Dark traits
The darker aspects of human psychology and toxic behaviors. Traits and attitudes that harm others or undermine personal growth. The goal is to understand these patterns to recognize, avoid, and overcome them, both in others and within ourselves.
Level 1
Personal attacks are the lowest form of debate: attack the argument, not the person
Why Schopenhauer’s “last resort” ruins thinking and how to debate without it. When conversations get tense, the easiest move is…
videoMedCircle: mental health interviews with psychiatrists & psychologists
Mental health interviews with world-class psychiatrists & psychologists, providing mental health advice packed with actionable takeaways and clear explanations of…
Saying “Sorry you feel that way” is a gaslighting tactic that hurts
Gaslighting is a form of psychological abuse that makes a person doubt their own experience and judgment. One common way…
Manipulative phrases people use to control conversations
11 common phrases that are subtly manipulative, often used to control or guilt others. Examples include “Don’t you trust me?”…
Level 2
Kind-hearted people often end up with narcissists and here is how to break the pattern
Why do some people seem to act like magnets for narcissistic partners or friends? Relationship writer Catherine Winter highlights eight…
Understanding emotional overreactions as echoes of past trauma improves adult communication
Emotional reactions in adult relationships can be disproportionate because they are linked to unresolved childhood trauma rather than the current…
A clear sense of purpose helps your personality grow at any age
Many people believe that personality is set early in life. A growing line of research suggests otherwise. New evidence shows…
4 common gaslighting phrases and what to say instead
Avoid these 4 common gaslighting phrases, like 'you're too sensitive,' that a psychologist says unintentionally invalidate feelings. Learn what to say instead.
Venting does not reduce anger, but cognitive reappraisal does
Lowering arousal, not venting, is key to anger management New research from Ohio State University, published in Clinical Psychology Review,…
Effective tactics to expose a manipulator
Manipulators thrive on control and subtle tactics to influence others. Effective ways to catch them off guard include setting clear…
Level 3
Can an AI “Gaslighting Detector” help you see manipulation clearly?
AI “gaslighting detectors” can help you spot manipulation patterns (but they can’t replace context or real support). Here’s how to use them safely.
Intelligent people prefer dark humor
The study titled “Cognitive and emotional demands of black humour processing: the role of intelligence, aggressiveness, and mood” was published…
Subtle behaviors that unintentionally emit negative vibes
Certain subtle behaviors can cause individuals to unknowingly give off negative vibes. These include frequent complaining, closed body language, interrupting…
AI accurately predicts narcissism from LinkedIn profiles
Predicting narcissism and intelligence from LinkedIn profiles using machine learning Machine learning algorithms can accurately predict narcissism and intelligence from…
Survey: the worst passive-aggressive phrases
Passive aggressive communication means hinting at anger or blame instead of saying it openly. A new consumer survey of Americans…
Venting anger does not work, but calming activities effectively reduce rage
Venting anger by screaming or hitting adds fuel to the fire. A new study shows that calming activities like deep breathing are the real key to reduce anger.