Scientists have identified the brain circuitry that drives spiny mice to prefer larger social groups. The study shows that neural signaling from the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) to the lateral septum (LS) promotes social group-size preference. When this circuit was turned off, male mice preferred smaller groups, while female mice showed no preference. This research opens up new models for studying complex social behaviors and may provide insights into human social interactions.

During social interactions, human and dog brain activity becomes synchronized, with mutual gazing and petting enhancing this connection. Over five days, synchronization between human-dog pairs increased with familiarity, suggesting a leader-follower dynamic, where humans lead and dogs follow.

Increasing knowledge can lead to negative outcomes when individuals use it for self-interest rather than collective good. Researchers argue that enhanced knowledge can reduce cooperation among rational individuals, potentially worsening overall welfare.

Researchers have discovered how the brain's neural circuits regulate imitative behavior, a key component of social interaction. Using a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, the study shows how specific motor circuits either enhance or inhibit imitation, shedding light on potential clinical applications.

New research reveals why alcohol makes people feel happier in social settings but not when drinking alone. Using fruit flies, scientists discovered that dopamine in the brain plays a key role in amplifying the euphoric effects of alcohol during social interactions.

American adults typically have more friends than recent surveys suggest, with fewer reporting no friends at all. The survey found that an average American adult has four to five friends, and only 2% reported being friendless. Despite general satisfaction, many adults wish for closer friendships and more time with friends. These findings challenge recent concerns about increasing loneliness and declining friendships.

A new study reveals that a person's face tends to evolve to suit their name, demonstrating the profound impact of social expectations. The research showed that adults' faces could be matched to their names with high accuracy, while children's faces could not.

A study reveals that demonstratives like 'this' and 'that' not only indicate distance but also direct attention, linking language to social cognition. Researchers found that the meaning of demonstratives varies across languages and is influenced by the listener's focus. This study involved speakers of ten languages and used computational modeling to understand these dynamics. The findings suggest that attention manipulation is an inherent part of language, embedded in demonstratives.