Why nature, history and American culture all make social isolation difficult
USC experts explain why some people are suffering from extreme lockdown fatigue: it’s a mix of human nature and an American identity that chafes at being “controlled.”
To manage COVID-19 stress, develop healthy new habits and consume news in moderation
The societal disruptions caused by the coronavirus can take their toll on our mental health. USC experts offer insight into how to reduce stress during a global pandemic.
An expert in forming habits reveals how to work from home
Wendy Wood, a USC professor who specializes in changing behaviors, offers strategies for transferring office habits to your new home workspace amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
How parents can talk to their kids about COVID-19
From taking their fears seriously to finding new ways to be active together, USC experts offer insight into how parents can help their children during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Former child actor has been recast as an assistant professor at USC
A child actor who played Julius Rottwinkle in the movie Matilda, Leor Hackel has joined USC Dornsife as an assistant professor of psychology.
How does your body respond to feelings of moral outrage? Depends on your politics
A new USC study has found that liberals and conservatives feel certain violations of moral concerns like loyalty and purity in different areas of their bodies.
New year, same you? USC professors offer research-based tips for sticking with your New Year’s resolutions
Whether you’re trying to quit smoking or lose weight, USC experts want to help you think positively, set realistic goals and follow through on your resolutions for 2020.
How putting purpose into your New Year’s resolutions can bring meaning and results
Two USC experts suggests you frame your resolutions to emphasize purpose-based performance.
Practicing gratitude can have profound health benefits, USC experts say
Thanksgiving is a great time to count your blessings, but evidence shows that being grateful throughout the year can lead to better health and well-being.
After five decades, Sesame Street still understands how to reach kids
An USC psychology professor explains how this beloved children’s show uncovered the secret to educational success.
USC study finds older adults pay less attention to negative information
Researchers have found that, even when quickly processing a series of images, older adults prioritize positive information.
Believing is seeing: USC Dornsife professors investigate how we form beliefs
These days, facts aren’t always enough to win an argument. Find out where our beliefs come from and why they’ve become even harder to change.
Resilient people have lessons to offer, and USC researchers are listening
Why does adversity knock some people down while others bounce right back up? It’s called resilience, and more scientists are studying it.
Valentine’s Day in the digital age: Yes, just about everything has changed
USC experts agree: Online dating and shopping have many of us wondering if a day dedicated to romantic love might be passé.
Addressing the unique mental health challenges of bisexual veterans
USC doctoral student and Air Force Capt. Katie McNamara studies bisexual service members and veterans, who may be at higher risk for mental health issues such as PTSD and depression than their gay, lesbian or heterosexual peers.
After helping her children get into college, it’s mom’s turn to pursue a USC degree
Transfer student Margarita Lopez home-schooled eight kids. Now, at 58, she sets her sights on a psychology degree.
What is the meaning of life? Depends on your politics
Researchers find that conservatives, more so than liberals, find their lives are meaningful or have purpose.
It’s Friday the 13th: Are you feeling unlucky?
From numbers to colors, superstitions vary dramatically from culture to culture. For this Friday the 13th, USC Dornsife faculty trace what we share and how we differ in what we believe brings us good luck — and bad.
The Surprising Impact Happiness Has on Health, Relationships and Even the Economy
Researchers across disciplines at USC turn a scientific eye on happiness and its complex connection to our health, relationships and economy.
Are You Bad at Making Decisions? USC Experts Explain Why You’re Not Alone — and How to Get Better
The science of making up your mind is more complicated than you might think.
🎧 Law, psychology expert helps the littlest witnesses have their day in court
For 20 years, Thomas Lyon has been studying how to best interview child witnesses. Now he’s making a difference in their court cases, too.
Unique corps makes volunteering for scientific research easy, speeding studies
The Healthy Minds Research Volunteer Corps at USC enlists potential research participants of varying racial and socioeconomic backgrounds from across the greater Los Angeles area.
Pink for boys and blue for girls: the colorful history of things designed for kids
Whether it’s clothes, toys, books or schools, the designs tell students a lot about marketing and childhood.
Are Smartphones as Addictive as Drugs?
Since their introduction 10 years ago, smartphones have become a necessity many can’t live without.