When it comes to climate change, what motivates us to act?
Individual attitudes toward renewable energy and climate change are based on myriad psychological factors that range from the straightforward to the obscure.
Moral values explain differences in COVID-19 vaccination rates across U.S. counties
Research from USC Dornsife shows that moral values predict regional differences in COVID-19 vaccination rates beyond structural, demographic and political barriers to vaccination.
To break unhealthy habits, stop obsessing over willpower — why routines matter more than conscious choices
Understanding and changing the environment in which habits form is a critical step when it comes to breaking unwanted behaviors and forming healthy ones.
Most Americans today are choosing cremation. Here’s why burials are becoming less common
As late as 1970, only about 5% of Americans chose cremation; now, more than half of us choose the method. A USC expert explains why.
From in-crowds to power couples, network science uncovers the hidden structure of community dynamics
A USC researcher and colleagues found a way to detect powerful “inner circles” in large organizations simply by studying networks that map emails being sent among employees.
A very nontraditional career path: From the military to entertainment to business
Trojan Robbi Spencer has made the most of her diverse experience by combining her business background with her interest in psychology.
Coping with COVID: Thanks to omicron, 2022 is off to a painful start
Disruption fatigue, emotional exhaustion and skepticism about public health information are making a bad thing worse, USC experts note. Coping skills and safety measures are critical.
A group’s moral values may help determine the likelihood of hate-motivated harmful acts
USC Dornsife researchers use geospatial modeling and psychological experimentation to predict “extreme behavioral expressions of prejudice” — malicious acts motivated by hate or bigotry.
Can dad’s parenting style be predicted before his child’s birth?
A preliminary study finds that expectant fathers with higher levels of oxytocin and brain activation later endorse a more “baby-led,” empathetic parenting style.
Let’s Talk About the Quiet Crisis in College Sports: Mental Health
Student-athletes have long stayed silent about depression. USC sport psychologists are telling them it’s OK to get help — and they’re not alone.
Why genocide survivors can offer a way to heal from the trauma of the pandemic year
Though it may seem like a global pandemic and the genocide of a people have very little in common, the long-lingering effects of trauma on survivors are similar.
Founded as the pandemic hit, a new center brings together experts on the changing family
Darby Saxbe, founder of the Center for the Changing Family at USC Dornsife, shares why the era of COVID-19 is the perfect time to focus on families, stress and health.
Eating disorders expert answers your questions
During National Eating Disorders Week, the director of USC’s eating disorders program provides some insight on your most pressing questions.
No, you are not addicted to your digital device, but you may have a habit you want to break
It’s a mistake to equate frequent social media use with addiction, note two USC researchers: Unlike with addiction, frequent social media users sometimes benefit and sometimes suffer.
Middle-aged Americans report more pain than the elderly
A new USC/Princeton study has found that today’s less-educated Americans experience higher levels of pain than did previous generations.
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.