The Latest Breaking News from Bluma Zeigarnik

Psychology says you may keep watching a TV series you no longer enjoy for one surprisingly simple reason

Watching a series is not always about experiencing individual episodes one at a time. Instead, it can become a goal-oriented activity in which viewers become invested in following the story, understanding the characters and ultimately finding out how the narrative unfolds.

The Economic Times · Sep 10

Psychology says if you cannot put a book down mid-chapter, your brain may hate leaving stories unfinished

Psychology says this behavior may have less to do with discipline or obsessiveness than it appears. For some readers, stopping at an arbitrary point can create a sense of incompleteness, making it more satisfying to finish a chapter, section or natural break before putting the book down.

The Economic Times · Sep 1

Psychology says people who save screenshots they never look at may be collecting a sense of future security

People may save screenshots for all kinds of reasons: they expect the information could be useful later, don't want to risk forgetting it, worry they might need it again, feel emotionally attached to the content, or simply find comfort in knowing it's safely stored for future access.

The Economic Times · Aug 31

Psychology says people who keep dozens of browser tabs open may be struggling with a very specific kind of closure

Closing a browser tab can feel surprisingly symbolic because it involves a small act of letting go: deciding that something no longer needs your immediate attention. For some people, finally clearing those tabs can therefore bring a noticeable sense of relief, order, and mental space.

The Economic Times · Aug 13

Psychology says adults who feel compelled to finish everything before resting aren't unusually disciplined; unfinished responsibilities may remain psychologically active

Your brain constantly remembers unfinished tasks, making true rest difficult. Research shows that incomplete work stays in your mind, demanding attention. Even starting a task can create a strong urge to finish it later. Unfinished work at the week's end can disrupt weekend sleep. Making a plan for tasks can…

The Economic Times · Jun 19

Friday essay: empathy or division? On the science and politics of storytelling

Writers can’t always be trusted when they talk about the power and importance of story. We have a vested interest and can get sentimental, promoting the immense power of story, of narrative, as inherently benign.

The Conversation · Apr 7, 2022