Suicide is a leading cause of death globally, and people who use drugs are at heightened risk. Key facts: People who use opioids have 7-22 times the risk of suicide compared to the general population. Men who use drugs die by suicide more often, but women who use drugs have a higher proportional increase in …
A new study provides evidence that hormonal contraceptive use is associated with increased jealousy and mate retention behaviors in women and their male partners. The research suggests that the synthetic hormones in birth control pills may alter relationship dynamics and have unintended psychological side effects. Key findings: Women using hormonal contraceptives reported higher use of …
A new study investigates the connections between physical activity levels, eating attitudes, and muscle dysmorphia (also known as bigorexia nervosa) in university students. The findings suggest that increased physical activity is associated with greater muscle satisfaction and more positive eating attitudes. Key Takeaways: Physical activity levels were positively correlated with muscle satisfaction scores in students. …
Changes in sexual behavior over recent decades have resulted in more people having multiple serial or concurrent sexual relationships during young adulthood. A new longitudinal study investigates how these shifting trends affect mental health. Key Facts: Researchers followed a cohort of nearly 1,000 New Zealanders from birth to age 32, tracking their sexual behavior and …
Polygamy, the practice of having multiple spouses, has grown in public awareness and acceptance over the past 20 years. However, polygamous families face unique household challenges, frequently stemming from jealousy and competition between co-wives over a shared husband’s affections and resources. Key Facts: Polygamy is most common in parts of Africa, the Middle East, and …
Tattoos have become increasingly mainstream in recent decades, with estimates suggesting up to 40% of adults in the US now have at least one tattoo. However, tattoos have historically been associated with risky behaviors and negative health outcomes. New research examines whether these associations still hold true as tattoos gain broader cultural acceptance. Key facts: …
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a complex and often misunderstood mental health condition characterized by difficulties with emotional regulation, impulsivity, and unstable relationships. One of the criteria for diagnosis is chronic feelings of emptiness. While commonly discussed in clinical observations, empirical research on this experience has been limited. A new systematic review published in PLOS …
Borderline personality disorder (BPD), long seen as an unchanging and lifelong condition, may actually have both stable and variable elements according to new research. The study found that about half of BPD features persist over time, while the other half fluctuate. This suggests BPD has a more dynamic course than traditionally thought. Key Takeaways: Around …
A headline grabbing new study reveals that people who own dogs widely considered “vicious” or “high risk” breeds exhibit higher rates of antisocial behaviors and psychopathic personality traits compared to other dog owners and non-dog owners. Key Facts: Owners of breeds like pit bulls and Rottweilers self-reported higher engagement in violent crimes, drug crimes, and …
Artificial intelligence systems are increasingly being used to assist professionals like doctors and judges make important decisions that impact human lives. However, these AI systems are prone to biases that can lead to systematic errors. A new set of experiments reveals that biases in AI systems can negatively influence the decisions of the humans relying …
