Kids have fantastic brain flexibility. They absorb volumes of new material effortlessly and adapt flexibly to changing conditions. Their brains start out with high plasticity. As they develop and amass patterns of information, their brains tend to crystallize. The aging brain has vast stores … [Read more...] about Regaining the Brain Flexibility of Your Childhood
Language of Stereotypes
Hearing generic language to describe a category of people, such as “boys have short hair,” can lead children to endorse a range of other stereotypes about the category, a study by researchers at New York University and Princeton University has found. Their research, which appears in … [Read more...] about Language of Stereotypes
Seasoned Globetrotters Know What They Need to Know About New Cultures
Seasoned globetrotters are able to adapt to new cultures efficiently. It's not easy to do so. Learning to function within a new culture can be hard. Given the mass of potentially relevant information to try to digest, you might be tempted to give up before getting started. Yet, you can build your … [Read more...] about Seasoned Globetrotters Know What They Need to Know About New Cultures
The Aging Brain Is More Malleable Than Previously Believed
There is growing evidence that, beyond what was previously believed, the adult human brain is remarkably flexible and capable of new feats -- even in the last decades of life. In fact, new experiences can trigger major physical changes in the aging brain within just a few days, and certain … [Read more...] about The Aging Brain Is More Malleable Than Previously Believed
Afghan Values of Honor and Respect
Honor and respect are fundamental Afghan values. Yet, a recent study found subtle differences in how Afghans in different groups and situations interpret honor. Also, the conceptions of honor and respect as held among Afghans do not necessarily correspond with neighboring American concepts. The … [Read more...] about Afghan Values of Honor and Respect
Memorize This! Working Memory Exercises Won’t Help You Learn Better
A recently released review of studies finds no evidence that working memory exercises improve general cognitive performance. In the last several years, working memory exercises have gained popularity. This is due in part to their claims to benefit students. They are often sold as help for poor … [Read more...] about Memorize This! Working Memory Exercises Won’t Help You Learn Better