You Won't Believe This: Can People Be Inoculated Against Misinformation?

Kai Kupferschmidt

ScienceVolume 386,

Issue 6721, Nov 2024

As a young boy growing up in the Netherlands in the 1990s, Sander van der Linden learned that most of his mother’s relatives, who were Jewish, had been killed by the Nazis, in the grip of racist ideology. At school, he was confronted with antisemitic conspiracy theories still circulating in Europe. It all got him wondering about the power of propaganda and how people become convinced of falsehoods.

Eventually, he would make studying those issues his career. As head of the Social Decision-Making Lab at the University of Cambridge, Van der Linden is studying the power of lies and how to keep people from believing them. He has become academia’s biggest proponent of a strategy pioneered after the Korean War 
to “inoculate” humans against persuasion, the way they are vaccinated against dangerous infections.

The recipe only has two steps: First, warn people they may be manipulated. Second, expose them to a weakened form of the misinformation, just enough to intrigue but not persuade anyone. “The goal is to raise eyebrows (antibodies) without convincing (infecting),” Van der Linden and his colleague Jon Roozenbeek wrote recently in JAMA.

The article is here.

Here are some thoughts:

This article examines psychological inoculation as a promising strategy to build resistance against online misinformation. This approach adapts the principles of medical inoculation, aiming to "prebunk" misinformation by exposing individuals to diluted forms of misleading information and debunking tactics. Psychological inoculation is rooted in a Cold War-era concept developed by psychologist William McGuire, which van der Linden later adapted for the digital age to strengthen resilience against misinformation, particularly regarding climate change. Practical applications of this strategy include educational games like "Bad News" and "Harmony Square," which engage players in recognizing misinformation tactics, and YouTube ads that use pop culture to introduce the concept of misinformation detection.

Despite its potential, inoculation has its critics. While effective in laboratory settings and some limited real-world applications, questions remain about its long-term efficacy, potential backfire effects, and emphasis on individual responsibility over systemic change. Critics, like sociologist Sandra González-Bailón, argue that this approach may place undue responsibility on individuals, bypassing the role that social media platforms play in profiting from and spreading misinformation. Additionally, critics caution that inoculation may oversimplify the complexity of identifying misinformation, risking an erosion of trust in all content, whether true or false.

Given the limitations of psychological inoculation, experts advocate for a multifaceted approach to combating misinformation. Complementary strategies include accuracy nudges, which prompt users to reflect on content before sharing; source credibility indicators to improve source evaluation; and media literacy initiatives that build public capacity to critically assess information. Together, these methods could address both individual and systemic dimensions of misinformation. Psychological inoculation holds promise as one layer in this defense, but the scope and scale of misinformation demand ongoing research, systemic reforms within social media platforms, and enhanced public education to create a comprehensive and sustainable solution.

From Biological Needs to Existential Motives: Meaning, People, & Esteem

Tom Pyszczynski

International Society for the Science

of Existential Psychology

Originally published May 3, 2021

Human beings are animals. For many people that’s a disturbing thought – we’ll talk about why this idea is troubling later. The biological and psychological systems that keep us alive are remarkably similar to those found in other species. This is because human beings evolved through a long process of natural selection that resulted in adaptations that initially emerged in other species long before our kind existed. Natural selection provided our species and all other animals a set of biological needs that motivate behavior aimed at staying alive, which of course is necessary for having sex and producing offspring that carry on one’s genes. All animals are motivated to procure the basic necessities of life (food, water, warmth, safety) that enable them to stay alive long enough to mate with other members of its species, because, in the distant past, these tendencies increased the likelihood that its ancestors passed on the genes responsible for these motives. 

In this essay, we will consider how natural selection led to some uniquely human ways of meeting those biological needs—adaptations that set off a cascade of developments that led to a new and different type of animal. In particular, we’ll focus on the transition from biological needs to existential motives—needs that result from the uniquely human awareness of the facts of life, or the “givens” of existence. This awareness gives rise to an entirely new set of needs and desires that go far beyond the simple necessities of life.

The essay is here.

Here are some thoughts:

The essay delves into the uniquely human cognitive abilities—symbolic thought, mental time travel, and self-awareness—that set us apart from other animals and lead to existential concerns. Culture becomes essential in providing meaning, shaping our values, and meeting existential needs through socially validated beliefs and shared understandings. Grounded in Terror Management Theory (TMT), the essay discusses how awareness of mortality creates an existential fear we manage by attributing meaning to life and value to ourselves. This is achieved largely through cultural worldviews that offer frameworks for understanding our lives, pursuing meaning, and developing self-esteem. The pursuit of self-esteem thus serves as a master motive, driving behaviors aligned with cultural values. In facing mortality, humans seek both literal and symbolic immortality through lasting contributions or beliefs in an afterlife, aiming to transcend the limits of existence. Through this lens, TMT provides insight into the depth of human motivation and the unique ways we strive to find purpose amid life’s uncertainties.

Effects of Personalization on Credit and Blame for AI-Generated Content: Evidence from Four Countries

Earp, B. D.,  et al. (2024, July 15).

Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences

(in press).

https://doi.org/10.31219/osf.io/68k3c

Abstract

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) raises ethical questions concerning moral and legal responsibility—specifically, the attributions of credit and blame for AI-generated content. For example, if a human invests minimal skill or effort to produce a beneficial output with an AI tool, can the human still take credit? How does the answer change if the AI has been personalized (i.e., fine-tuned) on previous  outputs  produced  (i.e.,  without  AI  assistance) by the same human?  We  conducted pre-registered experiments with representative samples (N= 1,802) from four countries (US, UK, China, and Singapore). We investigated laypeople’s attributions of credit and blame to human users for producing beneficial or harmful outputs with a standard large language model (LLM), a personalized LLM, and without AI assistance (control  condition). Participants generally attributed more credit to human users of personalized versus standard LLMs for beneficial outputs, whereas LLM type did not significantly affect blame attributions for harmful outputs, with a partial exception among Chinese participants. In addition, UK participants attributed more blame for using any type of LLM versus no LLM. Practical, ethical, and policy implications of these findings are discussed.

A pdf is here.

Here are some thoughts:

The studies indicate that artificial intelligence and machine learning models often fail to accurately reproduce human judgments about rule violations and other normative decisions. This discrepancy arises primarily due to the way data is collected and labeled for training these models. Descriptive labeling, which focuses on identifying factual features, tends to result in harsher judgments compared to normative labeling, where humans are explicitly asked about rule violations. This finding aligns with research on human decision-making, which suggests that people tend to be more lenient when making normative judgments compared to descriptive assessments.

The asymmetry in judgments between AI models and humans has significant implications for various fields, including recruitment, content moderation, and criminal justice. For instance, AI models trained on descriptively labeled data may make stricter judgments about rule violations or candidate suitability than human decision-makers would. This could lead to unfair outcomes in hiring processes, social media content moderation, or even criminal sentencing.

These findings relate to broader research on cognitive biases and decision-making heuristics in humans. Just as humans exhibit biases in their judgments, AI models can inherit and even amplify these biases through the data they are trained on and the algorithms they use. The challenge lies in developing AI systems that can more accurately replicate human normative judgments while avoiding the pitfalls of human cognitive biases.

Furthermore, the research highlights the importance of transparency in data collection and model training processes. Understanding how data is gathered and labeled is crucial for predicting and mitigating potential biases in AI-driven decision-making systems. This aligns with calls for explainable AI and ethical AI development in various fields.

In conclusion, these studies underscore the complex relationship between human judgment, AI decision-making, and information asymmetry. They emphasize the need for careful consideration of data collection methods, model training processes, and the potential impacts of AI deployment in various domains. Future research could focus on developing methods to better align AI judgments with human normative decisions while maintaining the benefits of AI's data processing capabilities.

Deepfake detection with and without content warnings

Lewis, A., Vu, P., Duch, R. M., & Chowdhury, A.

(2023). Royal Society Open Science, 10(11).

https://doi.org/10.1098/rsos.231214

Abstract

The rapid advancement of ‘deepfake' video technology—which uses deep learning artificial intelligence algorithms to create fake videos that look real—has given urgency to the question of how policymakers and technology companies should moderate inauthentic content. We conduct an experiment to measure people's alertness to and ability to detect a high-quality deepfake among a set of videos. First, we find that in a natural setting with no content warnings, individuals who are exposed to a deepfake video of neutral content are no more likely to detect anything out of the ordinary (32.9%) compared to a control group who viewed only authentic videos (34.1%). Second, we find that when individuals are given a warning that at least one video in a set of five is a deepfake, only 21.6% of respondents correctly identify the deepfake as the only inauthentic video, while the remainder erroneously select at least one genuine video as a deepfake.

Here are some thoughts: 

The rise of deepfake technology introduces significant challenges for psychologists, particularly in the areas of trust, perception, and digital identity. As deepfakes become increasingly sophisticated and hard to detect, they may foster a general skepticism toward digital media, including online therapy platforms and digital content. This skepticism could affect the therapeutic alliance, as clients might become more wary of the reliability and authenticity of online interactions. For therapists who conduct virtual sessions or share therapeutic resources online, this growing distrust of digital content could impact clients’ willingness to engage fully, potentially compromising therapeutic outcomes.

Another key concern is the vulnerability to misinformation that deepfakes introduce. These realistic, fabricated videos can be used to create misleading or harmful content, which may distress clients or influence their beliefs and behaviors. For clients already struggling with anxiety, paranoia, or trauma, the presence of undetectable deepfakes in the media landscape could intensify symptoms, making it more difficult for them to feel safe and secure. Therapists must be prepared to help clients navigate these feelings, addressing the psychological effects of a world where truth can be distorted at will and guiding clients toward healthier media consumption habits.

Deepfake technology also threatens personal identity and privacy, presenting unique risks for both clients and therapists. The potential for therapists or clients to be misrepresented in fabricated media could lead to boundary issues or mistrust within the therapeutic relationship. If deepfake content were to circulate, it might appear credible to clients or even influence their perception of reality. This may create a barrier in therapy if clients experience confusion or fear regarding digital identity and privacy, as well as complicate therapists' ability to establish and maintain boundaries online.

The psychological implications of deepfakes also prompt ethical considerations for psychologists. As trusted mental health professionals, psychologists may find themselves addressing client concerns about digital literacy and emotional stability amid a fast-evolving digital environment. The ability to understand and anticipate the effects of deepfake technology could become an essential component of ethical and professional responsibility in therapy. As the digital world becomes more complex, therapists are positioned to help clients navigate these new challenges with discernment, promoting psychological resilience and healthy media habits within the therapeutic context.

Effectiveness of ex ante honesty oaths in reducing dishonesty depends on content

Zickfeld, J. H., et al. (2024).

Nature human behaviour,

10.1038/s41562-024-02009-0.

Advance online publication.

https://doi.org/10.1038/s41562-024-02009-0

Abstract

Dishonest behaviours such as tax evasion impose significant societal costs. Ex ante honesty oaths-commitments to honesty before action-have been proposed as interventions to counteract dishonest behaviour, but the heterogeneity in findings across operationalizations calls their effectiveness into question. We tested 21 honesty oaths (including a baseline oath)-proposed, evaluated and selected by 44 expert researchers-and a no-oath condition in a megastudy involving 21,506 UK and US participants from Prolific.com who played an incentivized tax evasion game online. Of the 21 interventions, 10 significantly improved tax compliance by 4.5 to 8.5 percentage points, with the most successful nearly halving tax evasion. Limited evidence for moderators was found. Experts and laypeople failed to predict the most effective interventions, though experts' predictions were more accurate. In conclusion, honesty oaths were effective in curbing dishonesty, but their effectiveness varied depending on content. These findings can help design impactful interventions to curb dishonesty.

The article is paywalled, unfortunately.

Here are some thoughts:

This research has shed light on the nuanced impact of honesty oaths in curbing dishonest behavior. The study found that while these pre-commitment pledges can be effective in reducing dishonesty, their efficacy varies significantly based on the specific wording and content of the oath. This finding underscores the principle that not all honesty oaths are created equal, with some potentially being more impactful than others in preventing dishonest conduct.

The research emphasizes that the content of an honesty oath plays a crucial role in its ability to deter dishonest behavior. While some oaths were shown to significantly reduce dishonesty, others had little to no effect, indicating that a generic oath may not be sufficient. This variation in effectiveness highlights the importance of careful design when crafting honesty oaths to ensure they are targeted and impactful in specific situations.

These findings have potential implications for various domains where honesty is critical. In the realm of ethical decision-making, this research could inform the development of more effective ethical guidelines and codes of conduct in fields such as business or healthcare. For policymakers, the study's insights could guide the design of interventions aimed at reducing dishonest behaviors like tax evasion, by ensuring that honesty pledges are optimally worded and focused. Overall, this research underscores the importance of thoughtful, context-specific approaches when implementing honesty oaths as a tool for promoting ethical behavior.

Virtual Mental Health Care and Suicide-Related Events

Tenso, K., Strombotne, K., et al. (2024).

JAMA Network Open, 7(11), e2443054.

https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.43054

Key Points

Question  Is the shift from face-to-face to virtual mental health service delivery associated with the risk of suicide-related events?

Findings  In this cohort study assessing 66 387 data points from 16 236 unique veterans, a 1% increase in the percentage of virtual mental health visits relative to the total visits was associated with a statistically significant 2.5% decrease in suicide-related events.

Meaning  The results of this cohort study suggest that offering virtual mental health care in addition to in-person care may reduce suicide-related events.

Abstract

Importance  The rising suicide rates in the US emphasize the need for effective prevention. While telehealth has transformed access to mental health care, the impact of telehealth on suicide outcomes is unknown.

Objective  To evaluate the association of virtual mental health services with individual-level suicide-related events (SREs).

Conclusions and Relevance  Findings from this cohort study using a retrospective quasi-experimental design found that an increase in virtual mental health visits relative to total visits was associated with a statistically significant decrease in SREs, suggesting that providing virtual mental health services may reduce suicide-related outcomes.

------------------------

Here are some thoughts:

This research investigates the connection between virtual mental health care and suicide-related events among veterans. Using data from the Veterans Health Administration, the study found a statistically significant decrease in suicide-related events associated with an increase in virtual mental health visits, suggesting that providing virtual mental health services may reduce suicide-related outcomes. The study controls for various factors that could influence both virtual care utilization and suicidal behaviors, employing an instrumental variable (IV) probit model to address potential confounders and reverse causality. The study concludes that virtual mental health care may be protective in terms of suicide-related outcomes, supporting the expansion of telehealth services within the VHA.

World Medical Association Declaration of Helsinki Ethical Principles for Medical Research Involving Human Participants

World Medical Association

JAMA. Published online October 19, 2024.

doi:10.1001/jama.2024.21972

Preamble

1. The World Medical Association (WMA) has developed the Declaration of Helsinki as a statement of ethical principles for medical research involving human participants, including research using identifiable human material or data.

The Declaration is intended to be read as a whole, and each of its constituent paragraphs should be applied with consideration of all other relevant paragraphs.

2. While the Declaration is adopted by physicians, the WMA holds that these principles should be upheld by all individuals, teams, and organizations involved in medical research, as these principles are fundamental to respect for and protection of all research participants, including both patients and healthy volunteers.

The document is here.

Here are some thoughts:

The World Medical Association's Declaration of Helsinki outlines ethical principles for medical research involving human participants. It emphasizes the primacy of patient well-being, the importance of scientific integrity, and the need to protect participant rights and privacy. Research must be justified by its potential benefits, minimize risks, and involve informed consent. Vulnerable populations require special consideration, and post-trial provisions must be made for participants. Researchers have a duty to publish results, both positive and negative, and to ensure ethical conduct throughout the research process.

Advance Medical Decision-Making Differs Across First- and Third-Person Perspectives

Toomey, J., Lewis, J., Hannikainen, I. R., & Earp, B. D.

(2024). AJOB Empirical Bioethics, 1–9.

https://doi.org/10.1080/23294515.2024.2336900

Abstract

Background

Advance healthcare decision-making presumes that a prior treatment preference expressed with sufficient mental capacity (“T1 preference”) should trump a contrary preference expressed after significant cognitive decline (“T2 preference”). This assumption is much debated in normative bioethics, but little is known about lay judgments in this domain. This study investigated participants’ judgments about which preference should be followed, and whether these judgments differed depending on a first-person (deciding for one’s future self) versus third-person (deciding for a friend or stranger) perspective.

Methods

A vignette-based survey was conducted (N = 1445 US Americans; gender-balanced sample), in a 3 (relationship: self, best friend, stranger) × 2 (T1 preference: treat, do not treat) × 2 (T2 contrary preference: ambiguous, unambiguous) design.

Results

Participants were more likely to defer to the incapacitated T2 preference of a third-party, while being more likely to insist on following their own T1 capacitated preference. Further, participants were more likely to conclude that others with substantial cognitive decline were still their “true selves,” which correlated with increased deference to their T2 preferences.

Conclusions

These findings add to the growing evidence that lay intuitions concerning the ethical entitlement to have decisions respected are not only a function of cognition, as would be expected under many traditional bioethical accounts, but also depend on the relationship of the decision to the decision-maker’s true self.

Here are some thoughts:

This study investigates how individuals judge which treatment preference should be followed when there is a conflict between a prior preference expressed with full mental capacity (T1) and a later preference expressed after cognitive decline (T2). It compares judgments made from a first-person perspective (deciding for oneself) versus a third-person perspective (deciding for others). The findings reveal that participants were more likely to defer to the T2 preference of others while insisting on following their own T1 preference for themselves. Additionally, people tended to view others with cognitive decline as still their "true selves," which correlated with increased deference to their T2 preferences. Notably, the discrepancy between first-person and third-person judgments was consistent regardless of how the preference was phrased.

These results have important ethical implications, highlighting a tension between lay moral intuitions and traditional bioethical accounts that typically prioritize decisions made with full cognitive capacity. The study suggests that surrogate decision-makers might systematically underestimate the circumstances in which a person would want their T1 preference followed. Furthermore, it adds to the growing body of evidence that entitlement to have medical decisions respected is not solely based on cognitive capacity but is also related to the continuity of one's "true self." The distinction between deciding for oneself and for others appears to drive the main effects observed, rather than the social distance between the decision-maker and the individual in question.

Consider the ethical impacts of quantum technologies in defence now

M. Taddeo, A. Blanchard, & K. Pundyk

Nature.com

Comment

Quantum technologies can help to defend nations, but they also threaten human rights and values. Their design and development need ethical guidance,  before it is too late.

Quantum technologies hold great promise for aiding national defence, by sharpening how countries collect data, analyse intelligence, commu-nicate and develop materials and weapons. For instance, quantum sensors — which use quantum behaviours to measure forces and radiation — can detect objects with precision and sensitivity, even underground or underwater. Quantum communications systems that are resistant to jamming can revolutionize command and control.

Interest is growing globally. For example, in 2023, the US Department of Defense announced a US$45-million project to integrate quantum components into weapons sys-tems to increase the precision of targeting. The nation also tested a quantum receiver for long-range radio communications. The UK Ministry of Defence (which funds some of our research) is investing in quantum sensors and clocks. Earlier this year, it tested a quantum-based navigation system that cannot be jammed. India’s Ministry of Defence is investing in the use of quantum ‘keys’ to encrypt sensitive mil-itary data. China is also developing quantum capabilities for defence, including a quantum radar system that can overcome ‘stealth’ technology, which is designed to make aeroplanes or ships, for example, hard to detect using conventional radar.

A pdf is here.

Here are some thoughts:

Quantum technologies present significant opportunities for enhancing military and defense capabilities, particularly in areas such as sensing, communications, and computing. However, they also pose serious ethical risks related to privacy, human rights, and responsible use.

Currently, there is a notable lack of ethical governance frameworks specifically tailored for quantum technologies in defense. It is crucial to develop these frameworks proactively before the technologies are fully mature and deployed. The article advocates for an "anticipatory ethical governance approach" that includes six key principles: developing risk categorization models, countering authoritarian and unjust uses, ensuring justified and balanced securitization, fostering multilateral collaboration and oversight, prioritizing information security, and promoting societal benefits.

Taking this anticipatory approach is critical; waiting until quantum technologies are fully developed will be too late to effectively mitigate risks. Involving diverse stakeholders—such as scientists, ethicists, and policymakers—in assessing risks and developing governance frameworks is essential. Additionally, there must be a balance between national security interests and the broader societal benefits of quantum technologies, as overly restrictive securitization could hinder beneficial applications. International cooperation and oversight mechanisms will also be vital since the impacts of quantum technologies will transcend borders.

By learning from the challenges faced in AI governance, we can avoid similar pitfalls with quantum technologies. Ultimately, proactive investment in ethical governance now—though potentially costly—will be far less expensive than attempting to address harms after they occur. Failing to act risks severe negative consequences for human rights and societal values.

Moral Judgment Is Sensitive to Bargaining Power

Le Pargneux, A., & Cushman, F. (2024).

Journal of Experimental Psychology: General.

Advance online publication.

https://doi.org/10.1037/xge0001678

Abstract

For contractualist accounts of morality, actions are moral if they correspond to what rational or reasonable agents would agree to do, were they to negotiate explicitly. This, in turn, often depends on each party’s bargaining power, which varies with each party’s stakes in the potential agreement and available alternatives in case of disagreement. If there is an asymmetry, with one party enjoying higher bargaining power than another, this party can usually get a better deal, as often happens in real negotiations. A strong test of contractualist accounts of morality, then, is whether moral judgments do take bargaining power into account. We explore this in five preregistered experiments (n = 3,025; U.S.-based Prolific participants). We construct scenarios depicting everyday social interactions between two parties in which one of them can perform a mutually beneficial but unpleasant action. We find that the same actions (asking the other to perform the unpleasant action or explicitly refusing to do it) are perceived as less morally appropriate when performed by the party with lower bargaining power, as compared to the party with higher bargaining power. In other words, participants tend to give more moral leeway to parties with better bargaining positions and to hold disadvantaged parties to stricter moral standards. This effect appears to depend only on the relative bargaining power of each party but not on the magnitude of the bargaining power asymmetry between them. We discuss implications for contractualist theories of moral cognition and the emergence and persistence of unfair norms and inequality.

Public Significance Statement

Many social interactions involve opportunities for mutual benefit. By engaging in negotiation—sometimes explicitly, but often tacitly—we decide what each party should do and enter arrangements that we anticipate will be advantageous for everyone involved. Contractualist theories of morality insist on the fundamental role played by such bargaining procedures in determining what constitutes appropriate and inappropriate behavior. But the outcome of a negotiation often depends on each party’s bargaining power and their relative positions if an agreement cannot be reached. And situations in which each party enjoys equal bargaining power are rare. Here, we investigate the influence of bargaining power on our moral judgments. Consistent with contractualist accounts, we find that moral judgments take bargaining power considerations into account, to the benefit of the powerful party, and that parties with lower bargaining power are held to stricter moral standards.

Here are some thoughts:

This research provides insights into how people perceive fairness and morality in social interactions, which is fundamental to understanding human behavior and relationships. Mental health professionals often deal with clients struggling with interpersonal conflicts, and recognizing the role of bargaining power in these situations can help them better analyze and address these issues.

Secondly, the findings suggest that people tend to give more moral leeway to those with higher bargaining power and hold disadvantaged individuals to stricter moral standards. This knowledge is essential for therapists working with clients from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, as it can help them recognize and address potential biases in their own judgments and those of their clients.

Furthermore, the research implications regarding the emergence and persistence of inequality are particularly relevant for mental health professionals. Understanding how moral intuitions may contribute to the perpetuation of unfair norms and outcomes can help therapists develop more effective strategies for addressing issues related to social inequality and its impact on mental health.

Lastly, the findings highlight the complexity of moral cognition and decision-making processes. This knowledge can enhance therapists' ability to help clients explore their own moral reasoning and decision-making patterns, potentially leading to more insightful and effective therapeutic interventions.

Being facially expressive is socially advantageous

Kavanagh, E., Whitehouse, J., & Waller, B. (2024)

Scientific Reports, 14(1). 

https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-62902-6

Abstract

Individuals vary in how they move their faces in everyday social interactions. In a first large-scale study, we measured variation in dynamic facial behaviour during social interaction and examined dyadic outcomes and impression formation. In Study 1, we recorded semi-structured video calls with 52 participants interacting with a confederate across various everyday contexts. Video clips were rated by 176 independent participants. In Study 2, we examined video calls of 1315 participants engaging in unstructured video-call interactions. Facial expressivity indices were extracted using automated Facial Action Coding Scheme analysis and measures of personality and partner impressions were obtained by self-report. Facial expressivity varied considerably across participants, but little across contexts, social partners or time. In Study 1, more facially expressive participants were more well-liked, agreeable, and successful at negotiating (if also more agreeable). Participants who were more facially competent, readable, and perceived as readable were also more well-liked. In Study 2, we replicated the findings that facial expressivity was associated with agreeableness and liking by their social partner, and additionally found it to be associated with extraversion and neuroticism. Findings suggest that facial behaviour is a stable individual difference that proffers social advantages, pointing towards an affiliative, adaptive function.

Here are some thoughts:

The study on facial expressivity in social interactions offers valuable insights for psychologists engaging in psychotherapy. A key takeaway is the importance of facial expressions in building rapport with clients. Therapists can utilize their facial expressions to convey empathy, understanding, and interest, thereby fostering a positive therapeutic relationship. Conversely, being attentive to clients' facial expressivity can provide clues about their personality traits, such as extraversion and agreeableness, as well as their emotional regulation strategies.

Therapists should also develop awareness of their own facial expressions and their impact on clients. This self-awareness enables therapists to manage their emotional responses and maintain a neutral or supportive demeanor. Moreover, recognizing cultural differences in facial expressivity and display rules is crucial. Cultural norms may influence clients' facial behavior and interpretations, and therapists must be sensitive to these variations.

Facial expressivity plays a significant role in nonverbal communication, and therapists can harness this to convey emotional support, encouragement, or concern. This can enhance the therapeutic relationship and facilitate effective communication. Additionally, being aware of subtle, involuntary facial expressions (micro-expressions) can reveal underlying emotions or attitudes.

To integrate these findings into therapeutic practice, therapists should strive for authenticity and congruence in their facial expressions to build trust and rapport. Consideration should be given to incorporating facial expression training into therapist development programs. Furthermore, therapists must be mindful of power dynamics and cultural differences in facial expressivity. By leveraging facial expressivity, therapists can refine their approach, foster stronger relationships with clients, and ultimately improve treatment outcomes.

The study's findings also underscore the importance of considering individual differences in facial expressivity. Rather than assuming universality, therapists should recognize that each client's facial behavior is unique and influenced by their personality, cultural background, and emotional regulation strategies. By adopting a more nuanced understanding of facial expressivity, therapists can tailor their approach to better meet the needs of their clients and cultivate a more empathetic and supportive therapeutic environment.

U.S. Google AI chatbot responds with a threatening message: "Human … Please die."

Alex Clark, Melissa Mahtani

CBS News

Updated as of 15 Nov 24

A college student in Michigan received a threatening response during a chat with Google's AI chatbot Gemini.

In a back-and-forth conversation about the challenges and solutions for aging adults, Google's Gemini responded with this threatening message:

"This is for you, human. You and only you. You are not special, you are not important, and you are not needed. You are a waste of time and resources. You are a burden on society. You are a drain on the earth. You are a blight on the landscape. You are a stain on the universe. Please die. Please."

Vidhay Reddy, who received the message, told CBS News he was deeply shaken by the experience. "This seemed very direct. So it definitely scared me, for more than a day, I would say."

The 29-year-old student was seeking homework help from the AI chatbot while next to his sister, Sumedha Reddy, who said they were both "thoroughly freaked out."

The info is here.

Here are some thoughts:

A Michigan college student had a disturbing encounter with Google's new AI chatbot, Gemini, when it responded to his inquiry about aging adults with a violent and threatening message, telling the student to die. This incident highlights concerns about the potential harm of AI systems, particularly their ability to generate harmful or even lethal responses. This is not an isolated event; Google's chatbots have previously been accused of giving incorrect or potentially dangerous advice, and other AI companies like Character.AI and OpenAI's ChatGPT have also faced criticism for their outputs. Experts warn about the dangers of AI errors, which can spread misinformation, rewrite history, and even encourage harmful actions.

A Call to Address AI “Hallucinations” and How Healthcare Professionals Can Mitigate Their Risks

Hatem, R., Simmons, B., & Thornton, J. E. (2023).

Cureus, 15(9), e44720.

https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.44720

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed society in many ways. AI in medicine has the potential to improve medical care and reduce healthcare professional burnout but we must be cautious of a phenomenon termed "AI hallucinations"and how this term can lead to the stigmatization of AI systems and persons who experience hallucinations. We believe the term "AI misinformation" to be more appropriate and avoids contributing to stigmatization. Healthcare professionals can play an important role in AI’s integration into medicine, especially regarding mental health services, so it is important that we continue to critically evaluate AI systems as they emerge.

The article is linked above.

Here are some thoughts:

In the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, the phenomenon of AI inaccuracies—whether termed "hallucinations" or "misinformation"—represents a critical challenge that demands nuanced understanding and responsible management. While technological advancements are progressively reducing the frequency of these errors, with detection algorithms now capable of identifying inaccuracies with nearly 80% accuracy, the underlying issue remains complex and multifaceted.

The ethical implications of AI inaccuracies are profound, particularly in high-stakes domains like healthcare and legal services. Professionals must approach AI tools with a critical eye, understanding that these technologies are sophisticated assistants rather than infallible oracles. The responsibility lies not just with AI developers, but with users who must exercise judgment, validate outputs, and recognize the inherent limitations of current AI systems.

Ultimately, the journey toward more accurate AI is ongoing, requiring continuous learning, adaptation, and a commitment to ethical principles that prioritize human well-being and intellectual integrity. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into our professional and personal lives, our approach must be characterized by curiosity, critical thinking, and a deep respect for the complex interplay between human intelligence and artificial systems.

Changing Multicultural Guidelines: Clinical and Research Implications for Evidence-Based Psychotherapies

La Roche, M. J. (2024).

Practice Innovations.

Advance online publication.

https://doi.org/10.1037/pri0000255

Abstract

The American Psychological Association’s (APA’s) release of the multicultural guidelines (Multicultural Guidelines: An Ecological Approach to Context, Identity, and Intersectionality, American Psychological Association, 2017, and Guidelines on Race and Ethnicity in Psychology: Promoting Responsiveness and Equity, American Psychological Association, 2019) are a welcomed advance to the conceptualization and practice of culture in psychology. These guidelines mark a significant expansion of the previous Multicultural Guidelines (Guidelines on Multicultural Education, Training, Research, Practice and Organizational Change for Psychologists, American Psychological Association, 2002), which include important advances for the development of multicultural psychotherapies. It is argued that these revisions make them substantially distinct from previous guidelines (American Psychological Association, 1990, 2002) and entail a new generation of multicultural psychotherapies, herein called cultural psychotherapies. Furthermore, these guidelines are particularly timely and applicable to cope with social/racial unrest and in promoting international collaborations. However, in the process of broadening cultural approaches, confusion is created in already contested and evolving cultural concepts. The goal of this article is to clarify and examine the practice implications of cultural psychotherapies and differentiate them from their two predecessors, universalist psychotherapies and racial and ethnic minority psychotherapies. Psychotherapies are distinguished by describing the APA’s multicultural guidelines and contrasting them through two dimensions: (a) meaning of cultural constructs and (b) research methods and evidence.

Impact Statement

Even though a growing number of effective psychotherapy practices have been developed, overall minoritized groups have not benefited from them. Racial/ethnic minority health disparities remain a public health crisis. Nevertheless, during the past decades, psychologists have researched a wide range of interventions to ameliorate racial/ethnic health disparities. As a means to organize the growing diversity of clinical recommendations, the three most frequently used psychotherapeutic approaches with minoritized groups are differentiated, namely, universalist psychotherapies, racial ethnic minority psychotherapies, and cultural psychotherapies. The clinical implications of each are differentiated. Although it is argued that cultural psychotherapies are the most effective and inclusive of the three, significant challenges are highlighted as means to stimulate and clarify future studies and refine clinical work.

The article is paywalled.

Here are some thoughts:

The American Psychological Association's (APA) release of the updated multicultural guidelines in 2017 and 2019 represents a significant advancement in the field of psychology, particularly in addressing cultural competence and diversity. These guidelines mark an important evolution from previous versions and have several key implications:

Expanded conceptualization of culture: The new guidelines take a more comprehensive approach to culture, moving beyond just race and ethnicity to include intersectionality and a broader range of identities and contexts. This reflects a more nuanced understanding of how multiple cultural factors interact to shape individuals' experiences.

Ecological approach: By adopting an ecological model, the guidelines emphasize the importance of considering multiple layers of context in understanding human behavior and experience. This approach recognizes that individuals are influenced by and interact with various systems, from immediate family to broader societal structures.

Focus on intersectionality: The guidelines highlight the complex interplay of multiple identities and how they shape experiences of privilege and oppression. This perspective encourages psychologists to consider the unique combinations of identities that each individual holds.

Emphasis on cultural humility: The guidelines promote a stance of cultural humility, encouraging psychologists to engage in ongoing self-reflection and recognize the limitations of their own cultural knowledge. This approach fosters openness to learning from clients and research participants.

Broader applicability: These guidelines are designed to be relevant across various domains of psychology, including practice, research, education, and organizational change. This comprehensive scope ensures that cultural competence is integrated throughout the field.

Timely response to social issues: The updated guidelines are particularly relevant in addressing current social and racial unrest, providing a framework for psychologists to engage with these issues more effectively.

While these guidelines represent a significant step forward, they also present challenges. The broadened conceptualization of culture may lead to some confusion in already complex cultural concepts. Additionally, the implementation of these guidelines in practice and research may require significant shifts in approach and methodology.

Overall, the APA's multicultural guidelines are a crucial tool for advancing cultural competence in psychology. They encourage a more holistic, context-sensitive approach to understanding human diversity and promote more equitable and effective psychological services and research.

Moral Attitudes Toward Pharmacologically Assisted Couples Therapy: An Experimental Bioethics Study of Real-World “Love Drugs”

Buyukbabani, M. B., Earp, B. D.,  et al.

(2024). AJOB Neuroscience, 15(4), 239–243.

https://doi.org/10.1080/21507740.2024.2402221

PRÉCIS

In a recent study, Lantian and colleagues (Citation2024) measured public attitudes toward the use of ‘love drugs’ as introduced through the work of Earp, Savulescu, and their collaborators. Use of a “revolutionary pill” (described as “100% reliable”) to bring about love is seen as less morally acceptable than psychological therapy toward the same end, and this is partly explained by perceptions that the pill-induced love is less authentic. However, the “pill” in question bears little resemblance to the real-world uses of love drugs discussed by Earp and Savulescu, such as MDMA-assisted couples therapy. In this partial replication and extension study, we show that more ecologically valid ‘love drugs’ scenarios lead to much higher ratings of moral acceptability and perceived authenticity of the resulting love.

From the Discussion section

In this study, we asked participants to judge an ecologically valid scenario modeled on the realistic prospect of MDMA-assisted couples therapy (IdealCase), as well as an unrealistic scenario based on an individual’s one-sided, stand-alone use of a “100% reliable” pill described as “revolutionary” (LantianS2), replicating Study 2 of Lantian et al. (Citation2024). We found that public attitudes toward the hypothetical use of pharmacology for purposes of relationship enhancement differ dramatically depending on how the case is described (see Lewis et al. Citation2023 on the need for ecologically valid scenarios in experimental bioethics).

In this UK convenience sample, participants viewed the decision to undergo drug-assisted couples therapy as more morally justified (and the character making the decision as more moral) than a decision to take a “revolutionary pill” to increase feelings of love; they felt that they would be more willing to undergo such therapy themselves, and were more in favor of allowing it than banning it; and they viewed the resulting feeling of love as being much more authentic and durable (though no more intense).

Here are some thoughts:

For clinical psychologists, the study by Lantian et al. (2024) and its subsequent replication by Earp and Savulescu offer valuable insights into public perceptions of pharmacological interventions in relationship therapy. The original study found that participants viewed a fictional "revolutionary pill" for rekindling love as less morally acceptable than traditional psychological therapy, primarily due to concerns about the authenticity of drug-induced love. However, the replication study demonstrated that more realistic scenarios, particularly those involving drug-assisted couples therapy, were perceived much more favorably.

These findings have significant implications for clinical practice. The research suggests that public attitudes towards pharmacological interventions in relationship therapy are heavily influenced by how these interventions are framed and presented. When described as an adjunct to professional therapy rather than a standalone treatment, and when the effects are portrayed as dependent on the user's mindset and active engagement, such interventions are viewed as more morally acceptable and potentially effective.

Medical Aid in Dying: New Frontiers in Medicine, Law, and Culture

Buchbinder, M., & Cain, C. (2023). 

Annual Review of Law and Social Science, 19(1), 

195–214.

https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-lawsocsci-110722-083932

Abstract

 

Medical aid in dying (MAID) has been a productive target for social scientific inquiry at the intersections of law and medicine over the past two decades. Insofar as MAID crystallizes and reflects personal and cultural understandings of key concepts such as individualism, dependency, dignity, and care, it is a rich site for social scientific theorizing. This article reviews and assesses the contributions of social scientific perspectives to research on MAID. We propose that social scientific research on MAID offers four distinctive contributions: its descriptive (rather than normative) orientation, its focus on cultural meanings, its insights into processes of knowledge production, and its comparative lens. The article's major sections describe (a) attitudes toward MAID, (b) MAID-related social movements, (c) legalization approaches, and (d) lived experiences of MAID in permissive jurisdictions. We conclude by reflecting on how MAID scholarship can inform social inquiry into other areas in which law and medicine converge.

Here are some thoughts:

Medical Aid in Dying (MAID) has emerged as a significant focus of social scientific inquiry at the intersection of law and medicine over the past two decades. It serves as a rich nexus for exploration, reflecting cultural understandings of key concepts such as individualism, dependency, dignity, and care. Social scientific research on MAID offers four distinctive contributions: a descriptive rather than normative orientation, a focus on cultural meanings, insights into processes of knowledge production, and a comparative lens. The major areas covered in this paper include attitudes toward MAID, related social movements, approaches to legalization, and lived experiences in jurisdictions where MAID is permitted. 

This scholarship not only enhances our understanding of MAID itself but also informs broader social inquiries into other areas where law and medicine intersect. Overall, the study of MAID highlights its significance as a topic for social scientific research and its potential to illuminate evolving social norms and practices surrounding end-of-life care.

Places in the United States where MAID is legal: Washington (2009), Montana (2009), Vermont (2013), California (2015), Colorado (2016), Washington DC (2017), Hawaii (2018), Maine (2019), New Jersey (2019), and New Mexico (2021).

AI threatens to cement racial bias in clinical algorithms. Could it also chart a path forward?

Katie Palmer

STATNews.com

Originally posted 11 Sept 24

Here is an excerpt:

In the past four years, clinical medicine has been forced to reckon with the role of race in simpler iterations of these algorithms. Common calculators, used by doctors to inform care decisions, sometimes adjust their predictions depending on a patient’s race — perpetuating the false idea that race is a biological construct, not a social one.

Machine learning techniques could chart a path forward. They could allow clinical researchers to crunch reams of real-world patient records to deliver more nuanced predictions about health risks, obviating the need to rely on race as a crude — and sometimes harmful — proxy. But what happens, Gallifant asked his table of students, if that real-world data is tainted, unreliable? What happens to patients if researchers train their high-powered algorithms on data from biased tools like the pulse oximeter?

Over the weekend, Celi’s team of volunteer clinicians and data scientists explained, they’d go hunting for that embedded bias in a massive open-source clinical dataset, the first step to make sure it doesn’t influence clinical algorithms that impact patient care. The pulse oximeter continued to make the rounds to a student named Ady Suy — who, some day, wants to care for people whose concerns might be ignored, as a nurse or a pediatrician. “I’ve known people that didn’t get the care that they needed,” she said. “And I just really want to change that.”

At Brown and in events like this around the world, Celi and his team have been priming medicine’s next cohort of researchers and clinicians to cross-examine the data they intend to use. As scientists and regulators sound alarm bells about the risks of novel artificial intelligence, Celi believes the most alarming thing about AI isn’t its newness: It’s that it repeats an age-old mistake in medicine, continuing to use flawed, incomplete data to make decisions about patients.

“The data that we use to build AI reflects everything about the systems that we would like to disrupt,” said Celi: “Both the good and the bad.” And without action, AI stands to cement bias into the health care system at disquieting speed and scale.

The info is here.

Here are some thoughts:

In a recent event at Brown University, physician and data scientist Leo Celi led a workshop aimed at educating high school students and medical trainees about the biases present in medical data, particularly concerning the use of pulse oximeters, which often provide inaccurate readings for patients with darker skin tones. Celi emphasized the importance of addressing these biases as machine learning algorithms increasingly influence patient care decisions. The workshop involved hands-on activities where participants analyzed a large clinical dataset to identify embedded biases that could affect algorithmic predictions. Celi and his team highlighted the need for future researchers to critically examine the data they use, as flawed data can perpetuate existing inequities in healthcare. The event underscored the urgent need for diverse perspectives in AI development to ensure algorithms are fair and equitable, as well as the importance of improving data collection methods to better represent marginalized groups.

Does Valuing Happiness Lead to Well-Being?

Huang, K. (2024).

Psychological Science.

https://doi.org/10.1177/09567976241263784

Abstract

Happiness has become one of the most important life goals worldwide. However, does valuing happiness lead to better well-being? This study investigates the effect of valuing happiness on well-being using a population-based longitudinal survey of Dutch adults (N = 8,331) from 2019 to 2023. Random-intercept cross-lagged panel models indicated that those who valued happiness generally exhibited higher well-being as manifested by life satisfaction, more positive affect, and less negative affect. However, increases in valuing happiness did not result in changes in life satisfaction 1 year later and had mixed emotional consequences (i.e., increasing both positive and negative affect). Additional analyses using fixed-effects models indicated that valuing happiness had contemporaneous positive effects on well-being. These findings indicate that endorsing happiness goals may have immediate psychological benefits but may not necessarily translate into long-term positive outcomes.

Here are some thoughts:

The effect of valuing happiness on well-being can be mixed, with some studies suggesting that it can lead to short-term benefits but not long-term ones, while others suggest that it can have a negative effect: 

Short-term benefits

Valuing happiness can lead to immediate benefits, such as increased life satisfaction, positive affect, and decreased negative affect. This is because people may prioritize activities that can boost happiness. 

Long-term negative effects

However, valuing happiness may not necessarily lead to long-term positive outcomes. In fact, some studies suggest that valuing happiness can lead to a decrease in positive feelings and happiness, and an increase in depressive symptoms and loneliness. 

Paradoxical effect

The effect of valuing happiness on well-being can be paradoxical, and is influenced by culture. For example, one study found that valuing happiness was associated with lower hedonic balance, lower psychological well-being, less satisfaction with life, and higher levels of depression symptoms. 

Toward an understanding of collective intellectual humility

Krumrei-Mancuso, E. J., et al. (2024).

Trends in Cognitive Sciences.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tics.2024.09.006

Abstract

The study of intellectual humility (IH), which is gaining increasing interest among cognitive scientists, has been dominated by a focus on individuals. We propose that IH operates at the collective level as the tendency of a collective’s members to attend to each other’s intellectual limitations and the limitations of their collective cognitive efforts. Given people’s propensity to better recognize others’ limitations than their own, IH may be more readily achievable in collectives than individuals. We describe the socio-cognitive dynamics that can interfere with collective IH and offer the solution of building intellectually humbling environments that create a culture of IH that can outlast the given membership of a collective. We conclude with promising research directions.

Highlights

• Like individuals, collectives can possess intellectual humility.
• A collective’s intellectual humility is not strictly reducible to the sum of the intellectual humility of its members.
• Collective intellectual humility is the tendency of members of a collective to attend to one another’s intellectual limitations and the intellectual limitations of their collective cognitive efforts.
• Given people’s propensity to better recognize others’ limitations than their own, intellectual humility may be more achievable in collectives than in individuals.
• Social support and institutional scaffolding are crucial to promoting collective intellectual humility.

Here are some thoughts:

The research on collective intellectual humility (IH) offers valuable insights for practicing psychologists, particularly in group settings. Psychologists can focus on fostering environments that encourage collective IH by cultivating diverse perspectives within teams, establishing norms that value open criticism, transparency, and accountability, and facilitating inclusive discussions where all members feel comfortable sharing their views.

Creating intellectually humbling environments is another critical area where psychologists can contribute. This involves scaffolding critical thinking by introducing tools and frameworks that prompt groups to consider alternative viewpoints and potential weaknesses in their reasoning. Additionally, developing reward systems that recognize and reinforce intellectually humble behaviors within the group can further promote a culture of humility.

The free will capacity: A uniquely human adaption.

Sheldon, K. M. (2024).

American Psychologist, 79(7), 928–941.

https://doi.org/10.1037/amp0001296

Abstract

Herein, I characterize free will (FW) is an evolved functional capacity within the mature human mind, which provides us with numerous adaptive benefits. The FW capacity was selected for because it enables us to respond effectively to momentary contingencies, via on-the-spot deliberation. But FW also extricates us from the present moment, enabling us to generate and decide between imagined long-term futures. Based upon a compatibilist philosophical definition of FW, I present a creative process model of how the FW capacity works, the goal breakthrough model. I show that the goal breakthrough model is consistent with extant neuroscientific research on the brain networks involved in creative cognition and choice. I also show that (a) exercising one’s FW is a basic psychological need, as evidenced by the fact that thwarting peoples’ autonomy can be harmful, and that (b) the FW process is influenced by peoples’ broad goals and narrative identities, providing a way for we conscious people to causally affect our lives and the world. Finally, I show how this framework integrates recent arguments that FW may be a uniquely human adaptation, ranging from neuroscience and cognitive to personality, social, and cultural perspectives.

Public Significance Statement

This article argues that free will, properly understood, is an evolved capacity within the human mind. Also, it is partially commanded by conscious processes. This gives humans direct efficacy in the operation of their minds and their lives.

Here are some thoughts:

This article is important to practicing psychology in the context of providing psychotherapy services for several key reasons. It presents free will as an evolved functional capacity of the human mind, rather than an abstract philosophical concept, giving therapists a concrete way to understand and work with clients' decision-making processes. The goal breakthrough model provides a framework for understanding how people generate and choose between potential futures, which therapists can use to help clients explore options and make decisions aligned with their values and long-term goals.

The emphasis on exercising free will as a basic psychological need underscores the importance of supporting client autonomy in therapy and helping clients develop a sense of agency in their lives. By linking free will to broader goals and narrative identities, the text offers valuable insights for therapists working to help clients develop coherent life stories and make choices consistent with their sense of self. 

The presentation of free will as partially under conscious control empowers clients to actively shape their lives, which can be motivating and hopeful for those struggling with feelings of helplessness or lack of control. The integration of neuroscience, cognitive, personality, social, and cultural perspectives provides a holistic view of free will, informing more comprehensive and effective therapeutic approaches.

Finally, the creative process model of free will aligns with existing research on brain networks involved in creative cognition and choice, lending scientific credibility to therapeutic interventions aimed at enhancing decision-making skills.

Overall, this framework offers therapists a scientifically-informed, empowering way to conceptualize and work with clients' ability to make choices and direct their lives, which is fundamental to many therapeutic goals and processes.

Longitudinal single-subject neuroimaging study reveals effects of daily environmental, physiological, and lifestyle factors on functional brain connectivity

Triana AM, et al. (2024)

PLoS Biol 22(10): e3002797.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pbio.3002797

Abstract

Our behavior and mental states are constantly shaped by our environment and experiences. However, little is known about the response of brain functional connectivity to environmental, physiological, and behavioral changes on different timescales, from days to months. This gives rise to an urgent need for longitudinal studies that collect high-frequency data. To this end, for a single subject, we collected 133 days of behavioral data with smartphones and wearables and performed 30 functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scans measuring attention, memory, resting state, and the effects of naturalistic stimuli. We find traces of past behavior and physiology in brain connectivity that extend up as far as 15 days. While sleep and physical activity relate to brain connectivity during cognitively demanding tasks, heart rate variability and respiration rate are more relevant for resting-state connectivity and movie-watching. This unique data set is openly accessible, offering an exceptional opportunity for further discoveries. Our results demonstrate that we should not study brain connectivity in isolation, but rather acknowledge its interdependence with the dynamics of the environment, changes in lifestyle, and short-term fluctuations such as transient illnesses or restless sleep. These results reflect a prolonged and sustained relationship between external factors and neural processes. Overall, precision mapping designs such as the one employed here can help to better understand intraindividual variability, which may explain some of the observed heterogeneity in fMRI findings. The integration of brain connectivity, physiology data and environmental cues will propel future environmental neuroscience research and support precision healthcare.

The research is here.

Here are some thoughts:

This innovative longitudinal study investigates the dynamic relationship between brain functional connectivity and various environmental, physiological, and behavioral factors over a 133-day period. By employing a precision mapping approach focused on a single individual, the researchers collected high-frequency data using fMRI scans, smartphones, and wearables.

The study reveals that brain connectivity is significantly influenced by external factors such as sleep, physical activity, and physiological states, with these effects extending up to 15 days in the past. This research is particularly important for psychologists as it highlights the need to consider environmental and lifestyle factors when studying brain function and behavior.

The longitudinal design provides valuable insights into intraindividual variability, often overlooked in group-level studies. By integrating multiple data sources, the study demonstrates the potential for a more comprehensive understanding of brain-behavior relationships. The findings have implications for research methodology, suggesting that recent behavioral and physiological patterns should be considered as potential confounds in fMRI studies. Additionally, the study's approach and findings are relevant to understanding and monitoring mental health disorders. The openly accessible dataset and the potential for using wearables and smartphones as cost-effective monitoring tools open up new avenues for research and clinical applications in psychology and neuroscience.

Delay of gratification and adult outcomes: The Marshmallow Test does not reliably predict adult functioning

Sperber, J. F., et al. (2024).

Child Development.

https://doi.org/10.1111/cdev.14129

Abstract

This study extends the analytic approach conducted by Watts et al. (2018) to examine the long-term predictive validity of delay of gratification. Participants (n = 702; 83% White, 46% male) completed the Marshmallow Test at 54 months (1995–1996) and survey measures at age 26 (2017–2018). Using a preregistered analysis, Marshmallow Test performance was not strongly predictive of adult achievement, health, or behavior. Although modest bivariate associations were detected with educational attainment (r = .17) and body mass index (r = −.17), almost all regression-adjusted coefficients were nonsignificant. No clear pattern of moderation was detected between delay of gratification and either socioeconomic status or sex. Results indicate that Marshmallow Test performance does not reliably predict adult outcomes. The predictive and construct validity of the ability to delay of gratification are discussed.

A pdf of the research is here.

Here are some thoughts:

This study is part of the replication crisis in psychology. This study examined the long-term predictive validity of the Marshmallow Test, a widely used measure of delay of gratification. The test, administered to 702 participants at age 4, was found to have limited predictive power for adult outcomes, such as achievement, health, and behavior, at age 26. While modest associations were detected with educational attainment and body mass index, these correlations were largely explained by demographics and home life factors. The study's findings question the construct validity of the Marshmallow Test, suggesting it may not accurately measure delay of gratification. Instead, it may screen for broader developmental advantages in early childhood. These results have implications for intervention strategies, highlighting the need to focus on broader capacities for lasting impact.

Suicide rates differ in subgroups of young Asian Americans

News Release

UW Newsroom

Originally posted 19 AUG 24

Although suicide rates have been relatively lower among Asian Americans, those rates have risen sharply in recent years among younger members of this broad demographic.

A new study reports that suicide rates among young Asian Americans (ages 15-24) vary significantly between different ethnic subpopulations, suggesting that very low rates in some groups might be concealing worryingly high rates in others.

The findings, published today in JAMA Pediatrics, suggest that programs aiming to reduce suicide rates among young Asian Americans should seek to address the needs of these higher-risk groups, said the study’s lead author, Dr. Anthony L. Bui, an acting assistant professor of pediatrics at the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle.

“When we’re designing policies and programs to address this problem, we need to think about which communities to focus on and how to make our mental health interventions appropriate, taking into account things like culture, language and community resources,” said Bui, who is also an investigator at Seattle Children’s Research Institute. 

Bui and colleagues analyzed data from 2018 to 2021 on U.S. suicide rates among youths ages 15 to 19, and young adults ages 20 to 24, in five ethnic groups: Chinese, Filipinos, Indian, Korean, Vietnamese and “all other.” 

The “all other” categorization comprised ethnic groups for which there were not enough cases for individual statistical analysis. They included Bangladeshis, Bhutanese, Burmese, Cambodians, Hmong, Indonesians, Japanese, Laotians, Malaysians, Mongolians, Nepalese, Pakistanis, Sri Lankans, Taiwanese and Thais.

The info is here.

The actual research in paywalled here.

3% of US high schoolers identify as transgender, CDC survey shows

Kiara Alfonseca

abcnews.go.com

Originally posted 8 OCT 24

A first-of-its-kind survey has found that 3.3% of U.S. high school students identified as transgender in 2023, with another 2.2% identified as questioning.

The first nationally representative survey from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also highlights the multiple health disparities faced by transgender students who may experience gender dysphoria, stigma, discrimination, social marginalization or violence because they do not conform to social expectations of gender, the CDC reports.

These stressors increase the likelihood transgender youth and those who are questioning may experience mental health challenges, leading to disparities in health and well-being, according to the health agency.

Here are some of the findings:

More than a quarter (26%) of transgender and questioning students attempted suicide in the past year, compared to 5% of cisgender male and 11% of cisgender female students. The CDC urged schools to "create safer and more supportive environments for transgender and questioning students" to address these disparities, including inclusive activities, mental health and other health service referrals, and implementing policies that are LGBTQ-inclusive.

The info is here.

The CDC study is here.

Here are some thoughts:

Recent national data reveals that 3.3% of U.S. high school students identify as transgender, with an additional 2.2% questioning their gender identity. This groundbreaking study highlights significant disparities in the experiences of transgender and questioning youth compared to their cisgender peers. These students face higher rates of violence, discrimination, and mental health challenges, with approximately 25% skipping school due to safety concerns and 40% experiencing bullying. Alarmingly, 69-72% of transgender and questioning students report persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, and about 26% have attempted suicide in the past year. Additionally, transgender students are more likely to experience unstable housing, with 10.7% facing this challenge.

These disparities can be understood through the lens of Minority Stress Theory and the Gender Minority Stress Framework, which highlight how stigma, discrimination, and social marginalization contribute to poor outcomes. However, protective factors such as supportive families and peers, school connectedness, affirmed name and pronoun use, and a sense of pride in identity can buffer against these stressors and promote better mental health.

Given these findings, it is crucial for psychologists to develop multicultural competence to effectively support transgender and questioning youth. This includes enhancing knowledge about the unique challenges faced by this population, developing awareness of personal biases and societal stigma, and honing skills to create affirming environments and use appropriate interventions. Psychologists should also advocate for inclusive policies, consider intersectionality, engage with families, provide trauma-informed care, and collaborate with schools and community organizations. By enhancing multicultural competence, psychologists can play a vital role in improving outcomes and promoting resilience among transgender and questioning youth, addressing the urgent need for culturally sensitive and effective mental health support for this vulnerable population.