Category Archives: Human Behavior

Human Behavior

Overcoming ‘Otherness’ in Scientific Research Commentary in Nature Human Behavior USA – English – USA – PR Newswire

WASHINGTON, Feb. 2, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In a provocative commentary in Nature Human Behavior, Dr. Jane L. Delgado of the National Alliance for Hispanic Health and Dr. Rueben C. Warren former Director of the National Center for Bioethics in Research and Health Care at Tuskegee University and now at Meharry Medical College, call for a critical examination of 'otherness' in science to advance the meaningfulness and quality of research and movebeyond health disparities, a sanitized catch-all phrase, that defuses what are more accurately labeled as harmful health outcomes (HHO). They also provide interventions to proactively address otherness to produce better science.

Dr. Delgado explains further, "True scientific excellence requires all voices, and varied experiences and perspectives. To harness the full potential of our society, we must recognize and actively address the biases that 'otherness' introduces into scientific research." Dr. Warren adds, "It's crucial to acknowledge that our collective progress is hindered when research is skewed by the exclusion of significant populations based on gender, race, or other dimensions of identity."

The commentary highlights the detrimental impact of 'otherness' in scientific methodologies and outcomes, particularly in health-related research. They describe how the factors that define a sense of belonging produce the corollary of otherness. These factors include race, ethnicity, sex/gender, religious affiliation, heritage, political association, and other dimensions.The impact is science that is limited by its methods and scope producing adverse health outcomes. Negative otherness distorts all aspects of science from how teams are structured, participants invited, questions asked, answers that are developed, follow-up actions, interpretation of findings, final conclusions, and clinical decision-making."

The commentary makes clear, "Otherness is not a new concept and while the focus on otherness focuses on the negative consequences there are also positive outcomes that may occur. Positive outcomes from otherness occur when there is a recognition of differences that are taken into consideration to tailor actions to the individual to produce positive outcomes." A good example of positive otherness is the movement for precision or tailored medicine.

The authors call for a recalibration of the scientific enterprise by building diverse teams, encouraging multiple perspectives, improving AI algorithms with comprehensive data sets, and leveraging 'otherness' to foster innovation rather than division. The authors conclude that individual actions and leadership are paramount to overcoming the entrenched biases of 'otherness' and achieving a future where scientific discovery is unbounded and all-inclusive.

For the full commentary, please visit Nature Human Behavior: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41562-024-01821-y

About the National Alliance for Hispanic Health(The Alliance) The Alliance is the nation's foremost science-based source of information and trusted advocate for the health of Hispanics in the United States with a mission to achieve the best health for all. For more information visit us atwww.healthyamericas.org

About Meharry Medical College (Meharry) Meharry is one of the nation's oldest and largest historically black academic health science center and includes amedical school,dental school,graduate school,applied computational sciences school, and theCenter for Health Policy. For more information visit Meharry at: https://home.mmc.edu

SOURCE National Alliance for Hispanic Health

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Overcoming 'Otherness' in Scientific Research Commentary in Nature Human Behavior USA - English - USA - PR Newswire

Human Behavior

"Reichman University’s behavioral economics program: Navigating human be – The Jerusalem Post

Human behavior takes center stage in times of crisis. Amid the "Swords of Iron" war, this aspect becomes even more crucial. Adhering to the directives of the Home Front Command and navigating the economic crisis stemming from the ongoing situation compel individuals to act against their usual habits and inclinations.

Seeking shelter during alarms, exiting vehicles promptly, handling unpaid leave, and cutting expensesall these actions underscore the societal challenges, highlighting the necessity for a deeper comprehension of human behavior. This is precisely the focus of behavioral economics, a field that the MA in Behavioral Economics program at Reichman University seeks to explore.

But how does behavioral economics contribute during wartime? This emerging scientific discipline melds insights from economics and psychology to unravel the motivations and influences behind people's decisions. Armed with this understanding, behavioral economists craft practical tools and interventions to guide individuals toward better and more adaptive choices. These tools include subtle environmental changes, like signage indicating the location of protected spaces, facilitating access during alarms, even in unfamiliar places, and financial management aids to navigate price hikes and income reductions.

Students in our MA in Behavioral Economics program receive a robust theoretical foundation in economics and psychology. Simultaneously, they acquire practical tools designed to enhance decision-making processes for individuals and organizations. The program's social orientation fosters engagement with Israeli society, addressing the growing need to formulate public policies and interventions that enhance resilience and mitigate the social impacts of war.

During the initial weeks of the war, students from our program, alongside faculty members, spearheaded various initiatives. These initiatives aimed to enhance the personal resilience of international students at the University and assist organizations in tackling economic challenges.

The program's faculty and I led research projects addressing the economic crisis. This research informs policymakers about designing interventions and campaigns that promote suitable behavior to bolster resilience. The challenges post-war are abundant, and our MA program in Behavioral Economics encourages student and faculty initiatives to address them. Guided by our faculty, students gain hands-on experience in behavioral interventions, leading projects to help people cope with anxiety, mental stress, and financial difficulties. This practical approach aims to enable Israeli society to resume normal life efficiently.

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This article was written in cooperation with Reichman University

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"Reichman University's behavioral economics program: Navigating human be - The Jerusalem Post

Human Behavior

Of trees, symbols of humankind, on Tu BShevat – The Jewish Star

By Rabbi Yossy Goldman

There is a wealth of symbolism to the holiday of Tu BShevat and many lessons for human behavior.

While Tu BShevat (the 15th of the month Shevat), observed this year on Thursday, Jan. 25, had an halachic link tothe first fruit offerings, its observance today is mainly symbolic. It includes such traditions as eating fruit (particularly those of the holy land olives, dates, grapes, figs and pomegranates).

But there is a wealth of symbolism to this day and many lessons for human behavior. I remember once teasing a friend whose birthday is on Tu BShevat, the New Year for Trees. I told him: Make like a tree and grow up!

The source linking trees to humans comes from Deuteronomy 20:19, ironically, in the laws of warfare. The Torah teaches us not to destroy fruit trees wantonly, even on the battlefield. Is the tree like your human enemy? asks the verse. Indeed, to this day, we continue to practice ethics and morality during intense warfare South Africas accusations to the International Court of Justice notwithstanding.

But that scriptural verse can also be construed as a statement of fact. Man is as the tree of the field. Indeed, this interpretation has inspired many a commentary on the similarities between trees and people and the numerous lessons we can learn from trees. Let me share a few of my favorites.

There are three structural elements to a tree, especially a fruit tree: the roots, the trunk and the fruit.

The roots, from which every tree is nurtured, represent our forebears, particularly our parents and grandparents who nurtured us and have had such a powerful influence on our growth, upbringing and personal value systems.

The trunk is, of course, the main body of any tree expressing its fundamental identity. It represents the person, himself or herself.

And the fruits symbolize our progeny our children and grandchildren, who grow and are sustained by us, and then go on to live their own independent lives.

Alternatively, according to the Lubavitcher Rebbe, the roots are our faith; the trunk is our own good deeds and Torah study; and the fruits are the positive impacts we have on our family, friends and broader spheres of influence.

And our roots are long and deep. When we are inspired by our history, traditions, teachers and role models of the past, we are able to produce fruits that nourish and sweeten the world that is, our own strong, positive values and way of life.

Another idea the Rebbe often borrowed from trees was a message on the vital importance of educating our children. When it comes to a fully-grown tree, a scratch on the trunk will cause little damage. But if someone scratches the body of a young sapling, it can have devastating effects and leave a massive scar as the tree grows. Similarly, the formative years of a child require exceptional sensitivity and great care as we would give a sapling.

Trees also present a symbol of continuity down the generations. The Talmud tells the story of a very righteous man named Choni Hamaagal, who once saw an elderly man planting a carob tree.

How long will it take for this tree to bear fruit? asked Choni of the old man.

70 years, said the man.

What? Do you think you will live so long to enjoy the fruit of this tree?

I found carob trees in this world, said the old man. Just as my predecessors planted trees for me, so do I plant trees for those who will follow me. (Taanit 23a)

It may take many years for the trees we plant to develop and become productive, but we must ensure our generational continuity for eternity.

So on Tu BShevat, let us remember the importance of our trees, for the ecosystem and for all the important lessons we learn from them.

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Of trees, symbols of humankind, on Tu BShevat - The Jewish Star

Human Behavior

Tapping Into The Power Of Positive Psychology With Acclaimed Expert Niyc Pidgeon – GirlTalkHQ

[Trigger warning: mention of suicide and suicide attempt]

According to Psychology Today, the term Positive Psychology refers to a branch of psychology focused on the character strengths and behaviors that allow individuals to build a life of meaning and purpose. Positive psychology emphasizes meaning and deep satisfaction, not just on fleeting happiness.

While there is overlap with traditional areas of psychology, positive psychology has been described as different from other areas due to its primary interest in identifying and building mental assets, as opposed to addressing weaknesses and problems.

Positive Psychology expert Niyc Pidgeon not only makes it her life mission to help clients build a life of meaning and purpose, she has the personal experience to back it up. She isan award-winning and best-selling motivationalspeaker, accomplished author, business mentor, and positive psychologist, deeply committed to igniting joy and personal empowerment in her clients. Niyc shares her insights and tips through her podcast series Unstoppable Success, which we highly recommend subscribing to.

Niyc has a thriving positive psychology practice that she scaled from her friends bedroom floor and has touched the lives of over 100k people through her seminars and books like Now is Your Chance. Shes opened up about incredibly tough subjects, like inher interview with Marie Clairewhichcovers the time she was abducted and sexually assaulted while on vacation in Ibiza. She has also lost several friends to suicide and survived a suicide attempt herself.

Without falling into the tropes of toxic positivity we see online and in mental health conversations today, Niyc has found ways to encourage others to tap into their communities for support and buoy their resilience in the face of the insurmountable.Today, Niyc is known as one of the most influential positive psychologists, according toForbes,Marie ClaireandRichard Branson. NBD

As 2024 continues to unfold and we work our way through goal-setting, and living up to the resolutions and commitments we have made for ourselves this year, we wanted to learn more from Niyc and tap into the power of positive psychology. Read on below to learn how Niyc utilizes her personal story to create connection, the daily rituals she swears by, and her definition of success.

I became fascinated by human behavior after having a conversation with my boyfriend back in 2005. He was a professional cricket player and the sport psychologist he was working with had him do a visualization process in a session where he guided him to imagine he was on the cricket field with the bat in his hand. He asked him not to look at the fielders, but to look for the gaps in between them instead.

It made me think about what might be possible when we focus on opportunities instead of problems. And from that single conversation I was inspired to cancel my mechanical and automotive engineering degrees and study psychology instead and Im so glad I did.

Ive always been entrepreneurial with a desire to help people. My first business was as a kid ironing my dads work shirts and charging him 50p per item. I wasnt very good at it at all!

Then after reading Tim Ferris 4 hour work week back in 2009 I decided I wanted to set up an online business to create passive income. My first online business was actually a supplements company, and alongside that I was working as a personal trainer, as well as lecturing in universities, and running my own events, and studying my masters degree! I was far too busy and I had to reassess my strategy because I was making money some months and struggling other months. The income rollercoaster was also an emotional rollercoaster and I was putting in a lot of effort and helping a lot of people, but wasnt getting paid enough to thrive.

So I decided to look at what was most profitable and scalable in alignment with my vision for the future. I set up my online courses and coaching in 2015 based on what Id learned from so many years of testing and doing it wrong! Then finally things started to take off. I made $35,000 in my first month of getting focused and taking my coaching business online, then went on to scale a multi million dollar business from there.

All of the challenges we experience in life are opportunities for us to grow and learn. I know Im able to help other people now from a place of more depth and strength and Im able to support people to keep going even when they feel like giving up. Post traumatic growth is a phenomenon we study in positive psychology which shows it is possible to not just bounce back after experiencing hard things, but actually go on to be stronger than ever before.

My challenges help me lead with greater compassion and perspective we all go through tough times and by sharing and supporting each other to show theres a light at the end of the tunnel were able to foster more resilience and live with more hope.

Every step of the way Ive looked for the lessons and the blessings within the challenges. In positive psychology we talk about about two types of mindsets the growth mindset and the fixed mindset. The fixed mindset is very rigid and only focuses on the outcome and sees absolute failure or absolute success. The growth mindset finds the joy in the journey, trusts the process and looks for the learning along the way.

When you realize the process is the reward youre able to gain perspective more easily and enjoy the journey instead of just wishing you could get to a goal. Knowing the growth mindset framework helps me to remember Im always capable and that Im developing my emotional, spiritual and psychological tool kit which allows me to help myself, and then share with others how they might be able to navigate tough things too. On paper youd think Id had a terrible life with a suicide attempt, losing 7 close friends 3 of which died by suicide, surviving an assault, domestic violence, and healing heavy metals poisoning, mold poisoning and adrenal fatigue.

But all of these experiences have given me so much energy for my mission to help other people. As Ive healed through one tough experience, Ive had multiple other people who have come to me for support with the same thing. Its helped me help more people, and helped me guide the narrative for my books too.

We all need to feel we have somewhere to belong whether thats within your family, a social club, or within an online network. Consider which platforms or relationships bring you joy and choose to get more intentional about showing up there.

Humans are social creatures and we cannot thrive alone so its important to remember to cultivate positive relationships in your life. Look for who you already have in your circle who is a cheerleader for you and invest more energy into the people who are already supporting you. Look at what it is you love and value about this person and ask yourself how you might be able to demonstrate more of that quality yourself so you can become a great friend too both for your existing connections and new people who come into your world. Starting from this place of strength can remind you of the simplicity of looking for what already works and doing more of that.

Relationships are one of the core 6 elements of psychological flourishing, along with positive emotions, engagement, meaning, accomplishment, and health. A simple question you can ask to help build relationships, whether online or offline, is whats been going well for you this week? People love to talk about themselves and instead of complaining and blaming this shifts a conversation into celebration which helps both of you access more positive emotions. Following up with active constructive responding and asking more questions about the thing they are celebrating can help you to deepen your connections.

Its not all about pretending to be positive all of the time too. Being a safe place for a friend to share vulnerably, and you being willing to open up to a friend about where you have been navigating something tough, can also be a powerful way to deepen relationships and remind each other that we are stronger together.

Success is having the freedom to choose to live your life exactly the way you want to. This is going to be different for everybody. For me it means having peace in my heart, peace in my home, and the ability to structure my day as I wish, and travel whenever I want. I always start with the vision and version of success thats present for that person and work backwards from the goal. When you know how you want your ideal day and week to look you can build a business model and personal success systems to support that.

The strategy and protocols wont be the same for everyone and its never a prescription. I always invite our students to discover more about who they are through positive psychology and use what they learned to guide the development of their business on their terms.

Women come to work with me when they want to accelerate within themselves and their career. They know theyre made for more but they often need more clarity around the steps to take to reach their goal. As well as this I see theyve often been jaded by negative comments or people around them which has affected their self belief. Sometimes we are our own biggest barrier to success and were getting in our own way without realizing it.

Coming into a supportive community with a new perspective and a trusted mentor always helps them feel more certain on their path. Theyre able to break through past perceived income ceilings, and create values driven, purpose led businesses which allow them to make more money, reclaim their time and invest more special moments with their loved ones many have also even retired their husbands too!

I start my day in gratitude by saying to myself as soon as I wake up and even before I open my eyes, thank you thank you thank you thank you for this day, I am grateful in every possible way. I then meditate with a kundalini mantra and practice a breath work which helps energize me for the day. Ill listen to Abraham hicks, workout, and use the sauna, infra-red PEMF mat, and ice bath daily. I love to hike, and also have a Pilates trainer. Or Ill go for a run or do a workout on my peloton bike or lululemon mirror. I like to stay active and always have so many ideas when Im moving my body too!

First of all I highly recommend diving into positive psychology and learning about yourself through practicing the exercises and tools. Even after 15 years of working with the science of happiness Im still learning so much about myself and I love boosting my well-being through the practices.

What I love about positive psychology is its not difficult to start using it. The tools are really simple steps you can take daily to shift the way you feel. The small positive actions compound together to create big results and youre able to look back and see how far youve come.

Now more than ever before it is vital to take action to support your own mental well-being. And through the ripple effect of positive psychology youre then able to impact your family and loved ones. Working on your own well-being isnt selfish as youre also helping everyone around you too.

Want to tap into the power of positive psychology with Niyc Pidgeon? See more of her work on her website, and connect with Niyc on Instagram, Facebook and Linkedin.

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Tapping Into The Power Of Positive Psychology With Acclaimed Expert Niyc Pidgeon - GirlTalkHQ

Human Behavior

Never happy? Humans tend to imagine how life could be better : Short Wave – NPR

Social psychologists Ethan Ludwin-Peery and Adam Mastroianni were in a diner one day, eating omelets, when they thought of a question neither of them could definitively answer: What makes some things good and some things bad? More concretely, why do a lot of people think of the government as bad and their phones as good?

Ethan and Adam hypothesized that humans think of something as bad when it is easy to imagine how that thing could be better. But when they dove into the scientific literature to see if research supported their hypothesis, the two realized that there is little research about how people make these judgement calls.

So they got to work.

The pair of researchers conducted studies ... lots of them. After surveying hundreds of people, Ethan and Adam realized they may have been wrong.

When asked how things could be different, people tend to always answer with how they could be bettereven if life is already pretty good. This holds true regardless of language or word choice.

Read their paper, "Things Could Be Better".

Curious about other laws of human behavior? Email us at shortwave@npr.org.

This episode was produced by Margaret Cirino and edited by Rebecca Ramirez. Anil Oza checked the facts. The audio engineer was Alex Drewenskus.

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Never happy? Humans tend to imagine how life could be better : Short Wave - NPR

Human Behavior

People who feel unhappy but hide it well usually exhibit these 9 behaviors – Hack Spirit

Theres a fine line between expressing your unhappiness and concealing it.

Often, people who feel unhappy choose to hide it, putting on a brave face for the world. But, as they say, actions speak louder than words.

Those who are adept at masking their true feelings often exhibit certain behaviors. They might not be immediately apparent, but if you know what to look for, the signs are there.

In this article, well delve into the nine behaviors commonly displayed by individuals who are feeling unhappy but are remarkably good at hiding it. You just might gain a deeper understanding of those around you or even yourself.

Lets get started.

People who are unhappy but good at hiding it have become experts in the art of deflection.

Deflection is a psychological term used to describe the act of shifting the focus from oneself to something or someone else. Its a clever trick that unhappy individuals often use to avoid talking about their own feelings or issues.

For instance, when asked how theyre doing, they may quickly change the subject or divert attention to other peoples problems. Their ability to skillfully steer conversations away from their own emotional state can be quite subtle, making it hard for others to pick up on their unhappiness.

However, if you notice that someone consistently avoids talking about themselves or their feelings, it could be a sign that theyre hiding their unhappiness.

A word of caution though not everyone who deflects is unhappy, some might just be private individuals. Hence, its important not to jump to conclusions based only on this behavior.

You might think that a person who laughs frequently and heartily is genuinely happy. But sometimes, laughter can be a mask for hidden unhappiness.

I remember a friend of mine, lets call him Tom. Tom was always the life of the party, cracking jokes and making everyone around him laugh. His laughter was infectious, and it made him seem like the happiest person in the room.

Yet, behind closed doors, Tom confided in me that he was actually struggling with feelings of unhappiness and loneliness. He used humor as a way to hide his true feelings and to keep people from asking too many questions about his personal life.

It was a shocking revelation, as from the outside, Tom appeared to be the epitome of happiness. This experience taught me that excessive laughter can sometimes be a way for people to camouflage their unhappiness.

Again, this isnt to say that everyone who laughs a lot is unhappy. But if someones laughter seems forced or excessive, it could be a sign that theyre not as happy as they appear to be.

Unhappy people who hide their feelings well may also become excessively generous, both with their time and resources.

This behavior stems from the belief that helping others will fill the void theyre feeling inside.

If you notice someone consistently going above and beyond for others, often at the expense of their own needs or wellbeing, they could be masking their feelings of unhappiness.

Generosity isnt a definitive sign of hidden unhappiness. Many people are naturally altruistic and find genuine joy in helping others.

Work can be a great distraction from personal issues, and unhappy people often use it as a means to escape their feelings.

You might notice that theyre always the first to arrive and the last to leave. Or maybe theyre constantly taking on extra projects or responsibilities, even when their plate is already full.

They might be praised for their dedication and hard work, but underneath it all, this could be a way of suppressing their unhappiness. Immersing themselves in work allows them to avoid confronting their feelings or dealing with personal issues.

Again, its crucial not to jump to conclusions. Some people genuinely love their work and thrive in a busy environment.

But if someone seems to be using work as an escape, it might be an indicator of hidden unhappiness.

Perfectionism can sometimes be a sign of concealed unhappiness. People dealing with inner turmoil often hold themselves to unrealistically high standards.

They strive for perfection in everything they do, hoping that success and accomplishment will bring them the happiness they seek. But the truth is, this constant pursuit of perfection often leads to added stress and disappointment.

You might notice them getting overly upset over minor mistakes or spending excessive time on tasks to get them just right. This relentless pursuit of perfection is often their way of compensating for feelings of inadequacy or unhappiness.

While striving for excellence is admirable, extreme perfectionism can sometimes be a mask for underlying emotional distress.

Its heartbreaking to think that the ones who often need the most support are the same ones who tend to push people away.

People hiding their unhappiness often choose isolation, believing that its easier to deal with their feelings alone rather than burden others with their problems. They might decline invites, avoid social events, or spend extended periods alone.

While everyone needs some alone time, consistent isolation can be a sign of concealed unhappiness. These individuals might be silently crying out for help, even as they push the world away.

Its essential to approach such individuals with patience and understanding. Sometimes, knowing that someone cares can make all the difference in the world to them.

I used to catch myself staring into space, my mind a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions. My smile was there, my laughter loud, but my eyes often gave me away. They would glaze over as if I was somewhere else, lost in my own world.

People concealing their unhappiness often appear to be deep in thought or daydreaming. Its like theyre physically present but mentally miles away. This is because their minds are preoccupied with their internal struggle, causing them to disconnect from their surroundings.

If you notice someone frequently zoning out or seeming distant, it may be a sign that theyre dealing with hidden unhappiness.

Its not always easy to reach out, especially when were not sure whats going on, but a simple Are you okay? can go a long way.

Sleep can often be a casualty when someone is dealing with hidden unhappiness. You might notice that theyre either sleeping too much or too little.

Some people find solace in sleep, using it as an escape from their feelings. They might sleep for extended periods, often appearing tired or lethargic during the day.

On the other hand, some people may struggle with insomnia due to their internal turmoil. Their minds might be too active or anxious to allow them a good nights sleep.

Either way, if you notice a significant change in someones sleeping patterns, it could be an indicator that theyre hiding their inner unhappiness.

As always, approach with care and understanding. Its not easy dealing with emotional distress, and a kind word or gesture can mean a lot.

When it comes to hiding unhappiness, one of the most common behaviors is the reluctance to discuss personal feelings.

People dealing with hidden pain often feel that expressing their emotions makes them vulnerable or burdensome. They might downplay their feelings or outright avoid discussing them.

If you notice that someone consistently sidesteps emotional conversations or dismisses their own feelings, it could be a sign that theyre dealing with concealed unhappiness.

Offering a listening ear can sometimes be the greatest gift you can give to someone whos silently suffering. Your understanding and empathy could be the first step towards their healing journey.

Peeling back the layers of human behavior is a complex process, often revealing more questions than answers. Our behaviors are influenced by a multitude of factors, from our personal experiences to our biochemistry.

Individuals are more likely to hide their true feelings when they believe that expressing them would cause others discomfort or distress. This suggests that those who are adept at masking their unhappiness might be doing so out of consideration for others.

At the end of the day, understanding these behaviors is not about labeling or diagnosing, but rather about cultivating empathy and compassion. If we can recognize these signs in those around us, we can reach out, offer support, and remind them that theyre not alone in their struggle.

Unhappiness is an intricate part of the human experience, and its something that many of us try to hide. But remember, its okay not to be okay. And sometimes, acknowledging this is the first step towards healing.

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People who feel unhappy but hide it well usually exhibit these 9 behaviors - Hack Spirit

Human Behavior

If you display these 9 behaviors, you’re being passive aggressive without realizing it – Hack Spirit

Sometimes the line between being polite and being passive-aggressive can get blurry.

We often find ourselves acting in ways that seem innocuous but might be subtly hostile.

Passive aggression is essentially a way of expressing dissatisfaction or resentment covertly.

Its the silent anger that bubbles under the surface.

This behavior often arises from an inability to voice our feelings openly and honestly.

We may not even be aware were doing it.

Ill outline 9 behaviors that could mean youre being passive aggressive without even realizing it.

By recognizing these signs, you can start to address the issue and communicate more effectively.

Weve all been there. Someone compliments you, but theres a slight twist that turns it into an insult.

Its a classic move in the passive-aggressive playbook.

Backhanded compliments are a sneaky way of criticizing someone while appearing to be polite.

It allows the person giving the compliment to express their negative feelings without directly confronting the issue.

For example, saying something like Youre so brave to wear that outfit. I could never pull it off might seem like a compliment at first glance.

But its a subtle dig at the persons choice of clothing.

If you catch yourself frequently giving these types of remarks, you may be expressing passive aggression without even realizing it.

Its important to be aware of this behavior so you can address it and communicate in a more direct, honest way.

I remember when sarcasm was my default mode of communication.

I thought it was just a quirky part of my personality, adding a cheeky charm to my day-to-day interactions.

But then, a close friend sat me down and explained how my constant sarcasm felt like a veiled form of criticism.

They couldnt tell when I was joking or when I was genuinely annoyed. It was a wake-up call.

Sarcasm can be a form of wit and humor, but it can also be used as a tool for passive aggression.

You say something sarcastic to express your annoyance but mask it as a joke. Its an indirect way of expressing your true feelings.

Using sarcasm, especially in moments of frustration or upset, may unconsciously reveal a tendency to employ passive-aggressive tactics.

Recognizing this behavior is vital, as it enables clearer and more honest communication.

Did you know that chronic lateness can be a form of passive aggression? Its true.

Being late might seem like a small inconvenience, but if its a consistent behavior, it could be a way of expressing resentment or asserting control.

When youre regularly late, it sends a message that your time is more important than the other persons.

Its a subtle way of showing disrespect without having to confront the issue directly.

Consistently being late might not solely stem from inadequate time management; it could indicate an underlying passive-aggressive tendency.

The initial step towards improvement involves recognizing this behavior, paving the way for enhanced relationships.

Silence can be golden, but not when its used as a weapon.

The silent treatment is a classic passive-aggressive move.

Its a way of expressing anger or dissatisfaction without having to say a word.

By refusing to communicate, youre punishing the other person without openly confronting the issue.

Its an indirect way of expressing your feelings, and it can be incredibly damaging to relationships.

The inclination to employ the silent treatment when upset could suggest an underlying passive-aggressive behavior.

The key to cultivating healthier communication habits is the recognition of this behavior.

We all forget things from time to time its human.

But when forgetting becomes a habit, especially when it pertains to tasks youd rather not do or events youd rather not attend, it might be a sign of passive aggression.

Consistently forgetting is a way to avoid responsibility while avoiding confrontation.

Its a subtle form of rebellion, expressing your displeasure without having to voice it.

Regularly forgetting commitments might extend beyond a simple memory lapse; it could indicate inadvertent displays of passive-aggressive behavior.

Recognizing this habit is crucial, prompting the need to strive for more direct communication.

Playing the victim can tug at heartstrings. Weve all had moments where we feel like the world is against us, and thats perfectly normal.

However, if you notice a pattern of always portraying yourself as the innocent party in every conflict or difficult situation, this could be a sign of passive-aggressive behavior.

By playing the victim, youre able to express your dissatisfaction or anger without having to confront it directly.

Instead, youre subtly shifting the blame onto others, avoiding responsibility for your own actions.

Recognizing this behavior is a big step towards more open and honest communication.

Its about taking responsibility for our actions and understanding that its okay to express our feelings directly, rather than resorting to blame and avoidance.

There was a time when fine was my go-to response whenever someone asked me how I was doing.

Regardless of what I was truly feeling, fine seemed like the easiest and safest way to respond.

However, consistently responding with fine when youre not can be a sign of passive-aggressive behavior.

Its an easy way to avoid expressing your true feelings and it serves as a mask to hide behind.

If fine has become your automatic response, it might be worth examining why that is.

It could be that youre using it as a passive-aggressive tactic to avoid conflict or discomfort.

Recognizing this can pave the way for more open and honest communication.

Criticism is a part of life. We all face it, and we all dish it out at times.

But theres a difference between constructive criticism and consistently being subtly critical.

Subtle criticism is a classic passive-aggressive behavior. Its a way of expressing dissatisfaction or disappointment without directly confronting the issue.

Often, its cloaked in humor or disguised as a harmless observation.

If you find yourself frequently making subtle digs or putting others down in a roundabout way, you might be displaying passive-aggressive behavior without realizing it.

Recognizing this habit is the first step towards more direct and healthy communication.

Everyone thrives on recognition and praise. Its a basic human need.

But intentionally withholding praise or recognition, especially when its deserved, can be a form of passive aggression.

Its a way of expressing your dissatisfaction or resentment without voicing it directly.

By failing to acknowledge someones achievements or efforts, youre subtly indicating your displeasure or disapproval.

Holding back deserved praise regularly may signal an underlying passive-aggressive tendency.

Acknowledging this pattern is essential to foster healthier and more direct communication habits.

The complexities of human behavior are deeply fascinating, and passive aggression is no exception.

This indirect form of expressing dissatisfaction or resentment can be rather elusive, often flying under the radar of our self-awareness.

Sigmund Freud, the father of psychoanalysis, once said, Unexpressed emotions will never die. They are buried alive and will come forth later in uglier ways.

This could not be truer for passive-aggressive behavior.

If were displaying any of the behaviors discussed in this article, its crucial to take a step back and examine why that might be.

Are we afraid of conflict? Are we struggling to express our feelings directly?

Are we holding back due to fear of rejection or judgment?

Understanding our behavior is the first step towards change.

By acknowledging and addressing our passive-aggressive tendencies, we can start to improve our communication skills and build healthier relationships.

At the end of the day, its all about self-awareness. And with self-awareness comes the power to change.

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If you display these 9 behaviors, you're being passive aggressive without realizing it - Hack Spirit

Human Behavior

Men who are relationship-oriented by nature usually display these 9 behaviors – Hack Spirit

Navigating the world of dating and relationships isnt always easy.

Especially when trying to figure out if a man is relationship-oriented or not.

But heres the thing men who are naturally inclined towards relationships often display certain behaviors.

These behaviors are like telltale signs, whispering to us that yes, this guy is serious about commitment.

Now, Ive rounded up 9 of these behaviors that are typical of men who are relationship-oriented.

Lets delve into them, shall we?

Communication. Its the cornerstone of any successful relationship.

And guess what? Men who are relationship-oriented understand this.

They dont just understand it they live by it.

Theyre not afraid to express their feelings, thoughts, or concerns.

Theyre open, honest, and straightforward.

To them, a good conversation isnt just about talking; its about listening too.

This means that theyll actively engage in conversations, ask questions, and genuinely show interest in what you have to say.

When you find a man who values communication as much as you do thats a pretty solid sign hes relationship-oriented.

Its about making a conscious effort to keep the lines of communication open and honest.

Thats what matters.

Ive been in enough relationships to know that time and effort are two major ingredients for a successful partnership.

And when it comes to relationship-oriented men, they understand this too.

They know the value of investing their time and effort into building a strong and healthy relationship.

Let me share a personal example. My current partner, Ben, is a relationship-oriented man.

From the very beginning, he made it clear that he was ready to invest his time and energy into our relationship.

Whether its planning thoughtful dates, making time for deep conversations, or helping me with day-to-day tasks, Bens actions consistently show me that hes committed to us.

His willingness to invest in our relationship is one of the main reasons why weve been able to build such a strong bond.

Empathy is a powerful thing.

Its the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, and its a key trait in men who are relationship-oriented.

These men have a knack for putting themselves in your shoes.

They can sense when youre feeling down, and theyre quick to provide comfort or solutions when needed.

And heres something you might not know studies have shown that empathy can be a predictor of relationship satisfaction.

Observing consistent displays of empathy from a man is a strong indicator that he places high value on relationships and is likely oriented towards fostering meaningful connections with others.

Another trait of relationship-oriented men is their respect for boundaries.

Respect is a fundamental aspect of any healthy relationship, and its not just about treating each other with kindness and dignity.

Its also about understanding and respecting each others personal space, time, and needs.

Whether its acknowledging your need for alone time or respecting your decisions, a relationship-oriented man understands the importance of boundaries.

They know that for a relationship to thrive, both partners need to feel comfortable and secure.

He understands that a successful relationship is built on mutual respect and trust.

Consistency is key in a relationship, and men who are relationship-oriented understand this.

They dont play mind games or keep you guessing about their feelings.

Theyre reliable, and dependable, and their actions match their words.

Take note if a man is consistent in his behavior towards you.

Does he consistently show up when he says he will?

Does he call or text when he promised to? Is he reliable in his actions and behavior?

They understand that consistency builds trust, and trust is the foundation of any successful relationship.

Theres something beautiful about being with someone who isnt afraid to express their love for you.

Men who are relationship-oriented dont just feel love, they show it.

They understand that actions speak louder than words, and they make a point to express their love in the ways that matter most to you.

Maybe its a warm hug after a long day, a surprise dinner at your favorite restaurant, or simply holding your hand during a walk in the park.

These small gestures, often dismissed as insignificant, hold so much weight.

Its in these moments, these quiet expressions of love, where you truly see the depth of their feelings for you.

We all have dreams and aspirations, things we want to achieve in life. And having a partner who supports those dreams?

Thats priceless.

Men who are relationship-oriented dont just support your dreams, they become a part of them.

They cheer you on, offer advice, and help you navigate the challenges that come your way.

Take my partner for example.

When I decided to pursue my passion for writing full-time, he was my biggest cheerleader.

He encouraged me when I doubted myself, celebrated my successes, and even helped me brainstorm ideas late into the night.

This kind of support not only strengthens the bond of a relationship but also creates a sense of partnership.

In a relationship, your voice matters. And men who are relationship-oriented understand this.

They value your opinions and consider them when making decisions.

They dont dismiss your thoughts or try to overpower you with their views.

Instead, they engage in healthy discussions, listen to your perspective, and respect your viewpoint even if it differs from theirs.

This shows that he sees you as an equal partner and values your input in the relationship.

At the end of the day, it all boils down to one thing commitment.

Men who are relationship-oriented are committed.

Theyre not just committed to you, theyre committed to the relationship and everything that comes with it the good times, the bad times, and everything in between.

They understand that relationships require work, patience, and a whole lot of understanding. And theyre willing to put in the effort to make the relationship work.

This commitment is the strongest indicator that he values you and sees a future with you.

Peeling back the layers of human behavior, especially when it comes to matters of the heart, is like trying to solve a complex puzzle.

The way we love, the way we form attachments, and our orientation toward relationships are often rooted in our upbringing, experiences, and even our genetic makeup.

When it comes to men who are relationship-oriented, theres no one-size-fits-all. They come in different shapes and sizes, with their own unique set of behaviors and characteristics.

But one thing remains constant their commitment to building a meaningful and lasting relationship.

Love is not just about finding the right person.

Its also about understanding their behaviors, respecting their decisions, and embracing their unique ways of expressing love.

Because at the end of the day, love is a complex puzzle thats worth solving.

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Men who are relationship-oriented by nature usually display these 9 behaviors - Hack Spirit

Human Behavior

A look at the curious ‘winter break’ behavior of ChatGPT-4 – ReadWrite

The worlds most popular generative artificial intelligence (AI) is getting lazy as the winter draws in thats the claim from some astute ChatGPT users.

According to a recent ArsTechnica report in late November, users of ChatGPT, the AI chatbot powered by OpenAIs natural language model GPT-4, began noticing something strange. In response to certain requests, GPT-4 was refusing to complete tasks or providing simplified lazy answers instead of the typically detailed responses.

OpenAI acknowledged the issue but claimed they did not intentionally update the model. Some now speculate this laziness may be an unintended consequence of GPT-4 mimicking seasonal human behavior changes.

Dubbed the winter break hypothesis, the theory suggests that because GPT-4 is fed the current date, it has learned from its vast training data that people tend to wrap up big projects and slow down in December. Researchers are urgently investigating whether this seemingly absurd idea holds weight. The fact its being taken seriously underscores the unpredictable and human-like nature of large language models (LLMs) like GPT-4.

On November 24th, a Reddit user reported asking GPT-4 to populate a large CSV file, but it only provided one entry as a template. On December 1st, OpenAIs Will Depue confirmed awareness of laziness issues related to over-refusals and committed to fixing them.

Some argue GPT-4 was always sporadically lazy, and recent observations are merely confirmation bias. However, the timing of users noticing more refusals after the November 11th update to GPT-4 Turbo is interesting if coincidental and some assumed it was a new method for OpenAI to save on computing.

On December 9, developer Rob Lynch found GPT-4 generated 4,086 characters when given a December date prompt versus 4,298 for a May date. Although AI researcher Ian Arawjo couldnt reproduce Lynchs results to a statistically significant degree, the subjective nature of sampling bias with LLMs makes reproducibility notoriously difficult. As researchers rush to investigate, the theory continues intriguing the AI community.

Geoffrey Litt of Anthropic, Claudes creator, called it the funniest theory ever, yet admitted its challenging to rule out given all the weird ways LLMs react to human-style prompting and encouragement, as shown by the increasingly weird prompts. For example, research shows GPT models produce improved math scores when told to take a deep breath, while the promise of a tip lengthens completions. The lack of transparency around potential changes to GPT-4 makes even unlikely theories worth exploring.

This episode demonstrates the unpredictability of large language models and the new methodologies required to understand their ever-emergent capabilities and limitations. It also shows the global collaboration underway to urgently assess AI advances that impact society. Finally, its a reminder that todays LLMs still require extensive supervision and testing before being responsibly deployed in real-world applications.

The winter break hypothesis behind GPT-4s apparent seasonal laziness may prove false or offer new insights that improve future iterations. Either way, this curious case exemplifies the strangely anthropomorphic nature of AI systems and the priority of understanding risks alongside pursuing rapid innovations.

Featured Image: Pexels

Radek Zielinski is an experienced technology and financial journalist with a passion for cybersecurity and futurology.

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A look at the curious 'winter break' behavior of ChatGPT-4 - ReadWrite