A blog about human brains and behavior for students of psychology.
When psychologists investigate people’s patterns of alcohol use, they often look at what happens when alcohol use becomes a problem. They consider questions such as what might predispose people to risky drinking habits, and how risky drinking habits tip into
From substance use to compulsive behaviors, addiction can take a variety of forms. Given that range of possible addictions, psychology researchers are still trying to figure out the extent to which different types of addictive behaviors share similar roots. A
We’re only in May, but it’s never too late to start thinking about your New Year’s resolutions, right? After all, 2020 probably can’t be over soon enough! For those contemplating a January self-improvement kick, a new study offers some food
One of the things about alcohol is that where and how you consume it matters a great deal. Having a beer with a friend? Generally a fun and healthy thing to do. Having a beer while driving? A horrible idea.
If you ever dated someone your parents thought was a “bad influence,” it turns out they might have been onto something. Romantic partners may influence young adults’ binge drinking behaviors more than friends or family, at least according to new
Personality traits that predispose children to risky behaviors in high school may already be apparent in elementary school, even if the actual smoking and drinking don’t come until later. Although there are a range of factors that contribute to high
Here’s an idea you won’t here about in, well, the media: we should have media literacy classes in schools. Despite how much information we get from the media, we don’t talk much about how to critically evaluate the things we
You know the image of the hyper-active child with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) – they’re loud, restless, can’t sit still or control their emotions and this leads to trouble in school and with peers. According to the CDC, approximately 11% of
