A study titled "Smells Like Clean Spirit: Nonconscious Effects of Scent on Cognition and Behavior" by Rob W. Holland, Merel Hendriks, and Henk Aarts (2005), published in Psychological Science, investigated how scents can influence human behavior. In one experiment, participants were subtly exposed to a citrus scent. The results showed that those in the scented environment cleaned up after themselves more thoroughly during a crumbly snack task compared to participants in an unscented room. This suggests that certain scents, like citrus, can unconsciously promote behaviors such as cleanliness.

In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of Metacognitive Therapy (MCT) and its groundbreaking potential in treating depression. While Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has long been considered the gold standard, emerging research suggests that MCT may be even more effective in certain cases. We'll explore the latest studies comparing MCT and CBT, highlighting how MCT targets dysfunctional thinking patterns differently by focusing on thought processes rather than the content of thoughts.Join us as we unpack:

• The key principles of Metacognitive Therapy.
• Why "rumination" is a critical target in treating depression.
• Recent clinical trials that position MCT as a frontrunner in mental health treatment.
• Practical strategies inspired by MCT to break free from depressive cycles.

Whether you're a mental health professional, a psychology enthusiast, or someone seeking tools for better mental health, this episode offers insights and hope for a brighter future.

In this episode, we explore a groundbreaking meta-analysis by Webb, Miles, and Sheeran (2012), which examines the effectiveness of various emotion regulation strategies. This research dives into methods such as reappraisal, suppression, and distraction, revealing which techniques work best for managing strong emotions like anxiety. By understanding how these strategies impact our emotional responses, we can better control and reduce anxious feelings in everyday life. Tune in to learn actionable insights on using scientifically-backed methods to manage fear and stress...

Webb, T. L., Miles, E., & Sheeran, P. (2012). Dealing with feeling: a meta-analysis of the effectiveness of strategies derived from the process model of emotion regulation. Psychological bulletin, 138(4), 775.

#EmotionRegulation #AnxietyManagement #PsychologyInsights #MentalHealth #SelfHelp #Wellbeing

In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of consumer psychology and uncover the subtle ways in which pricing can influence our purchasing decisions. Why do prices ending in ".99" or ".95" seem more appealing than rounded numbers? How can something as simple as $9.99 feel significantly cheaper than $10.00?Join us as we explore the psychological tricks behind these common pricing strategies and explain the underlying cognitive biases, such as the left-digit effect and anchoring, that companies use to manipulate consumer perception. Whether you're a marketer looking to sharpen your pricing tactics or a curious consumer wondering how to avoid being swayed by these tactics, this episode offers key insights into the subtle art of price manipulation.Tune in and learn how even a single penny can make a world of difference in the way we think and spend!

In this episode, we explore the science behind the famous "36 Questions" and whether they truly have the power to make people fall in love. We'll dive into the psychological theories, research studies, and expert opinions that attempt to explain why these questions might work. Is it just a romantic myth, or is there some real scientific grounding behind it? Join us as we uncover the truth behind the questions that claim to bring people closer together.

When dealing with anxiety, speaking to oneself in the third person can be a powerful tool, as research by psychologist Ethan Kross has shown. According to studies referenced on Psychologie-lernen.de, this technique, known as "distanced self-talk," involves addressing oneself by name or using non-first-person pronouns like "he," "she," or "they."
Ethan Kross’s research highlights that distanced self-talk helps individuals gain psychological distance from their emotions. This separation allows them to manage their feelings more effectively and reduces emotional reactivity. By doing so, people can approach their problems more objectively, as if they were advising a friend, which can lead to better coping strategies and decision-making.
For example, if someone named Alex is feeling anxious about an upcoming presentation, instead of saying, "I am so nervous," Alex could say, "Alex, you’ve prepared well for this. You can handle it." This subtle shift in perspective can diminish the intensity of the anxiety and foster a more supportive internal dialogue.
Thus, incorporating third-person self-talk can be a simple yet effective strategy to manage anxiety, promoting a sense of calm and control by leveraging the psychological distance it creates.

www.learningpsychology.net

Psychology of Influence: Beware of the Disrupt-then-reframe-technique

The Disrupt-then-reframe-technique is a influence technique that is based on similar mechanisms like the handshake induction by Milton Erickson...

Author: Eskil Burck (Kalaidos University of Applied Science Zürich) 

www.learningpsychology.net

Psychology of Influence: Beware of the Disrupt-then-reframe-technique

The Disrupt-then-reframe-technique is a influence technique that is based on similar mechanisms like the handshake induction by Milton Erickson...

Author: Eskil Burck (Kalaidos University of Applied Science Zürich) 

www.learningpsychology.net

Psychology of Influence: Beware of the Disrupt-then-reframe-technique

The Disrupt-then-reframe-technique is a influence technique that is based on similar mechanisms like the handshake induction by Milton Erickson...

Author: Eskil Burck (Kalaidos University of Applied Science Zürich) 

www.learningpsychology.net

Can you increase compliance rates by involving strangers into a everyday-dialogue (smalltalk)?

Author: Eskil Burck (Psychologist at Kalaidos University of Applied Sciences)

www.learningpsychology.net

Can you increase compliance rates by involving strangers into a everyday-dialogue (smalltalk)?

Author: Eskil Burck (Psychologist at Kalaidos University of Applied Sciences)

www.learningpsychology.net

Can you increase compliance rates by involving strangers into a everyday-dialogue (smalltalk)?

Author: Eskil Burck (Psychologist at Kalaidos University of Applied Sciences)

www.learningpsychology.net

Can you increase compliance rates by involving strangers into a everyday-dialogue (smalltalk)?

Author: Eskil Burck (Psychologist at Kalaidos University of Applied Sciences)

www.learningpsychology.net

Approximately 20% of the population suffer from chronic pain (Ashar et al., 2021). It is not uncommon for back pain, knee pain, headaches, etc. to have no clear physical cause, even after the most intensive examinations. At the same time, there are people, for example, whose spine shows several herniated discs in magnetic resonance imaging and yet are completely free of symptoms! These and numerous other findings suggest that pain largely originates (and is maintained) in our brain. The new "PAIN REPROCESSING THERAPY" makes use of this knowledge and was able prove itself in a first clinical study...
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Studies (only a small selection):

Ashar, Y. K., Gordon, A., Schubiner, H., Uipi, C., Knight, K., Anderson, Z., ... & Wager, T. D. (2021). Effect of pain reprocessing therapy vs placebo and usual care for patients with chronic back pain: A randomized clinical trial. JAMA psychiatry.

Hilton, L., Hempel, S., Ewing, B. A., Apaydin, E., Xenakis, L., Newberry, S., ... & Maglione, M. A. (2017). Mindfulness meditation for chronic pain: systematic review and meta-analysis. Annals of Behavioral Medicine, 51(2), 199-213.

Louw, A., Puentedura, E. J., Zimney, K., & Schmidt, S. (2016). Know pain, know gain? A perspective on pain neuroscience education in physical therapy. journal of orthopaedic & sports physical therapy, 46(3), 131-134.

Lumley, M. A., & Schubiner, H. (2019). Psychological therapy for centralized pain: an integrative assessment and treatment model. Psychosomatic medicine, 81(2), 114.

Owen, P. J., Miller, C. T., Mundell, N. L., Verswijveren, S. J., Tagliaferri, S. D., Brisby, H., ... & Belavy, D. L. (2020). Which specific modes of exercise training are most effective for treating low back pain? Network meta-analysis. British journal of sports medicine, 54(21), 1279-1287.

Sheng, J., Liu, S., Wang, Y., Cui, R., & Zhang, X. (2017). The link between depression and chronic pain: neural mechanisms in the brain. Neural plasticity.

Shiri, R., Coggon, D., & Falah-Hassani, K. (2018). Exercise for the prevention of low back pain: systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled trials. American journal of epidemiology, 187(5), 1093-1101.

Zhuo, M. (2016). Neural mechanisms underlying anxiety-chronic pain interactions. Trends in neurosciences, 39(3), 136-145.

Does Botox help against Depression?

Many people (especially people with anxiety of negative social evaluation) have the impression to be the focus of attention. But is that really true? Is the spotlight really focused on us? Some very exciting studies provide answers: The Spotlight Effect, as explored by Gilovich, Medvec, and Savitsky (2000), refers to the tendency of individuals to believe that others notice and scrutinize their actions and appearance more than they actually do. This social perceptual bias can be advantageous in addressing social anxieties. By recognizing that others pay less attention to perceived flaws or shortcomings, individuals can alleviate their anxieties and develop a more realistic view of their social interactions.
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Studies (just a small selection):

Coles, N. A., Larsen, J. T., Kuribayashi, J., & Kuelz, A. (2019). Does blocking facial feedback via botulinum toxin injections decrease depression? A critical review and meta-analysis. Emotion Review, 11(4), 294-309.

Schulze, J., Neumann, I., Magid, M., Finzi, E., Sinke, C., Wollmer, M. A., & Krüger, T. H. (2021). Botulinum toxin for the management of depression: An updated review of the evidence and meta-analysis. Journal of psychiatric research, 135, 332-340.

Parsaik, A. K., Mascarenhas, S. S., Hashmi, A., Prokop, L. J., John, V., Okusaga, O., & Singh, B. (2016). Role of botulinum toxin in depression. Journal of Psychiatric Practice®, 22(2), 99-110.

Crowley, J. S., Silverstein, M. L., Reghunathan, M., & Gosman, A. A. (2022). Glabellar Botulinum Toxin Injection Improves Depression Scores: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 150(1), 211e-220e.
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✅ https://www.learningpsychology.net

About the Author: Eskil Burck is a psychological advisor and textbook author. He teaches psychology for Kalaidos University of Applied Sciences (Zurich). His psychology podcast "psychologie-lernen.de" consistently ranked #1 on iTunes in the "Education" category. His books "Angst - was hilft wirklich ...?", "Das manipulierte Gehirn" and "Neue Psychologie der Beeinflussung" became Amazon bestsellers. Even in his spare time, he enjoys reading studies...😅🙈 For more information, visit: www.learningpsychology.net

Benjamin Franklin not only entered the history books as one of the founding fathers of the USA, but is also mentioned in many psychology textbooks. His ingeniously simple method of turning an opposing politician into one of his closest allies and friends received a lot of attention, especially from social psychologists. But does the Benjamin Franklin method really work? Or can the Benjamin Franklin effect not be proven in empirical studies...?
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Studies and books:

Jecker, J., & Landy, D. (1969). Liking a person as a function of doing him a favour. Human relations, 22(4), 371-378.

Burck, E. (2016). New psychology of influence: exploring manipulation. BoD Books on Demand.

Burck, E. (2019). The manipulated brain: psychology of unconscious influence. BoD Books on Demand.

In the realm of mental health treatment, the efficacy of antidepressant medications has been a subject of ongoing debate. Irving Kirsch, a psychologist and researcher, has contributed significantly to this discourse by challenging the conventional belief that antidepressants are inherently superior to placebos. Kirsch's work has sparked controversy, as he questions the widespread use of antidepressants and advocates for a reevaluation of their effectiveness.The Placebo Effect:Kirsch's argument hinges on the prominence of the placebo effect in the treatment of depression. He suggests that a substantial portion of the observed improvement in patients taking antidepressants can be attributed to the placebo response rather than the specific pharmacological action of the drugs. The placebo effect, characterized by psychological and physiological changes in response to an inactive treatment, challenges the assumption that antidepressants possess unique therapeutic benefits.Selective Publication of Clinical Trials:Kirsch's critique extends to the selective publication of clinical trials, which he claims has contributed to an overestimation of antidepressant efficacy. He highlights the phenomenon of publication bias, wherein studies with positive outcomes are more likely to be published than those with neutral or negative results. This bias can create an inflated perception of the drugs' effectiveness, potentially misleading both healthcare professionals and the general public.Minimal Clinical Significance:Another key aspect of Kirsch's argument revolves around the concept of clinical significance. He contends that while antidepressants may show statistically significant effects in large-scale trials, the observed improvements may not necessarily translate into meaningful changes in patients' daily lives. Kirsch emphasizes the importance of considering not just statistical significance but also the clinical relevance of the treatment outcomes.Individual Variability in Response:Kirsch also points out the considerable variability in individuals' responses to antidepressants. He argues that certain patients may derive significant benefits from these medications, while others may experience little to no improvement. This variability challenges the notion of a one-size-fits-all approach to antidepressant treatment and underscores the need for a more personalized and nuanced understanding of mental health interventions.Conclusion:Irving Kirsch's critical examination of antidepressants challenges the prevailing belief in their inherent superiority over placebos. While his perspective has stirred controversy, it serves as a valuable reminder to critically evaluate the evidence supporting various treatment modalities. The nuanced discussion he initiates encourages a reevaluation of the role of antidepressants in mental health care and highlights the need for a comprehensive understanding of the complex interplay between psychopharmacology, placebo effects, and individual variability.

Fountoulakis, K. N., & Möller, H. J. (2011). Efficacy of antidepressants: a re-analysis and re-interpretation of the Kirsch data. International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology, 14(3), 405-412.

Kirsch, I. (2009). Antidepressants and the placebo response. Epidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences, 18(4), 318-322.

Kirsch, I. (2015). Antidepressants and the placebo effect. Zeitschrift für Psychologie.

Unveiling the Psychological Power of Anchoring EffectsDescription: 🧠 Dive into the fascinating world of psychological phenomena with our latest video on Anchoring Effects! 🎥✨ Discover how subtle cues can significantly influence decision-making and perceptions. 🤔💡Anchoring effects are a powerful cognitive bias that impacts the way we make choices and form judgments. Join us as we unravel the mysteries behind this phenomenon, exploring real-life examples and practical implications.

www.learningpsychology.net

How many people cross at red lights when there are no cars to be seen for miles around?
And above all: how much are they influenced by the "negative" example of other people? A German research team secretly observed people at traffic lights in Munich to find out...
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Studies (only a small selection):

Bergquist, M., Helferich, M., Thiel, M., Hellquist, S. B., Skipor, S., Ubianuju, W., & Ejelöv, E. (2023). Are broken windows spreading? Evaluating the robustness and strengths of the cross-norm effect using replications and a meta-analysis. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 88, 102027.

Keuschnigg, M., & Wolbring, T. (2012). Physical Disorder, Social Capital, and Norm Violation.

Keuschnigg, M., & Wolbring, T. (2015). Disorder, social capital, and norm violation: Three field experiments on the broken windows thesis. Rationality and Society, 27(1), 96-126.

Mullen, B., Copper, C., & Driskell, J. E. (1990). Jaywalking as a function of model behavior. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 16(2), 320-330.

Volker, B. (2017). Revisiting broken windows: The role of neighborhood and individual characteristics in reaction to disorder cues. Sociological Science, 4, 528-551. https:// doi.org/10.15195/v4.a22

Wolbring, T., & Keuschnigg, M. (2015, July). Field experiments in the social sciences. In Experiments in the social sciences (pp. 222-250). Nomos Verlagsgesellschaft mbH & Co. KG.

How saying Yes can make you more vulnerable to persuasion.

Study: Pandelaere, M., Briers, B., Dewitte, S., & Warlop, L. (2010). Better think before agreeing twice: Mere agreement: A similarity-based persuasion mechanism. International Journal of Research in Marketing, 27(2), 133-141.