by jmalouff | Dec 4, 2018 | Human Thinking and Behavior, Social psychology
Many years ago my dad fell seriously ill and went into the hospital. As he neared the time of discharge, my brother Bob bought Dad a huge TV to welcome him home. The delivery people declined to carry the TV upstairs, saying it was so heavy that they needed more guys...
by jmalouff | Dec 3, 2018 | Human Thinking and Behavior, Mental health problems
Many individuals make New Year’s resolutions to lose weight, stop smoking, or cease binge drinking. Not me. I aim to add a bit more narcissism, a tad more sociopathy, and a dash of depression. Studies have shown that some characteristics of individuals with serious...
by jmalouff | Dec 3, 2018 | Human Thinking and Behavior
Last week as I walked home from the University of New England, I saw large green garden-debris bins in front of three houses next to mine. I felt an urge to put my bin out even though I was sure it was the wrong week. I looked in my bin and confirmed that its contents...
by jmalouff | Dec 3, 2018 | Human Thinking and Behavior, Positive psychology, Well-Being
Many individuals living in wealthy countries want to be self-actualized. Have you reached that lofty perch? According to Abraham Maslow, who coined the term, self-actualization involves individuals making the most of their potential. Maslow said...
by jmalouff | Dec 1, 2018 | Human Thinking and Behavior, Positive psychology, Well-Being
Psychologists and philosophers often talk about the importance of finding meaning in life. At a recent world congress on behavioural and cognitive treatment, I heard a great healer, Dr Aaron Beck, describe how he has helped persistently psychotic individuals come out...
by jmalouff | Dec 1, 2018 | Human Thinking and Behavior, Personality, Positive psychology
I am not seeking a new job, but if I were, I might be asked to show that I am creative. More and more companies want to hire creative individuals. Could I show that I am creative? To answer that question, I have to define creativity. The usual...