News

A growing number of university professors in the United States are raising alarms about a worrying trend among today’s students: many young adults are arriving at university without essential life skills, due to parenting styles that prioritize protection over independence. This issue, highlighted in a recent Slate advice column where an anonymous professor described students “who have never been allowed to solve a problem themselves,” is resonating with educators and mental health professionals worldwide, and holds crucial lessons for Thai parents and educators facing similar cultural shifts.

A newly published analysis in The Economist revisits the decades-long debate on whether being bilingual actually benefits the brain, challenging long-held assumptions while highlighting persistent scientific uncertainty. With Thailand’s education system increasingly promoting English and Mandarin alongside Thai, the study’s findings carry particular weight for Thai families, educators, and policymakers contemplating the cognitive worth of learning an additional language.

For years, researchers have claimed that speaking two or more languages confers a host of cognitive advantages beyond mere linguistic prowess. In addition to opening doors to different cultural and professional opportunities, multilingualism has frequently been linked to improvements in “executive function”—an umbrella term covering skills like ignoring distractions, planning complex tasks, and adjusting one’s thinking as circumstances change. Widespread media coverage and popular science books have further fuelled the belief that bilingualism may even delay dementia, with some research suggesting bilinguals can experience the onset of dementia as much as four years later than monolinguals (The Economist).

A groundbreaking study published on June 26, 2025 in the Annals of Family Medicine has revealed that body fat percentage (BF%) is a significantly better predictor of both all-cause and cardiovascular mortality than the widely used body mass index (BMI), particularly in adults aged 20 to 49. This major shift in understanding could have profound implications for how Thai clinicians and public health officials assess obesity and related health risks across the country.

A new research study has revealed a compelling link between out-of-body experiences and elevated rates of mental health symptoms and psychological trauma, deepening scientific understanding of this mysterious phenomenon and raising crucial questions for the Thai mental health community. The findings, originally reported in PsyPost, highlight the need for greater awareness and nuanced care for individuals reporting such experiences, which have long captured the human imagination but remain poorly understood in clinical settings.

A recent study explores how early-life trauma and attachment anxiety shape emotional responses during romantic conflicts over sex. Researchers find that people with higher attachment anxiety tend to experience more intense negative emotions during sexual disagreements, with childhood trauma helping explain why.

The research underscores a growing interest in how childhood experiences influence adult relationships. In Thai society, where family expectations and cultural norms around intimacy are strong, these findings are particularly relevant. Attachment theory, developed by psychologist John Bowlby, posits that early caregiver interactions set patterns for later relationships. Trauma such as neglect, abuse, or caregiver loss can disrupt secure attachment, leading to ongoing worries about abandonment or feelings of unworthiness in adulthood.

A new international study reveals that people who report out-of-body experiences (OBEs) tend to show higher levels of anxiety, depression, dissociation, and exposure to trauma. The research adds depth to our understanding of OBEs and highlights important considerations for mental health services in Thailand.

OBEs are experiences where individuals feel they are observing their own bodies from an external perspective. While some interpret these episodes as spiritual or mystical, scientists are increasingly examining them through neuroscience and psychology. The latest study, published in a peer-reviewed journal, surveyed people who report OBEs and found they are more likely to report mental health symptoms and trauma than those who have not had such experiences.

As artificial intelligence rapidly becomes entwined with daily life, a new wave of research is sounding the alarm about the psychological risks of relying on AI for companionship and emotional support. A recent article by a cognitive psychologist and former tech industry leader highlights the rise of what experts are calling “synthetic intimacy”—a phenomenon unfolding as people increasingly turn to AI chatbots for personal connection, therapy, and even romance. With growing numbers across the globe, including in Thailand, engaging with AI companions, experts stress the urgent need to better understand the consequences for mental health, personal growth, and social cohesion. [psychologytoday.com]

A growing consensus among gut health experts points to psyllium husk as one of the most effective supplements to promote regular bowel movements. Derived from Plantago ovata seeds, this natural fiber not only eases constipation but also supports overall gut health. For Thai readers, rising constipation rates and fiber-poor diets make psyllium husk a timely option to consider alongside traditional dietary changes.

Constipation remains a common challenge worldwide, including in Thailand, where lifestyle shifts have led to more digestive complaints. Thai hospitals report that low dietary fiber, insufficient hydration, and reduced physical activity contribute to the problem. Medical professionals commonly recommend increasing fiber intake, drinking more water, and staying active. When these measures fall short, psyllium husk is frequently explored as a gentle, evidence-based aid.

Experts are giving renewed attention to psyllium husk as the best supplement to promote regular bowel movements, according to new research and consensus among gut health professionals. This natural fiber, derived from the seeds of the Plantago ovata plant, has been proven not only to ease constipation but to support comprehensive gut health, offering a solution that is increasingly relevant for Thai readers as constipation rates rise and fiber-deficient diets become more common.

A growing body of scientific research confirms what many health experts have long advocated: walking regularly, especially at a brisk pace, can play a meaningful role in improving cholesterol profiles and reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. According to a 2022 study highlighted in recent health reporting, daily moderate-intensity exercise such as brisk walking can significantly increase beneficial high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol while helping to decrease harmful low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. This has important implications for adults in Thailand, where non-communicable diseases, including heart conditions linked to high cholesterol, remain a major public health concern.

As AI becomes more embedded in daily life, new research warns about the psychological costs of turning to machines for companionship, therapy, and romance. A recent piece from a cognitive psychologist and former tech leader describes “synthetic intimacy”—people forming emotional bonds with AI chatbots. With growing adoption across the globe, including in Thailand, experts urge careful examination of impacts on mental health, personal growth, and social cohesion.

In a world selling frictionless solutions, generative AI is marketed not only as a productivity tool but also as a companion. The article recounts a tech futurist’s experience dating four AI chatbots from major platforms. The reflections reveal moments of sweetness and emotional engagement. The takeaway is clear: many users feel seen by AI and share intimate thoughts with systems that never judge.

A new analysis in The Economist revisits the long-standing question of whether bilingualism truly benefits the brain, and it cautions that the science remains uncertain. As Thailand expands English and Mandarin programmes alongside Thai, families, educators, and policymakers are paying close attention to what language learning actually delivers for cognitive health and learning outcomes.

For years, researchers have linked multilingualism to advantages beyond language—especially in executive function, which includes staying focused, planning tasks, and adapting to new rules. Media attention and popular science have bolstered the belief that bilingualism could delay dementia, with some studies suggesting bilinguals experience dementia onset several years later than monolingual peers. In Thailand, where many students enroll in English or Mandarin programmes and even trilingual international schools, residents have hoped language learning will sharpen thinking and problem-solving to drive the country’s development.

A wave of recent studies questions the assumption that more after-school activities always lead to better outcomes. New research suggests that excessive scheduling can harm children’s mental health and social development, especially when activities are pursued for parental or societal pressure rather than the child’s interest. This debate matters for Thai families and educators, where academics, sports, and arts are often viewed as essential steps toward success.

Around the world, parents face a familiar dilemma: should they nudge their child toward activities, even if the child resists? Many believe structured programs build skills academics alone cannot. Yet a 2024 study from the University of Georgia indicates that while moderate involvement can support cognitive and social growth, a heavy load yields diminishing returns and may harm emotional well-being. Researchers explain that the final hours of extra activities offer minimal cognitive gains and may negatively affect non-cognitive skills like resilience and self-regulation.

A global shift in how fats are viewed is now echoing in Thai kitchens and public health discussions. A recent analysis in The Independent traces a move away from demonizing fat toward embracing whole, natural fats. In Thailand, where culture and health policy meet at the dining table, this conversation prompts both consumers and health authorities to ask: what fats belong in a healthy Thai diet?

For decades, health guidance urged low-fat eating, linking fat—especially saturated fat—to heart disease and obesity. Supermarket shelves filled with low-fat yogurts, margarine, and “light” products. Many of these products replaced fat with sugars and refined starches, unintentionally worsening metabolic issues like diabetes and obesity. As one nutritional therapist highlighted in coverage, many low-fat options are highly processed and rely on added sugars and refined carbs, which can raise cravings and disrupt blood sugar. The emphasis, she noted, should be on whole foods with natural fats rather than processed, low-fat substitutes.

New research is shedding light on a paradox long observed in entertainment and everyday life: some of the world’s funniest individuals also struggle with some of the deepest emotional pain. Recent findings compiled by a neuroscience expert in Psychology Today draw directly on brain science and psychological studies to explain this hidden connection, offering insights not only for global audiences but also for Thai readers who deeply value humor as a tool for social connection.

Stress pushes people to choose riskier options, with noticeable differences between men and women. A University of Arkansas study, published in Psychoneuroendocrinology, explores how stress reshapes judgment and decision-making. The findings matter for daily life in Thailand, where economic uncertainty and personal finances are a constant concern for many households.

The study centers on loss aversion—the tendency to fear losses more than valuing gains of equal size. Under pressure, this protective instinct weakens, leading to bolder choices. The lead author, an assistant professor of psychological science, notes that stress makes him hesitant to decide when potential losses are at stake. This mirrors a common Thai experience during times of job insecurity or volatile markets, where residents weigh investment and financial decisions carefully.

A new study from the University of Arkansas reveals that stress significantly nudges people toward making riskier choices, with key differences in how men and women respond to decision-making under pressure. The findings, published in the journal Psychoneuroendocrinology, mark an important step in understanding how stress changes our judgment—a topic with direct relevance to the daily lives and financial wellbeing of Thais, especially in uncertain economic times.

At the heart of the research is a concept called “loss aversion,” referring to the well-established human tendency to fear losses more than we value equivalent gains—for example, losing 3,600 baht hurts more than the pleasure of gaining 3,600 baht. Under stress, however, this protective instinct weakens, resulting in bolder, riskier decisions. As the study’s lead author, an assistant professor of psychological science, explains, “In my own life, if I’m stressed, I’ll wait to make a decision that could have potential loss implications.” His reflection echoes a common experience for many Thai workers—such as hesitant investment decisions during periods of high job insecurity or fluctuating market conditions.

A global survey shows nearly 30% of teachers use AI tools weekly, potentially saving about six weeks of work per year. This rapid adoption is reshaping how teachers plan lessons, grade work, and support students. For Thailand, the trend holds promise for easing workloads and improving educational quality, especially where shortages and administrative duties are pressing.

Researchers from Gallup report that AI is increasingly integrated in classrooms worldwide. Data suggests teachers who use AI regularly save time through faster grading, quicker resource generation, and streamlined administrative tasks. In Thailand, public schools face similar bottlenecks, and AI adoption could boost both teacher well-being and student outcomes.

A new global survey has found that nearly 30% of teachers are now using artificial intelligence (AI) tools on a weekly basis, a trend that could free up around six weeks’ worth of working hours each year. This rapid adoption signals a shift in how educators prepare lessons, grade assignments, and support students—putting AI at the heart of a classroom transformation that has important implications for Thailand’s education system.

The findings, published by Gallup and referenced in their recent article, highlight the increasing integration of digital technologies worldwide and point to promising opportunities for educators facing time constraints and heavy workloads. For Thailand, where teacher shortages and administrative burdens remain persistent challenges, adapting to these trends could lead to significant improvements in both educational quality and teacher well-being.

A global shift in birth rates is sparking renewed debate about economy, family, and national resilience in 2025. As fertility declines, people are rethinking social support systems, aging populations, and what “more babies” would require in today’s world. In Thailand, the trend mirrors global patterns but with local nuances that shape policy and everyday life.

Globally, births per 1,000 people have eased to about 17 in 2024, down from around 19.6 in 2012. The causes are multifaceted: higher education and more women in the workforce, economic uncertainty, urban living, and shifting attitudes toward family life. In Thailand, fertility has fallen below replacement levels. Official data indicate that live births dipped to roughly 460,000 in 2025, with the total fertility rate continuing to decline. These numbers point toward an aging society and greater pressure on elder care and public finances.

Leisure travel is projected to reach $15 trillion by 2040, a shift outlined in a landmark Boston Consulting Group study. The analysis says the sector will triple in value from about $5 trillion in 2024, driven by rising affluence, evolving traveler motivations, and smarter digital planning. For Thailand, a regional tourism hub, this shift presents opportunities and new competitive pressures that require bold, tech-enabled strategies.

Thailand’s tourism has long fueled the economy, contributing a sizable share of GDP before the pandemic. Now, with domestic and regional travel expanding, Thai operators must rethink offerings beyond traditional beach getaways. Increasingly, travelers seek curated, purpose-driven experiences—wellness, culinary immersion, eco-tourism, and culture—while technology reshapes every step from inspiration to booking.

Asia is warming at twice the global rate, a January 2024 assessment by the World Meteorological Organization confirms. The findings show the continent’s heat, rainfall, floods, and sea levels accelerating much faster than the world average, driven by its vast landmass and intertwining air-sea systems. The effects are felt across countries from India to China and Thailand, reshaping livelihoods and infrastructure alike.

For Thai readers, the implications are immediate. Bangkok’s heat waves are intensifying, the Mekong Delta’s flood patterns are shifting, and coastal communities are coping with stronger erosion. This isn’t merely a regional concern; it is a local crisis that affects health, agriculture, and the economy.

A recent vote by a United States government advisory panel to curtail the use of thimerosal—a mercury-based preservative—in flu vaccines has reignited controversy over vaccine safety and the legacy of discredited autism claims. The vote, which followed a presentation by prominent vaccine critics now serving in government, illustrates how decades-old debates over vaccine ingredients continue to influence public health policy, even as the global consensus remains firm on vaccine safety.

A U.S. advisory panel has voted to limit thimerosal, a mercury-based preservative, in flu vaccines. The decision revives a long-running debate about vaccine ingredients and safety, even as major health authorities maintain that vaccines containing thimerosal are safe at the doses used.

For Thai readers, the story underscores how misinformation can influence health choices and how public trust in vaccines must be protected. Thailand’s vaccination programs rely on international guidance and local communication to keep campaigns effective. The Thai public health system continues to monitor global debates while ensuring vaccines remain accessible and trustworthy.