Psychology

Thoughts of an ex can linger long after a breakup, surfacing in flashes, dreams, or familiar routines. A recent feature from a well-known lifestyle desk outlines seven interconnected reasons for persistent post-breakup thoughts. This revision adapts those findings for Thai readers, weaving in cultural context and practical guidance for navigating heartbreak in a society where relationships and identity are closely linked.

In Thailand, family, community harmony, and social expectations intensify emotional attachments. Research suggests our brains seek familiar social bonds even after they no longer serve us. The emphasis on long-term relationships and saving face adds layers of complexity to letting go. Neurochemical processes also play a role: during a relationship, the brain releases serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin, creating happiness, trust, and excitement. When those experiences fade, memories can surface as a kind of chemical withdrawal. For many Thais, whose social networks intertwine with family and shared traditions, these memories can be especially persistent. A senior psychologist notes that breakup dynamics in Thai culture often involve a wider circle of friends and relatives, making emotional separation more challenging.

A startling new synthesis of neuroscience and public health research suggests that parasitic infections—especially Toxoplasma gondii, a protozoan commonly carried by cats—could be silently influencing human personality, impulsivity, and even levels of aggression. The article, published by Neuroscience News and based on the work of psychiatrists and neurobiologists, highlights mounting evidence that these microscopic invaders can manipulate the brain’s chemistry and immune system, with sweeping effects that might ripple through individual lives and, potentially, wider society (Neuroscience News).

Charisma helps leaders capture attention, but too much can undermine credibility. New research suggests that presence works best when paired with humility, reliability, and genuine connection. This refined view offers practical guidance for Thai audiences seeking to cultivate influence without overdoing it.

In Thai workplaces and communities, charisma—often expressed as confidence, charm, and the ability to “work the room”—draws interest across politics, business, education, and entertainment. The latest studies advocate a subtler approach: charisma thrives when balanced with warmth and authenticity rather than constant high-energy performances.

A fresh synthesis of neuroscience and public health suggests a common parasite, Toxoplasma gondii, might subtly influence personality, impulsivity, and aggression. The work summarized by neuroscience outlets draws on psychiatrists and neurobiologists, highlighting how infection can alter brain chemistry and immune activity. The finding carries meaningful implications for individuals and Thai society.

Historically, parasites were seen as physical threats only. New evidence points to a subtler influence: these organisms may shape how people think and feel, including dopamine balance that governs reward and risk-taking. Research indicates a large share of older adults worldwide may be infected with Toxoplasma gondii, underscoring public health relevance. In Thailand, where cats are common, farming thrives, and dietary habits involve exposure to potential sources of infection, the issue is especially pertinent.

Self-awareness can drive growth and social harmony, but excessive introspection may backfire. In Thailand’s fast-paced, comparison-driven landscape, experts ask whether too much self-focus harms well-being.

Self-awareness means recognizing one’s character, feelings, motives, and desires. It is valued in education and leadership, and Thai culture—rooted in Buddhist mindfulness—emphasizes understanding oneself to make mindful choices and nurture harmonious relationships. New findings add nuance for students, teachers, and health professionals in Thailand and beyond.

A recently published study has uncovered a troubling association between so-called “honor cultures” and higher rates of depression and suicidal ideation, raising important questions for societies across Asia and the world, including Thailand. The research, first reported by PsyPost, reveals that environments where family reputation, social standing, and personal honor are emphasized may also be environments where mental health challenges are more acute and more stigmatized.

This study matters for Thai readers, as many elements of Thai society—from family life to community expectations—are influenced by honor-based values, though their form and impact can vary. Understanding how these cultural factors may increase vulnerability to depression or even suicidal thoughts is crucial given ongoing national efforts to address mental health and improve prevention services.

A new international study links honor-focused cultures with higher rates of depression and suicidal thoughts. The research suggests that pressures around reputation and face can amplify stress and deter people from seeking help. For Thai readers, this underscores why culturally informed mental health support matters in Thailand’s communities and schools.

Thai society values respect, hierarchy, and communal harmony. These strengths can also make talking about distress difficult. Understanding how cultural expectations affect mental health is essential as Thailand scales up prevention services and youth-focused interventions.

A large international study suggests that improving daily stress coping over nearly 20 years is linked to becoming more outgoing, agreeable, and open to new experiences. Conversely, individuals who struggle with everyday stress may grow more withdrawn and hesitant to try new things. For Thai readers, these findings offer a practical path to better mental health amid rapid work and social changes.

The Thai experience mirrors global trends. Urban pressures, academic demands, and family responsibilities contribute to rising anxiety among adults and students. The study, published in Psychology and Aging, is among the most extensive examinations of how daily stress handling relates to personality over time. Data from more than 2,000 participants show that stronger stress-regulation skills accompany increases in sociability and openness, while declining coping correlates with withdrawal.

A newly published analysis is shaking up popular beliefs about charisma, revealing that while this seemingly magical quality can boost career success and social influence, having too much of it may actually become a liability—especially for leaders. The findings, outlined in a recent column in The Atlantic, draw on extensive psychological research to dispel myths about the nature of charisma and offer practical advice for Thais interested in cultivating personal magnetism without overdoing it (The Atlantic).

A major new study has found that individuals who improve their ability to handle daily stress tend to become more extroverted, agreeable, and open to new experiences over nearly two decades—a discovery with important implications for mental health and personal growth across Thailand. Conversely, the research shows that those struggling to manage stressors gradually become more introverted, unfriendly, and closed off to new experiences, highlighting stress management as a crucial catalyst for positive personality change.

Recent research suggests that while self-awareness is widely celebrated as a key to personal growth and social success, there can be a downside to being overly focused on oneself—a phenomenon increasingly relevant in today’s hyperconnected and comparison-driven world. Psychologists and neuroscientists are now grappling with the question: Can you be too self-aware for your own good?

Self-awareness, defined as the capacity to consciously recognize one’s character, feelings, motives, and desires, has long been prized, especially in education and leadership circles. Thai culture, rooted in Buddhist principles of mindfulness and self-reflection, places a similar value on understanding oneself. The expectation is that this awareness leads to more mindful choices and harmonious relationships. But the latest scientific findings, covered by research in the fields of psychology and cognitive neuroscience, point to more nuanced effects—raising important considerations for individuals, educators, and mental health professionals in Thailand and globally.

A wave of research into attention shows why some people sustain high levels of concentration. For Thai students, workers, and families, these insights translate into practical steps to beat constant distractions in a fast-moving digital era.

Deep focus fuels productivity, creativity, and well-being. Recent analyses suggest concentration follows a clear set of practices that help people stay on task. This matters as Thailand reforms education, grows a creative digital economy, and confronts attention challenges among youth and adults.

Sleep research challenges the common social media claim that women inherently need much more rest than men. The data show only a modest average difference, shaped by biology and daily realities rather than a simple gender rule. For Thailand, where social change is reshaping women’s roles at home and in the workforce, this nuance matters.

In Thai society, sleep health intersects with mental well-being, work-life balance, and evolving gender expectations. Quick-fix claims on social platforms—such as “women need two extra hours of sleep”—miss the nuance. Robust research indicates a gentler reality: roughly 20 to 30 minutes more sleep for women on average, influenced by biology and daily demands rather than a universal standard.

A new wave of psychological research is unlocking the secrets of individuals with “scary levels of concentration,” revealing not only the uncommon things these ultra-focused people avoid but also offering practical guidance for anyone struggling with modern distractions. As Thailand navigates a digital era where interruptions are constant—from phone notifications to bustling urban rhythms—these insights could reshape how students, professionals, and families build mental resilience for success.

The ability to focus deeply is more than a personal asset; it is a pillar of productivity, creativity, and even mental health. Recent analysis of articles like “9 Things People With Scary Levels Of Concentration Never Ever Do, According To Psychology” from YourTango yourtango.com, together with additional psychological research, highlights that hyper-focused individuals follow a rigorous set of “don’ts” that sharply distinguishes them from those at the mercy of distractions. These findings matter to Thai readers as the country invests heavily in education reform, moves rapidly toward a creative digital economy, and faces high rates of adolescent and adult attention difficulties, as shown in both local and global data.

In the age of “rizz” and viral TED Talks, having charisma is often viewed as a shortcut to career success and popularity. But the latest research from psychologists and leadership experts reveals a surprising twist: while boosting your charisma can indeed help you make friends and climb the career ladder, too much charisma may actually become a liability, even for those born with the social “gift.” New insights from studies published in 2024 and 2025—including an influential feature in The Atlantic and key academic reviews—are rewriting our understanding of what charisma is, how it shapes happiness, and why there is such a thing as being too magnetic for your own good The Atlantic.

Charisma can open doors to influence, promotions, and popularity. New research from 2024 and 2025, and reviews in major outlets, suggest a nuanced view: more charisma isn’t always better. A certain level helps people connect and follow, but excessive charisma can backfire even for naturally sociable leaders.

Charisma is best seen as a mix of influence and affability. Influence is the confidence and competence to guide others; affability is warm, approachable energy. This blend has helped leaders rise, but studies indicate peaks of charisma may yield diminishing returns once a threshold is crossed. Ultra-charismatic figures can inspire, yet they may struggle with practical execution or cause discomfort among teammates. Some studies link excessive charisma to narcissistic tendencies grounded in strong self-belief.

A July 2025 study shows that voluntary celibacy—choosing to abstain from sexual activity for personal or cultural reasons—has become more common, especially among women. The research challenges the notion that dating apps and sex-positivity have made abstinence obsolete. It reveals nuanced shifts in attitudes toward intimacy across generations.

Many adults, particularly women, are intentionally taking breaks from sex for weeks, months, or longer. Motivations include personal growth, spiritual alignment, healing from past experiences, and prioritizing health and well-being. The trend suggests that sexual choice can be a form of empowerment rather than a sign of dysfunction.

New research published in July 2025 has found that voluntary celibacy—choosing to abstain from sexual activity for personal, cultural, or psychological reasons—has become notably common, especially among women. The study, highlighted by Psychology Today, offers a fresh look at shifting sexual behaviors and attitudes in contemporary society.

Celibacy is often assumed to be rare in the age of dating apps and sex-positivity movements, but the new findings challenge this stereotype. In recent years, changes in societal values, evolving gender dynamics, and personal considerations about health and well-being have contributed to a marked increase in voluntary sexual abstention, particularly among women. The implications stretch beyond individual choices, touching on issues ranging from mental health to relationship expectations in Thailand and around the world.

Recent research is challenging popular beliefs circulating on social media that women require substantially more sleep than men, with emerging scientific evidence showing only a slight, but measurable, average difference in how long women sleep compared to men. The discussion, rooted in a new explainer by a leading sleep psychologist (The Conversation), highlights a complex weave of biological, psychological, and social influences shaping women’s sleep patterns — issues acutely relevant in Thailand, where rapid social change is reshaping the traditional roles of women in family and society.

A growing movement is turning humor into therapy. Stand Up For Mental Health (SMH) trains people with mental health challenges in joke-writing and stand-up skills through a peer-led program. It aims to build confidence and resilience by using laughter as a pathway to well-being. Research from reputable psychology outlets supports humor-based interventions as a complementary approach in mental health care.

In Thailand, mental health is increasingly discussed but stigma and access barriers persist. Rising stress, depression, and anxiety affect many, especially young urban residents. SMH’s approach offers a practical model for Thailand: peer-led, community-based empowerment that can supplement traditional care and reach people who might not access formal services.

In a remarkable blend of performance art and therapy, a pioneering program led by a Canadian counselor and stand-up comic is showing the world how humor can change lives for people with mental health challenges. The Stand Up For Mental Health™ (SMH) initiative, founded by a counselor and comedian with lived experience of bipolar disorder, teaches stand-up comedy skills to individuals living with mental health issues, equipping them with newfound confidence and resilience through the healing power of laughter (Psychology Today).

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is not only transforming industries and daily life but is also poised to tackle one of humanity’s most persistent social issues: loneliness. Recent developments, as highlighted in a feature by The New Yorker, suggest that AI may soon be capable of providing companionship that is emotionally sophisticated and available at any time—an evolution that both excites technologists and worries experts in human well-being (The New Yorker). As these innovations draw nearer to mainstream adoption, Thai society must grapple with both the promises and perils of outsourcing human connection to machines.

Loneliness is rising in urban Thailand as fast-paced living and dense housing erode traditional community ties. Data suggest older adults often face isolation, especially as families shrink with urbanization and lower birth rates. The COVID-19 era intensified social gaps, highlighting the urgency for compassionate, locally relevant solutions.

Tech firms are racing to deliver AI companions—digital entities that can converse, simulate empathy, and remember user preferences. These virtual friends come as chatbots, voice assistants, or avatars, offering interactive dialogue that may help people who struggle to connect with others. In theory, such tools could reach people in rural areas, individuals with disabilities, or seniors who live apart from family, providing a steady source of conversation and support. Data from Thailand’s tech sector show growing interest in AI-powered mental health features and senior-friendly smart devices.

A comprehensive, two-decade study from a prominent U.S. university shows that people who cultivate strong daily stress management skills not only cope better with everyday challenges but also tend to become more extroverted, agreeable, and open to new ideas as they age. Those less adept at handling stress may drift toward introversion and skepticism toward unfamiliar concepts. The findings underscore the lasting value of emotional regulation for personal growth.

The study followed over 2,000 participants for nearly 20 years, making it one of the most extensive investigations into how stress coping relates to personality change. Participants kept daily diaries during eight-day windows at three intervals, noting stress experiences, emotions, and personality traits. Advanced analyses revealed clear links between daily stress practices and shifts in key personality dimensions over time. The research was announced by MSU Today.