Have you ever woken from a dream that felt a little too real? Maybe it was one you desperately wanted to fall back into—or one so intense that you splashed water on your face just to avoid drifting back to sleep. Dreams have a way of pulling emotions to the surface: nostalgia, love, regret, fear.
While many dreams reflect our individual life experiences, some are nearly universal. Have you ever dreamed your teeth were falling out? Or that you were suddenly naked in front of a crowd? What do these seemingly random dreams mean—and why do we dream at all?
In this article, we’ll dive into the hidden meanings behind seven common dreams—and explore what they might reveal about your waking life.
One moment you’re going about your day, and the next you’re plummeting through the sky. Whether you fall through the floor, into water, or off a cliff, the sensation is often so intense that it jolts you awake.
In psychology, falling dreams are typically linked to:
In the early 1900s, Freud saw falling dreams as symbols of giving in to sexual temptation, but modern interpretations focus more on anxiety and vulnerability.
Running for your life in a dream—whether from a person, animal, or something unidentifiable—is an adrenaline-spiking experience.
Psychologists often interpret chase dreams as signals of:
According to Jungian psychology, your pursuer might represent a “shadow” aspect of yourself: an obstacle you must confront.
Flying in dreams can feel freeing or frustrating, depending on how it’s going:
From a psychological standpoint, flying often symbolizes aspiration, control, and the desire to rise above life’s obstacles.
You’re suddenly toothless in your dream, and it feels unsettlingly real. Should you try to put them back in? Call a dentist? Does the tooth-in-milk trick actually work?
This dream is both bizarre and remarkably common: It’s one of the most-reported dreams after snakes.
According to dream research, this imagery might stem from:
Is there anything worse than your teeth falling out? Oh, right: realizing you’re stark naked in front of a crowd. Why, subconscious, why?
Dreams with public nudity can represent:
Psychologically, this dream often ties into self-image and identity.
You’re rushing but just can’t make it on time—for an exam, a flight, or something important. The dream might even loop or repeat.
Common interpretations include:
This dream is especially common among high achievers and those going through transitions.
Okay, maybe you made it to the exam on time, but now you’re sitting there, completely unprepared. Cue feelings of inadequacy and performance anxiety.
Test-taking dreams can point to several things:
For adults, this dream often reflects work-related stress. Although it mimics a school setting, the emotional undertone translates to real-world pressures like meeting deadlines, achieving goals, or proving your worth in high-stakes situations.
Dreams can feel otherworldly or eerily familiar—but what do they truly mean? Here are answers to a few of the most common questions about dreaming:
Psychology offers more than insight: It opens doors. At UT Permian Basin, our fully online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program empowers you to understand the mind and apply that knowledge in meaningful, real-world ways.
Whether you’re aiming for a career in social work or marketing or plan to become a licensed psychologist, this flexible program lets you seamlessly balance life and learning. And while many universities charge almost $500 per credit hour, UTPB keeps quality education accessible at just $362.34 per credit hour, offering a smart investment in your future.
Curious if psychology is the right path for you? Connect with us today to explore your options, get your questions answered, and take the first step toward a rewarding career.
Sources:
https://www.abc.net.au/news/science/2019-01-07/typical-dream-falling-chased-flying-rem-sleep-paralysis/10622376
https://www.thesap.org.uk/articles-on-jungian-psychology-2/about-analysis-and-therapy/the-shadow
https://www.freud.org.uk/education/resources/the-interpretation-of-dreams/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/1061736194900132
https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d23/tables/dt23_330.10.asp
https://zomasleep.com/uk/blog/most-common-dream-by-country
Have you ever woken from a dream that felt a little too real? Maybe it was one you desperately wanted to fall back into—or one so intense that you splashed water on your face just to avoid drifting back to sleep. Dreams have a way of pulling emotions to the surface: nostalgia, love, regret, fear. …
You open a social app and start scrolling. Before you realize it, you’ve watched a few videos, commented on a friend’s photo, checked the weather, clicked on a tornado warning, and asked ChatGPT about safe travel destinations (preferably with good weather)—all while on break from work. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. While digital multitasking can…
We know it’s tough to tear yourself away from scrolling. We get it; the algorithm is strong. So strong that the average person spends 2 hours and 23 minutes a day on social media. And let’s be honest: There’s no way that’s great for anyone’s mental health. That’s why we’re taking a closer look at…
You open a social app and start scrolling. Before you realize it, you’ve watched a few videos, commented on a friend’s photo, checked the weather, clicked on a tornado warning, and asked ChatGPT about safe travel destinations (preferably with good weather)—all while on break from work.
Sound familiar? You’re not alone.
While digital multitasking can feel productive, it often leads to “cognitive overload”: that drained, scattered feeling from juggling too many tabs, tasks, and feeds. In fact, studies show that this overload can reduce productivity by up to 40%.
By why does technology have such a profound impact on our behavior? Let’s explore.
Technology influences our behavior in three major ways: cognitively, socially, and psychologically. It’s everywhere, like the air we breathe, shaping not just what we do but how we think, feel and relate to others.
Digital platforms have made it simple and effortless to access a staggering amount of information. We’re constantly bombarded with data—more than our brain can evolutionarily handle.
To cope, our brains adapt in creative ways, like outsourcing memories: a phenomenon called “digital amnesia.” (More inclined to let Google Maps direct you than to develop your own sense of geography? This is likely why.)
Here are a few key ways technology impacts our cognitive function:
While digital tools exploit our reward systems and reinforce habit loops, they also make us more adaptable and resourceful, increasing our brain’s flexibility and accelerating learning in ways never before possible.
Imagine spending an entire day offline, where every daily interaction was face-to-face. Would you feel relief—or panic?
Technology has transformed social behavior by allowing constant connectivity. This instant communication not only reduces our patience, depth, and presence, it also encourages curated self-presentation and validation-seeking.
1. Social Pressure and Comparison
2. Feelings of Disconnection and Isolation
Psychologically speaking, technology has become both a crutch and a companion: soothing us in stress but also detaching us from deeper emotional processing. It doesn’t just alter how we think; it transforms how we feel, training our brains to favor quick reactions over thoughtful responses.
Still, the same tools that fragment our focus can also connect us in meaningful ways. Today, you can chat with an old childhood friend who lives across the world while studying for a psychology course on your sofa at home. You can connect to tools for networking or healing—like virtual therapy, mental health apps or online spaces, where everyone can safely share their struggles and feel less alone.
As technology accelerates how we move and think, understanding its psychological impact isn’t just useful—it’s essential. Let’s summarize what we’ve learned about how technology influences our behavior:
In a world shaped by smart technology, algorithms, and constant scrolling, the need for thoughtful, compassionate minds has never been greater.
If you’re curious about what drives us and how we think, the online BA in psychology from The University of Texas Permian Basin gives you the flexibility to explore those answers on your terms. This fully online program lets you dive into the science of thought, behavior, and mental health—so you can help others thrive in an age that rarely slows down. Choose from four focus areas:
and join a community of curious, driven learners ready to make a difference.
And if you’re interested in becoming a counselor or therapist, UTPB also offers a fully online Master of Social Work*—a possible next step after your undergraduate degree in psychology.
Take the next step and apply today! We’ll dive deeper into these conversations in online class—and we’d love to see you there.
*Currently engaged in the accreditation process.
We know it’s tough to tear yourself away from scrolling. We get it; the algorithm is strong. So strong that the average person spends 2 hours and 23 minutes a day on social media.
And let’s be honest: There’s no way that’s great for anyone’s mental health.
That’s why we’re taking a closer look at how mass media impacts mental health. Traditional media such as television, newspapers, and radio will get a nod, but special attention will be paid to everyone’s favorite troublemaker: social media.
Is media overload having a negative impact on mental health? The short answer is yes. We didn’t need to research the topic to know this (but we did anyway).
Turns out, mass media, especially social media, is wearing us all down. (Except our Facebook page. That’s worth a follow. Promise)
Surprise! Watching a polar bear cling to a melting glacier, reading that a partial ceasefire in the Ukraine has fallen through, or seeing the words “bird flu” pop up on your news feed is enough to put anyone off their mood.
There’s a name for this feeling: Psychologist and National Advisor of Health Device Management Don Grant refers to this stress as “media saturation overload.” You may know it by its other names:
Dark and dreary headlines—the kind that make people fear going outside—are nothing new. Humanity has experienced its fair share of horrors, conflicts, and catastrophes throughout history. But today’s nonstop deluge of bad news and the accompanying social media commentary is like nothing we’ve seen before.
Why is exposure to mass media like taking a shot of sadness straight up?
One 2020 study found that the more often participants searched for news on COVID-19, whether by watching television, reading a newspaper, or scrolling on social media, the more likely they were to experience emotional distress. Now you might be thinking: Of course reading news on COVID-19 is distressful. But here’s the catch: these people were seeking relief and walked away feeling worse.
That’s the trap. Consuming mass media makes you feel like you’re in control—staying informed, staying connected—but really, you’re just marinating in cortisol.
Social media has made headlines in recent years for its addictive design and harmful impact on mental health. It’s linked to everything from loneliness to body dysmorphia to phubbing (when you’re glued to your phone and ignore everyone around you).
And it’s especially rough on younger audiences. Kids and teens are more vulnerable to the darker effects of social media: anxiety, depression, and self-image issues, to name a few. Social media may even alter parts of the brain related to emotions and learning. Scary stuff.
Here’s the truth: mass media, even social media, isn’t inherently harmful. It’s just … a lot. When consumed mindfully, media can do a lot of good.
Take a lifehack video that changed how you fold your shirts, or a nonsensical meme that made you laugh on a bad day. Even a show you binge with someone you love. These small joys matter.
Media can also help spread awareness about mental health, provide access to therapy resources, and help people connect with support groups. Sometimes the emotional support people find online is more authentic than what they get in real life.
For all its faults, social media offers a space where people can:
Call it what you will—an artistic outlet, a form of escapism, or a crash course on literally anything—mass media, and even social media, can have a positive impact on mental health.
If you’re struggling to put your phone down, don’t feel bad. Mass media, especially social media, is designed to hook you, which is why you may want to set up some guardrails:
Maybe you’re here for more than your own peace of mind. Maybe you want to help others prioritize their mental health amid the din of notification pings, frighteningly loud commercials, and requests to “like, comment, and subscribe.” If so, here’s something to think about:
UT Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program is meant for people like you who want to make a difference in the lives of others. You’ll explore how people think, feel, and cope, with courses that cover:
Do you dream of becoming a counselor or therapist? A BA in psychology is a smart first step. From there, you can go on to earn an online Master of Social Work and turn your passion for helping others into a meaningful, rewarding career.
Even if you can’t control the headlines, you can write a better story for someone else.
Learn more about our online BA in psychology program. And when you’re ready, apply to UT Permian Basin.
Hey! You made it to the end of this post without getting pulled somewhere else online. We’re impressed.
Sources:
https://www.apa.org/monitor/2022/11/strain-media-overload
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/social-media-and-mental-health-in-children-and-teens
https://doi.org/10.1186/s40359-023-01243-x
Have you ever wondered why political debates can get so heated? Or why it seems like people are becoming more divided in their views? As political discussions intensify globally, understanding the psychological forces at play has become increasingly crucial. Welcome to the fascinating world of political psychology, where we explore how our minds shape our political beliefs and behaviors.
At the heart of this field lies a concept known as group polarization. In the context of politics, group polarization refers to the psychological tendency for political views to shift from moderate positions toward more extreme stances. This phenomenon helps explain why we often see people becoming more entrenched in their political beliefs over time, rather than finding middle ground.
Let’s dive deeper into the psychological mechanisms that drive group polarization in the political realm. By understanding these processes, we can gain valuable insights into our own thinking and the dynamics of political discourse in today’s world.
Have you ever served on a jury? Group polarization is a dominant factor in these settings. Jurors often start with moderate views, but through group discussions, they begin to adopt more extreme stances. Eventually, all jurors must pick a side to determine the defendant’s fate.
In political contexts, the same effect is magnified by media influence, cognitive biases, and psychological dynamics. Although the United States was founded without political parties, political groups eventually grew in power and size. Today’s politics are fueled by strong psychological attachment, sometimes leading to polarized identities. Let’s examine this in more depth.
Until the early 1990s, the Democratic and Republican parties held many overlapping policy agendas, which fostered diverse opinions. Today, our political climate is more complex than ever, with a stark contrast of policies between the two major parties. Factors contributing to this shift include:
While personalizing your social media feed can help you find relevant information, it may also reinforce existing beliefs and limit exposure to diverse perspectives, thus contributing to confirmation bias.
This selective exposure can create echo chambers in which people exclude multiple viewpoints and adopt more extreme versions of previously existing beliefs (also called informative influence). According to Pew Research, demographic shifts and socioeconomic factors have also contributed to evolving political divides since the 2000s.
Cognitive dissonance can arise when someone’s preferred party supports a policy that conflicts with their personal beliefs. In political contexts, examples of cognitive dissonance include:
These conflicts can occur across the political spectrum as individuals navigate their personal beliefs and party loyalties. Individuals sometimes resolve conflicting viewpoints by aligning with broader party narratives, which can further drive polarization.
Would you dismiss an opinion that you don’t find offensive just because someone suggested it? While cognitive dissonance involves internal inconsistency (changing one’s own beliefs to fit a party’s agenda), groupthink results from external pressures. When under the influence of groupthink (or normative influence), individuals suppress dissenting views to maintain harmony within the group, even if they privately disagree.
Topics such as senators voting along party lines, economic concerns and social issues often reflect party identity, contributing to partisanship where individuals may oppose the opposing party more than they actively support their own.
Social identity theory describes how individuals derive part of their self-concept from group membership, affecting their attitudes and behaviors. While someone may align with a party to foster ingroup favoritism, they may also foster outgroup hostility to maintain that favoritism.
According to the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, Americans might not be as ideologically polarized as they seem; however, they’re often divided by misunderstandings, misconceptions, peer pressure, or fear of judgment. Other times, voters feel emotionally polarized, meaning they dislike the opposing party regardless of its policies.
While political polarization can feel increasingly complex, your educational journey doesn’t have to be. The University of Texas Permian Basin offers a flexible, 100% online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology that provides a comprehensive study of how individuals think, behave, and interact within groups, leading to a more nuanced understanding of social dynamics, including politics.
This degree is highly versatile and can open doors to roles in:
You can also apply your knowledge to fields like public relations and politics. With a foundation in psychology, you can help bridge divides and foster better understanding in today’s polarized world—even in everyday interactions. Applications are accepted year-round, so you can join our virtual classroom and pursue your passions on your own terms.
A nerve-wracking day is approaching, and since Halloween has already passed, you know it must be that other day. Thankfully, presidential Election Day only happens once every four years, because it has Americans seriously stressed. According to an American Psychiatric Association poll, 73% of U.S. adults are anxious about the 2024 election. Let’s examine a few of the major causes of this anxiety and offer some ways to cope with it.
Fear of the Unknown
This is one of the leading and most obvious causes of election anxiety. People fear their candidate(s) might not win, or they may feel uncertain about the changes to their country, state, standard of living, and quality of life that may result.
Hostile, Misleading, or Unreliable Rhetoric
Social media has made the public conversation immediate and wide-reaching. Though a powerful vehicle for self-expression, this technology has also empowered and emboldened those inclined to share questionable statements as facts, sometimes in connection with hateful or offensive messages.
Long Election Cycles
General elections in the U.S. seem to be transforming into perpetual affairs, with candidates campaigning years in advance of Election Day. News media outlets speculate about who will run in the next election cycle almost as soon as the current one is concluded.
Before the 1970s, presidential candidates would begin their campaigns mere months before voters went to the polls. The never-ending election mindset and discourse can cause fatigue among the voting public, who by the time Election Day arrives have accumulated a considerable amount of anxiety.
Control What You Can
In elections, as elsewhere in life, there are some things we can control and others we cannot.
Registering to vote and following through with voting is the best way to have some influence over your political concerns. Volunteering for candidates you support is another option.
Tune Out
Take an occasional break from election coverage and discussions. The idea is not to hide from what’s going on but rather experience it in smaller portions, especially when it causes you stress. Fearmongering hits its peak during election cycles: Don’t give in to it.
Consider the Source … and Other Sources
Much of the negative election discourse comes from organizations and lobbyists who have much to gain from your fears. Media outlets tend to run sensationalistic stories because they know viewers, readers, or listeners will pay attention. Headlines are often exaggerated and self-serving, focusing on worst-case post-election scenarios.
It’s equally important to gather information from a variety of sources and draw your own conclusions, not just follow rhetoric from a single source which may not be presenting a full picture of the facts. Exposure to both alternate viewpoints and shared perspectives from those who share your concerns and views can provide some equanimity and peace of mind during this hectic season.
Rely on Your Standbys
Do you practice yoga? Get massages? Exercise regularly? These acts of self-care become especially important in stressful times, so be sure to maintain your routines or start new ones if you don’t already have them. Keep yourself busy and productive, and spend time with friends and family members who aren’t likely to stoke your election anxiety.
If you find emotion, behavior, and other aspects of human psychology compelling, you’ll find much to consider and explore in The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program—available online exclusively at this UT System institution.
Our program empowers you to:
See the high-profile employers graduates of this UTPB program are working for.
Looking to work in a helping profession? Our BA in psychology provides a strong foundation for degrees that can lead to professional licensure/certification and doctoral studies, such as UTPB’s online Master of Social Work*.
Delivered in an asynchronous, 100% online format, our program gives you the freedom to complete your studies at your own pace from practically any location on the planet. This flexibility means you don’t have to choose between earning your degree and continuing to meet your professional or personal obligations. And assistance from faculty, classmates, advisors, and tutors is always just a click away.
Take the first step toward a credential that can open countless possibilities. Apply today!
*Currently engaged in the accreditation process.
Sources:
https://thrivingcenterofpsych.com/blog/political-anxiety-statistics/
https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2024-05-02/economy-election-spur-rising-anxiety-among-americans-in-2024
https://publichealthpost.org/mental-behavioral-health/the-2024-presidential-election-is-making-americans-anxious/
https://tinyurl.com/5yms49jp
Halloween is the perfect excuse to grab some popcorn, turn off the lights, and binge some scary movies. You know, the one with the hockey-mask wearing slasher, the chainsaw-wielding hillbilly, or the space alien with acid for blood.
Maybe keeping the lights on isn’t such a bad idea after all.
There’s an undeniable thrill to being scared, though not everyone might agree. For some, the very thought of watching a horror film, stepping into a haunted house, or embarking on a ghost tour is a definite no-go. So, what draws so many of us to these hair-raising experiences?
Fear is a profound motivator, designed to trigger defensive behaviors or escape responses when we encounter specific stimuli. Essentially, the sensations we identify as fear are physical and emotional reactions to perceived threats.
For our ancestors facing dangerous predators, treacherous terrain, and severe weather, fear was vital to survival. Today, our fear response can kick in at less opportune moments—like experiencing a panic attack before a public speech. However, when the conditions are right, fear can be thrilling.
The reasons we seek out frightening experiences are as diverse as they are fascinating. Let’s explore some of the key psychological factors that drive our attraction to fear-inducing situations.
Often, we can’t control what makes us feel afraid, such as an unexpected jump scare in a cheesy horror flick. But our brains are quick to realize that, while startling, these scares are not real threats. Once our mind realizes we’re safe, we can relax and enjoy the adrenaline rush.
When we feel fear, our bodies undergo a physiological change that prompts a behavioral response—this could be fight, flight, or freeze. Our amygdala signals our adrenal glands to release cortisol and adrenaline, spiking our dopamine and endorphin levels. Our heart rate increases, pupils dilate, and senses sharpen. This biochemical rush can be pleasurable, especially when we know we’re safe, allowing us to revel in the euphoria.
Throughout life, we’re encouraged to control our emotions and keep our feelings in check. Fear, however, gives us a socially acceptable way to let loose—screaming our way through a haunted house or cursing at the movie screen after a jump scare. Such activities provide a healthy outlet to release pent up emotions, helping to alleviate stress and anxiety.
Experiencing fear in a group can amplify emotions. Anyone who’s sat through a horror movie on a packed night knows what we’re talking about. This shared euphoria can strengthen bonds with others, as fear can foster a sense of closeness and camaraderie. There’s nothing like trauma bonding to cement a friendship!
Confronting and overcoming fears can be deeply satisfying and empowering. For example, someone afraid of spiders might feel immense pride after watching the classic horror comedy “Arachnophobia.” (Again, watch with the lights on.)
Many scares await inside a haunted house, but that’s not going to stop anyone who’s the least bit curious about what lurks beyond the threshold. Humans are naturally curious; we want to learn more about the world so that we can make better sense of it. This drive to understand the unknown propels many of us to seek out frightening experiences, even if it means venturing alone into a haunted house.
There’s one last fear that many never overcome—one so terrifying we hesitate to mention it:
The fear of attending college.
Many potential students tremble at the thought of the time, money, and resources it must take to earn a degree. Fortunately, The University of Texas Permian Basin offers a flexible online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program that addresses these fears head-on:
UT Permian Basin’s online BA in psychology program will take you on a comprehensive exploration of the human mind. Explore not only the psychology of fear but also all emotions that influence human behavior. With focus areas in clinical, developmental, forensic, and health psychology, you can tailor your education to your passions.
Earning a degree that can alter the trajectory of your career may seem daunting, maybe even scary, but it’s a fear worth overcoming. Click here to learn more about our BA in psychology, and when you’re ready, take the next step by applying to UT Permian Basin.
Sources:
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/why-do-we-like-to-get-scared
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/thoughts-thinking/201810/5-reasons-we-enjoy-being-scared
https://www.forbes.com/sites/nicoleroberts/2023/10/22/the-science-of-scare-why-we-love-the-thrill-of-being-afraid/
Addiction can take many forms, and not all are harmful. Consider reading, crafting, or exercising: popular hobbies that people spend countless hours on, all of which release dopamine, the “feel good” hormone—not unlike some drugs we could mention.
There is, however, one pastime that’s often criticized for its addictive qualities and negative impact on mental health: gaming.
We’re not here to vilify video games. (The author of this post has sunk far too many hours into “Elden Ring” for that stance.) Rather, we’re taking an unbiased look at this form of entertainment to answer a topical and evolving question:
To find the answer, researchers conducted a systematic review of 116 scientific studies on video games. They found that gaming affects various brain functions, including behavior and cognitive performance. Here are some of the most notable areas affected:
Surprisingly, many studies included in the review found that gaming may actually improve several types of attention, including selective attention, divided attention, and sustained attention. Plus, the regions of the brain associated with attention were more efficient in gamers.
Researchers also found that gaming can enlarge parts of the brain tied to visuospatial skills, or a person’s ability to understand visual and spatial relationships. On top of that, long-term gamers showed an increase in the size of their hippocampus, the region of the brain crucial for learning and memory.
Video games, it would seem, can have some great benefits for the brain. After all, many games require sharp reflexes and clever thinking. But don’t pick up that controller just yet. There’s still the risk of addiction to consider.
Stay with us; we’re talking neurotransmitters.
When we encounter something enjoyable, our brains release dopamine. Dopamine, along with serotonin, endorphins, and oxytocin, is a neurotransmitter that promotes happiness, but it doesn’t so much make us happy as it reinforces behaviors that make us happy.
This is the brain’s reward system, and it’s meant to reinforce positive behaviors. Unfortunately, our brains can’t always distinguish between something good for us, such as a delicious meal, or bad for us, such as an illicit drug.
Addiction, including internet gaming disorder, preys on this flawed reward system.
When a gamer beats a challenging boss, discovers a new weapon, or unlocks a cosmetic item, they experience a rush of dopamine that encourages them to play another round. After this initial rush, there’s a dopamine dip. Every encounter brings a lower and lower dip. If gamers chase these diminishing returns to the detriment of their lives, they run the risk of becoming addicted.
“Roughly speaking, there are no big differences between video game addiction and other addictions,” says cognitive neuroscientist Marc Palaus. In the systematic review Palaus co-authored, researchers noted that video game addiction seems to be related to other behavioral addictions, such as gambling, internet, or smartphone addiction, since people affected by video game addiction have similar abnormal reward processing patterns.
Video games could have positive effects on the brain (the good), but there’s also the risk of addiction (the bad) — or your favorite developer sneaking predatory monetization tactics into an upcoming release (the ugly).
As with many things in life, moderation is key. It’s okay to get lost in a beloved video game, but be sure to put down the controller on occasion to go outside and touch grass.
The subject of video games and their effect on the brain, like so many topics related to psychology, is far more nuanced than it might first seem. If you found this topic fascinating, we encourage you to dive deeper into the world of psychology.
The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology offers a comprehensive education that delves into the intricacies of human psychology. We may be biased, but we think earning a bachelor’s degree and securing your future in an exciting field is as exciting as rescuing Princess Toadstool, defeating Ganon, or shooting Covenant.
If you’re interested in learning more about the human mind, check out our course Cognitive Psychology, which explores problem-solving, memory, and attention, among other topics related to cognitive processes. Other courses include:
As a student, you’ll explore these fascinating topics and more, whenever and wherever it’s convenient for you. Plus, upon graduating, you’ll be awarded the same prestigious degree awarded to our on-campus students.
By joining our program, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills needed to find a rewarding career, whether you’re interested in research, clinical practice, or applying psychological principles in various industries.
Apply to UT Permian Basin’s online BA in psychology program today to start a virtual challenge you’re bound to win.
Sources:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318345#Video-games-and-brain-changes
https://www.wired.com/story/what-gaming-does-to-your-brain-how-you-might-benefit/
Have you ever wondered how a particular TikTok trend goes viral so quickly? How about why we never take the blame when something goes wrong, but we’re the first to take credit after a personal victory?
Cue the social biases, a subset of cognitive bias that shapes how we view—well, everything. From relationships and workplace dynamics to healthcare and politics, social biases color our perception of almost every aspect of our lives.
Join us as we dig into four of the social biases that have shaped us on both an individual and societal level.
Most of us have heard the phrase “jumping on the bandwagon” before, but what does it really mean? Let’s use the Taylor Swift phenomenon as an example. With sold-out concerts all over the world and songs that consistently top the charts week after week, it’s clear that T. Swift is beloved by fans worldwide. While many fans have loved Taylor from her very first era, others are just now jumping on the bandwagon because everyone else is, too—whether they’re true Swifties or not.
The bandwagon effect can occur in all areas of our lives, from politics to the food we eat and everything in between. But what is the psychology behind the bandwagon effect? Below, we dissect some of the root causes driving this “herd mentality”:
If you make it to work on time, it’s because you’re a punctual person. But, if you’re late, it’s due to unforeseen circumstances, like the person in front of you who was driving 10 miles under the speed limit. Or maybe you were unlucky enough to hit every red light. Whatever the reason, the cause was definitely an external force.
That’s a self-serving bias, a predisposition that affects how you perceive your achievements and failures. Many people will gladly take credit for their successes while attributing their failures to outside factors.
But why do we all rely so heavily on this bias in our daily lives? Mostly, we find it essential to protect our self-esteem. It hurts our confidence to take responsibility for something that went wrong at work or school. So, instead of recognizing our failures as a natural part of life, it’s easier to blame something else to avoid humiliation.
Like the self-serving bias, the actor-observer bias involves attributing internal and external factors to the behavior of others as well as yourself. However, this bias explains the reasoning for other people’s actions as a result of negative internal factors.
For example, let’s say you notice a car weaving in and out of traffic. Instead of wondering if the driver has an emergency and is taking someone to the hospital (i.e., an external cause for their behavior), you assume they’re a careless and reckless driver, attributing the behavior to their personality (i.e., internal factors).
Have you ever placed your trust in someone simply because they had an impressive job title? For example, let’s say you recently participated in an important company-wide meeting in which the CEO was presenting data. Whether their information was accurate or not, you’re more likely to believe them simply because they hold a position of power. However, if a colleague with a similar job title as yours were presenting the same data, you may be more inclined to question the accuracy of the information.
Authority bias has been instilled in us since childhood. Our parents instructed us to listen to authority figures, like our teachers, and public service officials like police officers. While it’s engrained in us to trust what people in authoritative positions say, it’s important to challenge this bias by thinking for yourself and questioning someone when you have doubts or concerns, no matter their title.
As a student in The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program, you can learn more about how social biases affect our perceptions of ourselves and others. These perceptions play a role in our everyday decisions, from the music we blast on the way to work to the politicians we vote for in elections.
Some of the exciting courses you can expect to take in our online psychology program include:
Learn more about our online bachelor’s in psychology program and make a decision that could positively impact your entire future. Apply today!
Sources:
https://effectiviology.com/bandwagon/
https://newristics.com/heuristics-biases/authority-bias
The human brain processes a significant amount of information daily—approximately 11 billion bits of information per second! So, while you may feel like a multitasking maven as you read this article, mentally add up how many bits of information we process in an hour, and debate what to eat for dinner later, you’ve only scratched the surface of what your brain is doing behind the scenes.
With so much daily internal processing, sometimes your brain needs a break. It may rely on cognitive biases, which are shortcuts our minds use that make decision-making easier. While they can help us make decisions more quickly, that doesn’t always mean they aid us in making the right ones.
Enter decision-making biases, a subset of cognitive biases that revolve around the choices we make in risky or uncertain situations. Today we’re discussing what decision-making biases are, as well as some of the common types that play a crucial role in helping us make our (sometimes questionable) life choices.
As we mentioned above, the cognitive biases that help us make decisions are aptly named decision-making biases. While they help us make choices more quickly, does that mean they always lead to the right conclusion?
Definitely not.
Decision-making biases can be harmless. Take deciding what to eat for dinner, for example. To help you reach a quick and easy conclusion, you might choose one of your favorite go-to options. However, there are times when your brain’s attempt to simplify your choices can lead to less rational decisions: for example, feeling confident enough to make Julia Child’s coq au vin from scratch, even though you normally struggle not to burn grilled cheese sandwiches.
Below, we discuss four of the common decision-making biases that help you shape your choices throughout the day.
#1 Overconfidence Bias
We’ve all been there. Whether you’re a novice or an expert in a particular skill, you decide you’re up to the task (even if you’re highly unqualified). Let’s take the coq au vin example above. While you may not naturally be the head chef in your kitchen, you might feel like a culinary artist after watching hours of “Top Chef” reruns over the weekend. With an artificially inflated ego, coq au vin suddenly seems like an easy dinner solution.
That’s the overconfidence bias talking. It can lead you to overestimating your skills in a particular area, whether it be cooking dinner, renovating the bathroom, or assembling your little one’s new state-of-the-art playset.
#2 Sunk Cost Fallacy
Picture this: It’s the beginning of January—a new year, a new you. You decide to give your fitness goals a fighting chance by purchasing an annual gym membership. It’s a large sum of money upfront, but you’re dedicated to your fitness journey.
Fast forward a few months. The passion is gone, and though you dread every time you slide your feet into your tennis shoes, you continue to go to the gym simply because you’ve already paid for the entire year.
This is an example of the sunk cost fallacy, a decision-making bias that occurs when you continue to invest in a decision or endeavor based on the resources you’ve already committed. Even if cutting your losses is the more rational decision, you’ll keep investing because you’ve committed too much of your time, money, or effort.
#3 Status Quo Bias
The status quo bias affects our decisions by making us inclined to stick with our current situation. We often choose to stay the same because we fear change or have grown used to doing things a certain way. For instance, your doctor might suggest a new medication that provides better health benefits than the one you’ve been taking. However, the status quo bias may rear its ugly head, reminding you that you’ve been fine with your current medication for years, so why switch it up now?
#4 Anchoring
Have you ever locked eyes with the most expensive item on the menu? It seems stiflingly high at first, but after a few moments, it becomes the anchor item on the menu. Suddenly other plates seem more reasonable, even if they’re still priced higher than usual.
Welcome to the anchoring bias, which occurs when you find an initial piece of information and rely heavily on it when making subsequent decisions. While your anchor may be irrelevant to your final choice, it exhibits a strong influence on your decision nonetheless.
With The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, your higher education decision is simple. Our program offers online students plenty of benefits:
Take the first step toward deciding your future and apply today!
Don’t miss part two of our series on cognitive bias, where we’ll discuss social biases and how they influence the way we behave and perceive ourselves and others.
Sources:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/daviddisalvo/2013/06/22/your-brain-sees-even-when-you-dont/?sh=26e4097d116a
https://www.masterclass.com/articles/overconfidence-bias
Psychology permeates every human endeavor, and its rich field of study boasts many specialties that address psychological matters from varied perspectives. The American Psychological Association (APA) recognizes no fewer than 15 subfields, ranging from the individual to the organizational.
The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program—ranked among U.S. News & World Report’s Best Undergraduate Psychology Programs—enables you to customize your degree to your interests with one of four optional focus areas drawn from the most popular specializations in the field. Each of these areas has a designated set of courses that give you deeper insight into the specialization:
Here we’ll look at each of these focus areas in greater depth to help you understand whether they align with your professional goals and desired psychological studies. We’ll also highlight why you may want to consider a career in psychology and why earning a BA in psychology may be a smart move no matter what career you intend to pursue.
Clinical psychology is a multifaceted and intricate field within the broader scope of psychology. It deals with a wide array of mental, emotional, and behavioral issues, blending psychological science with strategies for preventing, evaluating, diagnosing, and addressing various complex human challenges. Clinical psychologists offer clinical or counseling assistance aimed at assessing and managing mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. Their approach involves merging psychological science with problem-solving methodologies to foster positive changes.
Developmental psychology is central to understanding the processes of learning, maturation, and adjustment in humans. Individuals undergo distinct developmental stages throughout their lives, and developmental psychologists examine how people evolve, develop, and adjust during these phases. Research in this field aims to help individuals reach their maximum abilities, such as investigating disparities in learning approaches between infants and adults. Developmental psychologists’ work encompasses physical, cognitive, social, intellectual, perceptual, personality, and emotional development.
This emerging discipline utilizes psychological principles in forensic assessment. It offers a spectrum of in-demand services and specialized knowledge used by social welfare agencies, law enforcement agencies, the military, and judicial bodies. As often depicted in mainstream media, forensic and public service psychologists hold positions within public safety and legal frameworks, though they work in other sectors as well. They perform assessments that shape legal proceedings and may appear in court to testify and provide professional guidance to the proceedings.
Health psychology investigates the impact of biological, social, and psychological elements on health and disease. Professionals in this field analyze the factors that empower individuals to stay healthy, reclaim their health following illnesses, or manage chronic conditions. They also endeavor to understand the motivation behind healthy lifestyle choices. Health psychologists work at the nexus of health and behavior and are sought-after members of healthcare teams, collaborating with other healthcare professionals to address individuals’ holistic needs.
One fact that too few people understand is that a psychology degree provides a route to a wide variety of careers within psychology and beyond. A Bachelor of Arts in Psychology is so marketable and versatile because it helps you develop broadly applicable career skills, such as:
These are among the skills that authoritative sources including the Department of Labor, Forbes, and Indeed say today’s employers seek. Many employers consider soft skills to be more crucial than “hard” skills, yet they often have difficulty finding qualified job candidates. Developing these skills through our psychology program can give you an edge at hiring time for a diverse range of jobs.
See potential careers and salaries related to this degree.
If your ultimate goal is to become a psychologist, you’ll need additional education and licensure after completing this degree. The focus areas of our BA in psychology provide a strong foundation for both. By earning your BA in psychology, you’ll be on track to enter a rewarding career field that’s growing at a faster-than-average rate of 6% and has median annual pay of $85,330.
Our online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology—available online exclusively from this UT System institution—is a valuable degree no matter what direction you may take professionally. Our asynchronous online format enables you to complete your degree from any location, on your own schedule, while maintaining your personal and professional commitments. And our tuition rates are acknowledged as some of the most affordable of accredited institutions.
What’s holding you back? Get more details or apply now!
Note: Focus areas are optional. If you elect to pursue a focus area, it will not appear on your degree or student transcript.
Sources:
https://www.apa.org/