Psychology

Dr. Azim Shariff on a stage giving a talk at a TED Conference

Why humans respect hard work regardless of results

Have you ever had a co-worker make a big show of how hard they work—even though they don’t get great results? They do this because people attach moral value to hard work, something Dr. Azim Shariff calls “effort moralization.”

May 11, 2023

Do you hate seeing people fidget? New UBC research says you’re not alone

According to new UBC research, approximately one-third of the population suffer from misokinesia, a psychological phenomenon defined by a strong negative emotional response to the sight of someone else’s small and repetitive movements.

Aug 31, 2021

Making bins more convenient boosts recycling and composting rates

Want to recycle or compost more? Try moving the bins closer, new UBC research suggests.

Apr 20, 2017

Self-worth boosts ability to overcome poverty

For people in poverty, remembering better times – such as past success – improves brain functioning and increases their willingness to seek help from crucial aid services.

Dec 17, 2013

Scientists find brain region that helps you make up your mind

One of the smallest parts of the brain is getting a second look after new UBC research suggests it plays a crucial role in decision making.

Nov 24, 2013

Horrors of war harden group alliances

Experiencing the horrors of war can cause people to have a greater affinity for members of their own group, according to new UBC research.

Nov 7, 2013

Scientists reduce behaviours associated with problem gambling in rats

With the help of a rat casino, UBC brain researchers have successfully reduced behaviours in rats that are commonly associated with compulsive gambling in humans.

Oct 29, 2013

First major study of suicide motivations to advance prevention

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Jun 13, 2013

Strength in numbers when resisting forbidden fruit

A new University of British Columbia study helps to explain how people become obsessed with forbidden pleasures.

Jun 5, 2013

When perks don’t work: Unearned upgrades embarrassing for consumers

New research from UBC’s Sauder School of Business reveals that giving a free bump in service can backfire if the perk is given randomly in front of others.

May 27, 2013

Read UBC Reports’ full interview with Eva Kwan

How do you interact with Hadfield? I am part of Chris’ medical support team. Specifically, I am co-op student with the Operational Space Medicine team of the Astronauts, Life Sciences, […]

Apr 4, 2013 - by By Basil Waugh

Earth to Commander Chris

Student Eva Kwan keeps Canada’s favorite astronaut grounded

Apr 3, 2013 - by By Basil Waugh

Global companies beware: Rude customer treatment depends on culture

A new UBC study reveals that North American service workers are more likely to sabotage rude customers, while Chinese react by disengaging from customer service altogether.

Mar 25, 2013

Friend or foe: Babies choose sides early

Babies have a dark side under their cute exteriors, according to UBC study that finds infants as young as nine months embrace those who pick on individuals who are different from them.

Mar 12, 2013

$2M from BCLC and the Province creates Centre for Gambling Research at UBC

A $2-million investment from the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) and the Government of B.C. will create a major new Centre for Gambling Research at UBC to advance our understanding of gambling psychology and help reduce problem gambling behaviours.

Feb 27, 2013

Doing good is good for you: Volunteer adolescents enjoy healthier hearts

Giving back through volunteering is good for your heart, even at a young age, according to University of British Columbia researchers.

Feb 25, 2013

Catfight? Workplace conflicts between women get bad rap

A new UBC study suggests troubling perceptions exist when it comes to women involved in disputes at work.

Feb 25, 2013

Bilingual babies know their grammar by seven months

Babies as young as seven months can distinguish between, and begin to learn, two languages with vastly different grammatical structures, according to new research from the University of British Columbia and Université Paris Descartes.

Feb 14, 2013

Common ground on the common good: Study finds Republicans and Democrats can agree on some moral issues

A new University of British Columbia study that asked U.S. conservatives and liberals to rate the most influential historical figures of the 20th Century finds that the two sides of America’s “culture wars” share a surprising level of common moral ground.

Nov 2, 2012

Maternal depression affects language development in babies

Maternal depression and a common class of antidepressants can alter a crucial period of language development in babies, according to a new study by researchers at the University of British Columbia, Harvard University and the Child & Family Research Institute (CFRI) at BC Children’s Hospital.

Oct 8, 2012