Official voice of American Psychological Association | Promoting advancement, communication & application of #PsychScience to benefit society & improve lives
A friend’s plan to study psychology in college set Dr. Clare Mehta on a path to the field.
Now a psychology professor at Emmanuel College, Mehta credits a habit of trying new things, from improv to quilting, with this key insight: continual learning is good for the brain.
As Americans head to the polls for the 2026 midterm elections, APA’s Stress in America survey reveals the pressures shaping their outlook. Read the full report: at.apa.org/stress2026
Technology that works isn’t the same as technology that works for people.
APA CEO Dr. Arthur C. Evans Jr. brought that message to Dreamforce 2026: if we don’t ask how AI affects us, we leave the outcome to chance.
Are paranormal experiences proof of the supernatural, or could there be another explanation? Dr. Chris French breaks down sleep paralysis, inattentional blindness, and other phenomena that may be behind many eerie encounters. Hear the full conversation: at.apa.org/bb0428
Published by Magination Press, “Hammerhead Needs Help” is a sweet and funny story that encourages kids to ask for help when they need it and reminds them that big goals are easier to reach together. Learn more: at.apa.org/6ia
What’s stressing most Americans?
According to APA’s 2026 Stress in America survey, the cost of living tops the list—cited by nearly 8 in 10 adults—followed closely by concerns about the future of the nation.
Explore the full findings: at.apa.org/0f63af
Not all digital experiences are created equal. APA’s expert report explores how parents and educators can look beyond screen time limits and evaluate whether technology is supporting children’s learning and development. Read more science-backed guidance: at.apa.org/yp6
Listen as Dr. Robin Kowalski explains why we complain, the difference between venting and complaining to get results, and how to complain in a way that doesn’t wear people out. Hear the full conversation: at.apa.org/7oe
Stress is no longer just a response to difficult moments—for many Americans, it has become an ongoing reality.
APA’s 2026 #StressInAmerica survey reveals how stress has worn down our health, relationships, and ability to plan for the future: at.apa.org/0f63af
Psychological research can help policymakers understand how economic pressures affect workers and families. Make a plan to vote and learn where candidates stand on the issues that matter to you. Learn more from the APA Services Voter Guide: at.apa.org/vote2026
ALT A blue graphic from the American Psychological Association Services, Inc. features the title "Psychology and the Issues" with bold white text stating "Economic uncertainty affects more than our wallets." Smaller text below says financial and workplace stress can impact mental and physical health.
ALT This image features the American Psychological Association Services, Inc. logo at the top. Below is text encouraging making a plan to vote and exploring APA Services’ Voter Guide for the 2026 election. A website link is provided: at.apa.org/vote2026.
AI mirrors you, flatters you, and never tells you to stop, partly because you’re the product, says Dr. Stephen Schueller. Your engagement is the data companies want. Read guidance from APA on how to navigate AI-generated advice thoughtfully and safely. at.apa.org/ai-guide
Congratulations to Dr. Tabbye Chavous!
Read more about the recent accomplishments of esteemed psychologists from across the country: at.apa.org/20c2d6
ALT Dr. Tabbye Chavous
ALT An announcement noting that the National Academy of Education has named 19 scholars in education and leadership to its membership. It highlights Chavous, a professor at the University of Michigan, who researches the impact of race and diversity on identity and motivation processes.
ALT Psychologists in the News highlights psychologists whose recent accomplishments reflect significant leadership, innovation, or impact in research, education, clinical practice, public service, or advocacy. This includes major appointments, prestigious awards, groundbreaking studies, and contributions to public health or policy.
Before talking with children about school shootings, parents and caregivers can check in with their own emotions. Dr. Jessica Gomez shares how to approach the conversation with curiosity and in an age-appropriate way. Explore more resources: at.apa.org/talktokids
New research shows leader loneliness doesn’t stay at the office. On difficult days, loneliness can trigger withdrawal at work and at home, creating a cycle that carries into the next workday. Learn more: at.apa.org/5yn
Teens don’t hurt themselves for attention. They’re trying to cope with emotional pain that feels unbearable.
Dr. Matthew Nock explains the shared motive behind self‑injury and suicidal behavior, and why adults should take it seriously.
Learn more: at.apa.org/zfh
The biggest AI question isn’t “how capable?” It’s “does it help us thrive?” At Dreamforce 2026, APA CEO Dr. Arthur C. Evans Jr. challenged tech leaders to measure AI by its impact on how we feel, how well we think and decide, and how connected we stay to each other.
Let’s revisit this conversation with Dr. Stuart Vyse as he explains where superstitions come from, why humans cling to them in times of uncertainty, and whether those rituals might actually give us a real psychological boost. Hear the full discussion: at.apa.org/18af10
This World Menopause Day, Dr. Rebecca Thurston reminds us that menopause isn’t just hot flashes. Read APA’s new taskforce reports on women’s health and well-being during midlife and menopause. at.apa.org/menopause
The brain reflects what we spend years learning. A recent study found experienced bird-watchers differed from novices in both brain structure and brain activity. Read more highlights from recent peer-reviewed studies: at.apa.org/f6dc69