Monday Musings
Here is our safe space for reflections, insights and thoughtful musings on topics related to anything and everything psychology. It is not a formal academic outlet, but rather a casual and eclectic exploration of our interests and observations.
Psychological Factors That Affect Wine Taste
This article explores how various psychological elements, such as expectations, sensory perception, context, and individual differences, play a significant role in shaping our experience of wine taste.
Effects of Your Wedding Day on the Longevity of Your Marriage
We explore the psychological impact of the wedding day on marital longevity, supported by peer-reviewed research.
PTSD in the Middle Ages
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is commonly associated with modern psychological research, particularly in relation to combat veterans and survivors of traumatic events. However, the experiences akin to PTSD are not exclusive to our modern times. This article explores the manifestations and understanding of PTSD-like symptoms in the Middle Ages, analysing historical accounts through the lens of modern psychology. By examining medieval literature, medical texts, and historical records, we aim to understand how trauma was experienced and conceptualized in this era.
The Psychological Effects of Remote Work
The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically transformed the landscape of work, with remote work becoming a permanent fixture for many organizations. This shift has had profound psychological effects on workers, presenting both benefits and challenges. This article explores the psychological impacts of remote work, drawing on peer-reviewed research to provide a comprehensive understanding of how this new mode of working affects mental health and well-being.
The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: A Psychological Perspective
In recent years, the influence of social media on mental health has become a prominent topic of research and discussion within psychology. With billions of users worldwide, platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter have revolutionized how we communicate and interact. However, these changes have also brought concerns regarding their effects on mental health, particularly concerning anxiety, depression, and self-esteem.
The Psychological Impact of Domestic Violence: A Closer Look at Emotional Abuse
Domestic violence remains a pervasive issue worldwide, with significant implications for mental health. Among the various forms of domestic violence, psychological abuse is particularly insidious, often leaving deep, lasting scars on the mental well-being of victims. This article explores the psychological impacts of emotional abuse within domestic settings, drawing from recent research to highlight the complexities and consequences of this issue.
Understanding Parasocial Relationships: The Psychology of One-Sided Bonds
In an era dominated by social media and digital content consumption, parasocial relationships have emerged as a prominent phenomenon shaping human interactions. This article delves into the intricacies of parasocial relationships, exploring their definition, psychological mechanisms, impact on individuals, and implications for modern society.
The Psychology Behind Britain's Got Talent: A Deep Dive
This article explores the psychological aspects that underpin both the participation in and the viewership of BGT, drawing on peer-reviewed research to understand the motivations, experiences, and effects associated with the show.
Exploring the Harm of Virtue Signalling and Moral Grandstanding
This article explores the harmful effects of virtue signalling and moral grandstanding, illustrating these concepts with examples of corporate practices.
Exploring Virtue Signalling: Psychological Perspectives and Implications
This article delves into the psychological aspects of virtue signalling, exploring its motivations, manifestations, and implications, supported by peer-reviewed research.
Cosmic Horror: Psychological Dimensions and Implications
Cosmic horror, a subgenre of horror fiction, delves into the fear of the unknown and the insignificance of humanity in the grand scheme of the universe. Pioneered by authors like H.P. Lovecraft, cosmic horror evokes a sense of existential dread and helplessness. This article explores the psychological dimensions and implications of cosmic horror, supported by insights from peer-reviewed research.
How Does Nostalgia Influence Mental Health?
Understanding the multifaceted ways in which nostalgia influences mental health can offer insights into how individuals can harness this emotion for positive psychological outcomes.
Moral Grandstanding and Its Harmful Effects
While moral grandstanding might seem harmless or even commendable at a glance, it carries significant potential for harm, both to individuals and to the broader societal discourse.
Darker Personality Traits in AI: A Case Study
As AI systems become increasingly sophisticated, the question of whether they exhibit human-like personality traits arises. The purpose of this article is to identify if ChatGPT exabits any tendencies for Machiavellianism, Narcissism or Psychopathy using a modified SD3 test.
Applying Learning Strategies from Cognitive Psychology in Higher Education
Exploring leaning strategies to find the optimal method of studying.
The Science of Doll Play: Making sense of real and imagined interactions in early childhood
New research is emerging showing the benefits of doll play in developing empathy and social processing in children. Happy to see dolls having a potential impact on so many young lives, I thought Iād share some of the findings and my thoughts.
The Story of Harry Potter as a Transgender Allegory: A Psychological Exploration
This article explores this perspective using psychological theories to support the allegory and references peer-reviewed sources to substantiate the arguments.
The Psychology Behind the Popularity of Superhero Films: Insights into Diminishing Self-Impact
This article explores how the appeal of superhero narratives reflects and responds to increasing feelings of powerlessness and insignificance among individuals, supported by peer-reviewed sources.
Psychology of the Mary Sue: Embracing the Cringe
This article delves into the psychological aspects of the Mary Sue, supported by peer-reviewed research, and discusses how embracing these characters can contribute to personal growth and self-acceptance.
Hay Fever in Dogs: Understanding Physiological and Psychological Symptoms
This article delves into the physiological and psychological manifestations of hay fever in dogs supported by peer-reviewed sources, highlighting the importance of recognizing and managing these symptoms.