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<td><span style="font-family:Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:20px;font-weight:bold;">PsyPost – Psychology News</span></td>
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<td><a href="https://www.psypost.org/researchers-identify-two-psychological-traits-that-predict-conspiracy-theory-belief/" 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;">Researchers identify two psychological traits that predict conspiracy theory belief</a>
<div style="font-family:Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align:left;color:#999;font-size:11px;font-weight:bold;line-height:15px;">Jan 4th 2026, 08:00</div>
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<p><p>New research published in the journal <em><a href="https://doi.org/10.1002/acp.70151" target="_blank">Applied Cognitive Psychology</a></em> identifies specific psychological traits associated with a tendency to believe in conspiracy theories. The findings suggest that individuals who perceive the world as fundamentally unjust and those who struggle with uncertain or ambiguous situations are more likely to endorse conspiratorial narratives.</p>
<p>Psychological research into conspiracy theories has expanded significantly in recent years. While many studies focus on specific beliefs, such as those regarding climate change or public health events, fewer have examined the broader mindset that makes someone prone to these ideas. </p>
<p>The authors of the new study aimed to explore the “cover-up” aspect of conspiracy thinking. This perspective involves the belief that powerful organizations conceal the truth and that skeptics are the ones who are misguided.</p>
<p>“I have long been interested in conspiracy theories, having published around 20 papers on the topic over the past decade or so. Few, if any, researchers have taken into account the ‘cover up’ perspective of conspiracy believers,” study author <a href="https://adrianfurnham.com/" target="_blank">Adrian Furnham</a>, a professor at the Norwegian Business School. “I have also long been interested in both beliefs about justice (Just World Theory) and more recently Tolerance of Ambiguity, which I believe is neglected in the Big Five framework. Both seemed obviously associated with conspiracy theories.”</p>
<p>The concept of “Tolerance of Ambiguity” describes how a person reacts to vague, inconsistent, or unclear information. The researchers wanted to test if the discomfort caused by ambiguity drives people toward the clear explanations offered by conspiracy theories. They also investigated how beliefs about justice in the world interact with these personality traits.</p>
<p>To conduct the study, the research team recruited 253 adults to participate in an online survey. The participants came from various countries, with the largest groups residing in Great Britain, South Africa, the United States, and Canada. The average age of the respondents was approximately 49 years old. The majority of the sample held a university degree.</p>
<p>To measure conspiracy mentality, the researchers used a ten-item scale. This scale included statements about secret organizations influencing political decisions and government agencies monitoring citizens. It also included items specifically designed to assess the belief that official narratives are deliberate cover-ups. One such item asked participants if they believed politicians usually hide the true motives for their decisions.</p>
<p>Participants also completed assessments regarding their demographic information, political views, and religious beliefs. They rated their level of optimism and whether they believed the world is generally just or unjust. Additionally, they completed a personality assessment known as the High Potential Trait Indicator. This tool measured six specific traits, including Adjustment, Competitiveness, Risk Approach, and Tolerance of Ambiguity.</p>
<p>The researchers found several distinct patterns among the participants. Demographic factors showed that younger individuals were slightly more likely to endorse conspiracy beliefs than older individuals. Women also showed a slightly higher tendency to endorse these views compared to men. However, these demographic effects were relatively small compared to other variables.</p>
<p>Political and religious factors played a more substantial role. Participants who identified as more religiously observant tended to have higher scores on the conspiracy mentality measure. Similarly, those who identified as politically conservative were more likely to endorse conspiracy theories than those who identified as liberal. These findings align with previous research linking certain ideological frameworks to conspiratorial thinking.</p>
<p>The most significant predictors were related to how individuals view the world and process information. The study found a strong link between a belief in an unjust world and conspiracy thinking. Those who felt that the world is fundamentally unfair were more inclined to believe that powerful groups are secretly manipulating events. This sense of injustice was a powerful indicator of a conspiratorial mindset.</p>
<p>Tolerance of Ambiguity emerged as another primary factor. Participants with lower scores in this trait, meaning they feel uncomfortable with uncertainty or vagueness, were more likely to endorse conspiracy theories. The data indicates that for these individuals, conspiracy narratives might provide a sense of certainty and closure that is otherwise missing. When faced with complex events, a conspiracy theory offers a definitive cause.</p>
<p>“Important determinants of those who believe in many/all conspiracy theories is the extent to which they see Justice in the World as well as their personal discomfort with various forms of ambiguity,” Furnham told PsyPost.</p>
<p>The study also produced results that ran contrary to common assumptions. The researchers found that a participant’s level of education was not related to their likelihood of believing in conspiracy theories. Holding a university degree did not appear to buffer individuals against these beliefs. Additionally, the personality trait of Curiosity, often associated with openness to new ideas, did not show a significant relationship with conspiracy beliefs.</p>
<p>These findings provide evidence that conspiracy theories may serve a psychological function for certain individuals. When people face uncertainty or feel a lack of control, they may experience anxiety. Adopting a conspiracy theory can offer a coherent explanation for confusing events. This helps reduce the discomfort associated with ambiguity by replacing chaos with a structured narrative of cause and effect.</p>
<p>The connection to the “unjust world” belief is also significant. Belief in a just world is often considered a coping mechanism that helps people navigate difficulties. It allows people to believe that good things happen to good people. On the other hand, viewing the world as unjust can lead to feelings of powerlessness. Conspiracy theories may validate these feelings by attributing misfortune to the actions of malevolent actors rather than random chance.</p>
<p>Individuals with a low tolerance for ambiguity often exhibit specific cognitive patterns. They may seek to avoid uncertainty by adhering to rigid or simplistic interpretations of events. This is sometimes described as a black-and-white view of the world. Conspiracy theories often present a clear distinction between “good” victims and “evil” perpetrators, which appeals to this cognitive style.</p>
<p>The researchers note that this intolerance of ambiguity is not just a preference but a personality trait that influences how people process threats. Previous studies have shown that people who are uncomfortable with uncertainty may react more strongly to perceived threats. In this context, a conspiracy theory acts as a tool to manage the anxiety produced by the unknown. It transforms a vague threat into a specific enemy that can be identified and blamed.</p>
<p>As with all research, there are some limitations to note. The sample size was relatively small, which limited the statistical power to detect smaller effects for some variables. Additionally, the participants were predominantly middle-aged professionals. This specific demographic group may not fully represent the general population.</p>
<p>Future research could benefit from larger, more diverse samples to verify these associations. The researchers expressed an interest in further exploring the function that conspiracy theories serve for believers. They hope to investigate how people discover these theories and how they form groups of like-minded believers. Understanding the social dynamics of these beliefs remains a priority for future investigation.</p>
<p>The lack of association between education and conspiracy beliefs suggests that intelligence is not the primary factor at play. Smart, educated people are also susceptible to these narratives if they have specific personality traits. This challenges the stereotype that conspiracy theorists are simply uninformed. It points instead to deep-seated psychological needs for structure and justice.</p>
<p>The study, “<a href="https://doi.org/10.1002/acp.70151" target="_blank">Conspiracy Theory Mentality, Injustice and Tolerance of Ambiguity</a>,” was authored by Adrian Furnham, Stephen Cuppello, and David S. Semmelink.</p></p>
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<td><a href="https://www.psypost.org/slow-breathing-during-meditation-reduces-levels-of-alzheimers-related-proteins-in-the-blood/" 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;">Slow breathing during meditation reduces levels of Alzheimer’s-related proteins in the blood</a>
<div style="font-family:Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align:left;color:#999;font-size:11px;font-weight:bold;line-height:15px;">Jan 4th 2026, 06:00</div>
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<p><p>A new study published in the journal <em><a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/psyp.70182" target="_blank">Psychophysiology</a></em> provides evidence that the specific way a person breathes during meditation may determine its impact on biological markers related to Alzheimer’s disease. The research demonstrates that mindfulness meditation accompanied by deliberate slow breathing reduces levels of amyloid beta peptides in the blood. In contrast, mindfulness practice without this breathing component may actually increase levels of these same peptides.</p>
<p>Alzheimer’s disease is physically characterized by the accumulation of amyloid beta plaques in the brain. These plaques are formed from the aggregation of amyloid beta peptides, which are proteins produced as a normal byproduct of cellular activity. </p>
<p>When these peptides are produced at high rates or are not cleared effectively, they can clump together and disrupt brain function. Strategies to reduce the production or accumulation of these proteins are a major focus of preventative medicine.</p>
<p>Scientific literature has previously suggested that <a href="https://www.psypost.org/breathing-exercises-show-potential-in-modulating-alzheimers-biomarkers-study-finds/" target="_blank">meditation might help slow brain aging and reduce the risk of dementia</a>. However, it has been difficult to pinpoint which specific element of meditation drives these potential benefits. </p>
<p>Some practices emphasize mental training and focused attention, while others emphasize physical relaxation and breath control. The authors of the current study sought to disentangle these factors.</p>
<p>“When you are relaxed, whenever you breath in your heart rate increases and when you breath out it decreases. When you breathe slower, these oscillations in heart rate become larger,” said study author <a href="https://gero.usc.edu/labs/matherlab/" target="_blank">Mara Mather</a>, a professor of gerontology, psychology and biomedical engineering at the University of Southern California.</p>
<p>“We found that daily sessions involving breathing slowly to increase oscillations in heart rate tends to decrease levels of amyloid-beta in the blood (see <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-30167-0" target="_blank">https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-30167-0</a>). Amyloid-beta is a peptide (a small protein) that is a normal byproduct of cellular activity that is, like other metabolic waste products, usually cleared out of the brain and body. </p>
<p>“However, if production levels are too high or clearance rates are not high enough, amyloid-beta levels increase and can start to aggregate (stick together) in the brain, forming amyloid-beta plaque, a signature feature of Alzheimer’s disease.”</p>
<p>“Slow breathing is an important feature of some types of meditative practices but not of other types,” Mather explained. “We were interested in whether slow breathing during meditation would decrease plasma amyloid-beta levels more than meditating without slow breathing.”</p>
<p>To investigate, the researchers recruited 108 participants. The final analysis included 89 healthy young adults between the ages of 18 and 35. The decision to use young adults allowed the researchers to observe physiological changes in a system that had not yet been altered by age-related disease pathology. The participants were screened to ensure they did not already have a regular meditation practice.</p>
<p>Before the main experiment, the team conducted pilot studies to refine their methods. They discovered that novice meditators do not naturally slow their breathing when asked to focus on their breath or body. Even when participants were instructed to focus on the sensations of the belly, their breathing rates remained similar to their resting rates. This finding necessitated explicit instructions for the slow-breathing condition in the main trial.</p>
<p>The participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups for a one-week intervention. The first group practiced mindfulness with slow breathing. They were instructed to inhale for a count of five and exhale for a count of five. This resulted in a pace of approximately six breaths per minute. </p>
<p>The second group practiced mindfulness with normal breathing. They were told to focus on the sensations of their belly but were not given a specific count or rhythm to follow. The third group served as a control and did not engage in any intervention.</p>
<p>“We did a lot of pilot testing and were surprised to find that, at least in novices, asking people to mindfully focus on their breath does not usually make them slow their breathing,” Mather noted. “Thus, we used mindful attention to breath as our active comparison condition.”</p>
<p>Participants in the two active groups practiced their assigned technique for 20 minutes twice a day. This totaled 40 minutes of daily practice for seven days. They used a laptop and a specialized heart rate sensor during their sessions. This equipment recorded their physiological data and ensured they were following the protocol. Blood samples were collected from all participants before the intervention began and again after the week concluded.</p>
<p>The analysis of the heart rate data confirmed that the groups performed as intended. The group assigned to slow breathing showed large oscillations in their heart rate during the practice sessions. This confirmed they were successfully engaging the parasympathetic nervous system. The group assigned to mindfulness with normal breathing did not show these oscillations. Their physiological state during the practice was similar to their resting state.</p>
<p>The blood analysis revealed distinct differences in amyloid beta levels between the groups. Participants who practiced mindfulness with slow breathing showed a decrease in plasma amyloid beta 40 and 42 levels. This reduction occurred after only one week of daily practice. The findings support the hypothesis that parasympathetic activation through breathing can alter how amyloid proteins are produced or cleared.</p>
<p>The results for the normal breathing group were different. Participants who practiced mindfulness without slowing their breath showed an increase in plasma amyloid beta levels. This increase aligns with the theory that the mental focus required for meditation can increase physiological arousal in novices. The effort to maintain attention may have stimulated the release of noradrenaline, driving the production of amyloid beta.</p>
<p>“Despite hearing all the same mindfulness instructions, the two conditions showed opposite effects after one week of daily practice,” Mather told PsyPost. “The mindfulness alone condition showed increases in plasma amyloid-beta while the mindfulness plus slow breathing condition showed decreases.”</p>
<p>“This raises the question of why mindfulness alone would increase amyloid-beta levels. Mindfulness requires focused attention. Noradrenaline is a neuromodulator that supports focused attention. Previous studies (see <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41583-025-00911-8.epdf" target="_blank">https://www.nature.com/articles/s41583-025-00911-8.epdf</a> p. 287 for review) suggest that noradrenergic activity can increase amyloid-beta production, while muscarinic receptors that can sense vagus nerve activity tend to decrease amyloid-beta production.” </p>
<p>The control group showed no significant changes in amyloid beta levels over the one-week period. This stability in the control group strengthens the conclusion that the changes observed in the other groups were due to the specific interventions. </p>
<p>“Different types of meditative practices can have quite different effects on your physiology and attention,” Mather siad. “Each type of practice may have different benefits. Our findings suggest that practices that include slow breathing are more likely to decrease plasma amyloid-beta than those that do not.”</p>
<p>The researchers also measured tau proteins, another biomarker for Alzheimer’s disease. No significant changes were found in tau levels or in the ratio of amyloid types. The researchers noted that this was expected, as these markers typically take much longer to change or are more relevant in older populations with existing pathology.</p>
<p>In addition, the researchers assessed psychological outcomes. Participants completed questionnaires regarding their mood, stress, anxiety, and depression levels. Despite the clear physiological differences, there were no significant differences in emotional well-being between the groups at the end of the week. The researchers suggest that one week may be too short a duration to induce noticeable psychological improvements.</p>
<p>There are several potential misinterpretations to avoid when considering these results. A reduction in plasma amyloid beta does not guarantee a reduction in Alzheimer’s risk. While plasma levels are correlated with brain levels, they are not identical. It is also important to consider that the participants were young and healthy. It is not yet known if these effects would be identical in older adults or those with cognitive impairment.</p>
<p>Future research is needed to confirm if these changes in the blood reflect changes in the brain. The researchers are planning studies to measure amyloid beta in cerebrospinal fluid. This would provide a more direct assessment of brain health. </p>
<p>“We currently are working on getting funding to do a clinical trial in which we measure cerebrospinal fluid levels of amyloid-beta before and after a few weeks of slow breathing,” Mather told PsyPost. “Cerebrospinal fluid levels of amyloid-beta are low in healthy 20-year-olds and increase markedly until they get high enough that they start aggregating in brain tissue (usually around age 60 or 70).” </p>
<p>“If we see similar percent decreases in amyloid-beta levels in cerebrospinal fluid as we did in blood plasma, this would mean that people could dial back their amyloid-beta levels to about the levels of someone 5-10 years younger. This could potentially delay or prevent the amyloid-beta aggregation processes that seem to be such a critical trigger for Alzheimer’s disease.”</p>
<p>The researchers also aim to determine if these reductions in amyloid beta can be sustained over longer periods. If the effects are cumulative, daily slow breathing could potentially serve as a low-cost intervention to delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.</p>
<p>“No other behavioral intervention has been demonstrated to decrease amyloid-beta levels relative to a randomized control,” Mather said. “For instance, while sleep has been shown to reduce amyloid-beta levels every night, no one has designed a sleep intervention that reduces amyloid-beta better than our normal sleep. A critical next step for us to is to test what daily slow breathing does to amyloid-beta levels in the brain.”</p>
<p>The study, “<a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/psyp.70182" target="_blank">A Randomized Clinical Trial Reveals Effects of Mindfulness and Slow Breathing on Plasma Amyloid Beta Levels</a>,” was authored by Kaoru Nashiro, B Rael Cahn, Paul Choi, Hye Rynn J Lee, Shaakhini Satchi, Jungwon Min, Hyun Joo Yoo, Christine Cho, Noah Mercer, Lorena Sordo, Elizabeth Head, Jeiran Choupan, and Mara Mather.</p></p>
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<td><a href="https://www.psypost.org/born-between-2010-and-2025-here-is-what-psychologists-say-about-your-future/" 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;">Born between 2010 and 2025? Here is what psychologists say about your future</a>
<div style="font-family:Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align:left;color:#999;font-size:11px;font-weight:bold;line-height:15px;">Jan 3rd 2026, 14:00</div>
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<p><p>Generation Alpha is the largest generation ever. Totalling two billion children, it encompasses anybody currently aged 0-15 years old – those <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s44217-024-00218-3">born between</a> 2010 and 2025.</p>
<p>This is the first fully digitally native generation, with many children already achieving unprecedented levels of digital literacy. It is predicted they will become the <a href="https://doi.org/10.13187/ejced.2021.3.783">most educated</a> generation in history: 90% are expected to complete secondary school worldwide, compared with 80% of gen Z.</p>
<p>However, gen Alpha children also inherit an increasingly precarious world, characterised by global uncertainties, housing shortages and climate change. It’s such a radical departure from what came before that this generation takes its name from the first letter of the Greek alphabet – unlike the gen Xs, Ys and Zs, whose letters come from our own (Latin) alphabet.</p>
<p>As developmental psychologists, we might ask what this new world means for gen Alpha’s psychological development. How might it influence their experiences, interests and values?</p>
<p>A good starting point is to look at their parents: the millennials (gen Y). From these 30- and 40-somethings, the gen Alphas are inheriting support for values such as inclusivity, adaptability and digital confidence, but also the tendency in some areas to boycott people whose words or actions are deemed offensive.</p>
<p>Millennials also <a href="https://vb.nweurope.eu/media/11341/millennials_genz-and-mental-health_global-survey_deloitte2020.pdf">report poorer</a> <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/pdf/10.1073/pnas.2303781120">mental health</a> than previous generations, and at least in <a href="https://www.oecd.org/content/dam/oecd/en/publications/reports/2025/06/mapping-trends-and-gaps-in-household-wealth-across-oecd-countries_37e92f18/4bb6ec53-en.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com">many western countries</a> they are facing in some ways a more challenging financial situation.</p>
<p>Facing this adversity may mean that millennial parents are uniquely well placed to build their children’s resilience. Encouragingly, millennial fathers show unprecedented levels of commitment to being <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/0038038506062036?casa_token=O7DOcB5-uLoAAAAA:wv9oOetDlq5D734YKFmm4qeq5KQdddynxnmnmGa6hAFGKZxKaQtjop3IyrOyDuI9lHOu8V_ddQqkv8Q">involved in parenting</a>, challenging gender stereotypes.</p>
<p>On the other hand, stressed parents often <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9328653/">struggle to cope</a> with everyday tasks, while their children can exhibit <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4861150/">behavioural problems</a> such as aggression, and <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38636551/">emotional difficulties</a> like social withdrawal and anxiety.</p>
<p>Technology has also introduced challenges as millennials have widely adopted personal devices. <a href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/811450/Adult_Online_Harms_Report_2019.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com">Roughly half of parents in the UK</a> say they are addicted to their phones, for example.</p>
<p>The distractions of digital devices can make parenting more difficult. This “technoference” is again associated with <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5681450/">child behaviour problems</a>, which could have knock-on effects later in life.</p>
<p>One additional technological challenge that gen Alphas experience is “<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37956869/">sharenting</a>”, where parents share photos and videos of them online, sometimes in [excessive or inappropriate ways]. We lack good data on the scale and impact of this trend, so researchers urgently need to map the risks.</p>
<p>Millennials’ own challenges with technology may at least put them in a better position to help their children navigate things like screentime and social media. Today’s digital world also means that gen Alpha’s parents have a huge amount of parenting information at their fingertips, as well as access to parenting forums and digital communities, which may reduce feelings of stress and isolation. Today’s psychologists and health professionals can also provide parents with rigorous <a href="https://eur03.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthychildren.org%2FEnglish%2Ffamily-life%2FMedia%2FPages%2Fhealthy-digital-media-use-habits-for-babies-toddlers-preschoolers.aspx&data=05%7C02%7Cch288%40cam.ac.uk%7Cecf5b80e5a7e46944d6808de121ec5ea%7C49a50445bdfa4b79ade3547b4f3986e9%7C1%7C0%7C638968120528669416%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=lkBqcH7WcP8qO%2F5OY4n02xtulzr5vSbwUJxrEQvwDVo%3D&reserved=0">evidence-based guidance</a>.</p>
<h2>Gen Alpha digital immersion</h2>
<p>The digital world has amplified gen Alpha’s exposure to ideas and cultural practices from peers and other adults. So while some are likely to spend longer living at home than previous generations, they may actually be less susceptible to parental influence. This could be liberating, but also introduces new risks.</p>
<p>We’ve seen how social media can exacerbate peer pressure and has introduced <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8006937">cyber-bullying</a>. Influencer trends <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-your-brain-keeps-falling-for-the-latest-beauty-fads-and-what-you-can-do-about-it-267274">risk inculcating</a> unrealistic body image ideals, which can contribute to <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11356888/">body dysmorphia</a>.</p>
<p>Excessive use of video games <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6361300/">can result</a> in sleep deprivation, reduced physical activity and impaired school performance. It may be that the increasing availability of VR games makes these risks more pronounced for gen Alpha.</p>
<p>Gen Alpha also <a href="https://assets.childrenscommissioner.gov.uk/wpuploads/2024/10/Ive-seen-horrible-things-Online-Safety-Report-October-2024.pdf">risk being more exposed</a> to <a href="https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/research-resources/2022/helplines-insight-briefing-legal-but-harmful-content">potentially harmful content</a> such as <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c708v7qkeg1o">pornography</a> or sites promoting self-harm or eating disorders. While they may not be as gullible as is often assumed, young children often lack <a href="https://bpspsychub.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdfdirect/10.1111/bjdp.12335">effective strategies</a> for identifying trustworthy information, putting them at more risk than adults.</p>
<p>In 2010, the cognitive anthropologist <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1468-0017.2010.01394.x">Dan Sperber coined the phrase “epistemic trust”</a> to describe the idea that we view others as trustworthy sources of information. Growing up surrounded by misinformation may instead lead gen Alpha to adopt the opposite stance – <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10772859/pdf/ripppo-26-3-704.pdf">epistemic mistrust</a> – with potential negative consequences <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10772859/">like depression and anxiety</a>, for instance</p>
<p>The digital space isn’t entirely negative for children’s psychological development. It’s much easier for gen Alpha to access information online about mental health, as well as professional psychological support, while also participating in virtual communities.</p>
<p>Technology also offers far greater access to educational resources and tools, something which AI may increase. <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2414-4088/9/8/84?utm_source=chatgpt.com">There’s even emerging evidence</a> that AI may enhance learning outcomes and increase student motivation, for instance. The big challenge will be to democratise learning without succumbing to adverse effects on human cognitive abilities from over-relying on AI for writing and thinking.</p>
<h2>A diversity of experiences</h2>
<p>Amid all this, it’s important to remember that gen Alpha’s psychological development is not following one monolithic trajectory.</p>
<p>The pandemic both highlighted and exacerbated inequality in many areas of childrens’s lives from education to home stability. For some older gen Alphas, school closures and online teaching left long-term scars – as evidenced by surging <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8325878/pdf/jogh-11-03084.pdf">school absenteeism</a> in <a href="https://www.oecd.org/en/publications/evaluating-post-pandemic-education-policies-and-combatting-student-absenteeism-beyond-covid-19_a38f74b2-en.html/">many countries</a> that <a href="https://www.lse.ac.uk/news/latest-news-from-lse/i-september-2024/absence-rates-will-stay-high-until-covid-generation-leaves-secondary-school">appears difficult</a> to reverse.</p>
<p>School closures during the pandemic meant the loss of a safe space for children who might be at risk of neglect or maltreatment at home. One consequence was a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38850751/">global rise</a> in violence against children. Even younger Alphas who were not born at the time may be <a href="https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/A888C092C1207EF345BBF45C45ADC298/S2040174420000847a.pdf/div-class-title-unheard-unseen-and-unprotected-dohad-council-s-call-for-action-to-protect-the-younger-generation-from-the-long-term-effects-of-covid-19-div.pdf">affected indirectly</a> by their older brothers and sisters’ experiences.</p>
<p>More generally, experience will differ greatly depending on where members of gen Alpha live. For example, in east Asia ultra-low fertility has led to emptying classrooms, while children in smaller families <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/17441730.2013.797293?casa_token=iuf2wzXDy3sAAAAA:lnPYvI4ysLqPDYf5ct5iByZ8p5bQ6jVEoBic1VTuYPTed7cBjk89FjV5VgKKTvQefy0M1z_f4GAAJw">endure more academic pressure</a> from parents. Understanding the experiences of children in the global south is particularly important, not least because they represent the majority of gen Alpha.</p>
<p>Gender will also affect in new ways how this generation experience the world. For instance, boys appear more prone to <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0747563220302326?casa_token=DVbp9euR9vwAAAAA:1BroaH0bmpgRV6UGE2wA6ApQjdRo0t66yeGlCPNSZ_mIcM2f3QENQDN_nyT2AHkb4uBK9fMepMs">gaming addiction</a> while girls are more likely to become addicted to social media. Girls also report seeing more online content that creates appearance pressure, while boys are more likely to <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11138097/pdf/13034_2024_Article_754.pdf">see misinformation</a> – no doubt sometimes <a href="https://www.ofcom.org.uk/siteassets/resources/documents/online-safety/research-statistics-and-data/protecting-children/experiences-of-engaging-with-the-manosphere.pdf?v=398550">promoting potentially harmful views about masculinity and women</a>.</p>
<p>What are gen Alpha’s own views of this new world? Despite adult fears about their exposure to misogyny, xenophobia and polarisation, today’s children are concerned about a wide range of progressive issues. These include <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/0963721420964147?casa_token=DNywUBy13poAAAAA:c4PuGGwA_DEs0DtrTkpz5oMRyE_w0OuhwFZrX6Q1WrBWP9UiiMsISDk3xlCWcfEIakZrk12Pokbu4mo">resource inequality</a>, sexuality, <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/17405629.2022.2108396">climate justice</a> and <a href="https://www.cell.com/action/showPdf?pii=S1364-6613%2823%2900121-3">animal rights</a>.</p>
<p>This might be youthful idealism that will be shed in adulthood. Yet we know, for instance, that <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-22862-1.pdf">millennials commonly express values</a> that differ from preceding generations.</p>
<p>Gen Alpha have also already been found to instil <a href="https://faculty.cnr.ncsu.edu/nilspeterson/wp-content/uploads/sites/17/2019/09/Lawson-et-al.-2019-IGL-NCC.pdf">pro-environmental attitudes</a> in their parents. So at least some of these progressive values are likely to endure and potentially ripple through to wider society.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img decoding="async" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/268500/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1"><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p>
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<p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-psychology-of-generation-alpha-268500">original article</a>.</em></p></p>
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<td><a href="https://www.psypost.org/new-cellular-map-reveals-how-exercise-protects-the-brain-from-alzheimers-disease/" 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 cellular map reveals how exercise protects the brain from Alzheimer’s disease</a>
<div style="font-family:Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align:left;color:#999;font-size:11px;font-weight:bold;line-height:15px;">Jan 3rd 2026, 12:00</div>
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<p><p>Recent research published in <em><a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41593-025-01971-w" target="_blank">Nature Neuroscience</a></em> provides a detailed cellular map of how physical activity remodels the brain to combat Alzheimer’s disease. By analyzing the genetic activity of individual brain cells, scientists have identified specific molecular pathways that exercise activates to protect memory centers. These findings offer a blueprint for developing future medications that could mimic the neurological benefits of a workout.</p>
<p>Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative condition characterized by the accumulation of harmful proteins and the death of brain cells. This process leads to severe memory loss and cognitive decline. Public health experts recognize physical exercise as a powerful lifestyle intervention that can delay the onset of these symptoms. While the broad benefits of staying active are well documented, the precise cellular mechanisms driving this protection have remained difficult to isolate.</p>
<p>To bridge this gap, a team of researchers investigated the dentate gyrus. This specific region within the hippocampus plays a central role in memory formation. It is also one of the few areas in the adult brain capable of generating new neurons, a process known as neurogenesis. In patients with Alzheimer’s, this regenerative capacity is compromised. The researchers sought to understand how exercise influences the diverse community of cells that make up this critical brain niche.</p>
<p>Christiane D. Wrann from Massachusetts General Hospital and Nathan R. Tucker from SUNY Upstate Medical University supervised the study. The lead authors, Joana F. da Rocha and Michelle L. Lance, spearheaded the experimental work. Their goal was to move beyond general observations of brain health and identify the specific genes and cell types that respond to physical exertion.</p>
<p>The team utilized a high-resolution technique known as single-nucleus RNA sequencing. Traditional methods often analyze bulk tissue, which averages the genetic activity of millions of cells together. In contrast, this advanced approach allowed the scientists to profile the gene expression of over 100,000 individual nuclei. This provided a granular view of which genetic programs were turned on or off in specific cell types.</p>
<p>The experiment involved a common mouse model genetically engineered to develop Alzheimer’s-like pathology. These mice, along with healthy wild-type controls, were divided into sedentary and active groups. The active mice were provided with running wheels and allowed to exercise voluntarily for two months. Following this period, the animals underwent behavioral testing and tissue analysis.</p>
<p>Behavioral assessments confirmed the effectiveness of the exercise regimen. The mice that ran demonstrated improved cognitive flexibility in water maze tests compared to their sedentary counterparts. This specific type of memory task relies heavily on the function of the dentate gyrus. The improvement indicated that the running protocol was sufficient to counteract some of the cognitive deficits associated with the disease model.</p>
<p>The sequencing data revealed that exercise elicits a complex and cell-specific response. The genetic changes induced by running were not uniform across all animals. Instead, the transcriptional response to exercise in the Alzheimer’s model was distinct from the response seen in healthy mice. This suggests that the diseased brain engages unique adaptive mechanisms to protect itself.</p>
<p>A major discovery concerned the population of immature neurons. These are developing cells that have not yet fully integrated into the brain’s circuitry. In the sedentary Alzheimer’s mice, these cells displayed a dysregulated genetic profile. However, exercise reversed many of these negative changes. The physical activity effectively restored the expression of genes that are typically suppressed by the disease.</p>
<p>Among the recovered genes, the researchers identified Atpif1 as a primary driver of neuroprotection. This gene is involved in regulating the mitochondria, the energy-producing structures within cells. To verify its importance, the team experimentally lowered the levels of Atpif1 in neural stem cells. This manipulation impaired the cells’ ability to proliferate and mature into functioning neurons. This finding establishes a direct link between exercise-induced metabolic regulation and the survival of new brain cells.</p>
<p>The study also shed light on the role of microglia. These are the resident immune cells of the brain. In a healthy state, they survey the environment for threats. In Alzheimer’s disease, they often struggle to clear the toxic amyloid plaques that accumulate between neurons. The data showed that exercise prompted microglia to shift toward a specialized state often referred to as disease-associated microglia.</p>
<p>This transition is beneficial in the context of the disease. The specialized immune state is associated with an enhanced ability to ingest and degrade amyloid protein. Consistent with this genetic shift, the researchers observed a reduction in plaque burden in the brains of the exercising mice. This suggests that physical activity boosts the brain’s internal cleaning system.</p>
<p>The researchers also characterized a previously undefined subpopulation of astrocytes. Astrocytes are star-shaped cells that provide physical and chemical support to neurons. The team identified a specific group of astrocytes marked by high levels of a protein called CDH4. These cells were found in close proximity to blood vessels.</p>
<p>In the Alzheimer’s model, the abundance of these CDH4-high astrocytes was reduced. However, exercise helped to restore their numbers and bolster their genetic function. Because these cells are situated near the vasculature, they likely play a role in neurovascular coupling. This is the process that ensures active neurons receive an adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients from the bloodstream.</p>
<p>Cells known as oligodendrocytes also exhibited a robust response to exercise. These cells produce myelin, the protective sheath that insulates nerve fibers and ensures rapid signal transmission. The study found that oligodendrocytes showed the highest proportion of recovered genes among all cell types. This indicates that maintaining the structural integrity of nerve wiring is a key component of how exercise fights neurodegeneration.</p>
<p>To validate the clinical relevance of these findings, the team compared their mouse data with human genetic datasets. They analyzed samples from the parietal cortex of patients with Alzheimer’s disease. The comparison revealed significant overlap in the gene expression changes. The genes that were dysregulated in the human patients matched those identified in the mouse model. This strong correlation suggests that the molecular targets identified in the study are applicable to human biology.</p>
<p>Despite the comprehensive nature of the analysis, there are limitations to consider. The primary sequencing experiments utilized male mice. While the validation using human data included both sexes, future animal studies will need to explicitly investigate sex-specific differences. Hormonal variations could potentially influence how exercise impacts gene expression in the brain.</p>
<p>The study also represents a snapshot in time. The researchers analyzed the brain tissue after two months of running. This design does not capture the dynamic changes that may occur during the early or late stages of the intervention. Long-term studies would be necessary to understand the durability of these protective effects.</p>
<p>Additionally, the mouse model used in the study primarily mimics the amyloid plaque accumulation seen in Alzheimer’s. It does not fully replicate the tau tangles or the extensive neuronal death that occurs in late-stage human disease. Investigating these pathways in models that feature tau pathology would provide a more complete picture of the therapeutic potential.</p>
<p>These findings open several avenues for future research. By pinpointing specific genes like Atpif1 and specific cell states, scientists have identified tangible targets for drug development. It may be possible to design small molecules that activate these pathways directly. Such treatments could theoretically provide the neuroprotective benefits of exercise to patients who are elderly or too frail to engage in vigorous physical activity.</p>
<p>The study, “<a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41593-025-01971-w" target="_blank">Protective exercise responses in the dentate gyrus of Alzheimer’s disease mouse model revealed with single-nucleus RNA-sequencing</a>,” was authored by Joana F. da Rocha, Michelle L. Lance, Renhao Luo, Pius Schlachter, Luis Moreira, Mohamed Ariff Iqbal, Paula Kuhn, Robert S. Gardner, Sophia Valaris, Mohammad R. Islam, Gabriele M. Gassner, Sofia Mazuera, Kaela Healy, Sanjana Shastri, Nathaniel B. Hibbert, Kristen V. Moran-Figueroa, Erin B. Haley, Ryan D. Pfeiffer, Sema Aygar, Ksenia V. Kastanenka, Logan Brase, Oscar Harari, Bruno A. Benitez, Nathan R. Tucker and Christiane D. Wrann.</p></p>
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<td><a href="https://www.psypost.org/new-study-explores-factors-linked-to-womens-masturbation-habits/" 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 study explores factors linked to women’s masturbation habits</a>
<div style="font-family:Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align:left;color:#999;font-size:11px;font-weight:bold;line-height:15px;">Jan 3rd 2026, 10:00</div>
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<p><p>A new study indicates that a woman’s knowledge of her own anatomy and her feelings toward her genitals are strong predictors of her solitary sexual behaviors. The research also suggests that women who engage in self-stimulation during adolescence may experience orgasms more frequently with partners later in life. These findings were published in the <a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/19317611.2025.2565374" target="_blank">International Journal of Sexual Health</a>.</p>
<p>Solitary sexual activity is a normal aspect of human development and is widely practiced. Despite its prevalence, the subject often remains surrounded by silence and social stigma. This is particularly true for women, who have historically faced different social standards regarding sexuality compared to men.</p>
<p>Previous scientific literature has established that masturbation can offer health benefits and improve sexual functioning. However, less is known about the specific psychological and social factors that influence this behavior in women. A lack of open discussion often leads to gaps in information regarding female biology.</p>
<p>Researchers Daniela Henriques, Pedro Alexandre Costa, and Ana Carvalheira sought to investigate these dynamics. Henriques is affiliated with the ISPA-University Institute in Lisbon, Portugal. The team aimed to assess how much women understand about their genital anatomy.</p>
<p>They also wanted to identify which demographic and personal factors are linked to the frequency of masturbation. Another primary goal was to analyze the connection between early sexual experiences and adult sexual satisfaction. The researchers were particularly interested in how habits formed during teenage years might relate to the ability to reach orgasm with a partner.</p>
<p>To gather this data, the scientists designed a web-based survey. They recruited 469 adult women of Portuguese nationality to participate. The participants ranged in age from 18 to 78 years old.</p>
<p>The survey included a specialized questionnaire designed to measure knowledge of female anatomy. This section presented statements about the vulva, vagina, and clitoris. Participants had to identify whether these statements were true or false.</p>
<p>One section of the study assessed “genital self-image.” This concept refers to a woman’s feelings and beliefs regarding her own genitals. The survey asked participants to rate their agreement with statements about their comfort with and perception of their bodies.</p>
<p>The researchers also collected detailed data on sexual behaviors. They asked about the age at which participants first masturbated. They also inquired about the frequency of this behavior during adolescence and within the past twelve months.</p>
<p>The results regarding anatomical knowledge revealed substantial gaps in understanding. The data showed that roughly 74 percent of the participants possessed a low or average level of knowledge about female genitalia. Misconceptions were particularly common regarding the clitoris.</p>
<p>The survey included specific questions about the size and shape of the clitoris. For example, it asked if the clitoris is an internal structure shaped like the wings of an airplane. A majority of the women did not identify this as a true statement.</p>
<p>Many participants also held incorrect beliefs about the physical dimensions of the clitoris. Nearly half of the respondents provided incorrect answers regarding its length. These findings highlight a pervasive lack of education regarding the internal structure of the primary organ responsible for female pleasure.</p>
<p>Despite these gaps in knowledge, the prevalence of masturbation was high. Approximately 96 percent of the women reported having masturbated at some point in their lives. The average age at which they began this behavior was just over 14 years old.</p>
<p>The frequency of current masturbation varied among the group. The most common frequency reported was once a week. About one-quarter of the active participants selected this option.</p>
<p>The researchers used statistical analysis to determine which factors best predicted how often a woman masturbates. They found that age was a strong predictor. Younger women tended to report higher frequencies of self-stimulation than older women.</p>
<p>Place of residence also appeared to play a role. Women living in urban environments reported masturbating more often than those in rural areas. The researchers suggest that urban settings might offer more privacy or exposure to progressive views on sexuality.</p>
<p>Relationship status was another determining factor. Single women reported engaging in solitary sexual activity more frequently than those in committed relationships. This finding aligns with the idea that some women use masturbation to replace partnered sex.</p>
<p>Religious attendance showed a clear negative association with the behavior. Women who attended religious services more often were less likely to masturbate frequently. This likely reflects the influence of conservative moral teachings regarding autoeroticism.</p>
<p>Beyond demographics, the study found a strong link between anatomical knowledge and behavior. Women who scored higher on the anatomy quiz tended to masturbate more often. This suggests that understanding one’s body may facilitate sexual expression.</p>
<p>A similar pattern emerged regarding genital self-image. Women who felt more positive about the appearance and function of their genitals were more likely to engage in self-stimulation. Comfort with one’s body appears to remove barriers to sexual exploration.</p>
<p>The researchers also uncovered an association between adolescent behavior and adult sexual response. Women who reported higher frequencies of masturbation during their teenage years experienced orgasms more often during partnered sex as adults. This correlation was observed specifically for orgasms achieved during vaginal penetration.</p>
<p>The authors propose that early self-exploration serves a learning function. Through masturbation, adolescents may discover what types of stimulation they prefer. This self-knowledge can then be transferred to sexual interactions with partners later in life.</p>
<p>However, the relationship between current masturbation and partnered sex showed a different pattern. For adult women, a higher frequency of masturbation was associated with a lower frequency of orgasm during partnered sexual activity. This suggests a compensatory dynamic for some individuals.</p>
<p>This means that for some adult women, masturbation may serve to fill a gap left by unsatisfying partnered encounters. If a woman does not reach orgasm with her partner, she may turn to self-stimulation to achieve sexual release. The data supports both the idea of masturbation as a learning tool and as a compensatory act, depending on the context.</p>
<p>The authors noted several limitations that should be considered when interpreting these results. The study relied on a convenience sample recruited online. This method may attract participants who are more comfortable discussing sexuality than the general population.</p>
<p>The sample consisted entirely of cisgender women from Portugal. Cultural and religious specifics of the country may influence the findings. Consequently, the results might not fully apply to women in different cultural or legal environments.</p>
<p>The survey also relied on self-reported data. This introduces the possibility of recall bias, particularly when participants were asked to remember behaviors from their adolescence. Additionally, the study did not provide a rigid definition of masturbation, leaving it open to participant interpretation.</p>
<p>Despite these caveats, the research offers evidence that female masturbation is a multifaceted behavior. It highlights the importance of comprehensive sex education. The authors argue that education should go beyond reproduction to include anatomy and pleasure.</p>
<p>Better knowledge of the clitoris and other structures could help destigmatize female sexuality. Promoting a positive genital self-image could also improve sexual well-being. The researchers recommend that future studies investigate these relationships in more diverse populations.</p>
<p>They also suggest that clinical interventions for sexual difficulties should consider masturbatory history. Understanding a patient’s comfort with their own body can provide context for treating sexual dysfunction. Ultimately, the study reinforces the idea that solitary sex is an integral part of a woman’s sexual health profile.</p>
<p>The study, “<a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/19317611.2025.2565374" target="_blank">‘Ménage À Moi’: An Analysis of Factors Associated with Masturbation Among Women</a>,” was authored by Daniela Henriques, Pedro Alexandre Costa, and Ana Carvalheira.</p></p>
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<p><strong>Forwarded by:<br />
Michael Reeder LCPC<br />
Baltimore, MD</strong></p>
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