Bad-Mouthing Opponents Likely Spurs Them On To Win, Research Shows
Researchers say that trash-talking can motivate people to outperform their opponents. This happens for tasks that involve effort, but not creativity.
Research News
Computer Learns To Play Go At Superhuman Levels 'Without Human Knowledge'
Researchers say they have constructed an AI program that can teach itself to play the ancient strategy game at a level far beyond humans.
Scientists Push To House More Lab Monkeys In Pairs
Enhancing a research monkey's life by housing it with a pal often doesn't hurt the study, says a researcher who's done it. In her own experience, she says, "it actually helped to improve the science."
Search Of DNA In Dogs, Mice And People Finds 4 Genes Linked To OCD
Scientists looking for genetic factors behind obsessive compulsive disorder looked for clues in the DNA of humans and two animal species. Genes active in a particular brain circuit emerged.
Sleep Scientist Warns Against Walking Through Life 'In An Underslept State'
"Human beings are the only species that deliberately deprive themselves of sleep for no apparent gain," says sleep scientist Matthew Walker. His new book is Why We Sleep.
Studies Skewed By Focus On Well-Off, Educated Brains
What does a "normal" brain look like? Something a lot different when researchers make sure that study participants reflect the race, education and income levels of the U.S. at large.
Mindfulness Apps Aim To Help People Disconnect From Stress
Finding inner calm hard to come by? Some people use their device obsession to help them disconnect. The apps aren't a quick fix, therapists say, but might help you stick to a mindfulness practice.
Elizabeth Loftus: How Can Our Memories Be Manipulated?
Years of research have taught Elizabeth Loftus just how unreliable our memories are. From tweaking a real memory to planting a completely fabricated one, tampering with our minds is surprisingly easy.
FDA Panel Endorses Gene Therapy For A Form Of Childhood Blindness
After many setbacks for genetic therapies, advisers to the Food and Drug Administration recommended approval of the first gene treatment for an inherited form of blindness.
Tiny, Transparent Worm Challenges Notions About Sex
Scientists have found a group of worms that haven't reproduced sexually for 18 million years. Normally that would be a recipe for quick extinction, but these little guys seem none the worse for wear.