Sharing false information online boosts visibility for Republican legislators, study finds
A new study reveals that U.S. state legislators who posted false or inflammatory content during times of political turmoil sometimes gained online visibility—especially Republicans spreading low-credibility claims. But uncivil language often had the opposite effect, particularly for extremists.
Left-wing authoritarians are less likely to support physically strong men as leaders
Do muscles make a man a better leader? That depends on your politics. A new study finds conservatives are drawn to strong men in leadership roles, while left-wing authoritarians are more likely to shy away from physical dominance.
Do you call your partner your best friend? This study says you’re in the minority
A large study suggests that most people separate romantic and platonic bonds. While some do see their partner as a best friend, the emotional benefits of doing so vary by age, income, and relationship type.
New study sheds light on how personality, power, and identity shape relationship satisfaction
Personality traits and perceived power don’t operate the same way in every relationship. A new study suggests that identity and relationship context change how these factors influence satisfaction, challenging long-held assumptions about what makes romantic partnerships work.
Narcissism may be fueling political polarization, according to new psychology research
A new study suggests that narcissistic personality traits—especially feelings of entitlement and antagonism—are strongly linked to political polarization. The findings highlight how psychological tendencies may fuel both loyalty to political in-groups and hostility toward opposing sides.
Scientists studied Fox News — here’s what they discovered
Fox News, a top-rated cable network since 1996, is known for its conservative commentary and strong influence on public opinion. Researchers have increasingly studied its role in shaping Americans’ views on politics, science, and conspiracy theories.
Children’s facial expressions reveal fear response to gender-nonconforming boys, study finds
A new study using facial recognition software found that children react with subtle fear when shown stories about boys who break gender norms. The findings shed light on early emotional bias against gender-nonconforming peers, especially feminine boys.
Online incel forums generate “dark emotional energy” that reinforces toxic group identity
Online incel communities maintain their cohesion through repeated exchanges of negative emotion, not positive connection. A new study introduces the idea of “dark emotional energy” to explain how despair and rage serve as bonding rituals in these toxic digital spaces.
Neuroscientists uncover a fascinating fact about social thinking in the brain
Our brains process social similarity in two ways—by comparing people to each other and by comparing them to ourselves. A new study using brain imaging reveals that these forms of person knowledge are represented in separate areas of the brain.
Women underestimate their spatial intelligence—even when they perform just as well as men
New research shows women underestimate their spatial intelligence, even when they perform just as well as men. This gender gap in self-perception—shaped by personality traits like narcissism and modesty—could help explain why fewer women pursue STEM careers.
Women also prefer younger romantic partners, according to a major new psychology study
A new study finds that both men and women are slightly more attracted to younger partners during blind dates, challenging the common belief that only men prioritize youth. These real-world findings reveal a mismatch between people’s stated preferences and actual...
New study identifies four distinct narcissistic personality types
A recent study sheds new light on the complicated nature of narcissism. Rather than a single personality type, researchers identified four different narcissistic profiles.
The psychology behind “the ick”: Study links sudden dating turn-offs to narcissism and perfectionism
Feeling unexpectedly grossed out by a romantic partner? A new study sheds light on “the ick,” revealing that individual traits—like how easily disgusted someone is or how high their standards are—can shape these reactions. Women reported it more often, but...
Older adults reflect less on their personality traits than younger adults, study finds
A new study finds that older adults engage in less self-reflection about their personality traits than younger adults. People with lower emotional stability or extraversion tend to reflect more, especially through comparisons with others or their past selves.
Dark personalities in politicians may intensify partisan hatred—particularly among their biggest fans
Researchers have uncovered a link between politicians' dark personality traits and affective polarization, suggesting that voters who support these leaders experience greater dislike for political opponents—especially when they feel ideologically aligned with the candidate.
