The 15 most popular psychology and neuroscience studies in 2024

The prevailing belief in many parts of the world is that having children is key to happiness – and that people who don’t have children are unfulfilled in their lives. But is this really the case? The answer to this question is both simple and complex.

Non-medical cannabis use is significantly associated with reduced odds of subjective cognitive decline (SCD) among U.S. adults aged 45 and older, according to new research.

A study involving 8,623 individuals found that reduced visual sensitivity, detectable via eye tests, can predict dementia 12 years before diagnosis.

New research suggests menthol inhalation may improve cognitive abilities in mice with Alzheimer’s by regulating the immune system and reducing brain inflammation, offering a potential new avenue for treating this debilitating disease.

Blinking enhances visual processing by introducing beneficial luminance changes, helping the brain reformat visual information, according to new research. The findings indicate that blinks improve visual acuity beyond merely keeping the eyes moist.

A recent study found that individuals without an inner voice struggle more with verbal memory and rhyme recognition tasks but show no significant differences in task-switching or visual discrimination compared to those with an inner voice.

New research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids can reduce aggression by up to 30%, highlighting the potential of nutritional interventions in managing aggression across diverse populations and settings.

A recent study found that a high-fat diet disrupts gut bacteria, alters brain chemistry, and increases anxiety-like behavior in rats, highlighting the complex gut-brain connection and the mental health impacts of dietary choices.

A recent study found that emophilia is a distinct psychological trait, not heavily correlated with other personality traits, and is linked to a higher number of romantic relationships and instances of infidelity.

Scientists found that the molecule KIBRA helps stabilize memory by binding to PKMζ, an enzyme that strengthens brain connections, allowing memories to last for years despite the constant turnover of proteins in the brain.

Researchers found that caffeine blocks alcohol’s ability to increase dopamine in brain reward areas, potentially reducing alcohol's rewarding effects. This suggests caffeine could play a role in preventing or treating alcohol addiction.

New insights into the relationship between sleep and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children suggest that melatonin, a key hormone in sleep regulation, might play an important role in managing symptoms.

Lonely individuals show atypical neural and linguistic responses to celebrities, diverging from group norms. Their unique perceptions reflect a lack of shared reality, reinforcing feelings of isolation and highlighting deviations in social cognition linked to loneliness.