Hikikomori: New definition helps identify, treat extreme social isolation

Experts in the Japanese phenomena of hikikomori say the condition of extreme social isolation is more widespread than previously acknowledged, and it deserves a clear and consistent definition to improve treatment across the globe. In an article published in the February issue of the journal World Psychiatry, experts cite a lack of broad clinical understanding of the condition. Although hikikomori […]

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A role for microRNAs in social behavior

The recent discovery of microRNAs as key regulators of biological processes has fueled an explosion of research activity into their function in health and disease. Researchers have now uncovered a microRNA cluster that regulates synaptic strength and is involved in the control of social behaviour in mammals. The researchers presume that their discovery may point to new therapeutic strategies for […]

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Research shows signalling mechanism in the brain shapes social aggression

Duke-NUS researchers have discovered that a growth factor protein, called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and its receptor, tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) affects social dominance in mice. The research has implications for understanding the neurobiology of aggression and bullying. “Humans and rodents are social animals. Our every interaction follows rules according to a social hierarchy. Failure to navigate this hierarchy […]

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Sharing your #shopping on social media can damage your health and your wallet

Posting images on social media when we buy new clothes, eat out or purchase the latest gadget may seem harmless enough. But this consumption-oriented sharing may be undermining both our bank balance and our mental well-being. Our research has found that this sort of social media engagement is linked in some people to greater anxiety, lower self-esteem and an increased […]

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Study questions social media in birthing suites

A Victoria University of Wellington study is investigating how the internet and cellphones, particularly social media, affect mothers connecting with their newborn babies. The research is a multidisciplinary study involving Dr. Jayne Krisjanous from Victoria University’s School of Marketing and International Business, Dr. Robyn Maude from the University’s Graduate School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health, and Ph.D. student Marlini Bakri. […]

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To share or not to share? Physiological and social determinants of children’s sharing behavior

When are primary school children willing to share valuable resources with others and when are they not? A team of researchers from the University of Vienna led by cognitive biologist Lisa Horn investigated this question in a controlled behavioural experiment. The motivation to share seems to be influenced by group dynamical and physiological factors, whereas friendship between the children seems […]

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