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<td><span style="font-family:Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:20px;font-weight:bold;">PsyPost – Psychology News Daily Digest (Unofficial)</span></td>
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<td><a href="https://www.psypost.org/sleep-problems-surprisingly-common-in-adults-with-adhd-study-reveals/" style="font-family:Helvetica, sans-serif; letter-spacing:-1px;margin:0;padding:0 0 2px;font-weight: bold;font-size: 19px;line-height: 20px;color:#222;">Sleep problems surprisingly common in adults with ADHD, study finds</a>
<div style="font-family:Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align:left;color:#999;font-size:11px;font-weight:bold;line-height:15px;">Jan 21st 2025, 08:00</div>
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<p><p>A large study of adults with ADHD found that 60% of these individuals reported some type of sleep disorder. Specifically, 36% reported having problems falling asleep (delayed sleep onset), 31% reported insomnia, and 29% reported restless legs syndrome/periodic limb movement disorder. The paper was published in the <a href="https://doi.org/10.1177/10870547241284477"><em>Journal of Attention Disorders</em></a>.</p>
<p>Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with daily functioning or development. Symptoms of inattention typically include difficulty sustaining focus, forgetfulness, and disorganization, while hyperactivity and impulsivity manifest as restlessness, excessive talking, or interrupting others. ADHD is most often diagnosed during childhood, as symptoms tend to conflict with school rules and expectations. However, the disorder can persist into adulthood, adversely affecting academic, social, and occupational success.</p>
<p>Both children and adults with ADHD often experience sleep problems and disorders. Most research on this topic has focused on children, typically showing that both subjective and objective sleep disturbances are common in these individuals. These disturbances include difficulties falling asleep, nighttime awakenings, and sleep-disordered breathing.</p>
<p>Study author Mirte van der Ham and her colleagues aimed to explore how prevalent sleep problems are in adults with ADHD in the Netherlands. They also sought to determine whether these issues are associated with other psychiatric conditions. Their hypothesis was that sleep problems are more frequent among adults with ADHD compared to the general population, particularly in those with additional psychiatric disorders.</p>
<p>For their analysis, the researchers extracted data from the electronic patient files of individuals attending 46 outpatient clinics of the mental health institute Parnassia Groep in the Netherlands between October 2018 and March 2020. Parnassia Groep is the largest mental health care institute in the Netherlands. All patients were referred by a general practitioner or mental health professional for the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD and any psychiatric comorbidities, in accordance with standard procedures in the country.</p>
<p>In total, the analysis included data from 3,691 patients, 49% of whom were female, with an average age of 35 years. The researchers used data from assessments of sleep problems (via the Holland Sleep Disorder Questionnaire) along with various demographic and medical information. The assessment screened for the most common sleep disorders, including insomnia, circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorder, hypersomnia, parasomnia, restless legs syndrome/periodic limb movement disorder, and sleep-related breathing disorders.</p>
<p>Insomnia is characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or achieving restorative sleep despite adequate opportunities. Circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorder involves disruptions in the timing of sleep due to misalignment between an individual’s internal clock and the external environment. Hypersomnia refers to excessive daytime sleepiness or prolonged nighttime sleep that interferes with daily functioning.</p>
<p>Parasomnias are abnormal behaviors or experiences, such as sleepwalking or night terrors, that occur during sleep or transitions between sleep stages. Restless legs syndrome and periodic limb movement disorder involve uncomfortable sensations in the legs or repetitive limb movements during rest or sleep, disrupting sleep quality. Sleep-related breathing disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea, are characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breathing during sleep, leading to poor sleep and health complications.</p>
<p>The results showed that 60% of patients experienced at least one sleep disorder, while 36% reported having two or more. Almost half of the participants had other psychiatric diagnoses in addition to ADHD. Among the participants, 36% reported difficulty falling asleep, 31% reported insomnia, and 29% reported restless legs syndrome/periodic limb movement disorder.</p>
<p>Women reported sleep disorders slightly more often than men (62% vs. 58%). Insomnia, hypersomnia, and parasomnia were somewhat more frequent in women, while sleep-related breathing disorders were more common in men.</p>
<p>“Adults with ADHD often report sleep problems, which are associated with specific psychiatric comorbidities. Systematic screening for sleep disorders in adult patients with ADHD can contribute to a better understanding of their complaints and may aid improved and integrated treatment for the sleep and psychiatric problems,” the study authors concluded.</p>
<p>This study contributes to the scientific understanding of ADHD and its consequences. However, it should be noted that the research was conducted solely on registered patients with ADHD in the Netherlands. Studies on different populations might yield varying results.</p>
<p>The paper, “<a href="https://doi.org/10.1177/10870547241284477">Sleep Problems in Adults With ADHD: Prevalences and Their Relationship With Psychiatric Comorbidity,</a>” was authored by Mirte van der Ham, Denise Bijlenga, Mylène Böhmer, Aartjan T. F. Beekman, and Sandra Kooij.</p></p>
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<td><a href="https://www.psypost.org/how-brain-activity-connects-teens-digital-habits-to-anxiety-symptoms/" style="font-family:Helvetica, sans-serif; letter-spacing:-1px;margin:0;padding:0 0 2px;font-weight: bold;font-size: 19px;line-height: 20px;color:#222;">How brain activity connects teens’ digital habits to anxiety symptoms</a>
<div style="font-family:Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align:left;color:#999;font-size:11px;font-weight:bold;line-height:15px;">Jan 21st 2025, 06:00</div>
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<p><p>New research published in <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s42761-024-00245-1"><em>Affective Science</em></a> sheds light on how preferences for digital communication over face-to-face interaction are connected to social anxiety in adolescents. Using a novel neurophysiological marker called delta-beta coupling, the study shows that teenagers who rely heavily on digital media for emotional communication exhibit a brain activity pattern linked to emotional “over-control.”</p>
<p>Adolescence is a critical period of emotional and social development, but it’s also when mental health challenges, such as anxiety, often emerge. Social anxiety—a fear of being judged or negatively evaluated in social settings—can severely impact a teenager’s self-esteem, relationships, and long-term mental health. While digital media use is nearly universal among teens, its implications for mental health remain unclear.</p>
<p>Previous studies produced mixed findings, with some suggesting digital media use exacerbates anxiety, while others found no connection. Importantly, these studies often focused on how much time teens spent online rather than how they used digital media in comparison to face-to-face communication. The researchers aimed to address this gap by examining whether a preference for digital communication, coupled with underlying brain activity, could explain the link between media habits and social anxiety.</p>
<p>“Digital media use is incredibly common among adolescents. Psychologists, parents, and adolescents themselves have widely expressed concern regarding how digital media relates to adolescent well-being,” said study author Sarah Myruski, an assistant research professor at The Pennsylvania State University and associate director of the <a href="https://emotiondev.la.psu.edu/">Emotion Development Laboratory</a>.</p>
<p>“Of particular interest for our research team, digital media use has been associated with elevated anxiety, symptoms which commonly emerge within adolescents with 1 in 3 teens reaching distressing and impairing levels of anxiety by age 18. Socially anxious teens may be particularly vulnerable to potential risks of online behavior, as they are more likely to be uncomfortable in in-person social interactions and instead opt to socialize using digital media.”</p>
<p>“Beyond considering sheer frequency (e.g., hours per week), my work examines how some teens prefer to use digital media to communicate with others, <em>as opposed to face-to-face interactions</em>, and how this digital media preference relates to anxiety and well-being. Difficulties with emotion regulation may underlie why reliance on digital media predicts higher anxiety symptoms for some teens.”</p>
<p>The study included 80 adolescents, aged 13 to 16, who participated in a single lab visit. The participants completed questionnaires assessing their communication preferences and social anxiety levels. They also underwent an electroencephalogram (EEG) recording to measure delta-beta coupling, a marker of how well the brain’s emotion-generating and emotion-regulating systems work together.</p>
<p>Delta-beta coupling reflects the interaction between lower-order, emotional brain regions and higher-order, cognitive control areas. High levels of delta-beta coupling are thought to indicate inefficient or rigid emotional regulation, often seen in individuals with anxiety.</p>
<p>The researchers found that adolescents who preferred digital media for emotional communication—whether for sharing positive experiences or seeking support for negative ones—showed higher levels of delta-beta coupling. This brain activity pattern, in turn, was associated with elevated social anxiety symptoms. In essence, the study found an indirect pathway: digital media preferences were linked to social anxiety through a neural marker of emotional over-control.</p>
<p>“We found that a brain measure reflecting ‘over-controlled’ emotion regulation (called delta-beta coupling) may explain why teens who prefer digital media vs face-to-face may also have greater social anxiety symptoms,” Myruski told PsyPost. “Among ‘digital-preference’ teens, we think this heightened connectivity may reflect excessive neural rigidity, which could result in a heightened need for control in unpredictable social situations.”</p>
<p>“One surprising finding is that overall digital media preferences for emotion communication are related to this pattern of emotion regulation difficulties and social anxiety symptoms. This suggests that habitual preferences for online emotional exchanges relate to anxiety even when the communication is positive.”</p>
<p>But as with all research, there are some caveats. The findings are based on data from a single point in time, making it impossible to determine causality. For example, it’s unclear whether digital media preferences lead to poor emotional regulation and anxiety or whether anxious teens are more likely to turn to digital communication. Longitudinal studies are needed to examine how these relationships develop over time.</p>
<p>“We cannot draw any conclusions about causality or long-term patterns from this data alone,” Myruski noted. “But this work does highlight the importance of continuing to investigate not just <em>how much time</em> teens spend online, but <em>what social-emotional behaviors they are engaging in online versus in-person</em>.”</p>
<p>As the researchers continue to explore these connections, the goal is to provide evidence-based guidance for families and educators on fostering healthy technology habits. Interested families can find more information on ongoing studies at the research team’s website.</p>
<p>“Our ongoing work will continue to explore how adolescents use digital media and investigate why particular patterns of use may be beneficial or detrimental for certain teens,” Myruski explained. “Families interested in participating in this work are encouraged to find more information on our lab website: <a href="https://emotiondev.la.psu.edu/research/bolt-study/">https://emotiondev.la.psu.edu/research/bolt-study/</a>.”</p>
<p>Myruski also has some practical advice grounded in her research findings:</p>
<p>“We have some general recommendations guided by our research that readers may find helpful. First, we suggest encouraging a balance between digital media use and face-to-face interactions. Thinking of it as a ‘balance’ may be more realistic and helpful compared to designating harsher ‘restrictions’, especially for older teens who are more likely to report using digital media to build and maintain close friendships.”</p>
<p>“Second, sometimes in-person interactions are not possible – in those times it may be best to opt for forms of digital communication that include real-time social cues (things like voice calls or FaceTime) because those more closely resemble in-person interactions.”</p>
<p>“Finally, since our evidence highlights the pivotal role of emotion regulation, we can seek ways to practice emotion regulation through everyday activities like talking through emotions, journaling, artistic expression, and/or through therapeutic interventions specifically designed to bolster emotion regulation. An important part of emotion regulation is awareness of feelings, and to this end some may find it helpful to notice their mood before and after digital media use to reflect on how this use is serving them.”</p>
<p>The study, “<a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/s42761-024-00245-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Digital Media Use Preference Indirectly Relates to Adolescent Social Anxiety Symptoms Through Delta-Beta Coupling</a>,” was authored by Sarah Myruski, Bridget Cahill, and Kristin A. Buss.</p></p>
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<td><a href="https://www.psypost.org/emotional-clarity-modulates-the-link-between-inflammation-and-depression-study-finds/" style="font-family:Helvetica, sans-serif; letter-spacing:-1px;margin:0;padding:0 0 2px;font-weight: bold;font-size: 19px;line-height: 20px;color:#222;">Emotional clarity modulates the link between inflammation and depression, study finds</a>
<div style="font-family:Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align:left;color:#999;font-size:11px;font-weight:bold;line-height:15px;">Jan 20th 2025, 12:00</div>
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<p><p>A study of adolescents found that individuals with low levels of emotional clarity who also exhibited higher levels of the inflammatory markers interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein were more likely to experience severe symptoms of depression five months later. The paper was published in <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbi.2024.08.035"><em>Brain Behavior and Immunity</em></a>.</p>
<p>Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest or pleasure in activities. These symptoms interfere with daily life, relationships, and productivity and, in severe cases, may lead to thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Depression can also affect physical health, causing changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating. While it is one of the most common mental health disorders, treatment efficacy remains limited, with a large proportion of cases being categorized as treatment-resistant depression.</p>
<p>Some researchers have observed that the behaviors of individuals with depression resemble those of people who are physically ill. These behaviors, referred to as “sickness behaviors,” include fatigue, concentration difficulties, slower motor function, and reduced interest in daily and social activities. When a person is injured or infected, these behaviors reduce energy expenditure on daily activities, allowing the body to focus on healing and limiting the spread of infection. Sickness behaviors are mediated by pro-inflammatory molecules produced by the body.</p>
<p>Given these similarities, many researchers have proposed that pro-inflammatory processes may also play a role in depression. Previous studies have reported an association between elevated levels of inflammatory proteins in the blood and depressive symptoms.</p>
<p>Auburn R. Stephenson and her colleagues sought to explore the relationship between pro-inflammatory proteins in peripheral blood and depressive symptoms. Specifically, they aimed to determine whether emotional clarity moderates this link. Emotional clarity refers to an individual’s ability to accurately identify, understand, distinguish, and describe their own emotions, which is often disrupted in depression.</p>
<p>The researchers analyzed data collected as part of the Temple University Adolescent Cognition and Emotion Project (Project ACE), a larger longitudinal study investigating the development of depressive disorders in adolescence. Participants were recruited from the greater Philadelphia area through newspaper advertisements and local middle schools.</p>
<p>The current analysis included data from 225 participants, with an average age of 16-17 years. Forty-six percent of the participants were girls.</p>
<p>Participants provided venous blood samples, allowing researchers to measure the levels of five inflammatory markers. This study focused on three markers: C-reactive protein (CRP), TNF-α, and interleukin-6. The researchers combined these data to create an inflammatory composite score representing the participants’ general level of inflammation.</p>
<p>Participants also completed assessments of emotional clarity (the Emotional Clarity Questionnaire) and depressive symptoms (the Children’s Depression Inventory). They provided additional health-related information. Five months after the study began, participants completed a follow-up assessment of depressive symptoms.</p>
<p>The results showed no association between depressive symptoms and inflammation levels at the start of the study. This result was consistent regardless of participants’ levels of emotional clarity. Additionally, there was no association between inflammation levels and depressive symptom severity five months later when the whole sample was analyzed.</p>
<p>However, among the 37% of participants with the lowest levels of emotional clarity, those with higher levels of C-reactive protein and interleukin-6 at the start of the study tended to report more severe depressive symptoms five months later. TNF-α levels were not associated with depression severity, even in this subgroup.</p>
<p>“In a two-wave study of community adolescents, our findings indicate that adolescents with low emotional clarity may be more vulnerable to the effects of heightened inflammatory activity on future depressive symptoms than adolescents with moderate or high emotional clarity. These results highlight the importance of insight into one’s emotions on the relationship between inflammatory activity and depression symptom severity,” the study authors concluded.</p>
<p>This study sheds light on the interplay between psychological and physiological factors in mental health. However, it is important to note that the study’s design does not allow for definitive causal inferences. Additionally, most participants reported depressive symptom levels below the clinical threshold for a depression diagnosis, so the results may not generalize to individuals diagnosed with depressive disorder.</p>
<p>The paper, “<a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbi.2024.08.035">Higher inflammatory proteins predict future depressive symptom severity among adolescents with lower emotional clarity,</a>” was authored by Auburn R. Stephenson, Iris Ka-Yi Chat, Allyson T. Bisgay, Christopher L. Coe, Lyn Y. Abramson, and Lauren B. Alloy.</p></p>
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<td><a href="https://www.psypost.org/the-psychological-puzzle-of-donald-trump-eye-opening-findings-from-20-studies/" style="font-family:Helvetica, sans-serif; letter-spacing:-1px;margin:0;padding:0 0 2px;font-weight: bold;font-size: 19px;line-height: 20px;color:#222;">The psychological puzzle of Donald Trump: Eye-opening findings from 20 studies</a>
<div style="font-family:Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align:left;color:#999;font-size:11px;font-weight:bold;line-height:15px;">Jan 20th 2025, 10:00</div>
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<p><p>Donald Trump’s <a href="https://www.psypost.org/exclusive/social/political/">political</a> rise in 2016 was as unexpected as it was controversial, shaking the American political landscape to its core. Emerging from a background steeped not in politics but in real estate and reality television, Trump’s ascent to the presidency defied all conventional wisdom. His brash rhetoric, unfiltered communication style, and populist appeal captivated millions, while simultaneously alienating millions of others.</p>
<p>The phenomenon of Trump’s support has since become a focal point for psychologists, sociologists, and political scientists alike, eager to understand what drives such fervent loyalty in his base. What psychological factors contribute to the unwavering support for a leader who has consistently broken political norms? Here, we explore some of the research that has attempted to answer these questions.</p>
<p>Trump’s journey to the White House was anything but typical. Traditionally, U.S. presidents have cut their teeth in politics or the military before making a run for the highest office. Trump, however, had neither. His experience lay in business and entertainment, making his leap to the presidency unconventional and unprecedented.</p>
<p>Trump’s fame as a real estate mogul and reality TV star provided him with an unparalleled level of name recognition, which he leveraged masterfully in his campaign. He eschewed traditional political strategies, relying instead on large rallies, extensive media coverage, and a powerful social media presence.</p>
<p>Furthermore, Trump’s populist rhetoric, which included promises to “drain the swamp” and put “America First,” resonated with a significant portion of the electorate. His approach was highly polarizing, often disregarding political norms and taking a combative stance against the political establishment. His rise defied the expectations of political analysts and pollsters alike, making his eventual victory in the 2016 election all the more remarkable.</p>
<p>The surprising nature of Trump’s ascent led to a surge in research aimed at understanding his appeal and the broader implications of his presidency. Scholars have since explored a wide array of psychological and social factors that may explain the fervent support Trump enjoys among his base. Below, are 20 studies that offer insights into the psychology of Trump supporters and the impact of Trump’s political ascent.</p>
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<p><strong>1. <a href="https://www.psypost.org/study-provides-first-evidence-of-a-causal-link-between-perceived-moral-division-and-support-for-authoritarian-leaders/">Heightened Moral Division and Support for Strong Leaders</a></strong></p>
<p>A study published in <em>Political Psychology</em> found that perceptions of moral division in society intensify support for authoritarian leaders. Researchers surveyed participants in the U.S., U.K., and Australia, finding that those who perceived a breakdown in societal morals were more likely to support leaders like Donald Trump, who they believed could restore order. The study suggests that the perception of moral polarization leads people to favor strong, rule-breaking leaders who promise to challenge the status quo.</p>
<p><strong>2. <a href="https://www.psypost.org/authoritarian-aggression-and-group-based-dominance-distinguished-trump-supporters-from-other-republicans-in-2016/">Authoritarian Aggression and Group-Based Dominance Among Trump Supporters</a></strong></p>
<p>Research published in <em>Social Psychological and Personality Science</em> analyzed the psychological traits of Trump supporters during the 2016 primaries. The study found that while general right-wing <a href="https://www.psypost.org/exclusive/social/political/authoritarianism/">authoritarianism</a> did not distinguish Trump supporters from other Republican candidates, Trump supporters were uniquely characterized by authoritarian aggression and a preference for group-based dominance. These traits manifested in a greater acceptance of hierarchy and the use of aggressive measures to maintain it. The findings suggest that Trump’s appeal was partly rooted in these authoritarian and dominance-oriented dispositions.</p>
<p><strong>3. <a href="https://www.psypost.org/men-who-are-anxious-about-their-masculinity-are-more-likely-to-support-aggressive-politics-and-to-have-voted-for-trump/">Masculine Insecurity and Aggressive Politics</a></strong></p>
<p>Research in the <em>Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin</em> revealed a link between masculine insecurity and support for aggressive political policies, including those endorsed by Trump. The study found that men who feel their masculinity is threatened are more likely to endorse aggressive policies and support leaders like Trump who project a dominant and unyielding persona. This phenomenon is partly explained by the concept of precarious manhood, where men strive to reaffirm their masculinity through aggressive political stances.</p>
<p><strong>4. <a href="https://www.psypost.org/donald-trumps-presidency-associated-with-significant-changes-in-the-topography-of-prejudice-in-the-united-states/">The Trump Presidency’s Impact on Prejudice</a></strong></p>
<p>A series of 13 studies involving over 10,000 participants, published in <em>Nature Human Behavior</em>, examined changes in <a href="https://www.psypost.org/exclusive/social/racism-and-discrimination/">racial and religious prejudice</a> among Americans during Trump’s presidency. The researchers found that explicit prejudice increased among Trump supporters, while it decreased among those who opposed him. This suggests that Trump’s rhetoric may have reshaped social norms, making expressions of prejudice more acceptable among his supporters.</p>
<p><strong>5. <a href="https://www.psypost.org/trump-supporters-use-less-cognitively-complex-language-and-more-simplistic-modes-of-thinking-than-biden-supporters-study-finds/">Simplicity and Happiness Among Trump Supporters</a></strong></p>
<p>A study in <em>Social Psychological and Personality Science</em> found that Trump supporters tended to use more positive language and exhibit less cognitive complexity compared to Biden supporters. The research suggests that Trump’s supporters may engage in more simplistic and categorical thinking, which could be linked to higher levels of happiness and satisfaction with their political choices.</p>
<p><strong>6. <a href="https://www.psypost.org/trump-supporters-exhibit-greater-cognitive-rigidity-and-less-interpersonal-warmth-than-supporters-of-liberal-candidates-study-finds/">Cognitive Rigidity and Interpersonal Warmth</a></strong></p>
<p>Published in the <em>Journal of Social and Political Psychology</em>, this study found that Trump supporters tend to be more cognitively rigid and less interpersonally warm compared to supporters of Democratic candidates. Even among extreme liberals, the research found that cognitive rigidity was less pronounced than among Trump supporters, suggesting a unique psychological profile among his base.</p>
<p><strong>7. <a href="https://www.psypost.org/new-study-suggests-ambivalence-may-have-played-a-role-in-trumps-2016-victory-but-pollsters-missed-it/">Ambivalence Towards Trump</a></strong></p>
<p>Research in <em>PLOS One</em> highlighted the ambivalence many people feel towards Trump. The study found that about 40% of college students displayed ambivalence in their attitudes towards Trump, indicating that political opinion polls may often overlook the complexity of voter attitudes. This ambivalence could have played a role in the unexpected outcome of the 2016 election.</p>
<p><strong>8. <a href="https://www.psypost.org/trump-perceived-as-abnormally-sadistic-and-narcissistic-by-both-conservatives-and-liberals-study-finds/">Perceptions of Trump’s Personality Disorders</a></strong></p>
<p>A study in <em>Clinical Psychological Science</em> revealed that American voters, regardless of their political leanings, perceived Donald Trump as having traits associated with sadistic and <a href="https://www.psypost.org/exclusive/social/dark-triad-personality/narcissism/">narcissistic personality disorders</a>. Both Trump supporters and detractors rated him as highly disordered, with only a difference in the degree of perceived dysfunction. The research highlighted that voters were not necessarily divided on Trump’s personality traits but rather on how these traits influenced their judgment of his suitability as a leader.</p>
<p><strong>9. <a href="https://www.psypost.org/study-identifies-psychological-pathways-that-explain-how-narcissism-predicts-support-for-donald-trump/">Narcissism and Support for Trump</a></strong></p>
<p>A study in the <em>Journal of Social Psychology</em> explored the relationship between narcissism and support for Trump. The researchers found that narcissism was linked to increased support for Trump, mediated by anti-immigrant attitudes and right-wing authoritarian beliefs. The findings suggest that Trump’s appeal may be partly rooted in his alignment with the narcissistic tendencies of some of his supporters.</p>
<p><strong>10. <a href="https://www.psypost.org/study-pinpoints-two-aspects-of-pathological-narcissism-that-predicted-the-intention-to-vote-for-trump-in-2020/">Narcissistic Traits Among Trump Supporters</a></strong></p>
<p>Likewise, a study published in PLOS One found that Trump supporters tend to exhibit narcissistic traits similar to those displayed by Trump himself. The research identified antagonism and indifference to others as key narcissistic traits that predicted support for Trump in the 2020 election, suggesting that his supporters may be drawn to his grandiose and aggressive personality.</p>
<p><strong>11. <a href="https://www.psypost.org/trump-supporters-became-more-likely-to-express-dehumanizing-views-of-black-people-after-his-2016-victory-study-finds/">Racial Attitudes and Polarization</a></strong></p>
<p>A study published in <em>Political Psychology</em> found that Trump’s 2016 campaign had a polarizing effect on the racial attitudes of white Americans. Those who supported Trump were more likely to dehumanize Black people after the election, while those who opposed him became more empathetic. This polarization highlights the deepening racial divide that has been exacerbated by Trump’s rhetoric.</p>
<p><strong>12. <a href="https://www.psypost.org/new-study-indicates-republicans-revised-their-moral-beliefs-to-be-more-in-alignment-with-donald-trump/">Moral Congruence and Political Support</a></strong></p>
<p>Research in <em>Political Psychology</em> found that voters tend to adjust their moral views to align with those of their preferred candidates. The study found that Trump supporters, in particular, were likely to revise their moral beliefs to reduce inconsistencies with Trump’s positions. This suggests that political leadership can significantly influence the moral beliefs of voters.</p>
<p><strong>13. <a href="https://www.psypost.org/study-indicates-that-donald-trumps-sleepy-joe-nickname-for-biden-was-only-effective-among-trumps-supporters/">The Effectiveness of Trump’s Nicknaming Strategy</a></strong></p>
<p>A study in the <em>Journal of Political Marketing</em> examined the effectiveness of Trump’s use of nicknames for his political rivals, such as “Sleepy Joe” for Joe Biden. The research found that while many people remembered the nicknames, they were not necessarily more likely to believe the negative connotations associated with them. The study highlights the limitations of this campaign strategy in swaying voter opinions.</p>
<p><strong>14. <a href="https://www.psypost.org/study-links-identity-threat-among-white-evangelicals-to-the-belief-trumps-election-was-part-of-gods-plan/">Religious Beliefs and Support for Trump</a></strong></p>
<p>Published in <em>Politics and Religion</em>, this study found that white evangelical Christians who view themselves as a religious minority are more likely to believe that Trump’s election was part of God’s plan. The research suggests that feelings of <a href="https://www.psypost.org/exclusive/psychology-of-religion/">religious identity</a> threat may have played a significant role in the unwavering support for Trump among white evangelicals.</p>
<p><strong>15. <a href="https://www.psypost.org/support-for-america-first-populism-linked-to-increased-odds-of-having-been-arrested/">Populism and Criminal Behavior</a></strong></p>
<p>A study in the <em>Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</em> found that individuals with strong populist beliefs, particularly those aligned with Trump’s “America First” agenda, were more likely to have been arrested in their lifetime. The research suggests a link between populist views, socioeconomic frustration, and criminal behavior, highlighting the complex relationship between political beliefs and personal conduct.</p>
<p><strong>16. <a href="https://www.psypost.org/pro-trump-maga-republicans-much-more-likely-to-endorse-delusional-and-pro-violence-statements-study-finds/">MAGA Republicans and Political Violence</a></strong></p>
<p>Research published in <em>PLOS One</em> found that MAGA Republicans, a faction of Trump supporters, are more likely than other groups to endorse political violence. The study revealed that this group holds distinct beliefs on race and democracy, which set them apart from other Republicans and non-Republicans. However, the willingness to engage in violence personally remained low across all groups.</p>
<p><strong>17. <a href="https://www.psypost.org/egocentric-victimhood-is-linked-to-support-for-trump-study-finds/">Victimhood and Support for Trump</a></strong></p>
<p>A study in <em>Political Behavior</em> found that Trump supporters who scored high on measures of egocentric victimhood were more likely to feel warmly towards him. In contrast, those who felt a sense of systemic victimhood were more hostile towards Trump. The research suggests that feelings of personal victimhood may play a significant role in shaping political preferences.</p>
<p><strong>18. <a href="https://www.psypost.org/this-psychological-factor-might-help-unite-america-or-destroy-us-from-within/">The Rise of Political Authoritarianism and Identity Fusion</a></strong></p>
<p>A study published in <em>Political Psychology</em> investigated the rise of political authoritarianism in the U.S., particularly surrounding the January 6, 2021, insurrection. The researchers found that Trump supporters who felt a deep personal connection to him (identity fusion) were more likely to perceive Democrats as existential threats and endorse authoritarian actions against them. However, those who fused their identity more with the broader concept of “America” were less likely to support such extreme measures.</p>
<p><strong>19. <a href="https://www.psypost.org/study-indicates-donald-trump-was-the-main-anti-vaccination-influencer-on-twitter-in-2020/">Anti-Vaccination Engagement on Twitter</a></strong></p>
<p>A study published in <em>PLOS One</em> found that anti-vaccination profiles on Twitter, which were often influenced by Donald Trump, were more engaged and interconnected than pro-vaccination counterparts. The anti-vaccination group was more active, generated more emotional and <a href="https://www.psypost.org/exclusive/conspiracy-theories/">conspiracy-laden content</a>, and formed a tightly-knit network that amplified misinformation. Trump, despite not overtly promoting anti-vaccination as president, was identified as a key influencer in this network, linking vaccination with autism in past tweets.</p>
<p><strong>20. <a href="https://www.psypost.org/how-did-trumps-tweets-really-affect-fox-news-new-research-offers-interesting-insights/">Trump’s Influence on Media Preferences</a></strong></p>
<p>Research published in <em>Public Opinion Quarterly</em> explored how Donald Trump’s tweets influenced perceptions of Fox News and alternative media outlets like OANN. Trump’s increasing criticism of Fox News on Twitter correlated with a decline in the network’s ratings among Republicans, who began to show a greater willingness to consume more extreme alternatives such as OANN. Interestingly, Democrats viewed Fox News more favorably following Trump’s attacks, suggesting a shift in their perception of the network. The study highlights the powerful role of political elites in shaping media consumption preferences through their rhetoric.</p>
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<p>These studies are just a small selection of the extensive research exploring the psychology behind Donald Trump’s support and broader political impact. If you’re interested in delving deeper into this fascinating topic, explore more research and insights at <a href="https://www.psypost.org/exclusive/social/political/donald-trump/">PsyPost’s dedicated section on Donald Trump</a>.</p></p>
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<td><a href="https://www.psypost.org/new-tiktok-research-short-video-use-linked-to-lower-academic-performance-in-children/" style="font-family:Helvetica, sans-serif; letter-spacing:-1px;margin:0;padding:0 0 2px;font-weight: bold;font-size: 19px;line-height: 20px;color:#222;">New TikTok research: Short video use linked to lower academic performance in children</a>
<div style="font-family:Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align:left;color:#999;font-size:11px;font-weight:bold;line-height:15px;">Jan 20th 2025, 08:00</div>
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<p><p>Researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences recently published a study in <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0309899"><em>PLOS ONE</em></a> examining the effects of short video usage on elementary school students’ academic performance in China. The study found a negative relationship between short video usage and academic performance, mediated by reduced attention spans. The findings highlight the potential influence of digital media on young learners.</p>
<p>Short video platforms <a href="https://www.psypost.org/does-tiktok-really-cause-brain-rot-new-study-links-short-video-addiction-to-brain-abnormalities/">such as TikTok</a> and Kwai have become a significant part of young people’s lives, including elementary school students in China, where academic achievement is highly emphasized. Recognizing the <a href="https://www.psypost.org/adolescents-addicted-to-short-form-videos-tend-to-have-more-sleep-problems-and-social-anxiety/">potential consequences</a> of widespread short video consumption, the researchers sought to explore whether and how this habit might impair academic performance. They also investigated the mechanisms behind this relationship, focusing on students’ attention and the influence of parental media use.</p>
<p>The research included 1,052 students from urban and suburban elementary schools in Shenzhen, China, with data collected through detailed questionnaires and academic records. Students provided information about their short video habits, while parents reported their own media usage and perspectives on their children’s screen time.</p>
<p>The researchers also measured students’ attention using an established test designed to evaluate attention breadth, stability, allocation, and shifting abilities. Academic performance was assessed through official exam scores across core subjects, providing a standardized measure of students’ learning outcomes.</p>
<p>The results showed a significant negative relationship between the amount of time elementary school students spent using short video platforms and their academic performance. This relationship appeared to be linked to the students’ attention levels, which were negatively associated with higher short video usage. Short video content was associated with difficulties in maintaining focus on academic tasks. Lower attention levels, in turn, were correlated with reduced performance on standardized academic assessments, suggesting a potential pathway through which screen time and cognitive function could intersect.</p>
<p>Parental behavior appeared to play a significant role in this dynamic. The researchers found that higher levels of parental short video usage were associated with a stronger negative relationship between children’s screen time and their attention. This association could be partially explained through modeling behavior, as children may imitate the habits and attitudes of their parents. High parental screen time might also reduce opportunities for parent-child interactions, potentially impacting children’s focus and learning environment.</p>
<p>Additionally, the study found that parental screen time moderated the relationship between children’s short video usage and their attention. When parents reported lower levels of short video usage, the adverse effects of children’s screen time on attention were less pronounced. Conversely, higher parental usage appeared to amplify these effects.</p>
<p>These findings point to the potential influence of family environment on children’s media habits and cognitive outcomes, suggesting that parental behavior could shape children’s experiences with screen media in meaningful ways. While the data supported these relationships, it is important to note that these findings do not imply direct causality between parental behavior and children’s outcomes.</p>
<p>Future research could address these gaps by employing longitudinal studies and integrating objective behavioral measures, such as eye-tracking, to assess attention and media usage more precisely. Expanding the sample to include diverse cultural and regional contexts would also enhance the generalizability of the findings.</p>
<p>“The study provides practical guidance to schools and families and lays the groundwork for future research,” the researchers concluded. “It opens avenues for exploring innovative approaches that integrate parental education with media literacy, facilitating the translation of research findings into practical methodologies for educational practices.”</p>
<p>The study, “<a href="https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0309899" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The relationship between short video usage and academic achievement among elementary school students: The mediating effect of attention and the moderating effect of parental short video usage</a>,” was authored by Qiong Gong and Ting Tao.</p></p>
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<p><strong>Forwarded by:<br />
Michael Reeder LCPC<br />
Baltimore, MD</strong></p>
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