What might genetics reveal about obsessive-compulsive disorder? Researchers identified a possible association between OCD and a particular genetic region, adding another clue to efforts to understand the disorder’s underlying biology.
Joining a group won’t cure depression by itself—but truly identifying with one might. Australian researchers found that patients who came to see a support group as “us” were far less likely to remain depressed a month later.
Workplace violence may not always occur without warning. Researchers examine how attentive supervision, employee support, and early responses to troubling behavior may help organizations recognize risks and prevent escalation.
Chronic family stress may affect more than a child’s emotional well-being. Research with five-year-olds suggests that high family stress may also be associated with changes in immune-system functioning.
The genetics of bipolar disorder are complex and difficult to unravel. Researchers identified brain, cognitive, and behavioral traits associated with the disorder that may help scientists trace the biological pathways involved.
Does an aging brain really work less well—or simply have more information to process? Research suggests that some apparent cognitive decline may instead reflect a lifetime of accumulated knowledge.
Some childhood misbehavior is just being a kid—some of it isn’t. New neurogenetics research helps tell the difference. Psychologist Luke Hyde shows how genes, environment, and brain chemistry combine to reveal which kids are truly at risk.
Eating disorders in boys may be more common—and look different—than many parents and clinicians realize. Research suggests that a focus on muscularity rather than thinness can lead some boys toward unhealthy behaviors that traditional eating-disorder assessments may miss.
Psychological care may be an important part of cardiac rehabilitation. A meta-analysis found that adding psychological interventions was associated with fewer deaths and cardiovascular events among heart disease patients over time.
Exercise is known to benefit the brain, but how? Research in mice identified a molecular pathway that may help explain how physical activity supports brain processes involved in learning and memory.
Does a messy desk encourage creativity? Experiments found that orderly and disorderly environments were associated with different choices and behaviors, suggesting that both tidiness and messiness may have their advantages.
Can dogs form attachment bonds with people that resemble those between children and caregivers? Research suggests that an owner may serve as a “secure base,” supporting a dog’s confidence and exploration.
