Emotions

Emotions

The main characters in the 2015 Pixar movie Inside Out were all emotions; Joy, Anger, Sadness, Fear and Disgust. The film is a great introduction to psychology. And it's funny. Emotions are an even more complex area than consciousness, and they have more of an impact on our behaviour. Neuroscientists want to understand how hormones (such as oxytocin) affect our emotions and why people with autism often have difficulty identifying emotions.

What actually causes depression in the brain?

Depression is more complicated than you might think
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Which generation is the most hypersensitive?

The answer isn't quite as simple as you might think.
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How to spot a narcissist: Scientists may have discovered a key new sign

According to a new study, narcissists are more likely to feel socially excluded.
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The top 10 happiest countries in the world 2025

One ticket to Luxembourg, please.
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Why do I self-sabotage so much?

Actions which hurt your chance of success can come from low self-esteem – here are a few tips to break the habit.
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How to spot ‘dark empaths’, the dangerous psychopaths and narcissists who feel empathy

The view of a compassionless psychopath is outdated. In fact, new research shows that those with dark personality traits are much more complicated than that.
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It’s time we rethink how to solve loneliness

Rates of loneliness are increasing worldwide. But big-tech companies think they have the solution.
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This adorable frog could change everything we know about animal empathy

Poison dart frogs have been observed sharing stress responses with their mates.
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Does having children actually make you happy? A neuroscientist explains

Some parents say having kids is the best thing they've ever done... others would quite like some time to themselves. So, overall, does having kids make you happier?
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Simple ways to spot a liar, explained by a psychology professor

Lying is a daily part of life, but how can you identify the liars around you? A psychology professor outlines the top tips.
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This is what a near-death experience actually feels like

Near-death experiences are unique. Large portions of people have reported intense visions and increased happiness – but why?
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Here’s what makes your emotions more infectious to others

Can your friend catch your bad mood, or can your partner infect you with happy one?
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Here’s why you get a lump in your throat when you’re about to cry

Strong emotions cause physical responses in the body, and it's not always pleasant. A doctor recommends how to deal with this common sensation.
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Here's why musicians pull such weird faces

Those strange expressions actually serve a purpose.
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Why do I go red when I’m embarrassed or have been drinking?

Blushing is a physiological response which is triggered when we are stressed.
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Anemoia: Why am I nostalgic for a time I didn’t know or a place I’ve never been?

Do you find yourself longing for the magic of yesteryear, even when you’ve not been there yourself? You’re not alone - a psychologist explains why.
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Are there any benefits to using a daylight SAD lamp? A GP explains

They're a non-invasive and drug-free treatment for seasonal depression - here's what a GP thinks of them.
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