Visualisation, also known as mental imagery, is a powerful tool that can significantly impact athletic performance. Athletes who practice visualisation techniques regularly report better focus, increased confidence, and reduced anxiety, among other benefits. In fact, a study conducted by the University of Chicago in 1996 found that basketball players who visualised free throws improved their accuracy by 23%, compared to a 24% improvement for those who actually practiced shooting, which was practically the same improvement in results. Visualisation works by activating the same brain regions used during physical performance, tricking the brain into believing that the imagined actions are actually taking place. This phenomenon has been observed in a variety of sports, from gymnastics to golf. One of the pioneers in visualisation research is Dr. Richard Suinn, former president of the American Psychological Association (APA). He developed a systematic mental training program that focuses on visualisation, which has been used by many Olympic athletes. Another key concept in visualisation is self-efficacy, or the belief in one's ability to achieve a desired outcome. This idea was popularised by Dr. Albert Bandura, a psychologist known for his work on social learning theory. Visualisation can also be used to manage pain, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. For example, cancer patients who practiced visualisation reported decreased levels of anxiety and depression, as well as improved quality of life. Overall, visualisation is a fascinating and multidisciplinary topic that can inspire and empower us across a range of contexts. By incorporating mental imagery into our own lives, we can perhaps unlock our potential further and achieve our goals with greater confidence and ease.

Are you fascinated by the complexity of human behavior? Do you enjoy exploring the reasons behind why people think and act the way they do? If so, a career in Behavioral Sciences may be just the path for you! Behavioral Sciences is a field that encompasses a range of disciplines, including psychology, sociology, and anthropology, among others. It involves studying human behavior, emotions, and thought processes to better understand how individuals interact with the world around them. As a Behavioral Scientist, you could work in a variety of roles, from conducting research to developing interventions that help people overcome challenges in their lives. For example, you could work as a counselor, helping individuals overcome addiction or mental health issues. Alternatively, you could work as a researcher, studying the effects of social media on mental health or the impact of trauma on the brain. Typical duties in the field of Behavioral Sciences include conducting research, analyzing data, and developing interventions or treatment plans. Some common areas of specialization within the field include clinical psychology, social work, and public health. To pursue a career in Behavioral Sciences, you'll typically need at least a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as psychology or sociology. Popular undergraduate programs and majors include Psychology, Sociology, and Social Work. Helpful personal attributes for a career in Behavioral Sciences include strong communication skills, empathy, and an ability to think critically and analytically. You'll also need to be comfortable working with people from diverse backgrounds and be able to adapt to changing situations. Job prospects in the field of Behavioral Sciences are strong, with a growing demand for professionals who can help individuals and communities overcome a range of challenges. Potential employers include government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private corporations. Notable employers in the field include the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Institutes of Health, and the World Health Organization. In summary, a career in Behavioral Sciences offers a fascinating and rewarding path for individuals who are passionate about understanding human behavior and making a positive impact in the world. With a range of potential roles and specializations, there's no shortage of opportunities to explore in this exciting field.

Are you someone who loves to listen and help people? Do you enjoy finding solutions to complex problems? If so, a career in Counseling Psychology may be perfect for you! Counseling Psychology is a field that focuses on helping individuals and groups improve their mental health and well-being. As a Counseling Psychologist, you will work with clients to identify and address their emotional, social, and behavioral issues. You will help them develop coping skills, improve their relationships, and achieve their personal goals. One of the most appealing aspects of this field is the opportunity to truly make a positive impact on people's lives. Imagine helping a teenager overcome their anxiety and depression to become a confident and successful adult. Or helping a family navigate a difficult divorce and emerge with a stronger bond. These are just a few examples of the meaningful and rewarding work that Counseling Psychologists do every day. In terms of typical duties, Counseling Psychologists may work in a variety of settings, including private practices, hospitals, schools, and community centers. They may specialize in areas such as marriage and family therapy, substance abuse counseling, or career counseling. Other related fields include social work, psychiatry, and school counseling. To become a Counseling Psychologist, you will typically need to earn a doctoral degree in Psychology, with a focus on Counseling Psychology. Popular undergraduate majors for this field include Psychology, Sociology, and Social Work. Helpful personal attributes include strong communication skills, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude. Job prospects for Counseling Psychologists are generally positive, with a projected growth rate of 14% over the next decade. Notable potential employers include government agencies, hospitals, and non-profit organizations. Some specific examples include the National Institutes of Health, the Mayo Clinic, and the United Nations. In summary, a career in Counseling Psychology offers the opportunity to make a real difference in people's lives, while also enjoying a fulfilling and rewarding career. If you have a passion for helping others and a desire to improve mental health and well-being, this may be the perfect field for you!

Are you interested in helping students achieve their full potential? Do you have a passion for psychology and education? Then a career as a School Psychologist might be the perfect fit for you! As a School Psychologist, you will work with students, parents, and teachers to promote academic success, positive behavior, and mental health. You'll use your knowledge of psychology to understand and address the social, emotional, and academic needs of students. One of the most appealing aspects of this field is the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of young people. Whether you're helping a student overcome a learning disability, counseling a student struggling with anxiety, or collaborating with teachers to create a positive classroom environment, you'll play a critical role in shaping the future of our society. Typical duties of a School Psychologist include conducting assessments and evaluations, developing individualized education plans, providing counseling and support services, and collaborating with teachers and other professionals to create a positive and inclusive learning environment. There are also many potential areas of specialization within this field, including working with students with disabilities, addressing behavioral issues, and promoting mental health and wellness. To become a School Psychologist, you'll typically need a master's degree in School Psychology or a related field. Popular undergraduate majors include Psychology, Education, and Child Development. In addition to formal education, it's helpful to possess strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to work collaboratively with others. The job prospects for School Psychologists are strong, with a projected growth rate of 14% over the next decade. There are many notable and attractive potential employers in both the public and private sectors, including school districts, universities, and healthcare organizations. Some specific examples include the New York City Department of Education, the Los Angeles Unified School District, and the Mayo Clinic. So if you're looking for a challenging and rewarding career that allows you to make a real difference in the lives of young people, consider becoming a School Psychologist.

Want to increase your happiness and help others do the same? Join the happiness movement led by Arthur C. Brooks, the Harvard professor and data-driven scholar who has dedicated his career to studying happiness. His seven-week course delves into the philosophy, neuroscience, and social science of human happiness, including the building blocks of happiness like family, career, friendships, and faith. Discover Brooks' secret recipe for happiness, and learn how to apply happiness principles in your life and leadership roles. Join the movement today and spread the word about managing happiness!

Are you interested in helping people navigate through the complexities of relationships and family dynamics? If so, then you might want to consider studying Marriage and Family Therapy. This field of study is all about understanding and improving relationships between individuals, couples, and families. Marriage and Family Therapy is a fascinating field that combines psychology, sociology, and counselling. It is a field that is constantly evolving and adapting to the changing needs of society. For example, did you know that Marriage and Family Therapists are now using technology to provide online therapy sessions to clients all over the world? This is just one example of how this field is innovating to meet the needs of people. One of the most appealing aspects of studying Marriage and Family Therapy is the opportunity to make a real difference in people's lives. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, you will be able to help individuals and families overcome challenges and improve their relationships. For example, you might help a couple who is struggling with communication issues to learn how to communicate more effectively. Or, you might help a family who is dealing with a difficult situation to come together and support each other. There are many well-known academic figures in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy, such as John Gottman and Sue Johnson. These individuals have made significant contributions to the field through their research and innovations. For example, Gottman is known for his research on the predictors of divorce and his development of the Gottman Method of Couples Therapy. At the undergraduate level, students typically take courses in psychology, sociology, and counselling. Some of the modules that students might take include Family Systems Theory, Couples Therapy, and Child and Adolescent Therapy. There are also opportunities for further specialisation in areas such as Sex Therapy or Divorce Mediation. After completing a degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, there are many potential career paths available. Some of the most popular roles include Marriage and Family Therapist, Couples Therapist, and Family Counsellor. Key industries for prospective future employment include healthcare, social services, and education. Some notable and attractive potential employers include the National Health Service (NHS), private practice clinics, and non-profit organisations. To succeed in this field of study, it is important to have excellent communication skills, empathy, and an interest in helping others. Students should also have a strong background in psychology, sociology, and counselling. If you are interested in making a real difference in people's lives and improving relationships, then studying Marriage and Family Therapy might be the perfect fit for you.

Athletic performance is not just about physical strength and skill; the brain plays a crucial role in controlling movement and reflexes. Neuroscience has made incredible strides in recent years, uncovering the complex mechanisms at work in the brain during sports and exercise. One key area of study is motor control, which refers to the way the brain coordinates movement. For example, when a basketball player shoots a free throw, their brain sends signals to their muscles to control the force, direction, and trajectory of the shot. Researchers have discovered that certain areas of the brain, such as the motor cortex and cerebellum, are specifically involved in motor control. Another important area of study is motor learning, which is the process by which we acquire and refine motor skills over time. This involves a complex interplay between the brain, body, and environment. For example, studies have shown that practicing a skill repeatedly can strengthen the neural connections between the brain and muscles, leading to more precise and efficient movements. Neuroscience research has also uncovered the role of attention and decision-making in athletic performance. When athletes are under pressure or faced with a fast-moving game situation, their brains must rapidly process information and make split-second decisions. This requires high levels of attention and cognitive control, which can be trained and improved through specific exercises and techniques. Leading academics in this field include John Krakauer, a neurologist at Johns Hopkins University, and Wendy Suzuki, a neuroscientist at New York University. Their research has shed light on the complex interplay between the brain and body in athletic performance, and how this can be harnessed to improve training and performance. In conclusion, the brain is a powerful and essential part of athletic performance. By understanding the neuroscience behind movement and reflexes, students can develop a deeper appreciation for the complexity of sports and exercise, and explore exciting avenues for future research and innovation.

Discover the secrets to happiness with Tal Ben-Shahar's groundbreaking book, "Happier". As the teacher of Harvard's most popular course on the subject, Ben-Shahar combines scientific studies, scholarly research, self-help advice, and spiritual enlightenment to create a set of principles that can be applied to daily life. You'll learn how to open your heart and mind to feel more fulfilled, connected, and ultimately, happier. With endorsements from experts in mindfulness and positive psychology, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to improve their well-being. Recommended for students, professionals, and anyone interested in personal development, "Happier" offers insights into the science behind happiness and practical advice for achieving it. The book draws on a range of fields, including positive psychology, self-help, and spirituality, making it relevant to those studying psychology, philosophy, and religion. It is also useful for professionals in fields such as counseling, coaching, and human resources. However, the book's accessible style and relatable anecdotes make it appealing to anyone seeking to improve their happiness and overall well-being.

Are you a good listener? Do you enjoy helping others overcome their challenges? If so, a career in counselling could be the perfect fit for you! Counselling is a field that involves helping individuals overcome personal and emotional challenges. Whether it's working with individuals, couples, or families, counsellors play a crucial role in helping people navigate difficult times in their lives. One of the most appealing aspects of counselling is the ability to make a real difference in people's lives. Imagine helping a couple save their marriage, or helping a teenager overcome depression and anxiety. These are just a few examples of the meaningful and inspiring work that counsellors do every day. In terms of typical duties, counsellors may provide individual or group therapy, conduct assessments, and develop treatment plans. There are also many areas of specialisation within counselling, such as addiction counselling, marriage and family therapy, and career counselling. To become a counsellor, you'll typically need a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field, followed by a master's degree in counselling. Some popular undergraduate programs and majors include psychology, social work, and sociology. In addition to education and training, there are several helpful personal attributes that can make you successful in this field. These include strong communication skills, empathy, and the ability to establish trust with clients. Job prospects for counsellors are strong, with employment projected to grow faster than average over the next decade. There are also a broad range of potential employers, including hospitals, schools, government agencies, and private practices. Notable employers in this field include the Mayo Clinic, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the American Counseling Association. Overall, a career in counselling can be both rewarding and fulfilling. If you're passionate about helping others and making a difference in people's lives, then this could be the perfect career for you!

Are you curious about how attitudes are formed and how they can be changed? The third edition of this book explores the latest scientific methods used to understand attitudes, with a balanced consideration of all approaches. From diverse research threads across the world, this book provides fundamental concepts to better understand attitudes. Discover the flurry of research activity in this dynamic subject over the past few years and gain insight into the complexities of human behavior. Recommended for psychology students, social scientists, and anyone interested in understanding human behavior, this book provides a comprehensive overview of the scientific methods used to study attitudes. Professionals in fields such as marketing, politics, and social advocacy can benefit from the insights gained into how attitudes can be influenced and changed. This book also has relevance for those interested in personal growth and self-reflection, as it explores the complexities of attitudes and how they shape our perceptions and actions.

Are you curious about what motivates people to be good? A recent study from Washington University in St. Louis explores the surprising reasons why some people make the effort to be more moral. The study found that many people are motivated to become more moral for self-serving reasons, but they also see potential value in being fairer and more compassionate. Read the full article to learn more about the study's findings and gain insights into your own motivations for moral behavior.

The Music Instinct by Philip Ball is a fascinating exploration of the profound mystery of why all human cultures make music. Without any specialist knowledge of music or science, Ball interweaves philosophy, mathematics, history, and neurology to reveal how our minds understand and respond to music. From Bach fugues to heavy rock, this book provides a comprehensive and accessible survey of what is known and still unknown about how music works its magic, and why it seems indispensable to humanity. It not only deepens your appreciation of the music you love but also guides you into pastures new, opening a window on music that once seemed alien, dull or daunting. Recommended for music lovers, students of psychology, neuroscience, philosophy, and history, as well as anyone interested in exploring the mystery of why music is so essential to humanity. The Music Instinct by Philip Ball provides a fascinating insight into the latest research in music psychology and brain science, piecing together the puzzle of how our minds understand and respond to music. This book offers a passionate plea for the importance of music in education and in everyday life, arguing that, whether we know it or not, we can all claim to be musical experts. It is a must-read for anyone looking to deepen their appreciation of music and explore its profound impact on human culture and society.

What really happens when we reach for our favourite comfort foods? Is it really about solace and familiar flavours or is there more to it? Research uncovering some surprising contradictions might just change your perception of comfort food forever. People may turn to different types of comfort food depending on their mood, with some foods providing psychological benefits and others merely offering temporary pleasure. By understanding the nuances of comfort food, we may be able to make more informed choices about what we eat when seeking comfort.

Brief Psychological Interventions to Enhance Learning. Learn how values affirmation and social belonging exercises can help you overcome demotivating social factors and close the performance gap in higher education.

In 'An Unquiet Mind: A Memoir of Moods and Madness,' Kay Redfield Jamison takes readers on a journey through her life as a clinical psychologist living with manic-depressive illness. From her early experiences to her eventual acceptance of her condition, Jamison's memoir is a powerful testament to the human spirit's resilience in the face of mental illness. Through love, academia, and introspection, she comes to understand herself better, and her story is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of mental health. Recommended for psychology students, mental health advocates, and anyone seeking to understand the complexities of mental illness, "An Unquiet Mind: A Memoir of Moods and Madness" offers a powerful firsthand account of living with manic-depressive illness. Kay Redfield Jamison's memoir is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and shows how love, academia, and introspection can help individuals better understand themselves and their conditions. This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in mental health and the human experience.

Do you have a passion for understanding human behaviour and how it impacts society? If so, a career in social psychology may be the perfect fit for you! Social psychology is an exciting field that focuses on how individuals interact with one another and how their actions affect society as a whole. As a social psychologist, you'll be involved in a variety of interesting and meaningful tasks. You'll conduct research studies to better understand social phenomena, such as prejudice and discrimination, and develop interventions to address them. You'll also work with individuals and groups to help them improve their relationships and interactions with others. There are many different areas of specialisation within social psychology, including health psychology, educational psychology, and organisational psychology. Social psychologists also work in related fields, such as market research and advertising. To become a social psychologist, you'll typically need a graduate degree in psychology or a related field. However, there are many undergraduate programs and majors that can prepare you for this career, including psychology, sociology, and anthropology. In addition to a strong educational background, there are several personal attributes that can be helpful in this field. These include strong communication skills, an analytical mind, and a passion for helping others. Job prospects for social psychologists are strong, with opportunities available in both the public and private sectors. Many notable employers in this field include government agencies, non-profit organisations, and research institutions. For example, the World Health Organization and the United Nations both employ social psychologists to help address a variety of global issues. Overall, a career in social psychology can be both rewarding and fulfilling. If you're interested in understanding human behaviour and making a positive impact on society, this may be the perfect career for you!

Are you interested in understanding how historical trauma and stress can affect your mental health and physical well-being? Look no further than UC Berkeley's recently hired assistant professor of biological anthropology, Andrew Kim. In a study published in The Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, Kim and colleagues found that prenatal exposure to discrimination and violence during South Africa's apartheid regime predicted mental health problems among children born to younger mothers and youngsters whose households were particularly stressful. Kim's work is part of a fast-growing research field, intergenerational trauma, that is uncovering how large-scale trauma from atrocities has a ripple effect in families decades later. Don't miss out on this fascinating and important research!

Happiness is a universal human goal. We all want to be happy, but how do we measure it? Happiness is subjective and difficult to quantify. In this write-up, we'll explore the science behind measuring happiness, including relevant academic concepts and leading experts in the field. One way to measure happiness is through self-report surveys. Researchers ask people to rate their level of happiness on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the happiest. One such survey is the World Happiness Report, which measures the happiness of people in over 150 countries. Another approach is to measure physiological indicators of happiness, such as brain activity and facial expressions. Researchers have found that activity in the left prefrontal cortex is associated with positive emotions. Meanwhile, smiling and other positive facial expressions are also indicators of happiness. Leading academics in the field of happiness research include Sonja Lyubomirsky, Ed Diener, and Martin Seligman. Lyubomirsky has researched the impact of positive psychology interventions on happiness, while Diener is known for his work on subjective well-being. Seligman is a pioneer in the field of positive psychology, which focuses on personal growth and well-being. Interestingly, some countries have found innovative ways to measure happiness. For example, Bhutan has created a Gross National Happiness Index, which measures happiness in nine domains, including health, education, and psychological well-being. In conclusion, measuring happiness is a complex and subjective task. However, through self-report surveys, physiological indicators, and innovative approaches, researchers are making strides in understanding what makes people happy. By exploring these academic topics further, high school students can deepen their understanding of happiness and well-being, and apply this knowledge to their own lives.

Do you have a passion for helping others and a desire to make a positive impact on society? If so, a career in Clinical Social Work might be the perfect fit for you. As a Clinical Social Worker, you will have the opportunity to work with individuals, families, and communities to address a range of social and emotional issues. Clinical Social Workers are trained professionals who provide therapy and support to individuals and families in need. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, mental health clinics, and private practices. Clinical Social Workers are trained to provide a range of services, including individual and group therapy, crisis intervention, and case management. One of the most appealing aspects of a career in Clinical Social Work is the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people's lives. For example, you might work with a family struggling to cope with the challenges of a child with a disability, or help a survivor of domestic violence rebuild their life. These are just a few examples of the many ways Clinical Social Workers can make a positive impact on the world. To become a Clinical Social Worker, you will typically need to earn a Master's degree in Social Work (MSW). Many undergraduate programs offer majors in Social Work, Psychology, or Sociology, which can be helpful in preparing for a career in Clinical Social Work. In addition to formal education, there are several personal attributes that can be helpful in this field. Clinical Social Workers should have strong communication skills, empathy, and the ability to work well under pressure. They should also be able to work independently and as part of a team. Job prospects for Clinical Social Workers are strong, with a projected growth rate of 13% over the next decade. This growth is due in part to the increasing demand for mental health services, as well as the aging of the population. There are a wide range of potential employers for Clinical Social Workers, including hospitals, schools, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. Notable employers in this field include the National Association of Social Workers, the American Red Cross, and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). In conclusion, a career in Clinical Social Work offers a unique opportunity to make a positive impact on the world while also pursuing a rewarding and fulfilling career. If you have a passion for helping others and a desire to make a difference, this might be the perfect career for you!

Toys and marketing for children are often rigidly gendered, but this can limit their potential and career aspirations. Babies as young as less than a year old pick up on gendered differences in their world, and young children use gender to make sense of a complicated world. However, this binary view of gender is problematic for everyone, and we need more openness on the topic of gender. The brain is mouldable from a young age, and experiences with different toys and activities can shape our skills and career aspirations. We need to teach boys that vulnerability is okay and give children the option to be themselves. By changing the stories we tell, we can change the realities we live. As a student, learning about gender and its impact on our lives can help us break free from limiting stereotypes and reach our full potential.