Remember the bad times
Take a moment to recall your sweetest memories – your childhood vacation or your first kiss – and you will be grinning from ear to ear in a second. Positive memories are an instant pick-me-up – that’s what everybody knows. But could it be that negative memories are actually more helpful?
🖇A research group from Lomonosov MSU found that this all looks a bit off from what we know: thinking about good times surely takes the huge edge off a bad mood but does not necessarily boost the spirits.
Looking back at negative past experiences, on the other hand, both reduces negativity and elevates the mood. And this is not as surprising as might seem at first: reflecting on past hardships can make people appreciate their present and face current challenges with less fear. And that’s the “retrospective downward autobiographical comparison” effect in action.
Surprisingly, thinking about the troubled past of a beloved fictional character creates the opposite effect: positive feelings fizzle out, and negativity lingers. And, by the way, recalling their heartwarming scenes does brighten the mood more than remembering personal glow-ups. Whether it is a peculiar form of emotional mimicry or not – this terrain is still to be navigated.
In the meantime, one thing to know for sure about the power of our personal memories: by recalling our past downs, we create a deeper appreciation for our present blessings and pave the way for more future ups.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
Take a moment to recall your sweetest memories – your childhood vacation or your first kiss – and you will be grinning from ear to ear in a second. Positive memories are an instant pick-me-up – that’s what everybody knows. But could it be that negative memories are actually more helpful?
🖇A research group from Lomonosov MSU found that this all looks a bit off from what we know: thinking about good times surely takes the huge edge off a bad mood but does not necessarily boost the spirits.
Looking back at negative past experiences, on the other hand, both reduces negativity and elevates the mood. And this is not as surprising as might seem at first: reflecting on past hardships can make people appreciate their present and face current challenges with less fear. And that’s the “retrospective downward autobiographical comparison” effect in action.
Surprisingly, thinking about the troubled past of a beloved fictional character creates the opposite effect: positive feelings fizzle out, and negativity lingers. And, by the way, recalling their heartwarming scenes does brighten the mood more than remembering personal glow-ups. Whether it is a peculiar form of emotional mimicry or not – this terrain is still to be navigated.
In the meantime, one thing to know for sure about the power of our personal memories: by recalling our past downs, we create a deeper appreciation for our present blessings and pave the way for more future ups.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
🥰6🤗5👀4👍3❤2
Mom, I got this!
By supporting children’s autonomy, we can help our little ones grow into creative, determined, and successful individuals. Perhaps there’s no parent in the world, who hasn’t figured it out. But do they really make it their golden rule?
🖇Researchers from HSE university found that Russian parents are all about supporting their child’s autonomy but in their own way: they provide clear-cut rules that help children make sense of the world. For example, they will explain in detail why their child should limit their screen time, or they will outline responsibilities, like homework, that their children should do on their own without check-ups.
Indeed, by teaching boundaries and norms, parents can help children learn to make their own choices and decisions. They do understand the importance of that, and on first glance, they act accordingly: they offer a variety of choices, space for decision-making, and show support for their child’s abilities. But here comes the tricky part: parents do support children's goals, but only if they align with their own vision.
Parents might not fully grasp what their children truly need, or they might be focusing too much on societal expectations — either way, they support children’s own initiative occasionally and only in some areas, like helping others, studying, and exercising. This may confuse children as to whether they have the freedom to make their own choices altogether.
To avoid this confusion and help children pave their own path, parents should be more consistent in their support and rely on children’s individual needs as much as on societal expectations.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#parenting
By supporting children’s autonomy, we can help our little ones grow into creative, determined, and successful individuals. Perhaps there’s no parent in the world, who hasn’t figured it out. But do they really make it their golden rule?
🖇Researchers from HSE university found that Russian parents are all about supporting their child’s autonomy but in their own way: they provide clear-cut rules that help children make sense of the world. For example, they will explain in detail why their child should limit their screen time, or they will outline responsibilities, like homework, that their children should do on their own without check-ups.
Indeed, by teaching boundaries and norms, parents can help children learn to make their own choices and decisions. They do understand the importance of that, and on first glance, they act accordingly: they offer a variety of choices, space for decision-making, and show support for their child’s abilities. But here comes the tricky part: parents do support children's goals, but only if they align with their own vision.
Parents might not fully grasp what their children truly need, or they might be focusing too much on societal expectations — either way, they support children’s own initiative occasionally and only in some areas, like helping others, studying, and exercising. This may confuse children as to whether they have the freedom to make their own choices altogether.
To avoid this confusion and help children pave their own path, parents should be more consistent in their support and rely on children’s individual needs as much as on societal expectations.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#parenting
🔥5👍3🏆3🤝1
Part of the fix or a part to fix?
Everyone knows the dangers of climate change – rising seas, vanishing species, and a planet in peril. Well, almost everyone. All over the globe, there are people who deny scientific facts and refuse to take action to save the planet.
Why do people remain in the denial mode? Is it a matter of how disconnected they feel from nature? Or does it depend on how much of a “team player” they are?
🖇These questions were explored by a team of scholars from nine countries.
The biggest reason people deny climate change is people’s inability to see themselves as part of nature: this way, they ignore critical changes in the natural world and deny human responsibility for them.
A more complicated question remains. Who is less environmentally responsible: globally oriented but independent individualists or socially responsible but locally grounded collectivists?
Turns out, it is not so much about the lack of community bonds or global orientation, as it is about the feeling of superiority. People who prioritize personal success above anything else – the so-called Vertical Individualists – are highly likely to deny climate change.
On the contrary, individualists who value their independence but do not focus on competition are quite concerned with environmental problems, just like people with a strong sense of belonging to the community.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#EnvironmentalBehavior
Everyone knows the dangers of climate change – rising seas, vanishing species, and a planet in peril. Well, almost everyone. All over the globe, there are people who deny scientific facts and refuse to take action to save the planet.
Why do people remain in the denial mode? Is it a matter of how disconnected they feel from nature? Or does it depend on how much of a “team player” they are?
🖇These questions were explored by a team of scholars from nine countries.
The biggest reason people deny climate change is people’s inability to see themselves as part of nature: this way, they ignore critical changes in the natural world and deny human responsibility for them.
A more complicated question remains. Who is less environmentally responsible: globally oriented but independent individualists or socially responsible but locally grounded collectivists?
Turns out, it is not so much about the lack of community bonds or global orientation, as it is about the feeling of superiority. People who prioritize personal success above anything else – the so-called Vertical Individualists – are highly likely to deny climate change.
On the contrary, individualists who value their independence but do not focus on competition are quite concerned with environmental problems, just like people with a strong sense of belonging to the community.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#EnvironmentalBehavior
❤8🔥3🕊3💊2
Haters gonna hate?
Teenagers live and breathe social media: more than half spend over 3 hours online daily, and the numbers go up as they approach high school. But what exactly are they doing on the Internet, and should parents worry about the risks of their kids getting bullied online?
🖇Researchers from RAE Institute for the Management of Education found that teens are driven by very different goals – entertainment, communication, education, money-making – these change with age, and differ depending on gender and academic performance. One pattern is clear though: teenagers who feel isolated tend to use social media for self-expression they cannot achieve in real life, whereas popular kids more often have educational purposes.
Sadly, cyberbullying is quite common: every fourth teen has been bullied online, and just as many have witnessed it. In most cases, aggression comes from strangers, which is especially concerning: growing older, teens increasingly seek to broaden their social circle through new online connections.
Yet, not all kids are bullied the same, and the researchers observed a striking pattern: real-life aggression spills over into online interactions. Teenagers who face bullying in person are twice as likely to be targeted by online aggression compared to their more popular peers.
Unfortunately, teens who are bullied regularly often make things worse for themselves: they react with the same kind of aggression they face, falling further into the spiral.
Since we can not completely shield our kids from online bullying, it's crucial to teach them how to handle it right: whether it is reporting the bullies to admins, turning to friends and family for support, or simply ignoring the trolls.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#cyberbullying
Teenagers live and breathe social media: more than half spend over 3 hours online daily, and the numbers go up as they approach high school. But what exactly are they doing on the Internet, and should parents worry about the risks of their kids getting bullied online?
🖇Researchers from RAE Institute for the Management of Education found that teens are driven by very different goals – entertainment, communication, education, money-making – these change with age, and differ depending on gender and academic performance. One pattern is clear though: teenagers who feel isolated tend to use social media for self-expression they cannot achieve in real life, whereas popular kids more often have educational purposes.
Sadly, cyberbullying is quite common: every fourth teen has been bullied online, and just as many have witnessed it. In most cases, aggression comes from strangers, which is especially concerning: growing older, teens increasingly seek to broaden their social circle through new online connections.
Yet, not all kids are bullied the same, and the researchers observed a striking pattern: real-life aggression spills over into online interactions. Teenagers who face bullying in person are twice as likely to be targeted by online aggression compared to their more popular peers.
Unfortunately, teens who are bullied regularly often make things worse for themselves: they react with the same kind of aggression they face, falling further into the spiral.
Since we can not completely shield our kids from online bullying, it's crucial to teach them how to handle it right: whether it is reporting the bullies to admins, turning to friends and family for support, or simply ignoring the trolls.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#cyberbullying
❤7🙏5🕊3👍2🔥1
I’ve got your back!
Are modern teenagers ready to give without expecting anything in return? Do social networks impact their ability to help others selflessly? And, perhaps most intriguingly, who is more altruistic – boys or girls ?
🖇A researcher from the Southern Federal University found that those who prefer virtual communication are less willing to step up and help others because they rarely get a chance to feel the joy of offering firsthand care and support. Moreover, they struggle to take charge of their own lives, let alone reach out to make a difference in someone else's.
Interestingly, boys are far more ready to offer selfless help, even at their own expense. This seems to be rooted in a moral code many of them have developed that boosts their pride and self-esteem whenever they help others.
While girls are hardly less compassionate than boys, the crushing majority was not willing to put the needs of others over their own, especially when it comes to people they don't know personally. Perhaps, women don't see themselves as protectors of society as often as men, or they are hardwired to take care of their immediate family from the get-go.
Not everyone is ready to help others selflessly, but it is not always about the lack empathy. It could be that they are not up for unnecessary sacrifice or, like we saw with the digital enthusiasts, fear to take responsibility. Seems like to make the world a better place, we need first to teach our kids to be proactive for their own sake and not expect things to fall into place – then genuine care for others may come naturally.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#altruism #TeenageBehavior
Are modern teenagers ready to give without expecting anything in return? Do social networks impact their ability to help others selflessly? And, perhaps most intriguingly,
🖇A researcher from the Southern Federal University found that those who prefer virtual communication are less willing to step up and help others because they rarely get a chance to feel the joy of offering firsthand care and support. Moreover, they struggle to take charge of their own lives, let alone reach out to make a difference in someone else's.
Interestingly, boys are far more ready to offer selfless help, even at their own expense. This seems to be rooted in a moral code many of them have developed that boosts their pride and self-esteem whenever they help others.
While girls are hardly less compassionate than boys, the crushing majority was not willing to put the needs of others over their own, especially when it comes to people they don't know personally. Perhaps, women don't see themselves as protectors of society as often as men, or they are hardwired to take care of their immediate family from the get-go.
Not everyone is ready to help others selflessly, but it is not always about the lack empathy. It could be that they are not up for unnecessary sacrifice or, like we saw with the digital enthusiasts, fear to take responsibility. Seems like to make the world a better place, we need first to teach our kids to be proactive for their own sake and not expect things to fall into place – then genuine care for others may come naturally.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#altruism #TeenageBehavior
❤8💯4🕊3👍2
If exercise is medicine, what’s the best prescription?
A third of adults worldwide are not getting enough physical activity: a huge problem that’s taking toll on people’s health. But just how bad are the consequences? What counts as healthy exercise? And is it true that women and older people do less sports? Spoiler:no.
🖇A Russian-Spanish research team found that running, swimming and other high-intensity aerobics go hand-in-hand with a healthy weight and better physical health. Notably, cardio enthusiasts are often found among men: perhaps, they may see sports as a way to push their limits, while women may be focused on other goals, such as stress relief.
That’s likely the reason why more women prefer stretching activities – yoga and pilates. This is also a popular choice among those seeking mental health support – perhaps, they use it as an additional coping mechanism. But there’s a downside: while stretching is fantastic for keeping the weight in check, it does not improve the overall physical health.
Surprisingly, top health boosters turn out to be outdoor group activities, such as gardening and team sports. This appears to be a recipe for both a healthy body and a happy mind, proving nature and teamwork do wonders.
Interestingly, people tend to do more sports as they age — maybe because health becomes a bigger worry. In any case, this really shows the need to spark a love for sports in younger crowds. Seems like the key is to find the one that appeals most: you don't have to push yourself into intense cardio — perhaps, tossing a ball with friends in the park will serve you even more good.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#HealthyLifestyle
A third of adults worldwide are not getting enough physical activity: a huge problem that’s taking toll on people’s health. But just how bad are the consequences? What counts as healthy exercise? And is it true that women and older people do less sports? Spoiler:
🖇A Russian-Spanish research team found that running, swimming and other high-intensity aerobics go hand-in-hand with a healthy weight and better physical health. Notably, cardio enthusiasts are often found among men: perhaps, they may see sports as a way to push their limits, while women may be focused on other goals, such as stress relief.
That’s likely the reason why more women prefer stretching activities – yoga and pilates. This is also a popular choice among those seeking mental health support – perhaps, they use it as an additional coping mechanism. But there’s a downside: while stretching is fantastic for keeping the weight in check, it does not improve the overall physical health.
Surprisingly, top health boosters turn out to be outdoor group activities, such as gardening and team sports. This appears to be a recipe for both a healthy body and a happy mind, proving nature and teamwork do wonders.
Interestingly, people tend to do more sports as they age — maybe because health becomes a bigger worry. In any case, this really shows the need to spark a love for sports in younger crowds. Seems like the key is to find the one that appeals most: you don't have to push yourself into intense cardio — perhaps, tossing a ball with friends in the park will serve you even more good.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#HealthyLifestyle
❤8🏆3🔥2🤝1
Your homework for tomorrow: daydreaming
With digital devices taking center stage in kids' play, is their ability to dream up and think creatively still thriving?
🖇A group of scholars from Lomonosov MSU set out to explore one of the most important forces behind children’s intellectual, emotional, and cognitive growth — imagination. They invited preschoolers to finish the drawings and looked at how original and detailed their final masterpieces turned out to be.
Almost half of the kids struggled to let their imaginations run wild: they either gave up or drew simple pictures with no details. Only 5% of the kids crafted a whole new detailed story around the existing figure, showing a remarkable ability to fantasize and bring their visions to life.
Interestingly, imagination develops in different ways. Some kids created a completely different picture around the original figure but added simple details, while others came up with lots of details but couldn't think outside of the box they were put in.
Moreover, girls seem to have a head start in creative abilities. Yet, it remains unclear whether they are simply more interested in drawing, or if they indeed have a leg up in the imagination department.
Whether the devices are the root of evil here or not, the world seems to be losing its next generation of dreamers and inventors. Thus, parents should encourage their kids to play games that spark their imagination, like storytelling, pretend play, and problem-solving adventures!
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#ChildDevelopment
With digital devices taking center stage in kids' play, is their ability to dream up and think creatively still thriving?
🖇A group of scholars from Lomonosov MSU set out to explore one of the most important forces behind children’s intellectual, emotional, and cognitive growth — imagination. They invited preschoolers to finish the drawings and looked at how original and detailed their final masterpieces turned out to be.
Almost half of the kids struggled to let their imaginations run wild: they either gave up or drew simple pictures with no details. Only 5% of the kids crafted a whole new detailed story around the existing figure, showing a remarkable ability to fantasize and bring their visions to life.
Interestingly, imagination develops in different ways. Some kids created a completely different picture around the original figure but added simple details, while others came up with lots of details but couldn't think outside of the box they were put in.
Moreover, girls seem to have a head start in creative abilities. Yet, it remains unclear whether they are simply more interested in drawing, or if they indeed have a leg up in the imagination department.
Whether the devices are the root of evil here or not, the world seems to be losing its next generation of dreamers and inventors. Thus, parents should encourage their kids to play games that spark their imagination, like storytelling, pretend play, and problem-solving adventures!
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#ChildDevelopment
❤5❤🔥4🕊3🔥2
Surviving the digital jungle
Harmful content, risky communication, social media addiction… How to keep kids safe online? Should parents lay down the law or have a heart-to-heart with their tech-savvy offsprings?
🖇Researchers from Moscow and Yakutsk found that modern parents avoid excessive control, at least with teens. That’s good news, as heavy-handed restrictions can ruin parent-child trust, stifle kids’ growth, and cause anxiety.
Still, many parents prefer restrictions over open dialogue: they can answer kids’ questions but rarely start the conversation, relying on content filters instead. Their kids turn out to be less happy, possibly, because they feel a lack of warmth and care. They also spend more time online – it may explain why parents choose stricter methods, but at the same time their parent’s emotional distance could lead the teens to seek comfort in their devices.
Does this mean that open dialogue is the key, with no restrictions needed? Well, not exactly. Teens whose parents talked about safe internet habits but didn’t set any boundaries fell into social media addiction more easily. Their happiness levels were also quite low, probably, because they needed more than occasional chats to feel safe and supported.
As is often the case, the truth is somewhere in the middle. Teens are at their happiest and spend way less time online when their parents explain safe internet use, are there for support whenever needed, and set reasonable boundaries for their safety. This makes them feel cared for and far less drawn to endless screen time.
True, open dialogue is crucial, but boundaries are needed too. It’s important to strike that balance between giving children the freedom to explore and ensuring their safety with some limitations. This way, they will feel supported rather than neglected or repressed.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#parenting #TeenageBehavior
Harmful content, risky communication, social media addiction… How to keep kids safe online? Should parents lay down the law or have a heart-to-heart with their tech-savvy offsprings?
🖇Researchers from Moscow and Yakutsk found that modern parents avoid excessive control, at least with teens. That’s good news, as heavy-handed restrictions can ruin parent-child trust, stifle kids’ growth, and cause anxiety.
Still, many parents prefer restrictions over open dialogue: they can answer kids’ questions but rarely start the conversation, relying on content filters instead. Their kids turn out to be less happy, possibly, because they feel a lack of warmth and care. They also spend more time online – it may explain why parents choose stricter methods, but at the same time their parent’s emotional distance could lead the teens to seek comfort in their devices.
Does this mean that open dialogue is the key, with no restrictions needed? Well, not exactly. Teens whose parents talked about safe internet habits but didn’t set any boundaries fell into social media addiction more easily. Their happiness levels were also quite low, probably, because they needed more than occasional chats to feel safe and supported.
As is often the case, the truth is somewhere in the middle. Teens are at their happiest and spend way less time online when their parents explain safe internet use, are there for support whenever needed, and set reasonable boundaries for their safety. This makes them feel cared for and far less drawn to endless screen time.
True, open dialogue is crucial, but boundaries are needed too. It’s important to strike that balance between giving children the freedom to explore and ensuring their safety with some limitations. This way, they will feel supported rather than neglected or repressed.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#parenting #TeenageBehavior
❤5🔥4👏3
Last time your kids or little siblings proudly showed off their drawings to you – did you really pay attention, or did you just give them a quick 'good job, sweetie'? For kids’ drawings can speak louder than words: they can tell if the child feels lonely or left out, who they're closest to in their family, and open up other deep-seated emotions.
🖇With this in hand, a group of scholars from Moscow set out to explore the mental health of today’s kids, and stumbled across an exciting trend: modern children are generally happier than the kids of the 00s. They add more smiles to the drawings and include the father’s figure more often – a heartwarming sign that dads are stepping up to the plate and playing a bigger role in raising their kids.
Sadly, this isn’t the case for everyone, and children who are not as lucky to have both parents may go through harder times. They tend to feel lonelier and less happy: their pictures have cooler tones and often show the kid alone without a soul around. Boys seem to struggle the most, feeling especially cut off and lonely when they’re missing a parent.
Girls, on the other hand, cope better – even though they still suffer the emotional strain, they feel more connected to their family even without one of the parents – often their dad – around. One explanation is that girls are closer to their mothers and more tuned into family activities led by their moms. Boys, however, pay more attention to the family hierarchy, so when that balance is shaken, they may feel unsettled.
Still, it is not about the simple presence but it is about involvement: kids who feel left out are unhappy. So, parents should try their hardest to make their kids feel included, especially when it's only one of the parents taking care of the child. When they manage to do that, happiness flourishes, and the walls at home are filled with warm, smiling drawings.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#parenting
🖇With this in hand, a group of scholars from Moscow set out to explore the mental health of today’s kids, and stumbled across an exciting trend: modern children are generally happier than the kids of the 00s. They add more smiles to the drawings and include the father’s figure more often – a heartwarming sign that dads are stepping up to the plate and playing a bigger role in raising their kids.
Sadly, this isn’t the case for everyone, and children who are not as lucky to have both parents may go through harder times. They tend to feel lonelier and less happy: their pictures have cooler tones and often show the kid alone without a soul around. Boys seem to struggle the most, feeling especially cut off and lonely when they’re missing a parent.
Girls, on the other hand, cope better – even though they still suffer the emotional strain, they feel more connected to their family even without one of the parents – often their dad – around. One explanation is that girls are closer to their mothers and more tuned into family activities led by their moms. Boys, however, pay more attention to the family hierarchy, so when that balance is shaken, they may feel unsettled.
Still, it is not about the simple presence but it is about involvement: kids who feel left out are unhappy. So, parents should try their hardest to make their kids feel included, especially when it's only one of the parents taking care of the child. When they manage to do that, happiness flourishes, and the walls at home are filled with warm, smiling drawings.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#parenting
❤7👏5🦄3
Helping the she-conomy
Women who dream of starting a business wrestle with self-doubt more often than men. So, where do they draw the strength to push forward and take that leap? And is true that their family is a distraction that gets in the way?(Wrong! It’s exactly on the contrary). But let’s start at the beginning…
🖇Researchers at HSE found that women feel the most empowered to start their own business when they feel control over the actions they take and know how to steer their talents. A positive image of entrepreneurship also fuels their business spark, while a thumbs-up from peers does not add to their resolve – probably, because Russian society has mixed feelings about entrepreneurship, caught between the old Soviet mindset and the '90s norms.
Seems like the most important thing that helps women take the plunge is this deep-rooted feeling that they can handle whatever comes their way. But where does that come from?
Turns out families can truly be that solid ground for women to stand strong and take risks. Knowing they can turn to loved ones for help gives them the confidence to make complicated choices, while spending quality time with their closest people gives them that crucial sense of stability needed to conquer new heights.
Interestingly, women don’t need their families to share their values or actively support them; they draw energy just by being near their loved ones.
Ultimately, it is not about agreeing on everything – family relationships can stay strong even when there are bumps along the way. Seems like just being around their family is enough to fire up women’s confidence and propel them toward greater deeds!
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#FamilyRelations #FemaleEntrepreneurship
Women who dream of starting a business wrestle with self-doubt more often than men. So, where do they draw the strength to push forward and take that leap? And is true that their family is a distraction that gets in the way?
🖇Researchers at HSE found that women feel the most empowered to start their own business when they feel control over the actions they take and know how to steer their talents. A positive image of entrepreneurship also fuels their business spark, while a thumbs-up from peers does not add to their resolve – probably, because Russian society has mixed feelings about entrepreneurship, caught between the old Soviet mindset and the '90s norms.
Seems like the most important thing that helps women take the plunge is this deep-rooted feeling that they can handle whatever comes their way. But where does that come from?
Turns out families can truly be that solid ground for women to stand strong and take risks. Knowing they can turn to loved ones for help gives them the confidence to make complicated choices, while spending quality time with their closest people gives them that crucial sense of stability needed to conquer new heights.
Interestingly, women don’t need their families to share their values or actively support them; they draw energy just by being near their loved ones.
Ultimately, it is not about agreeing on everything – family relationships can stay strong even when there are bumps along the way. Seems like just being around their family is enough to fire up women’s confidence and propel them toward greater deeds!
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#FamilyRelations #FemaleEntrepreneurship
🔥5👏3🤝3❤1
But mom!
Addictive phone games and day-round cartoons: today most kids as young as 4-5 years old are glued to their phones, missing out on opportunities to explore and socialize. Now setting limits is a battle where kids are fierce warriors: up to 90% of families deal with screen time tantrums.
🖇Surprisingly, researchers discovered that a child's abilities to control actions and emotions (the so-called executive functions) aren’t enough for preschoolers to handle the anger and frustration that comes with those tough transitions away from screens.
Does this mean that parents have lost this battle and it is impossible to turn up the tide? Fortunately, no.
Turns out, real-life play can work wonders. When children can feel the joy of playing with their favorite toy or easily jump into an off-screen adventure — they react much calmer when the time comes to turn off the screens.
Sounds logical: they’ve found exciting ways to have fun without relying on their phones. But that’s not the main reason: for example, even enjoyable family moments like singing, reading, or drawing together don’t seem to keep children from fighting against screen time limits.
What makes play so special is that it helps kids release emotional stress. Through play, they act out impossible wishes, learning to wait for what they want while also finding a safe way to express their negative feelings.
So, next time your child is glued to their phone, instead of scolding them, suggest a fun play activity you can do together later. Make it enjoyable, and you might just see those complaints about screen time limits disappear over time!
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#parenting #ChildDevelopment
Addictive phone games and day-round cartoons: today most kids as young as 4-5 years old are glued to their phones, missing out on opportunities to explore and socialize. Now setting limits is a battle where kids are fierce warriors: up to 90% of families deal with screen time tantrums.
🖇Surprisingly, researchers discovered that a child's abilities to control actions and emotions (the so-called executive functions) aren’t enough for preschoolers to handle the anger and frustration that comes with those tough transitions away from screens.
Does this mean that parents have lost this battle and it is impossible to turn up the tide? Fortunately, no.
Turns out, real-life play can work wonders. When children can feel the joy of playing with their favorite toy or easily jump into an off-screen adventure — they react much calmer when the time comes to turn off the screens.
Sounds logical: they’ve found exciting ways to have fun without relying on their phones. But that’s not the main reason: for example, even enjoyable family moments like singing, reading, or drawing together don’t seem to keep children from fighting against screen time limits.
What makes play so special is that it helps kids release emotional stress. Through play, they act out impossible wishes, learning to wait for what they want while also finding a safe way to express their negative feelings.
So, next time your child is glued to their phone, instead of scolding them, suggest a fun play activity you can do together later. Make it enjoyable, and you might just see those complaints about screen time limits disappear over time!
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#parenting #ChildDevelopment
❤6💯4🙏2✍1
The Good, the Bad, and the Grading
School's not just about books and homework. It is a real-world training ground for shaping a child's ability to handle life challenges. But is it a helpful ally or a permanent stressor?
Turns out, it can go either way — and it often comes down to the school’s overall quality.
🖇Researchers from Moscow found that teens in top schools have a whole toolkit to handle stress: they are generally good at problem-solving and self-control, they know how to think the situation over and take responsibility for their actions. Teens in low-rated schools, on the contrary, often go straight for confrontation, facing challenges with a bold and aggressive approach.
High-performing schools appear to encourage independence and variety in behaviour. However, struggling schools tend to double down on control and obedience, likely because they face challenges with students who have low motivation or behavioural issues. Yet, this approach often backfires, fuelling even more pushback from teens.
Interestingly, students’ well-being and optimism don’t really depend on their school. Whether an elite schooler or not, teens tend to feel better once they’re past 15 – seems like over time they adapt to their environment whatever it is. Yet, teenagers aged 12-15 turn out to be extremely fragile – during this period they’re in need of extra support from adults.
Supporting teens means focusing on their emotional well-being and promoting autonomy — something they truly cherish at this age. Otherwise, pushing for obedience not only sparks rebellion but also holds them back from building useful coping skills, and ultimately deepens social inequalities.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#TeenageBehaviour
School's not just about books and homework. It is a real-world training ground for shaping a child's ability to handle life challenges. But is it a helpful ally or a permanent stressor?
Turns out, it can go either way — and it often comes down to the school’s overall quality.
🖇Researchers from Moscow found that teens in top schools have a whole toolkit to handle stress: they are generally good at problem-solving and self-control, they know how to think the situation over and take responsibility for their actions. Teens in low-rated schools, on the contrary, often go straight for confrontation, facing challenges with a bold and aggressive approach.
High-performing schools appear to encourage independence and variety in behaviour. However, struggling schools tend to double down on control and obedience, likely because they face challenges with students who have low motivation or behavioural issues. Yet, this approach often backfires, fuelling even more pushback from teens.
Interestingly, students’ well-being and optimism don’t really depend on their school. Whether an elite schooler or not, teens tend to feel better once they’re past 15 – seems like over time they adapt to their environment whatever it is. Yet, teenagers aged 12-15 turn out to be extremely fragile – during this period they’re in need of extra support from adults.
Supporting teens means focusing on their emotional well-being and promoting autonomy — something they truly cherish at this age. Otherwise, pushing for obedience not only sparks rebellion but also holds them back from building useful coping skills, and ultimately deepens social inequalities.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#TeenageBehaviour
❤6⚡6💯3
Elementary, my dear linguists!
What do you do when you come across an unknown foreign word? Do you rush to the dictionary every time? Do you try to decode the word by its parts ("curative" sounds very much like “cure”)? Or do you guess the meaning based on the words around?
It turns out all these strategies are good in their own way – except for the dictionary-first approach. Simply looking up a word isn't enough; even if you come across it multiple times, it won’t stick unless you make an effort to think it through and try to guess its meaning on your own first.
When you try to figure out the word’s meaning, a sentence can give you tons of clues, while understanding how the words are built open up hidden connections between them helping to remember new words easier.
🖇Still, researchers found that one strategy stands out as more helpful – the one where you look for clues in the sentence around the unknown word. What’s interesting is that people use it more often than any other method – seems like it’s both the easiest and the most effective one.
Context is key, right? True, but too much of it can be a distraction – people who try to figure out new words by hunting for clues in large chunks of text are less successful than those looking at words and sentences.
Interestingly, the time you spend with a word or sentence can make a big difference. The longer you engage, the better your chances of cracking the meaning. But here’s where it gets intriguing: each strategy has its twist. For sentences, it’s all about lingering – really soaking in every detail. For single words, though, the first look matters most; give it your full attention right from the start!
We can grasp meaning on different levels as we process a word — in that initial glance or after some time, as we piece together the story told by the sentence. It can be different every time, so the ability to juggle strategies can really take your language skills to the next level.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#LanguageLearning
What do you do when you come across an unknown foreign word? Do you rush to the dictionary every time? Do you try to decode the word by its parts ("curative" sounds very much like “cure”)? Or do you guess the meaning based on the words around?
It turns out all these strategies are good in their own way – except for the dictionary-first approach. Simply looking up a word isn't enough; even if you come across it multiple times, it won’t stick unless you make an effort to think it through and try to guess its meaning on your own first.
When you try to figure out the word’s meaning, a sentence can give you tons of clues, while understanding how the words are built open up hidden connections between them helping to remember new words easier.
🖇Still, researchers found that one strategy stands out as more helpful – the one where you look for clues in the sentence around the unknown word. What’s interesting is that people use it more often than any other method – seems like it’s both the easiest and the most effective one.
Context is key, right? True, but too much of it can be a distraction – people who try to figure out new words by hunting for clues in large chunks of text are less successful than those looking at words and sentences.
Interestingly, the time you spend with a word or sentence can make a big difference. The longer you engage, the better your chances of cracking the meaning. But here’s where it gets intriguing: each strategy has its twist. For sentences, it’s all about lingering – really soaking in every detail. For single words, though, the first look matters most; give it your full attention right from the start!
We can grasp meaning on different levels as we process a word — in that initial glance or after some time, as we piece together the story told by the sentence. It can be different every time, so the ability to juggle strategies can really take your language skills to the next level.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#LanguageLearning
❤4✍3👍3🤓1
“I wouldn’t want someone like that working for me!” “You can't trust them”
The way people with psychiatric disorders – especially those dealing with internally caused conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder – are often treated is bad enough. It gets even darker when they start to believe those negative labels themselves.
"I'll never have a normal life"
– with everything they’re dealing with, it’s easy to see why they might feel like giving up and blaming it all on their condition. Yet, this can actually make the symptoms worse and send them into a downward spiral.
🖇Researchers found that people with newly diagnosed bipolar disorder grapple with intense self-stigma: they long for their "old life" and see little light in their current reality. People with chronic schizophrenia see themselves only through their illness and believe that it would keep anyone from close relationships or success – which only deepens the stigma they face.
In contrast, people newly diagnosed with schizophrenia have a low level of self-stigma. But they are on the flip side – denial. They separate themselves from the stereotypical “mentally ill person” and from others dealing with the condition, which shows that stigma still persists in their worldview.
Interestingly, the relationship between self-stigma and treatment skepticism changes as the illness progresses. Patients newly diagnosed with schizophrenia keep self-stigma low by denying their condition, but as they start accepting the need for help, negative self-views rise. For those with chronic schizophrenia, the higher their self-stigma is, the less they believe in getting help – probably labeling themselves broken beyond repair.
Whether it messes with people’s ability to seek help or not, self-stigma is the real enemy, worsening the struggles of those already suffering. Rooted in the stereotypes running in society, it should be fought by raising awareness about these conditions. But in a clinical setting too, tackling stigma head-on can prevent a lot of negative issues tied to the illness.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#MentalHealthAwareness #MentalHealthStigma
🔥3🙏3🕊3❤2
Why can’t they just stop
It’s easy to look at someone drunk on the street and think, “Why are they wasting their lives?”. While they may be responsible for the path they choose, before you judge, remember: alcoholism is a psychiatric disorder that changes how the brain works. But more than that, people have different internal abilities to break free from this vicious cycle.
What really influences if a person will spiral deeper into addiction or find lasting sobriety? Most people will make guesses about willpower — and they won’t be completely wrong — but it is rooted in something more basic.
Turns out, the real key is impulsivity — whether a person tends to make hasty decisions and act on impulse. If that’s the case, they’re likely to find it incredibly hard to break free from addiction.
🖇A recent study revealed that patients in remission for less than a year had difficulties holding back immediate reactions and thinking their decisions through compared to those sober for over a year. What’s interesting, though, is that their choices were equally poor, which likely shows how alcohol addiction messes with people's ability to think thoroughly.
Still, those in remission for longer periods pondered their actions more carefully – which boosted their chances to stay sober and, hopefully, to improve their thinking skills. This shows that impulsivity isn’t just a symptom but a target for treatment.
Rehab programs focused on self-control and decision-making might be the next breakthrough in addiction recovery, helping individuals not only beat their addiction but also build a more stable future. And let’s stop blaming them for lacking willpower — maybe they’ve never learned how to pause before making decisions — and that’s exactly what good therapy can teach!
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#AddictionRecovery
It’s easy to look at someone drunk on the street and think, “Why are they wasting their lives?”. While they may be responsible for the path they choose, before you judge, remember: alcoholism is a psychiatric disorder that changes how the brain works. But more than that, people have different internal abilities to break free from this vicious cycle.
What really influences if a person will spiral deeper into addiction or find lasting sobriety? Most people will make guesses about willpower — and they won’t be completely wrong — but it is rooted in something more basic.
Turns out, the real key is impulsivity — whether a person tends to make hasty decisions and act on impulse. If that’s the case, they’re likely to find it incredibly hard to break free from addiction.
🖇A recent study revealed that patients in remission for less than a year had difficulties holding back immediate reactions and thinking their decisions through compared to those sober for over a year. What’s interesting, though, is that their choices were equally poor, which likely shows how alcohol addiction messes with people's ability to think thoroughly.
Still, those in remission for longer periods pondered their actions more carefully – which boosted their chances to stay sober and, hopefully, to improve their thinking skills. This shows that impulsivity isn’t just a symptom but a target for treatment.
Rehab programs focused on self-control and decision-making might be the next breakthrough in addiction recovery, helping individuals not only beat their addiction but also build a more stable future. And let’s stop blaming them for lacking willpower — maybe they’ve never learned how to pause before making decisions — and that’s exactly what good therapy can teach!
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#AddictionRecovery
👏3🙏2✍1❤1💯1
Axé to your mental health!
Sports have an incredible way of bringing out the best in us, training not only our bodies but also our ability to think clearly and act with intention. On the flip side, athletes may end up with a narrow sense of self, selfishness, and even anxiety. Plus, sports can bring out destructive protest behaviors, such as defiance, nihilism, and escapism.
So, does sport really help to clear the mind, or should sports lovers, on the contrary, be more careful? 🖇Research into the Brazilian dancelike martial art Capoeira leaves no room for doubt.
The longer people do this sport, the stronger they get in all the ways physical activities are meant to help. They handle stress and difficult emotions better — they’re more confident and, contrary to fears, don’t drift into escapism. They get more decisive, navigate uncertainty with ease, take calculated risks, and build solid self-discipline.
Moreover, the longer capoeiristas practice, the better their overall well-being is: they express their needs more clearly, admit their mistakes, and adapt to change quickly. On top, they’re more satisfied with their achievements and life itself.
Capoeira is rooted in philosophy and culture, which really helps with all-around personal growth. But any sport taps into personal strengths, boosting the ability to grow emotionally and find balance. Each in its own way, so it’s all about finding the one that suits you. And remember: stay mindful — don’t get obsessed or fall into laziness — and you’ll get the most out of what sports have to offer.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#SelfRegulation #SportPsychology
Sports have an incredible way of bringing out the best in us, training not only our bodies but also our ability to think clearly and act with intention. On the flip side, athletes may end up with a narrow sense of self, selfishness, and even anxiety. Plus, sports can bring out destructive protest behaviors, such as defiance, nihilism, and escapism.
So, does sport really help to clear the mind, or should sports lovers, on the contrary, be more careful? 🖇Research into the Brazilian dancelike martial art Capoeira leaves no room for doubt.
The longer people do this sport, the stronger they get in all the ways physical activities are meant to help. They handle stress and difficult emotions better — they’re more confident and, contrary to fears, don’t drift into escapism. They get more decisive, navigate uncertainty with ease, take calculated risks, and build solid self-discipline.
Moreover, the longer capoeiristas practice, the better their overall well-being is: they express their needs more clearly, admit their mistakes, and adapt to change quickly. On top, they’re more satisfied with their achievements and life itself.
Capoeira is rooted in philosophy and culture, which really helps with all-around personal growth. But any sport taps into personal strengths, boosting the ability to grow emotionally and find balance. Each in its own way, so it’s all about finding the one that suits you. And remember: stay mindful — don’t get obsessed or fall into laziness — and you’ll get the most out of what sports have to offer.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#SelfRegulation #SportPsychology
❤🔥5👏3👍1🎉1
Food issues are something many of us may struggle with — whether it’s stress-eating chips, or obsessing over body image with extreme diets. Food tracking apps were meant to help build a healthier relationship with food. But too much focus on counting calories can trigger bad eating habits.
Or can they?
📎Researchers from the First Moscow State Medical University found that food-tracking apps, in fact, helped break some harmful patterns. Users quit stress-eating and kept it low even after they stopped tracking calories. They also were less tempted by food when not hungry, but those cravings came back after a month without the app.
Contrary to what one might expect, people didn’t start cutting back on food too much because of the app. Overall, anxiety levels dropped, likely because people felt more in control of their eating. Plus, the app’s news feed, where people shared their thoughts, offered emotional support.
Does this mean, food-tracking apps are a blessing?
As it often goes, it’s not that simple. The dark side of such apps is that the more people used them, the more depressed they became, possibly because they didn't get satisfaction from food anymore. Moreover, even though some eating habits improved, people could still fall into eating disorders more easily. Perhaps, because seeing how many calories they’d consumed or the suggested restrictions made them feel uneasy or negative about their body image. This was especially true for those prone to anxiety.
Should we stop using them then?
Food tracking apps are neither a cure-all nor a pure evil. One thing is certain: they do have the real power to influence our relationships with food. The good news is, now we know which features help, and which are likely to harm, so there’s a way to make these apps more mental-health-friendly. Until that happens, it’s best to use them with caution.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#EatingDisorder
Or can they?
📎Researchers from the First Moscow State Medical University found that food-tracking apps, in fact, helped break some harmful patterns. Users quit stress-eating and kept it low even after they stopped tracking calories. They also were less tempted by food when not hungry, but those cravings came back after a month without the app.
Contrary to what one might expect, people didn’t start cutting back on food too much because of the app. Overall, anxiety levels dropped, likely because people felt more in control of their eating. Plus, the app’s news feed, where people shared their thoughts, offered emotional support.
Does this mean, food-tracking apps are a blessing?
As it often goes, it’s not that simple. The dark side of such apps is that the more people used them, the more depressed they became, possibly because they didn't get satisfaction from food anymore. Moreover, even though some eating habits improved, people could still fall into eating disorders more easily. Perhaps, because seeing how many calories they’d consumed or the suggested restrictions made them feel uneasy or negative about their body image. This was especially true for those prone to anxiety.
Should we stop using them then?
Food tracking apps are neither a cure-all nor a pure evil. One thing is certain: they do have the real power to influence our relationships with food. The good news is, now we know which features help, and which are likely to harm, so there’s a way to make these apps more mental-health-friendly. Until that happens, it’s best to use them with caution.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#EatingDisorder
❤6🌭3👍2🕊2
Forever young!
Getting older is something many people dread. As we age, we often have to let go of parts of our lives, especially when we stop working. Retirement can feel like a gloomy chapter. But it doesn't have to be.
📎Researchers found what helps older adults find joy and fulfilment in life – and how to make it happen for those who haven't yet.
As you'd expect, health plays a big role – it's harder to feel satisfied with life when dealing with a disability. Yet, some elderly people find happiness despite physical challenges. Their secret? They stay focused on the present, keep up with current events, and mentally feel younger than they are regardless of their physical condition.
People with jobs are generally more satisfied, especially with their financial status. That said, the real game-changer is whether they feel younger than their age and keep up with what's happening around. Those who do are optimistic about their lives even without an occupation, but to those who don’t even their job doesn’t bring much pleasure. The same goes for education: while having a degree increases the chances of happy retirement, it only works if the degree holder feels younger at heart.
Religious beliefs hugely help elderly people cope and view their life in the positive light. However, their outlook on life matters even more. Believing in a higher power brings comfort, but constantly thinking about the future steals much of its magic. That’s likely because thoughts of what might come — like boredom or loneliness — make it harder to fully embrace this chapter of life.
Seems like happiness in later life isn’t about circumstances but mindset. Work, education, and faith help, while disabilities put up obstacles. However, the secret lies in living in the present and staying active and curious which leads to feeling younger than the age. Good news is, these are the mental habits that can be nurtured through psychological training. And let’s not forget, we all have a role to play — whether as family or community members — by keeping older adults engaged and valued.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#LifeSatisfaction #Retirement
Getting older is something many people dread. As we age, we often have to let go of parts of our lives, especially when we stop working. Retirement can feel like a gloomy chapter. But it doesn't have to be.
📎Researchers found what helps older adults find joy and fulfilment in life – and how to make it happen for those who haven't yet.
As you'd expect, health plays a big role – it's harder to feel satisfied with life when dealing with a disability. Yet, some elderly people find happiness despite physical challenges. Their secret? They stay focused on the present, keep up with current events, and mentally feel younger than they are regardless of their physical condition.
People with jobs are generally more satisfied, especially with their financial status. That said, the real game-changer is whether they feel younger than their age and keep up with what's happening around. Those who do are optimistic about their lives even without an occupation, but to those who don’t even their job doesn’t bring much pleasure. The same goes for education: while having a degree increases the chances of happy retirement, it only works if the degree holder feels younger at heart.
Religious beliefs hugely help elderly people cope and view their life in the positive light. However, their outlook on life matters even more. Believing in a higher power brings comfort, but constantly thinking about the future steals much of its magic. That’s likely because thoughts of what might come — like boredom or loneliness — make it harder to fully embrace this chapter of life.
Seems like happiness in later life isn’t about circumstances but mindset. Work, education, and faith help, while disabilities put up obstacles. However, the secret lies in living in the present and staying active and curious which leads to feeling younger than the age. Good news is, these are the mental habits that can be nurtured through psychological training. And let’s not forget, we all have a role to play — whether as family or community members — by keeping older adults engaged and valued.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#LifeSatisfaction #Retirement
❤4👏3🥰2
Why are some kids ready for school while others aren’t?
It’s no mystery — it all starts at home. Before kids even pick up a book or pencil, parents can help them build early language skills, setting them up not just for academic success, but for easily connecting with others once they hit school.
What decides if a kid picks up early literacy skills quickly?
Well-read, educated parents and homes rich in books, print materials, and other opportunities to explore language will increase the chances. But more important is one simple question, “Do parents see it as their role to shape their child’s literacy journey?” Some, unsure of where to start, leave it all to teachers. That’s a missed opportunity because the family is the most powerful influence in those early years.
Good intentions, bad execution
Many parents mean well but miss the mark when it comes to how they engage.
📎Take reading together: research by scholars from Mexico shows that while most parents believe in its value, they often treat it like a one-sided lecture. They don’t pause to ask questions and spark curiosity.
Besides, many parents center their language activities with kids on correcting their mistakes, which certainly is important but overdoing it without adding fun can dampen a child’s enthusiasm. Most caregivers also fail to show examples by reading themselves — and kids need role models.
How to get it right
Here’s the good news: creating a thriving learning environment isn’t rocket science. It’s about simple, thoughtful steps that make a big impact.
Make it interactive: turn reading and conversations into shared adventures. Ask questions, spark curiosity, and encourage your child to take the lead.
Mix in rhymes, riddles, and word games. Learning through fun beats endless corrections.
Create a warm, supportive environment where mistakes are okay and exploration is encouraged. Ultimately, it’s about raising confident, curious, and connected individuals ready to take on the world.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#parenting #ChildDevelopment
It’s no mystery — it all starts at home. Before kids even pick up a book or pencil, parents can help them build early language skills, setting them up not just for academic success, but for easily connecting with others once they hit school.
What decides if a kid picks up early literacy skills quickly?
Well-read, educated parents and homes rich in books, print materials, and other opportunities to explore language will increase the chances. But more important is one simple question, “Do parents see it as their role to shape their child’s literacy journey?” Some, unsure of where to start, leave it all to teachers. That’s a missed opportunity because the family is the most powerful influence in those early years.
Good intentions, bad execution
Many parents mean well but miss the mark when it comes to how they engage.
📎Take reading together: research by scholars from Mexico shows that while most parents believe in its value, they often treat it like a one-sided lecture. They don’t pause to ask questions and spark curiosity.
Besides, many parents center their language activities with kids on correcting their mistakes, which certainly is important but overdoing it without adding fun can dampen a child’s enthusiasm. Most caregivers also fail to show examples by reading themselves — and kids need role models.
How to get it right
Here’s the good news: creating a thriving learning environment isn’t rocket science. It’s about simple, thoughtful steps that make a big impact.
Make it interactive: turn reading and conversations into shared adventures. Ask questions, spark curiosity, and encourage your child to take the lead.
Mix in rhymes, riddles, and word games. Learning through fun beats endless corrections.
Create a warm, supportive environment where mistakes are okay and exploration is encouraged. Ultimately, it’s about raising confident, curious, and connected individuals ready to take on the world.
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#parenting #ChildDevelopment
❤4👏4🥰3
What’ve been your plans for these winter holidays? Is it turkey and gifts with family at Christmas or a romantic day and KFC like in modern Japan? Or are you skipping Christmas and set to party till dawn on New Year’s? How we celebrate often reflects the norms of our age group and the cultural traditions. In fact, they influence everything, from how much personal space we give to each other to how we go about our day.
But can true creativity thrive within the boundaries of societal norms? After all, many great minds were nonconformists who defied them. So, is it possible to think outside the box while playing by society’s rules?
📎Researchers took a closer look at teenagers, known for questioning rules and authority. Surprisingly, a third strongly aligned with cultural norms, while over half were quite in tune with them — so full-blown rebellion isn’t as common as you’d think.
What about creativity? One set of rules stood out: safety guidelines like “Don’t stay out late” or “Don’t talk to strangers.” Teens with high creative thinking were more likely to break these, driven by curiosity and a thirst for experimentation that often outweighed fear of consequences.
Other than that, creativity and rule-following seem to coexist perfectly. Teens can be imaginative and curious while staying polite, organized, and mindful of boundaries — perhaps a sign of growing maturity and their ability to balance freedom with responsibility.
Human nature is wonderfully complex, able to embrace contrasting qualities and make them work together. This holiday season, we wish for your different sides to always be in harmony. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey with us!
#TeenageBehavior
But can true creativity thrive within the boundaries of societal norms? After all, many great minds were nonconformists who defied them. So, is it possible to think outside the box while playing by society’s rules?
📎Researchers took a closer look at teenagers, known for questioning rules and authority. Surprisingly, a third strongly aligned with cultural norms, while over half were quite in tune with them — so full-blown rebellion isn’t as common as you’d think.
What about creativity? One set of rules stood out: safety guidelines like “Don’t stay out late” or “Don’t talk to strangers.” Teens with high creative thinking were more likely to break these, driven by curiosity and a thirst for experimentation that often outweighed fear of consequences.
Other than that, creativity and rule-following seem to coexist perfectly. Teens can be imaginative and curious while staying polite, organized, and mindful of boundaries — perhaps a sign of growing maturity and their ability to balance freedom with responsibility.
Human nature is wonderfully complex, able to embrace contrasting qualities and make them work together. This holiday season, we wish for your different sides to always be in harmony. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey with us!
#TeenageBehavior
🎄2☃1🎅1
Screens are everywhere! We’ve talked about how to protect teens online and limit screen time for kids, but what about 1-3 years olds?
Colorful interactive games and animated fairy tales all sound good. But more time spent on the screen sends kids struggling with social interactions and even affects brain development, making them crave instant rewards. Is it all black and white though?
📎Researchers from Argentina have sorted it all out. While toddlers’ phone use was around an hour—already very concerning—the real shocker was the 5 hours of background TV kids were exposed to every day! Don't underestimate its impact: it disrupts communication and adds unnecessary distractions. Kids who grew up with TV constantly on usually talk less while playing and have more trouble learning and controlling their behaviour.
Contrary to that, playing together with parents using real toys has a positive impact on kids’ self-control, memory, task-switching, and speech. Sharing toys encourages storytelling, naming objects, moving them around, and making sounds to help the toddler interact. Moreover, parents simply engage more with their kids during toy play than when playing on the phones together.
Does it mean that toddlers should be guarded from screens altogether?
Surprisingly, TV can have some benefits—like helping toddlers respond more when someone tries to engage them in real play. But the downsides outweigh the positives, especially when kids are left alone with screens for long periods. Yet, if parents join in, pointing out characters or situations on the screen, it encourages interaction and reduces the negative effects screens have on kids' development.
Screens aren’t inherently bad, but parents should avoid using them as a quick distraction. Instead, they can be a fun and educational tool when used together, with minimal negative effects, as long as screen time is properly limited. And remember: real play is still the best way to boost your child’s cognitive growth!
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#parenting #ToddlerDevelopment
Colorful interactive games and animated fairy tales all sound good. But more time spent on the screen sends kids struggling with social interactions and even affects brain development, making them crave instant rewards. Is it all black and white though?
📎Researchers from Argentina have sorted it all out. While toddlers’ phone use was around an hour—already very concerning—the real shocker was the 5 hours of background TV kids were exposed to every day! Don't underestimate its impact: it disrupts communication and adds unnecessary distractions. Kids who grew up with TV constantly on usually talk less while playing and have more trouble learning and controlling their behaviour.
Contrary to that, playing together with parents using real toys has a positive impact on kids’ self-control, memory, task-switching, and speech. Sharing toys encourages storytelling, naming objects, moving them around, and making sounds to help the toddler interact. Moreover, parents simply engage more with their kids during toy play than when playing on the phones together.
Does it mean that toddlers should be guarded from screens altogether?
Surprisingly, TV can have some benefits—like helping toddlers respond more when someone tries to engage them in real play. But the downsides outweigh the positives, especially when kids are left alone with screens for long periods. Yet, if parents join in, pointing out characters or situations on the screen, it encourages interaction and reduces the negative effects screens have on kids' development.
Screens aren’t inherently bad, but parents should avoid using them as a quick distraction. Instead, they can be a fun and educational tool when used together, with minimal negative effects, as long as screen time is properly limited. And remember: real play is still the best way to boost your child’s cognitive growth!
Join us to explore the human mind together!
#parenting #ToddlerDevelopment
❤4🔥2👏2