Psychology

Angela Duckworth of the School of Arts & Sciences says that the larger number of possible outcomes in graded assignments provides a greater reduction in uncertainty than pass-fail assignments.

A study co-authored by Matthew Killingsworth of the Wharton School, PIK Professor Barbara Mellers, and a team from Princeton found that happiness improves with higher earnings, up to $500,000 a year, except for those who were “rich and miserable” for other reasons.

Jer Clifton of the School of Arts & Sciences discusses how beliefs shape reality and how to use that knowledge to live a happier and more harmonious life.

Richard Doty of the Perelman School of Medicine says that odor irritants can cause chest congestion and allergic reactions while also operating on the autonomic nervous system.

Nora Brier of the Perelman School of Medicine says that avoidance can worsen the anxiety and fear triggered by potential visits to the doctor’s office.

Research by Jer Clifton and postdoc Nicholas Kerry of the School of Arts & Sciences suggests that the main difference between the political left and right is the belief that the world is inherently hierarchical.

A paper by Nina Strohminger of the Wharton School explores the theory of benign masochism, or the “enjoyment of negative sensations for their own sake.”

Christina Chwyl of the Perelman School of Medicine provides tips on accepting yourself and treating yourself with kindness.

Philip Gehrman of the Perelman School of Medicine says that while work can be rewarding and fulfilling, it's also stressful and takes time that we'd like to spend doing other things.