Can we modify Internet-troll behavior?

Internet-troll behavior involves repeatedly posting messages that start arguments and upset others. Similar types of undesirable social behavior include schoolhouse bullying and vandalism. Why do some individuals engage in anti-social acts like these? Let’s...

What’s hot in psychology for 2014?

Here are developments that I expect to help shape 2014 for the field of psychology: 1. The doubt widespread among scientists about the validity of some stunning research findings will lead to increase efforts from journals and scientists to replicate the most...

Are you using words others find annoying?

A recent survey of Americans asked which words they find most annoying. Can you guess any of the top three words? I couldn’t. I would guess various curse words and insulting terms, but I would be wrong — I suspect those weren’t options in the survey....

Do children need smacking from time to time?

A UN Committee on the Rights of the Child just issued a report calling on Australia to ban parents from subjecting their children to corporal punishment. The Prime Minister responded by saying he had “chastised” his children at times and does not want...