News

A provocative new wave of research is challenging a long-standing assumption: that living without friends is synonymous with loneliness and emotional distress. In a world shaped by social media, “connection” is celebrated as vital for human happiness, yet a recent study published in the Canadian Review of Sociology reveals a far more nuanced reality—some people with few or no friends are, in fact, content, even thriving in their solitude. This finding, highlighted by Psychology Today and echoed in multiple news reports and scholarly discussions, encourages Thai readers to critically reconsider both personal and cultural beliefs about friendship and fulfillment (Psychology Today; Wiley; CTV News Atlantic).

The latest viral exercise sensation on TikTok—the vibration plate—has fitness enthusiasts buzzing with claims of effortless weight loss, muscle toning, and even health miracles. Yet, beneath the social media hype, what does the actual science say about standing on a vibrating platform for health? A recent personal investigation by a journalist, who tested both affordable and high-end models over a month, reveals a complex mix of cultural trends, technological evolution, and limited but intriguing research—offering valuable lessons for Thai readers navigating the latest fitness fads.

A sweeping new meta-analysis has revealed that individuals with mental or neurodevelopmental disorders are about 1.5 times more likely to exhibit non-right-handedness — meaning left-handedness or mixed-handedness — than the general population, sharpening the focus on how biological factors may intersect with mental health. Published in the prestigious journal Psychological Bulletin, the study synthesizes an unprecedented dataset drawn from over 202,000 people and provides fresh insights into the subtle ways brain development may be linked to mental health risk (psypost.org).

A recent study has unveiled that the single-letter text response “K” provokes the strongest negative emotions among digital communicators, surpassing even being left on read or receiving responses like “sure” or “fine.” The findings, published in the Journal of Mobile Communication and featured in Times of India’s trending section (timesofindia.indiatimes.com), shed light on how succinct online messages can pack an unexpected emotional punch.

In an era when instant messaging shapes personal, professional, and even cross-cultural relationships—including those in Thailand’s digitally savvy society—the implications of a blunt “K” go far beyond simple acknowledgement. The study sampled 1,500 participants aged 18–45. Researchers tracked emotional responses through surveys, sentiment analysis, and even biometric signals such as heart rate. Results consistently showed that the response “K” was perceived as the coldest and most dismissive of digital replies, frequently interpreted as passive-aggressive or abrupt. Interestingly, both men and women rated “K” as emotionally disconnecting, though women were slightly more sensitive to its effects.

Recent findings have upended long-held assumptions about the safest bets for employability among new graduates. According to a new report from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, college students majoring in nutrition sciences, construction services, and animal/plant sciences are enjoying the lowest unemployment rates in the nation—outperforming even the much-heralded STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) fields. This data, tracking U.S. graduates aged 22 to 27, reveals how shifting workforce needs are redrawing the map for university-bound students in 2025 (Entrepreneur).

In recent findings drawing international attention, health experts emphasize that regular exercise isn’t only about building muscles or shedding weight—it’s a vital contributor to mental wellness. As Thais navigate the pressures of modern life, especially in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, understanding how sweat and strength can combat depression and anxiety holds new urgency. The latest research compiled from authoritative sources including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Mayo Clinic, and leading academic institutions, demonstrates that physical activity can play a key role in both preventing and relieving common mental health concerns—a message that could reshape well-being strategies for individuals and communities across Thailand (KXAN).

In the ever-evolving world of romance, playing “hard-to-get” remains one of the most debated dating strategies. A new empirical review, highlighted in a recent article by Psychology Today, dives deep into decades of research to determine whether creating an air of mystery and unavailability truly makes someone more attractive—or whether transparency and directness, particularly valued in today’s digital age, have rendered the tactic obsolete.

For Thai readers navigating both traditional values and modern dating trends, this discussion is highly relevant. The strategy of playing hard-to-get, which involves intentionally delaying responses, keeping intentions ambiguous, or sporadically signaling romantic interest, is familiar across cultures. In the Thai context, social etiquette often encourages subtlety and restraint in early stages of courtship, making it important to examine if scientific evidence supports, or challenges, these ingrained behaviors.

A compelling new psychology study suggests that the sensation of time “flying by” is more closely tied to periods of personal growth and satisfaction, rather than mundane routines or forgettable days. Published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, the research fundamentally challenges the long-held belief that monotony compresses our memory of time, instead highlighting fulfillment and nostalgia as key drivers of our perceptions of how quickly life passes—even as we age (PsyPost).

A recent headline in international media warns that a common over-the-counter (OTC) medication, widely used for allergies, may increase the risk of dementia, prompting concern among health professionals and the public in Thailand and globally. Leading doctors cited in a recent report from Women’s Health Magazine are drawing attention to mounting research that connects the use of certain antihistamines—medicines typically purchased without a prescription—to a greater likelihood of future cognitive decline.

Thailand finds itself at a crossroads of rapid social change: modern families are now grappling with questions of how best to raise children, as Western influences blend with longstanding Thai cultural traditions. A recent opinion published in The Guardian, penned by a grandparent observing the stark contrasts between parenting in Spain and the UK, has ignited fresh debate about “child-centred” parenting, a model increasingly popular across Thailand’s middle class. The writer argues that the Spanish “family-centred” approach nurtures happier, more grounded children compared to English-style “child-centredness,” which may inadvertently fuel anxiety and dependency. This raises urgent questions for Thai families—should we reconsider where the family, rather than the child, stands at the heart of our values?

In a striking new development, recent Iranian research has suggested that depression and anxiety may be “contagious” between romantic partners—not simply due to shared circumstances, but through the exchange of mouth bacteria during intimate interactions such as kissing. The study, published in the journal Exploratory Research and Hypothesis in Medicine and widely reported by StudyFinds, offers a fresh biological perspective on why couples often mirror each other’s moods and mental health (studyfinds.org).

A simple glance at someone’s phone habits may reveal more about their personality than previously thought. Recent psychological research has spotlighted compulsive social media use as a tell-tale sign of narcissistic tendencies, with experts warning of consequences that extend beyond the screen and into mental health and social wellbeing. The findings, anchored by a new study from the University of Gdańsk and published in the Journal of Research in Personality, provide timely insights—especially for countries like Thailand, where social platforms are woven deeply into daily life (Daily Mail).

A growing body of research and recent expert commentary are highlighting a fitness issue many men overlook until it actively disrupts both their workout routines and daily lives: Dead Butt Syndrome, medically known as gluteal amnesia or lower cross syndrome. Although the name may bring a laugh, health professionals warn that ignoring this problem can sideline avid exercisers and everyday individuals alike, leading to pain, injuries, and decreased overall wellness (mensjournal.com).

In a significant shift away from the punitive discipline methods familiar to older generations, the concept of “gentle parenting” is rapidly gaining popularity among parents worldwide—including many in Thailand. According to recent research highlighted by CNN, this approach champions emotional regulation, empathetic boundary-setting, and a move toward raising well-adjusted, resilient adults, offering fresh insights into what truly benefits children and families in a changing society (CNN).

The trend has significant implications at a time when nearly half of parents, per a 2023 Pew Research Center report, say they are intentionally trying to raise their children differently than how they were brought up. The shift is rooted in a desire to provide more love and affection, conduct honest conversations, and adopt discipline methods that prioritize listening and emotional understanding over yelling and corporal punishment. This approach resonates in Thai households as conversations about parenting styles become more public and nuanced, especially in urban centers where exposure to international child development research is increasing.

In a time when many question whether learning to code remains relevant amid the rise of artificial intelligence, the Chief Product Officer for Experiences and Devices at Microsoft has issued a clear message: the value of computer science education is more crucial than ever. During a recent episode of “Lenny’s Podcast,” the executive refuted the growing sentiment that “coding is dead,” insisting that AI creates new opportunities for those with a grounding in computer science, rather than negating the need for such expertise. Her comments, published by Business Insider on May 23, 2025 (businessinsider.com), provide key insights for students, parents, and education policymakers in Thailand grappling with how to prepare for the digital future.

The safety and efficacy of mRNA vaccines have returned to the spotlight following new regulatory actions and heightened public debate, but the scientific community continues to reaffirm their vital role in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. Recent scrutiny, triggered by policy changes from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is prompting fresh discussion amid persistent misinformation and growing public concerns—even as evidence underscores overwhelming benefits for both individuals and public health at large (ABC News).

A new peer-reviewed study has found that a six-week regimen of Muay Thai, Thailand’s national martial art, delivers significant improvements in participants’ quality of life, love of life, and self-control—offering fresh scientific evidence for the physical and psychological benefits long celebrated in Thai culture. The research, published on May 23, 2025 in Frontiers in Psychology, is among the first to rigorously examine how structured Muay Thai training impacts these key markers of mental health and happiness among university students (frontiersin.org).

New research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology has found that people are more likely to trust individuals who grew up in lower-income households, as compared to those who had privileged backgrounds. This finding, based on a series of experiments with nearly 2,000 participants, sheds light on the deep-rooted perceptions linking childhood hardship with morality and trustworthiness—a topic that resonates on both a global and a Thai societal level (Neuroscience News).

Therapists have identified a pervasive challenge particularly troubling for eldest daughters: an overwhelming sense of over-responsibility, which significantly affects their happiness and well-being. Drawing on both recent research and extensive professional experience, mental health experts now describe “eldest daughter syndrome”—a set of expectations and pressures uniquely experienced by firstborn girls—as a major factor in their long-term mental health outcomes. The concept strikes a chord with many, resonating powerfully within Thai families, where cultural traditions often reinforce the burdens shouldered by eldest children.

A growing body of research and expert analysis warns that High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)—long promoted as the ultimate quick and efficient fitness solution—may pose serious health risks for adults over 50. As Thailand’s population ages, understanding which exercises truly benefit longevity and wellbeing is critical for turning back the clock not just on the surface, but deep within our bodies.

The concern over HIIT and similar high-intensity workouts lies in how older bodies respond to extreme exercise. According to the recent article published by Journee Mondiale (journee-mondiale.com), fitness professionals and medical researchers no longer consider HIIT universally safe for the over-50 crowd. The main culprit appears to be the body’s stress response: HIIT can trigger a surge in cortisol, the so-called ‘stress hormone.’ For adults over 50—especially women undergoing menopause—this cortisol spike may amplify hormonal imbalances, contribute to sleep issues, spark chronic inflammation, and promote fat accumulation around the waist, all maladies already associated with aging. Sports medicine specialists note that the long-term elevation of cortisol could counteract the cardiovascular benefits of exercise, raising the risk of heart problems.

New research is shedding light on the fascinating cognitive benefits that come from regularly using your non-dominant hand—a practice that could bring fresh hope for brain health and manual dexterity, from the kitchen table in Bangkok to rehabilitation clinics worldwide. While it may seem like a minor challenge, switching hands for everyday tasks is backed by compelling scientific evidence showing that this novel training helps activate underused parts of the brain and refine motor skills. Experts say that both the short- and long-term benefits, from sharper focus to improved brain connectivity, could make this small shift a surprisingly impactful part of daily life—especially for Thai readers interested in lifelong learning and healthy aging.

A groundbreaking 12-year study has revealed that building and maintaining muscle strength, rather than focusing solely on cardio exercises, could be the best strategy for living a longer and healthier life. Published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, the large-scale research tracked over 14,000 adults aged 50 and older and found a surprisingly strong link between grip strength—a simple measure of overall muscle health—and mortality risk, challenging prevailing beliefs about the sole significance of cardiovascular workouts for longevity.

A leading psychologist who studies children and digital screens has stepped forward with a deeply personal revelation: despite his expertise, his greatest regret as a parent was not doing more to limit his own children’s screen time. This admission, based on the latest research and expert reflection, is sparking vital discussions among Thai families and educators concerned about the growing influence of smartphones and digital devices on the next generation. The issue resonates across borders, but carries unique urgency in Thailand, where digital adoption among youth is surging and parents struggle to navigate the rapidly changing landscape Inc.com, MSN.

A groundbreaking study has revealed that today’s most advanced artificial intelligence (AI) systems possess emotional intelligence (EI) scores significantly higher than those of humans—a result with far-reaching implications for Thailand’s schools, workplaces, and counseling sectors. Research led by teams from the University of Geneva and the University of Bern found that six leading AI models, including ChatGPT and Gemini, consistently picked the most emotionally intelligent responses in standard EI assessments, achieving an average score of 82%. By contrast, human participants scored on average just 56%, highlighting a surprising edge for AI in handling emotionally charged scenarios (Neuroscience News).