Understanding Shame
The last decade has seen an increase in the public discourse around shame. This corresponds with social media becoming ubiquitous…
Why We Gossip
When we think of gossip we tend to think of its most negative manifestations. It brings to mind workplace backstabbing…
The Allure of Charisma
Recently, streaming services have been releasing series after series focused on charismatic leaders/grifters and the damage they cause. WeCrashed (on…
Repetition and Truth: Understanding Illusory Truth Effect
We have touched on many cognitive biases in Optimistic Learner; Implicit Bias, Confirmation Bias, Optimism Bias, and Ingroup Bias. These…
Changing Audience Expectations: Celebrity, Social Media, and Parasocial Relationships
The term ‘Parasocial Relationship’ was, until recently, somewhat confined to discourse in Sociology departments. It was coined by Horton and…
Understanding Maladaptive Daydreaming
The scientific definition of imagination is; the ability to produce and simulate novel objects, sensations, and ideas in the mind…
The Importance of Theory of Mind
Humans are highly social animals, relying on cooperation and group bonds to thrive. Our thoughts, behavior, and self-esteem are shaped…
Processing Grief in Isolation, How to Navigate Despair
Every year the American Psychological Association (APA) surveys people across the United States about stress. The introduction to the results…
Forgiveness and Restorative Justice: How Do We Forgive? Should We?
When I talk of forgiveness I mean the belief that you can come out the other side a better person.…
Altruism, Individualism, and the Science and Psychology of Mask Wearing
Recently it was announced that masks will be mandatory on Metro Vancouver’s public transit system. This is one policy, among…