Christian Jarrett
Dr Christian Jarrett is a cognitive neuroscientist, science writer and author. He is the Editor of Psyche, the sister magazine to Aeon that illuminates the human condition through psychology, philosophy and the arts. Jarrett also created the British Psychological Society's Research Digest blog and was the first ever staff journalist on the Society's magazine, The Psychologist. He is author of Great Myths of The Brain and Be Who You Want: Unlocking the Science of Personality Change.
Recent articles by Christian Jarrett
We’re replacing babies with dogs. And it could be making us happier
While fertility rates in the developed world are falling, more and more of us are choosing to parent pooches
What is it like to die? The reassuring science of near-death experiences
They leave their bodies, witness a bright light and return forever changed. But do survivors of near-death experiences truly glimpse into the great beyond? New research into the brain's final moments could decode these visions at life's edge.
Here's what 'porn addiction' actually is (and how to manage it)
While a source of shame for some, there’s little hard evidence that X-rated sites are harmful or even addictive to regular users.
Does your name affect your physical appearance?
What's in a name? A lot, actually
Why do I find it so difficult to switch between tasks?
Why are we so bad at multitasking? A neuroscientist explains.
What actually causes depression in the brain?
Depression is more complicated than you might think
The simple ways you can change your personality, according to a cognitive neuroscientist
Want to become more confident, extroverted or assertive? Science shows that with a few simple changes, you can unlock your best self.
Which generation is the most hypersensitive?
The answer isn't quite as simple as you might think.
I'm a neuroscientist. Here's the surprising truth about TikTok 'brain rot'
A recent study suggests bingeing short-form videos is bad for your grey matter.
It’s time to change your relationship with dopamine
Going on a ‘dopamine detox’ probably isn’t going to boost your mood and focus.
How many fathers are unknowingly raising children that aren't theirs?
A surprisingly common issue that is occurring around the world.
4 simple, science-backed ways to build habits that stick
Baby steps can make a big difference.
What is a collapsed narcissist?
A certain type of narcissist carries extra risk with a rage not seen elsewhere.
The psychological tricks you need to survive your family this Christmas
Affective labelling and scheduled escapes: the psychological tactics you need for a merry (and sane) Christmas.
How to catch a pathological liar in the act
What’s different about the minds and personalities of prolific liars?
Good habits are life-changing: A psychologist's guide to hacking your brain's autopilot
Our lives are filled with habitual behaviours, both good and bad, but how do they form and how can we build better ones?
Why do I self-sabotage so much?
Actions which hurt your chance of success can come from low self-esteem – here are a few tips to break the habit.
How do I stop taking things personally?
Try not to take it to heart.
What we're all getting wrong about infidelity, according to science
There is more than one way to be unfaithful to your partner.
Why do I keep seeing faces in everything?
Spotting faces in clouds and toast? It could mean you're a creative genius.
I feel like nothing I ever do is good enough. How do I get out of this mindset?
Turn that frown upside down. Your best is good enough.
Can embracing the Japanese concept of ikigai help me live longer?
A cognitive neuroscientist explains the science behind this ancient art.
How can I get better at taking compliments?
You'll never find yourself blushing and clamouring for words again.
What is shadow work? And could embracing my shadow self boost my mental health?
No, it doesn't involve hiding in dark corners.