Tag Archives: personality

Unlocking Your Personality: What Research Reveals About Your Sexual Fantasies

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According to recent research, frequent sexual fantasies are linked to neuroticism, a personality trait that can elevate the risk of various physical and mental health issues. A study conducted by Michigan State University reveals intriguing insights.

In this study, researchers surveyed over 5,000 American adults, examining their sexual fantasies and personality traits.

The scientists utilized the Big Five personality framework, a standard tool in psychology, to assess openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism.

Findings indicated that individuals scoring high in neuroticism reported fantasizing about sex more frequently than their non-neurotic counterparts.

Neuroticism is characterized by rumination, self-consciousness, and a propensity for negative emotions like anger, anxiety, irritability, stress, and sadness.

Previous studies have correlated high neuroticism levels with an increased risk of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, eating disorders, and other mental health conditions.

This personality trait is also associated with a heightened risk of physical ailments, including heart disease, inflammation, immune dysfunctions, and irritable bowel syndrome.

Within sexual contexts, neuroticism can lead to lower satisfaction, heightened negative emotions, and an increased likelihood of dysfunction.

Participants with high neuroticism scores, particularly those experiencing depression or negative emotions, were more prone to report frequent sexual fantasies.

Dr. James Ravenhill, a psychologist at Royal Holloway, University of London, who was not part of the study, noted in BBC Science Focus: “Individuals high in neuroticism often struggle with emotional instability, making it challenging to manage stress.

“Sexual fantasies provide an escape from negative emotions, allowing individuals to experience more rewarding and fulfilling sexual relationships, even if only in their imaginations.”

“Individual differences in personality may help predict variations in the frequency of sexual fantasies,” the authors state. – Credit: Getty Images

Conversely, participants scoring high in conscientiousness and agreeableness tended to fantasize less frequently.

Conscientiousness refers to the traits of being responsible, organized, and motivated, while agreeableness relates to kindness and a desire to cooperate with others.

The authors attribute the lower frequency of fantasies among these individuals to their respect for and responsibility toward their partners.

“People high in agreeableness experience more positive moods and have higher relationship satisfaction, lessening their need to escape into sexual fantasies,” Ravenhill explained.

“Those high in conscientiousness may also fantasize less due to a commitment to their partners, as infidelity often contradicts their values.”

While openness has been traditionally linked to more liberal sexual attitudes, the study found no significant connection between open-mindedness and sexual fantasies.

Participants shared their preferred sexual fantasies, which the researchers categorized into four themes: exploratory (e.g., attending an orgy), intimate (e.g., making love outdoors), impersonal (e.g., watching others have sex), and sadomasochistic (e.g., being compelled to perform a task).

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

The Gut Microbiome: Influencing Our Personality Traits

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Fecal bacteria observed through an electron microscope

Science Photo Library / Alamy Stock Photo

Rats that received gut microbiomes from energetic human infants seem more inclined to explore their surroundings. This research suggests that the bacteria present in our guts during childhood may influence our personalities.

“This indicates that our microbes play an active role in emotional development, rather than merely being passive presence,” explains Harriet Scherekens from University College Cork, Ireland, who was not involved in the study.

Increasing research identifies a link between the microbial communities in our guts and various aspects of our well-being, emotions, and mood. For instance, individuals lacking certain gut bacteria types seem to face a higher risk of depression and anxiety.

While it remains uncertain whether bacteria are the cause of these emotional shifts or if the microbial communities alter in response to user actions, some evidence suggests that changes in the microbiome can influence an individual’s mood. For example, fecal transplants from depressed individuals to rats appear to induce depressive behavior. Conversely, depressed rodents receiving fecal transplants have shown improved symptoms upon preliminary examination.

To delve deeper into how the gut microbiome relates to temperament, Anna Artshinki and colleagues at the University of Turku in Finland conducted fecal transplants from infants into young rats.

Initially, the team evaluated the personalities of 27 toddlers aged 2.5 years using standard temperament assessments and an activity that encouraged play with bubble guns.

“Although we couldn’t study anxiety in 2-year-olds directly, we anticipated assessing behavioral differences, such as levels of inhibition versus sociability,” notes Artosinki.

From their evaluations, researchers classified 10 infants as energetic and 8 as inhibited and withdrawn. They then selected four energetic and four restrained infants (split evenly between genders) for fecal sample collection.

Fecal samples spiked with glycerol, alongside control samples, were transplanted into 53 22- or 23-day-old rats whose intestines had been pre-cleaned.

Artshinki’s team then subjected the rats to a variety of behavioral tests. They discovered that rats with microbiomes from energetic infants displayed a greater exploratory tendency compared to those receiving control implants or feces from inhibited infants.

To investigate how gut bacteria might influence the brain, the researchers also examined rat brain tissues for gene activity changes. This analysis indicated that rats receiving microbiomes from inhibited infants showed reduced activity in dopamine-producing neurons, a neurotransmitter linked to rewarding risk-taking behavior.

“This study effectively illustrates how the early childhood gut microbiome contributes to shaping behavioral tendencies,” Scherekens remarks. “By transferring microbiomes from children to rodents, researchers have created a valuable translation between microbes, human temperament, and brain function.”

This indicates a gut-brain pathway that impacts curiosity, reward, and motivation through the dopamine system, Scherekens adds.

Nonetheless, Artshinki cautions against overstating the implications. “Overall, adult temperament traits are strongly correlated with genetics, yet environmental factors—potentially including the microbiome—may play a role in certain behavioral distinctions.”

Artosinki emphasizes that whether microbes drive the differences in children’s behaviors remains an open question. It’s possible that children exhibiting more active traits interact with their environment and new foods in unique ways, thereby developing distinct microbiomes as a result.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Introverts, Extroverts, and Beyond: Exploring New Personality Types

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An insightful scientist. Science News and extensive articles from expert journalists focusing on scientific, technological, health, and environmental advances.

Growing up, it was a tradition for my peers to join scouts when they turned 9 or 10. My parents gifted me a scout uniform accompanied by a matching scarf and a leather toggle to secure it at the collar.

We sat in a circle on the ground, each perched on small stools, as our leader spoke to us seriously. After discussing the essence of being a junior scout, he instructed us to pay close attention as he recited the scouting pledge, which we solemnly repeated.

It was the first moment I realized I was different; as I articulated those words, the others appeared captivated by this rite of passage. Yet, unlike them, I felt no emotional connection to the sacred bonds forged with fellow inductees or those who had come before us—just the emptiness of mere words.

Most people find it challenging to envision a state where one doesn’t feel a deep-seated affinity or loyalty to any group. This experience is rare; some consider such psychological tendencies as disorders to be addressed. However, over my 40 years as a clinical psychiatrist, I’ve come to understand that many of my patients (and I) being indifferent to group memberships isn’t necessarily a psychological issue.

Otroverts is a term embraced by individuals who don’t feel bound to merge their identities with others. We all begin life as otroverts until childhood cultural influences solidify our attachments to various identities and groups.

The struggle to identify with a group can lead to social implications in cultures structured around participation. However, being outside these groups can have its advantages: free from implicit rules and influences of belonging, unoften brings originality and emotional autonomy.

By being on the outside, you’re free to think and create unfettered. GroupThink loses its hold, allowing you to discern your thoughts from the collective’s gravitational pull, enabling you to explore ideas without the fear of undermining the group’s notion of what constitutes a “good” idea.

Since you can’t be expelled from a group you aren’t part of, fears of social rejection diminish. There’s no need for external validation or relying on others for emotional support; you don’t feel compelled to prove your worth to anyone.

Our society often blurs the line between connection and belonging. Yet it’s essential to recognize that those who find it challenging to connect may struggle to foster a sense of belonging, but that doesn’t mean they lack connection entirely. In reality, free from the distractions of pop culture, cliques, family disputes, and political factions (all of which relate to otroverts), one can truly bond with those who resonate on a deeper level.

History showcases many independent thinkers who maintain emotional detachment from any group, allowing them to recognize the fanaticism of groupthink long before deviating into it. Orwell is a notable example.

Sadly, it appears that individuals often need to rise from the ashes of destructive group dynamics before they can grasp their rightful path as independent thinkers.

We might learn from the otrovert perspective that while community has its merits, we must remain acutely aware of its darker tribal undercurrents.

Rami Kaminsky is a psychiatrist and author of The Gift of Not Belonging.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

What Your Dog’s TV Watching Habits Reveal About Their Personality

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Recent studies indicate that a dog’s response to your preferred TV show can reveal much about your personality.

In a recent Nature study, researchers found that enthusiastic dogs tend to interpret what they see on TV as reality, whereas anxious dogs are more inclined to react to non-animal elements, like humans and vehicles.

According to Lane Montgomery, a graduate student from Auburn University who spearheaded the research, there was a single consensus among all dogs regarding one topic.

“Overall, dogs generally seem to enjoy television, particularly when it features other dogs and animals,” Montgomery said to BBC Science Focus.

However, a note of caution before curating dog video playlists for your beloved pet: nearly half of the 453 dogs analyzed reacted every time their on-screen counterparts barked or howled.

Interestingly, breed and gender did not appear to influence their reactions, with older dogs exhibiting similar caution to younger puppies.

Dogs have been enjoying television alongside humans for nearly a century. Today, there are even specialized channels and programs designed to enhance dogs’ lives while their owners are engaged elsewhere.

Despite this, there has been little scientific inquiry into how dogs respond to visual stimuli.

To fill this gap, Montgomery encouraged dog owners to complete a survey that documented their pets’ responses to various dogs, animals, humans, inanimate objects, and environmental effects appearing on TV.

Montgomery posits that more impulsive dogs are likely to chase objects appearing on the TV screen or look behind the TV to track their movement, indicating they perceive the visuals as real.

Research indicates that dogs engage with TV for an average of 14 minutes – Credits: Getty Images/Manabougaswara

Conversely, skittish dogs were more prone to react when they saw people on TV or heard doorbells.

This research focuses solely on interactions with the most common individuals, rather than assessing whether these interactions are positive or negative.

Nevertheless, the insights gathered could aid owners in targeting training to eliminate undesirable behaviors and better identify which shows might be stressing their pets.

“The primary aim of this study was to enhance our understanding of how dogs react to various TV programs, thereby increasing the effectiveness of television as a tool for dog enrichment,” Montgomery stated. “Understanding which types of shows captivate dogs can help dog TV programs improve their content according to what dogs are likely to enjoy.”

About our experts

Lane Montgomery is a doctoral candidate in the Cognitive and Behavioral Sciences Program at Auburn University, USA. Her research concentrates on canine behavior and cognition to enhance the welfare of companion dogs and the efficiency of working dogs.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Discover Top Exercises Tailored for Your Personality Type

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Tailoring your workout routine to align with your personality can significantly enhance your commitment to your training regimen, according to new research.

The study, led by Professor Flaminia Ronka at University College London, found that individuals who derive enjoyment from sports are more likely to maintain their participation. This indicates that a customized fitness plan is more effective than a generic approach.

“If you don’t follow that, there’s no point in prescribing the ideal exercise plan,” Ronka stated in an interview with BBC Science Focus.

“Fun is crucial for behavioral change. To encourage the population to be more proactive, a strategic approach is essential in identifying enjoyable activities for individuals.”

This study explored the impact of personality traits on preferred types of exercise.

Researchers categorized participants based on the five major personality traits: agreeableness (willingness to cooperate), conscientiousness (self-discipline and detail orientation), extraversion (sociability), neuroticism (tendency toward anxiety or unhappiness), and openness (willingness to try new things).

The findings suggested that individuals who are more sociable enjoy engaging in intense workouts, particularly those that involve social interactions like team sports and dance classes, implying that many can find enjoyment in vigorous aerobic activities.

Conversely, those who are higher in neuroticism preferred privacy and were less comfortable being observed while completing the 15-minute cycling exercise used to assess fitness levels. Moreover, they were also less inclined to monitor their heart rate during workouts.

“This indicates that individuals in this category may value a setting that allows for independence and privacy during their exercise routine,” Ronka explained. Participants in this group typically favored more calming exercises, such as stretching, yet remarked that “high intensity was acceptable as long as breaks were allowed.”

All participants who adhered to the program reported positive outcomes, but the more anxious individuals particularly stood out.

“These participants exhibited a notably significant reduction in stress following the exercise program,” Ronka noted. “This is encouraging, as it highlights that those who experience the greatest stress relief are highly responsive to exercise.”

More anxious individuals tended to benefit from calmer exercises, such as stretching – Source: Getty Images

To examine how personality influences exercise habits, this study required participants to engage in an eight-week home fitness program involving cycling and strength training.

Fitness levels were assessed at both the beginning and end of the program, during which participants completed a questionnaire to evaluate their personality type and attitudes toward exercise.

Not all personality types exhibited strong inclinations. Agreeable and open individuals did not show a preference for a specific type of exercise.

“Nonetheless, agreeableness and openness can influence how we participate in health behaviors in different ways, such as the types of exercises we are willing to try,” Ronka added.

“As long as you do not enjoy a specific session, don’t worry,” she concluded. “You can always try something different.”

About our experts

Flaminia Ronka is an associate professor at the Institute of Sports, Exercise, and Health at the University of London. Her research focuses on motor neuroscience and the connection between movement and cognition. Ronka also collaborates with British police to enhance officer wellbeing and performance.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

The Subtle Tactics Narcissists Use to Manipulate Your Personality

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Do you identify as an empathetic individual who prefers to stay out of the limelight? Have you found it challenging to articulate your own thoughts and feelings, often listening to others instead? Have you experienced a long-term relationship with a narcissist? If any of this resonates with you, you might be an echoist.

Echoism stands in contrast to extreme narcissism. Though this might seem favorable, a high degree of echoism can complicate one’s life significantly.

Echoists often do not perceive themselves as special and frequently neglect their own needs.

What is an echo?

Individuals with echoism typically shy away from or reject attention. They are deeply empathetic and attuned to the emotions of others, yet often engage in self-criticism and struggle with low self-esteem.

They may also be hesitant to express their own thoughts and feelings, often stemming from a fear of rejection and criticism.

The echoist might say, “I lead my life by the principle that the less attention I attract, the better.” Dr. Craig Malkin, author of Rethinking Narcissism.

“A defining characteristic of an echoist is a fear of appearing narcissistic in any way.”

Individuals with echoism tend to actively avoid or reject attention – Photo credit: Solvin Zankl/Naturepl.com

But where does the term “echoist” originate? To grasp this, let’s look back at Greek mythology.

Echo is named after the mountain nymph who fell in love with a hunter named Narcissus. Echo was spurned by Narcissus, who was doomed to only repeat the last words spoken to her.

The term echoism symbolizes the loss of Echo’s voice and identity as depicted in mythology.

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Are narcissism and echoism linked?

Many echoists grow up with narcissistic parents or find themselves in relationships with narcissistic partners. Navigating the whims of a narcissist can take an emotional toll. Research indicates that living with a pathologically narcissistic partner or family member can be quite burdensome.

Malkin explains that, as a child, the echoist was often afraid of losing her mother if she did not appease her frequent outbursts of tears and anger. The fear of rejection from loved ones is a common trait among echoists.

Malkin also notes that echoists are often drawn to narcissists due to fears of burdening others or appearing inadequate. Being involved with someone who enjoys the spotlight can provide a sense of security for echoists.

However, echoism can emerge even in the absence of malicious narcissism, particularly if echoist parents instill phrases like “Don’t get a big head” or “Don’t show off.”

Continually absorbing these negative messages can foster a child’s disproportionate sense of shame, hindering their ability to take pride in their achievements.

While society tends to discourage prideful behavior in children (and adults), it is important to recognize that taking pride in accomplishments is crucial for developing the self-esteem that echoists often lack.

About our experts

Dr. Craig Malkin is a psychologist and lecturer in psychology at Harvard Medical School, USA, as well as an author. He has published two books: Rethinking Narcissism and Narcissist Test.

This article addresses the question from Helena Howard of Torkey: “How did living with a narcissist affect me?”

For inquiries, please email us at Question @sciencefocus.com or message us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram (remember to include your name and location).

Explore our ultimate Fun fact and more fascinating science pages.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Discover Your Dog’s Personality with These Adorable Puppy Tests!

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Is your cherished puppy turning out to be a gentle companion or a little troublemaker? Simple behavioral tests can offer valuable insights.

A recent adorable study from the University of Helsinki found that specific playful tasks can reveal significant personality traits in puppies as young as 3 months old.

The tests assess how the puppy navigates obstacles to reach a treat, their ability to follow human gestures, and their reactions to unfamiliar people and environments.

Researchers aim for these assessments to aid dog owners in understanding their puppies and fostering their development from an early age.

“Most previous research has concentrated on whether cognitive testing can predict puppies’ suitability for roles like detection or guide dogs,” said Saara Junttila, a researcher at the University of Helsinki and leading figure in the study, as reported by BBC Science Focus.

“However, there hasn’t been a study examining whether these tests can predict behavioral traits relevant in pets and daily interactions with owners.”

The puppy faced the challenge of retrieving a treat from inside a transparent cylinder – Credit: Elisenbera

In this investigation, 99 puppies were tested between 3 and 7 months of age and were later retested as adults (1 to 8 years old).

Prior studies have indicated that behavioral tests are not reliable indicators for puppies younger than 8 weeks, as their personalities are still developing (and they are often too sleepy to be properly evaluated).

Multiple puppy assessments have shown promising links to identifying the personalities of adult dogs.

Puppies who excelled in the gesture test displayed strong responsiveness to human cues and were generally easier to train. Conversely, puppies that persistently sought treats through clear barriers without learning to circumvent them tended to be more impulsive as adults.

An intriguing finding arose from a challenging task involving a sealed box where puppies attempted to retrieve treats. Interestingly, those exposed frequently to nearby humans were often more likely to fear unfamiliar humans as adults, even if they were strangers.

How to Ensure a Happy Dog

Understanding potential behavioral issues can significantly improve how you train your dog and cater to their needs.

“Pet owners often struggle to recognize when their dogs or cats are feeling anxious,” notes Dr. Emily Blackwell, a behavioral researcher at the University of Bristol who was not involved in the study.

“If you can anticipate which puppies may develop fears, owners can provide additional support during interactions and experiences.”

Similarly, impulsive and high-energy puppies may require different training approaches compared to those that thrive in calm environments.

“Puppies don’t misbehave deliberately,” Junttila explains. “High energy and impulsivity are simply traits inherent in a puppy’s personality.”

Meet Our Experts

Saara Junttila is a doctoral researcher at the University of Helsinki, investigating the relationship between cognitive development and behavior in dogs.

Emily Blackwell is a senior lecturer in animal behavior and welfare at the University of Bristol’s Veterinary School. Her research spans various domestic animal species regarding behavior and welfare.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

MrBeast, a popular YouTube personality, joins efforts to purchase TikTok in the United States

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MrBeast, a famous YouTube star and the highest-paid creator on the internet, has officially joined the bid to acquire TikTok’s US operations.

Teaming up with technology entrepreneur Jesse Tinsley, the 26-year-old made an all-cash offer for the social video app’s American division. This move follows President Donald Trump’s statement that US tech billionaires Elon Musk and Larry Ellison were interested in buying TikTok.

Known as Jimmy Donaldson, MrBeast has shown interest in acquiring TikTok through various social media posts. On January 13th, he mentioned in a post, “I’ll buy TikTok to avoid getting banned.” In subsequent TikTok posts, Donaldson revealed discussions with “a bunch of billionaires” regarding the bid.


American law firm Paul Hastings announced the bid for Donaldson in a statement on Tuesday. The statement mentioned Mr. Tinsley leading an investor group consisting of “institutional investors and high-net-worth individuals,” with Mr. Donaldson being the only publicly disclosed member.

While the size of the all-cash bid was not disclosed, Trump valued it at $1 trillion. With 346 million YouTube followers, MrBeast was the world’s top internet creator in the previous year, earning $85 million according to Forbes.

Paul Hastings also noted that Brad Bondi, the lawyer leading the team advising on the bid, is the brother of President Trump’s pick for U.S. attorney general, Pam Bondi.

President Trump mentioned potential agreements with Elon Musk and Larry Ellison, expressing openness to their bids to acquire TikTok. Ellison commented that it sounded like a “good deal.” Trump stated that TikTok would be allowed to operate in the US with 50% American ownership and a valuation of $1 trillion.

Despite TikTok returning online after temporary shutdown, its future in the US remains uncertain. The app faces a deadline of January 19 due to a requirement for the sale of its American division by its Chinese parent company, ByteDance.

President Trump issued an executive order halting enforcement of the sale requirement, providing assurances for TikTok’s operation. Some lawmakers question the legality of suspending the law, warning of potential consequences for businesses not complying.

TikTok, Google, and Apple have been approached for comments.

Source: www.theguardian.com

How does a narcissist’s personality evolve as they grow older?

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Narcissistic personality disorder is a mental illness characterized by an excessively high sense of personal importance, and it is relatively common. Up to 5% of the population may be affected. Recent research has shed light on how this disorder changes over time in individuals diagnosed with it.

Studies have shown that with age, individuals tend to become less self-centered. This decrease is observed from childhood through old age.

While overall narcissism tends to decrease with age, individual differences remain consistent over time. This means that individuals who displayed higher levels of narcissism compared to their peers in childhood are likely to maintain that characteristic into adulthood.

The lead author, Professor Ulrich Orth from the University of Bern, emphasized the importance of these findings in understanding how narcissism impacts not only the individual’s life but also the lives of their family and friends.

Published in the journal Psychology Bulletin, the study analyzed data from 51 research studies involving 37,247 participants ranging in age from 8 to 77 years, with a nearly equal distribution of men and women.

The research identified three types of narcissism: agentic narcissism, hostile narcissism, and neurotic narcissism. While all three types showed a decline from childhood to old age, the rate of decline varied among them.

Although narcissism is considered a stable personality trait that remains relatively unchanged compared to peers over long periods of time, the study acknowledges the need for further exploration across different cultures and regions to validate these findings.

The team also aims to investigate why narcissism tends to decrease with age. One theory suggests that assuming adult social roles like partner, parent, or employee may contribute to the development of more mature personality traits, leading to reduced narcissism.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com