EurekAlert! News by Subject: Social & Behavior

Social & Behavior

Updates every hour. Last Updated: 1-Jun-2026 12:15 ET (1-Jun-2026 16:15 GMT/UTC)

16-Dec-2025

Reducing social isolation protects the brain in later life  

University of St. Andrews
Peer-Reviewed Publication

The study, published today (16 December 2025) analysed 137, 653 cognitive function tests taken between 2004 and 2018 by over 30 000 individuals. It found a consistent pattern of higher social isolation causing faster cognitive decline whether or not people identify as lonely.

Journal: The Journals of Gerontology Series B

16-Dec-2025

Can intimate relationships affect your heart? New study says ‘yes’

Elsevier
Peer-Reviewed Publication

With heart disease as the leading cause of death worldwide, there is growing recognition that recovery is not only physical but also emotional and social. A new study shows that strong and supportive relationships can indeed improve heart health for individuals with cardiovascular disease. The work is described in an article in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology, published by Elsevier, which calls for intimate partners to be included in cardiac rehabilitation programs to support long-term heart health and quality of life for both members of the couple.

Journal: Canadian Journal of Cardiology

15-Dec-2025

Research shows informed traders never let a good climate crisis go to waste

University of Technology Sydney
Peer-Reviewed Publication

An Australian research team has found that fossil fuel firms experience significant spikes in informed trading during UN climate change conferences, with estimated gains of up to $25 billion across the fossil fuel firms and COP meetings analysed.

Journal: Energy Economics
Funder: Australian Research Council

15-Dec-2025

Specific depressive symptoms in midlife linked to increased dementia risk

University College London
Peer-Reviewed Publication

Six particular depressive symptoms when experienced in midlife predict dementia risk more than two decades later, finds a new study led by University College London (UCL) researchers.

Journal: The Lancet Psychiatry
Funder: Wellcome Trust, Medical Research Council, Academy of Finland

15-Dec-2025

Digital tools can improve dementia care – for people with dementia aging in place and their caregivers

George Mason University
Peer-Reviewed Publication

A new study reveals that digital health resources, while still inaccessible for many people, offer many benefits, including improved mental health and social connection.

Journal: Current Geriatrics Reports

15-Dec-2025

Groundbreaking University of Limerick, Ireland research reveals personality traits are powerful predictors of risk of death

University of Limerick
Peer-Reviewed Publication

A major new study from University of Limerick in Ireland analysing almost six million person-years of data has revealed that personality traits are linked to longevity and risk of death.

Journal: Journal of Personality and Social Psychology

15-Dec-2025

To connect across politics, try saying what you oppose

American Psychological Association
Peer-Reviewed Publication

When engaging in a political discussion, talking about what you oppose instead of what you support may make others more open to your views, according to research published by the American Psychological Association.

Journal: Journal of Personality and Social Psychology