left-handers are more likely to have accidents at work? A new study offers insights into this question.

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Addiction

Medications for Methamphetamine Use Disorder

Mark S. Gold M.D. on May 1, 2026 in Addiction Outlook

Several million people are addicted to methamphetamines and also use tobacco, cannabis, alcohol, benzos, and opioids. Treatment is challenging. Mirtazapine could help.

Several million people are addicted to methamphetamines and also use tobacco, cannabis, alcohol, benzos, and opioids. Treatment is challenging. Mirtazapine could help.