Show Notes
In an age of increasing distractions, researchers have found that spending time in nature can be an antidote that helps us restore our focus and attention. Marc Berman, PhD, talks about why natural environments are “softly fascinating” and why that’s beneficial for the brain; why even cold, rainy walks can be good for you; whether bringing nature inside – through plants, art or patterns – may have some benefits; and what implications this research has for policymakers, urban planners and others who shape our physical world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
More from Speaking of Psychology
Whether it’s grumbling about a boss, the weather, or a spouse’s most annoying habit, we all complain. Robin Kowalski, PhD, of Clemson University, discusses why we complain; the difference between venting and complaining to get results; how to complain in a way that doesn’t wear people out; and how mindfulness can help you complain less. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Digital tools now help teach students everything from spelling to math to science -- but flashy features don’t always translate to learning. Nicole Barnes, PhD, executive lead psychologist for education at the American Psychological Association and lead author of a new report on children’s and adolescents’ learning with educational technology, discusses how to tell the difference between engagement and real learning; why generative AI tools call for extra caution; and what teachers offer that technology can’t replace. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Many of us have trouble switching off from work, whether it's staying late at the office, checking messages on vacation, or lying awake running through tomorrow's to-do list. Malissa Clark, PhD, of the University of Georgia, discusses how workaholism differs from simply working hard; why it's about more than hours on the clock; how it affects physical health, mental health and relationships; and how workplaces can encourage a healthier relationship with work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We've all felt a pang of envy watching a friend's success or a colleague's promotion. But does this much-maligned emotion deserve its negative reputation? Psychologist Jens Lange, PhD, and philosopher Sara Protasi, PhD, discuss the difference between envy and jealousy; why we're often most envious of the people closest to us; and how envy may, in the right circumstances, motivate us to grow. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Burnout gets all the attention, but some employees struggle with a different problem: chronic boredom on the job, sometimes called "boreout." Lotta Harju, PhD, of EM Lyon Business School, and Sharon K. Parker, PhD, of Curtin University, discuss how boreout differs from burnout, how it can affect workers’ health and well-being, and what individuals, managers and organizations can do to design more engaging work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices