The Latest Breaking News from Robin Dunbar

Psychology says people who bring food to every house party may be doing more than being polite

House parties are inherently social settings, and sharing food can make those interactions feel more natural and comfortable. Research by psychologist Robin Dunbar suggests that eating with others may be linked to greater happiness, trust, social engagement and a stronger sense of connection. His work indicates that communal meals may…

The Economic Times · Sep 11

Psychology says people who call just to get gossip may be looking for more than drama

Calling people simply to hear the latest gossip can reflect a range of motivations, including social curiosity, entertainment, a desire for belonging, information seeking, social comparison, or even a wish to feel influential. The behavior becomes more concerning when it regularly involves violating others' privacy, spreading unverified information, or taking…

The Economic Times · Aug 26

Psychology explains people who love backyard BBQs may be happier because they’re fulfilling one of the brain’s deepest social needs

Sharing meals with others consistently boosts life satisfaction and positive emotions. Outdoor settings also provide psychological benefits, reducing stress and improving mood. Strong social connections are vital for mental health and emotional resilience. Backyard barbecues naturally foster these connections through relaxed interactions. These gatherings fulfill a fundamental human need for…

The Economic Times · Jul 14

Why do we kiss? ‘I am not sure we have anything close to an explanation’

One new theory has been added to the mix about why many – but not all – humans lock lips in love

The Guardian - AU · Nov 30, 2024

‘Five to ten seconds appears to be optimal’: the science behind hugs

As an airport limits goodbye cuddles to three minutes, here’s a guide to different embraces, and their positive effects

The Guardian - UK · Oct 26, 2024

Party season is coming. Here are 2 ways to make small talk less awkward

Most people will tell you they hate small talk. It can feel awkward, especially when it steers to that blandest of topics, the weather.

The Conversation · Oct 24, 2024

‘Be more vulnerable!’ What women can teach men about friendship – and what they can learn from men

Banter, backslaps and no falling out – or baring your soul and obsessing over BFFs? When it comes to friendship, men and women tend to do things differently. So what can they learn from each other?

The Guardian - UK · Oct 11, 2024

I was obsessed with collecting friends – but it left me feeling empty

A study suggests that the optimal number of friends a person can have is five; any fewer and we are prone to loneliness. But this discovery came late for Anya Meyerowitz, who spent decades collecting as many people for her tribe as possible

The Independent UK · Jun 15, 2024

Meet regularly, invest time – and don’t hold grudges: 10 ways to revitalise flagging friendships

Staying close to friends isn’t always easy. From calling out flakiness to singing together in a choir, experts share their advice on how to keep the spark alive

The Guardian - UK · Apr 27, 2024

‘A mega-mechanism for bonding’: why singing together does us good

Carols and choirs are enjoying a boom in popularity, and science is showing how they improve lives

The Guardian - UK · Dec 15, 2023