Social Psychology

Psychologists have found that social dominance orientation emerges in early childhood. High levels of this trait are linked to dismissing claims of unfairness, suggesting that hierarchy preferences shape how children perceive inequality long before adolescence.

U.S. legislators frequently scrub personal details from social media while preserving attacks on opponents. A new study suggests that deleting tweets is a strategic move to curate a professional, critical, and loyal political image.

A new national survey indicates that older adults who play pickleball are less likely to feel lonely than those who do not. The findings suggest the sport offers unique social benefits for seniors.

A new study suggests men unconsciously avoid status-signaling purchases when their partners are fertile. The research highlights how oxytocin and evolutionary instincts prioritize relationship maintenance over showing off to new mates.

Parents of young children who reframe their views on scheduled sex report better sexual outcomes. New research indicates that valuing intentional intimacy can boost frequency and desire while reducing feelings of obligation.

A new scientific review suggests that highly intelligent individuals rely on cognitive processing rather than emotional reflexes to connect with others, challenging the popular idea that high IQ implies hypersensitivity.

New research finds that parents who want teachers to lead prayer are more likely to support arming school staff. The study suggests a cultural link between religious expression and gun-based security measures.

New research indicates that showing off expensive experiences signals high status while preserving likability. Unlike material goods, which often make owners seem cold, luxury experiences offer a unique social advantage.

A new study links conservatism to a greater acceptance of slippery slope reasoning. The evidence suggests this association relies on intuitive thinking and predicts support for harsher criminal sentencing.

New experiments demonstrate that AI chatbots are better at changing minds than static media. Researchers found these systems rely on "information density" to persuade voters, often becoming less truthful in the process.

New longitudinal research suggests that collaborative communication patterns help explain the link between attachment anxiety and lower sexual satisfaction, providing evidence that how partners discuss sex matters for long-term well-being.

Do good looks hurt female politicians? Researchers analyzing German elections found no evidence of a “beauty is beastly effect.” In fact, physical attractiveness correlated with higher vote shares for both men and women.

A new study highlights distinct psychological profiles for gamblers. While strategic players show higher rates of narcissism-fueled addiction, mixed gamblers are driven by the belief that they are personally lucky.

A comprehensive analysis of over 4,000 individuals reveals that romantic partners with differing political views experience a modest drop in relationship quality. The findings suggest polarization now permeates private life.

A new study in Political Psychology challenges the idea that political centrists are uniformly moderate. The findings suggest the scale’s midpoint hides a diverse group of individuals, including those with strong anti-establishment and populist beliefs.