The hottest Psychology Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

These dreams

Disaffected Newsletter • 1079 implied HN points • 03 Jun 24
📚 Literature Memoir Personal narrative Creative Writing Psychology Arts
  1. Some people's dreams can be really intense and dark, often reflecting unfinished business or unresolved fears from the past. They stick with you long after you wake up.
  2. Facing difficult or scary memories in dreams can be a way to process them and find some closure. It's like your mind is trying to help you deal with what happened.
  3. Even after changes in life, like therapy or distancing from harmful people, old dreams can resurface, but understanding them better can bring clarity and healing.

The future of AI, work, and the world

Granted • 4751 implied HN points • 15 Dec 23
🕹 Technology AI Work Geopolitics Psychology Podcasts
  1. Encourage a love for learning in kids rather than pushing for practical majors. Liberal arts education is about expanding minds, not just building careers.
  2. Gain diverse perspectives to broaden your mind. Explore topics like AI, global geopolitics, and work happiness.
  3. Question the status quo in education and work. Focus on asking the right questions, embracing ambiguity, and challenging common myths.

The psychology of midlife

The Art of Enchantment, with Dr Sharon Blackie • 6689 implied HN points • 29 Jul 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Psychology Menopause Self-discovery Transition Emotions
  1. The midlife transition is a period of questioning and self-discovery, often coinciding with perimenopause, leading to existential angst and a search for meaning.
  2. Emotional correlates of the midlife transition can include a decline in happiness, aimlessness, self-doubt, boredom, and concerns about aging and death.
  3. Navigating the midlife transition involves embracing the challenges and exploring synchronicities, dreams, and solitude to find a new story and purpose in life.

The Smoke Detector Principle: The Evolutionary Advantage of Overreaction

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 1344 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Anxiety Depression Psychology Evolution
  1. Anxiety is more common in wealthy countries, particularly among educated people with white-collar jobs. It seems to be a problem that affects many people today.
  2. Clinical depression rates have reached a new high, especially among young adults and college students. Understanding depression can be important since it greatly affects people's lives.
  3. Both anxiety and depression have seen significant increases over the past decade. It's crucial to discuss and learn more about these issues to find better ways to cope.
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Fear, Underdogs, Hard Work and Sacrifice

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 1534 implied HN points • 01 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Psychology Social Status Personal Growth Literature Human behavior
  1. Social status affects how we perceive others, making successful people seem cold and friendly people seem less competent. This shows the complex nature of relationships between warmth and competency.
  2. Happy romantic relationships are very important for overall life satisfaction. When people feel good about their relationships, it greatly contributes to their happiness and sense of purpose.
  3. A mother's milk can adapt to help her baby fight infections. When a baby is sick, the mother's body produces special agents in her milk to help the baby recover.

Vulnerable Narcissism, Conformity, High Heels

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 984 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Psychology Social Behavior Fashion Gender Studies Media
  1. Men with more success tend to have more children. This shows a pattern in how parenting and status are linked.
  2. Younger people are divided about canceling J.K. Rowling for her views on transgender issues, while older people generally oppose canceling her. This trend may change society's views in the future.
  3. Women are more likely to wear high heels when they expect to meet attractive men. Their choice of footwear seems to be influenced by their interest.

What a Bird Should Look Like

Square Circle • 7 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Meditation Philosophy Psychology Personal Growth
  1. People often change themselves to fit what others expect, which can be unconscious. It's a common struggle that nearly everyone faces at some point.
  2. We also tend to judge and reject others who don't meet our expectations. This can teach us to accept both ourselves and others more fully.
  3. Lastly, we may want reality to match our ideals, leading to disappointment. It's important to recognize and accept the world as it really is, flaws and all.

Chaos vs. Poverty, Intelligence and Personality, Live Event with Dr. Drew

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 909 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Events Psychology Education Social Issues Media
  1. Realistic baby dolls used in schools to prevent teen pregnancy actually led to more pregnancies among some students. This suggests that the program might not work as intended.
  2. Some studies show that liberal college students report worse mental health than their conservative peers. This raises questions about the impact of political beliefs on mental well-being.
  3. Cousin marriages are quite common in many regions like the Middle East and among their diaspora. In some areas, they make up a significant percentage of all marriages.

People Play Games Without Knowing It

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 965 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Social Dynamics Human behavior Game Theory Psychology Cultural Commentary
  1. People often engage in social dynamics and strategies without realizing it. This can affect how they interact with others.
  2. Competition can lead to people playing games for rewards, but sometimes they keep playing long after it's beneficial to them.
  3. Understanding these hidden games can help people navigate social situations more effectively.

Public Suicide is Not a Selfless Act

Disaffected Newsletter • 2657 implied HN points • 28 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Mental health Social Issues Psychology Public Discourse Philosophy
  1. Public suicide is not a selfless act and often stems from deep personal issues. It can be a cry for help that hurts others rather than a noble gesture.
  2. People who take their own lives in dramatic ways can leave lasting scars on their loved ones. This behavior is often more about their pain than about any cause they claim.
  3. Understanding the psychological struggles behind suicidal actions is important. It helps us see that those who suffer are not the only ones affected; their actions impact many others too.

Which facts matter?

Random Minds by Katherine Brodsky • 18 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Communication Persuasion Conflict resolution Psychology Social Dynamics
  1. It's important to share facts that the other person cares about, not just what you think is important. This makes it more likely for them to be persuaded.
  2. Changing someone's mind is difficult and sharing facts alone often isn’t enough. You need to understand their perspective first.
  3. Identifying the right facts to share takes effort and skill. It's worth it if you want to connect and communicate effectively.

How to Apologize

Remarkable People • 379 implied HN points • 24 Jul 24
🚌 Education Personal Development Communication Skills Leadership Psychology Relationships
  1. A good apology has three key parts: saying 'I'm sorry', taking responsibility for what you did, and showing that you understand the hurt it caused.
  2. People often struggle to apologize because they think it makes them look weak, but admitting mistakes can actually make you stronger and more respected.
  3. Effective apologies should be followed up with actions to prevent the same mistakes, make amends, and ask for feedback to improve.

Why (Some) Women are Attracted to Violent Men

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 1780 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Psychology Sociology Relationships Gender Studies Evolutionary Theory
  1. Some women are attracted to violent men because they see them as strong and dominant. This can come from an evolutionary perspective where strength was a key survival trait.
  2. The attraction to harmful partners can also stem from personal experiences or a desire for excitement. Some individuals may find thrill in risky relationships.
  3. Cultural influences play a big role in shaping preferences. Media often glamorizes violent behavior, which can affect what people find appealing.

When power is very personal (part 1)

Brain Pizza • 1125 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Leadership Narcissism Governance Political Behavior Psychology
  1. Narcissism can be both good and bad for leaders. It helps them be confident and make big decisions, but it can also lead to corruption and poor ethics.
  2. Grandiose narcissism makes leaders more persuasive and able to handle crises, but it can also create instability and ethical issues in government.
  3. There's a difference between grandiose and vulnerable narcissism. Grandiose narcissists are more outgoing and confident, while vulnerable ones are more sensitive and insecure.

This Week's Podcast Ep is REALLY Good + Friday Open Chaos Thread

Culture Study • 1679 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Psychology Media Social Issues Lifestyle Human behavior
  1. Therapy speak is becoming more common in conversations, especially on social media, and includes terms like 'boundaries' and 'shadow work.'
  2. The podcast discusses how to approach New Year's resolutions in a balanced way, avoiding extremes of hustle culture or vague therapy language.
  3. An Open Chaos Thread allows people to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a supportive, yet freeform, environment.

Are Men and Women Different?

Fake Noûs • 1079 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Gender Studies Psychology Evolutionary Theory Sociology Philosophy
  1. Men and women are different in many ways, especially on average, like strength and interests. It’s important to recognize these differences, but it doesn’t mean every individual fits those patterns.
  2. Some people believe these differences come from culture, but many differences are actually seen across different societies and even species. This suggests they are more than just social norms.
  3. The main reason for these differences comes from how men and women reproduce and invest in offspring. This impacts behavior, risk-taking, and interests, which helps explain why men and women often act the way they do.

Can fiction improve you?

The Common Reader • 2055 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
📚 Literature Fiction Reading Psychology Philosophy Education
  1. Fiction might not really improve you as some believe. Studies show that its benefits, like understanding emotions, are small and not clear-cut.
  2. Reading fiction can be enjoyable, but it could also lead you to accept false beliefs. Sometimes, it sways our thoughts and feelings in ways we might not notice.
  3. The debate on whether fiction is good or bad for us is complicated. It might inspire creativity and reflection, but it's hard to measure how much it truly affects us.

Games People Play

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 1003 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Psychology Relationships Social Dynamics Human behavior Communication
  1. People often have mixed feelings and hidden messages in their relationships. What they show on the outside might not reflect their true feelings inside.
  2. Understanding the psychological games people play can help us communicate better. Being aware of these dynamics can lead to healthier interactions.
  3. It's important to be open and honest in relationships. Clear communication can help break down barriers and prevent misunderstandings.

Clownfish Carnival

Disaffected Newsletter • 879 implied HN points • 26 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Criminal Justice Media Analysis Social Issues Psychology Cultural Commentary
  1. Some states are changing how we label criminals, calling them 'justice-impacted individuals' instead. This shift might confuse the moral understanding of victims and criminals.
  2. A new NBC documentary called 'Queer Planet' is being discussed, which features people talking about gender and sex. A psychoanalyst will explore what this means for our society.
  3. There's concern about the younger generation lacking proper upbringing or 'home training.' People wonder how this will affect society in the future.

How To 'See' The World Like Daredevil

Everything Is Amazing • 610 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🔬 Science Biology Research Psychology Environment Technology
  1. Some recent science suggests that it's possible for people to see the world in a unique way, similar to characters like Daredevil. It hints at untapped human abilities that we might not even know we have.
  2. There is a fascinating tree in Utah called Pando, which is actually one single tree made up of many clones. It's estimated to be between 16,000 and 80,000 years old, making it one of the oldest living organisms on Earth.
  3. It's important to focus on positive stories and support the art and media that inspire us. Finding and sharing things we love can help create a better world.

America’s Families Are Not Okay

Persuasion • 2692 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Relationships Family Psychology Therapy Mental health
  1. Family estrangement is becoming more common in the United States, with societal shifts and individual empowerment contributing to the trend.
  2. The impact of estrangement on both parents and adult children can lead to deep sadness, embarrassment, and longing for familial connection.
  3. While family estrangement may seem like a socially endorsed choice, it carries a heavy emotional toll, spreading through generations and leaving individuals feeling lonely and anchorless.

Modeling Imperfection

Fish Food for Thought • 12 implied HN points • 25 Jun 25
💼 Business Leadership Management Psychology Culture Innovation
  1. Leaders should embrace vulnerability and admit they don’t have all the answers. This helps build trust and shows that they are also learning.
  2. When leaders are open about their mistakes, it creates a safe space for teams to share ideas and learn from failures. This encourages innovation and faster problem-solving.
  3. Creating a culture of psychological safety starts with leaders being honest and present. This openness allows teams to feel valued and promotes collaboration.

The Economics of Altruism

David Friedman’s Substack • 179 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Ethics Altruism Economics Evolution Psychology
  1. Altruism can be understood in economic terms by suggesting that people might care about others' well-being as part of their own happiness. This means that helping others can also benefit the helper.
  2. The 'Rotten Kid Theorem' explains that even selfish behavior in children can lead them to act in ways that are good for everyone, as they understand their actions affect their parent's support.
  3. Altruism may have evolved as a way to help groups survive better. When one person helps others, it can create better cooperation for the whole group, making it more successful over time.

Start here

The Art of Enchantment, with Dr Sharon Blackie • 4992 implied HN points • 15 Jul 23
📚 Literature Storytelling Mythology Psychology Folklore
  1. Dr. Sharon Blackie focuses on reimagining women's stories, myths, and fairy tales, emphasizing the importance of these traditions in addressing modern cultural and environmental issues.
  2. The concept of enchantment, as defined by Dr. Sharon Blackie, involves a profound connection to the world, a sense of wonder, and engagement with creativity and nature, promoting a slow and ethical way of living.
  3. Dr. Sharon Blackie offers different engagement levels through free subscriptions, paid subscriptions with exclusive content on myth, fairy tales, and psychology, and an exclusive membership called The Hearth for deeper exploration and support.

The virtue and private sorrow of Boomer Man

Jeff Giesea • 698 implied HN points • 01 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Social Commentary Identity Psychology Relationships
  1. Boomer Man is friendly and kind, often going out of his way to help others and engage in small talk. He represents a generation that values community and social connection.
  2. Despite his genial exterior, Boomer Man struggles with deeper feelings of sorrow and questions about his legacy. He grapples with issues of mortality and relevance in today's fast-changing world.
  3. Though some may see him as outdated, Boomer Man still plays an important role in society, offering wisdom and support to the younger generations. His experiences and contributions matter now more than ever.

Links For February 2024

Astral Codex Ten • 7433 implied HN points • 29 Feb 24
🔬 Science Psychology Medicine Technology History Biology
  1. Blind mathematicians often work in geometry and topology, suggesting unique perceptions.
  2. The Basilica of the Holy House in Italy intriguingly ties angelic folklore with historical architecture.
  3. Starting a journey from Seattle and heading east ends in Russia, the first country reached while traversing the Atlantic Ocean.

compulsions

visa's voltaic verses ⚡️ • 11 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Philosophy Parenting Art Psychology
  1. People often have changing interests, sometimes very intense but temporary. It's normal and can be part of different styles of thinking, like ADHD.
  2. Observing young children can reveal a lot about human consciousness and how we learn. They show us who we are before social rules shape behavior.
  3. It's important to accept that compulsions and interests exist. Instead of wishing they were different, acknowledging them can help reduce stress and confusion.

BBC, Dangerous Women, Self-Awareness

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 1287 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Social Status Self-awareness Psychology Media influence
  1. Women on hormonal contraceptives are more likely to experience depression and be prescribed antidepressants later on.
  2. Many people think they're self-aware, but research shows that true self-awareness is quite rare.
  3. Having more education doesn't necessarily stop people from holding strong, biased views; even smart people can be influenced by extreme ideas.

ROGD, AGP, Mothers, and Sons—Common Sense Thoughts by Not a Psychologist

Parents with Inconvenient Truths about Trans (PITT) • 2476 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Gender Parenting Psychology Identity Children
  1. Mothers should not label children as AGP without solid data to support it.
  2. Educating boys on challenges of adolescence can help them navigate gender dysphoria without medicalization.
  3. Resistance to rising ideologies about AGP in boys is important to protect vulnerable children.

The New Oracles: QAnon, AI and Divination

The Bigger Picture • 718 implied HN points • 31 May 24
🎭️ Culture Conspiracy Theories Spirituality Technology Psychology
  1. The QAnon movement, despite failed predictions, remains a significant force with millions believing in its prophecies.
  2. Movements like Reichsbürger share an interest in divination, with some using occult practices like astrology and fortune-telling.
  3. Artificial intelligence, through generative AI models, is becoming a modern oracle on the internet, mediating between us and the virtual world.

Just Don't Do It: The Hidden Virtues of Quitting

OK Doomer • 144 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Ethics Decision-making Existentialism Cultural critique Psychology
  1. Quitting can be a tough decision, but sometimes it's the right one. It takes strength and discipline to walk away from something that isn't working out.
  2. Many people struggle with the idea of quitting due to societal pressure to always push forward. Learning when to stop can lead to a healthier mindset and better choices.
  3. The fear of stopping or changing paths can lead to bigger issues in society, such as unrealistic expectations for endless growth. It's okay to aim for balance and recognize when to take a step back.

A slightly tipsy investigation into my wife's superpower

Experimental History • 7657 implied HN points • 13 Feb 24
🔬 Science Research Psychology Education Culture Health
  1. Some people have unique sensory abilities that others may not understand or share, like detecting the lingering smell of eggs on plates even after washing.
  2. Being open-minded and receptive to new ideas is important to avoid rigidity in thinking and to continuously learn and grow.
  3. Academic professions, like journal publishing and university rankings, can sometimes involve questionable practices that prioritize profit over knowledge or ethics.

Guest Post: Love in the Age of TikTok

Reactionary Feminist • 13 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Media Relationships Technology Psychology Society
  1. Young conservatives are still affected by modern dating culture even when they criticize it. This shows that the influence of technology and social media reaches everyone, regardless of their beliefs.
  2. The way love is viewed today is often like a marketplace, where people assess each other like commodities. This shift can make real connections harder to form and diminish the value of love.
  3. Social media, especially short-form videos, changes how we interact and think. Constant scrolling can make it tough to focus or commit, which can harm deep, lasting relationships.

Gaslighting: The Psychology of Shaping Another’s Reality or How Mass Perception is Manufactured

Through A Glass Darkly • 2397 implied HN points • 13 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Psychology Media Manipulation Music History
  1. Gaslighting is a real and effective means to shape perception of reality.
  2. Mass gaslighting on a global scale is causing widespread disinformation and questioning of sanity.
  3. Questioning the prescribed reality and taking back control is the key to escaping mental prisons and regaining power.

Vignette: the borderline mother and son

Disaffected Newsletter • 919 implied HN points • 03 May 24
🎭️ Culture Psychology Family Dynamics Sociology Media Analysis Feminism
  1. A borderline mother can deeply affect her son, creating a toxic environment filled with shame and fear. It's hard to watch because it feels so real and painful.
  2. The relationship can become a cycle of manipulation and emotional abuse, where the mother enjoys causing distress. It’s like a dark game that leads to outbursts of rage.
  3. Children raised in this environment often feel like nothing truly belongs to them, as their mother disregards their feelings and possessions. This can lead to lasting emotional scars.

An Investigation into Species HS01

Contemplations on the Tree of Woe • 1108 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Society Identity Psychology Evolution Norms Politics
  1. Drones are being spotted in major U.S. cities, but there's a lot of confusion about their purpose. Some people think they could be military drones from other countries, while the government insists they are just civilian drones.
  2. A strange theory suggests that aliens are invading Earth, and they'll reveal themselves in 2025. This idea comes from a researcher studying our species, who claims aliens are worried about our civilization.
  3. The reproductive patterns of humans show a big divide. While some populations are rapidly growing, others are declining due to cultural and social changes that discourage having children.

Mentorship, Chivalry, Promiscuity

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 1174 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Mentorship Social Behavior Psychology Military
  1. Teams work better when everyone feels safe to share their thoughts, even if they disagree. Open conversations lead to better results.
  2. People today are less willing to stand out and are more afraid of criticism. This change might be due to the risks of being judged or isolated.
  3. In some primate species, females are promiscuous not just for pleasure but to protect their young. This behavior helps to avoid infanticide by keeping males guessing about paternity.

Palm Beach, Friendship Paradox, Personality and Eating

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 1231 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Psychology Social Status Relationships Personality Behavior Happiness
  1. Women with tattoos might be more open to casual relationships and tend to enjoy new experiences more than those without tattoos.
  2. Going to religious services regularly can make people happier than having a lot of money, showing the power of community and connection.
  3. Good-looking people are often seen as more trustworthy and capable, which can even influence how they're treated in court.