Exploring the boundaries of empathy. Lessons from a crowded train Empathy drives prosocial behaviour… in the lab, anyway, with no other people involved. In real-life scenarios, however, when we are exposed to the behaviour of others, empathy alone is often not enough. Maria Lojowska • March 28, 2024
Progressive men, watch out for your own underlying biases! Progressive men can play a crucial role in promoting gender equality and psychological safety. But to do so effectively, they must also face up to their own subtle biases. Daan Scheepers • March 07, 2024
A third of new mothers quit science "What is this?" A male hand reaches out and pulls a leaky container from my bag. "Breast milk." He makes a face. "Tasty and nutritious", I counter. Mariska Kret • March 05, 2024
Who cares for the carers? Stress reduction in healthcare workers using MBSR 40% of nurses quit working in healthcare within 2 years of graduation. But with life expectancy on the rise, demand for specialised healthcare professionals will rise. How can we improve nurses’ work environment and keep them in the profession? Kirsten Buitelaar • March 04, 2024
What Antarctica can tell us about loneliness and our brains Antarctica is cold, hazardous, and lonely – and it changes your brain. Not many people have set foot on this icy continent, but the scientists in polar research stations reveal insights into the impact of expeditions to the South Pole on the mind and brain. Greta Sandow • February 26, 2024
Stress doesn’t need an outlet. A persistent myth exposed There is no 'outlet' for negative emotions (stress). Instead, it will just pass if the source of frustration stops. Revenge may help. But it may be wiser to put it into perspective, meditate on it, seek distraction, or wait until your brain stops mulling it over. Jos Brosschot • February 12, 2024
The pathway to Clinical Neuropsychology This story gives insight into the journey of being a student at Leiden University to what is like to be a clinical neuropsychologist. It shows that a career path after graduation is full of challenges that we can see as opportunities to grow. Bianca Maria Wiersema • January 18, 2024
Can AI write a psychology book? This question captured my imagination for quite some time. As a psychologist deeply immersed in both the intricacies of the human mind and the rapid advancements of technology, I found myself standing at a crossroads of psychology and technology. Cevdet Acarsoy • December 18, 2023
Connecting over pizza with fellow early-career researchers Last November the annual VNOP-CAS Research Days took place. The emphasis of the event is on early-career researchers – the first day is only open to PhDs and postdocs – so it’s a perfect opportunity to connect and form lasting connections. Iris Langereis • December 12, 2023
