#Behavioralpsychology

Revolutionary laboratory experiments with common marmosets—small South American primates sharing significant genetic similarities with humans—have revealed shocking insights into the fundamental psychological mechanisms driving compulsive smartphone usage that could transform how Thai families, educators, and policymakers approach digital wellness throughout the kingdom. These groundbreaking studies demonstrate that screen attraction stems not primarily from meaningful content or social connections as previously assumed, but from simple, repeatable sensory changes that trigger basic reinforcement pathways in primate brains, suggesting that the compulsive checking behaviors plaguing millions of Thai smartphone users result from evolutionary responses to engineered digital stimuli rather than personal weakness or lack of self-control.

A new wave of research using common marmosets offers provocative clues about why smartphones captivate people and how Thai communities can address digital wellness. The studies show that simple, repeatable visual stimuli can trigger reinforcement pathways in primate brains, suggesting that repetitive screen checking may stem from basic brain chemistry rather than personal weakness. Researchers emphasize that meaningful content is not the sole driver of attraction; basic audiovisual feedback can sustain interaction over time.

Recent research has begun to challenge long-held assumptions about self-control and willpower, offering new hope to those struggling to stay disciplined in an age of constant distraction, stress, and instant gratification. While society often looks up to highly self-controlled individuals—the avid gym-goers, the impeccably organized home-makers, the unfailingly calm professionals—scientists are discovering that the real keys to self-control may be less about innate “grit” and more about learnable skills and environment management, according to a new report from The New York Times (nytimes.com).

Self-control is not just about sheer willpower. New research shows it can be learned through tools, routines, and environmental tweaks. For Thai readers navigating work, family, and constant digital noise, the findings offer actionable steps to stay focused and resilient amid stress.

Across Thailand, the concept of perseverance—ความเพียร—has deep roots in Buddhist practice and family life. This cultural backdrop makes the science of self-regulation especially relevant. Experts caution that lasting change comes from skills and strategies, not just trying harder.

A new study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology finds that aligning exercise routines with personality traits may hold the key to making workouts more enjoyable—and sticking with them. The research, led by a team from University College London, throws light on why some people dread their workouts while others find them invigorating, and suggests that recognizing one’s personality type can help overcome barriers to physical activity.

This research is significant for Thai readers as the country, like much of the world, faces growing concerns over sedentary lifestyles and related health risks. With nearly one third of the global adult population failing to achieve the World Health Organization’s recommended 150 minutes of exercise per week, understanding new motivational strategies is crucial for Thailand’s ongoing efforts to combat non-communicable diseases and promote holistic well-being (WHO physical activity statistics).

A new study highlights that matching exercise routines to individual personality traits can boost enjoyment and adherence to fitness goals. Researchers from University College London found that understanding one’s personality type may help overcome barriers to physical activity, offering a fresh approach to public health in Thailand.

Thailand faces rising concerns about sedentary lifestyles and related illnesses. With many adults not meeting the World Health Organization’s 150 minutes of exercise per week, personalized motivation strategies are timely for Thailand’s efforts to curb non-communicable diseases and support well-being.

Chronic stress has become an increasingly prominent concern in both global and Thai society, exacerbated by rapid digitalization, economic pressures, and disruptions to daily life. A new wave of research led by experts in behavioral psychology highlights practical, evidence-based techniques for managing persistent stress. According to a recent article from The Conversation, the discussion on “cortisol face”, which refers to the physical impact of sustained stress—such as puffiness and fatigue—underlines how crucial it is to address mental strain for long-term health beyond mere appearances (The Conversation).

Chronic stress is a rising concern in Thai society as urban living, digital demands, and economic pressures intensify. New behavioral psychology research highlights practical, evidence-based techniques to manage persistent stress. A recent Conversation feature underscores the link between long-term stress and physical signs like puffiness and fatigue, emphasizing that addressing mental strain is essential for lasting health beyond appearances.

In Thailand, chronic stress affects heart health, mental well-being, and daily functioning across workplaces, schools, and families. Elevated cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, is normal in short bursts but harmful when persistent. Local healthcare professionals note how sustained cortisol can impact metabolism, immunity, and even appearance, reinforcing the need for accessible stress-reduction strategies.

A new study raises questions about whether paracetamol, the widely used pain reliever acetaminophen, can influence risk perception. In Thailand, where self-medication with over-the-counter drugs is common, understanding any broader effects is especially relevant for daily choices.

Researchers from a leading university conducted a double-blind study to see if acetaminophen affects risk-taking. In a peer-reviewed neuroscience journal, the findings suggest the drug may reduce anxiety about risky decisions. More than 500 university students were randomized to receive either acetaminophen or a placebo and then completed risk-related tasks, including a balloon-inflation game to win imaginary money. Participants who took acetaminophen tended to take more risks than those who received the placebo.