As a behavioral scientist with a Ph.D. in Psychology and Human Behavior Analysis, Dr. Abbie Maroño finds human behavior to be a fascinating subject. She highlights two aspects of human behavior that stand out to her as particularly intriguing: the role of unconscious processes in decision-making and the impact of our thoughts on our biology. Research in psychology and neuroscience has shown that a significant portion of our decisions and behaviors are influenced by unconscious processes. Our brains constantly process information below the level of conscious awareness, guiding our choices and actions through automatic responses, habits, and gut feelings. This means that much of our daily behavior is shaped by past experiences and learned behaviors, rather than deliberate reasoning.
One example that illustrates the influence of unconscious processes on decision-making is reaching for a specific brand of cereal at the grocery store. Without much thought, we may be influenced by past positive experiences with the brand, its prominent placement on the shelf, or subtle cues from advertisements. These factors are processed by our brains below the level of conscious awareness, guiding seemingly automatic decisions. This demonstrates how our unconscious mind plays a significant role in shaping our behaviors.
Dr. Maroño also emphasizes the impact of our thoughts on our biology. Negative self-talk, for example, has been shown to increase cortisol levels, the body’s primary stress hormone, leading to heightened stress and anxiety. On the other hand, positive self-talk and affirmations can help reduce cortisol levels, promoting a sense of calm and well-being. The placebo effect is another example of how our thoughts can influence our biology, leading to real improvements in health outcomes through the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. Studies have shown that belief in treatment can trigger biological changes in the brain, affecting physical health outcomes.
Research using brain imaging techniques has demonstrated that patients who receive a placebo for pain relief exhibit increased activity in brain areas associated with pain modulation, similar to the effects observed with actual pain-relieving drugs. Additionally, the placebo effect has been linked to the activation of the brain’s reward system, involving the release of dopamine. These findings highlight the powerful connection between psychological factors and physiological responses, showing how the mind can play a significant role in healing. The placebo effect underscores the influence of belief in treatment on biological changes in the brain, leading to improved health outcomes.
In conclusion, Dr. Abbie Maroño finds the role of unconscious processes in decision-making and the impact of our thoughts on our biology to be the most intriguing aspects of human behavior. Research in psychology and neuroscience has shown that much of our behavior is driven by unconscious cognitive processes shaped by past experiences and learned behaviors. Additionally, our thoughts have a profound impact on our biology, influencing stress hormone levels, pain modulation, and physical health outcomes. These discoveries shed light on the complex interplay between psychological factors and physiological responses, showcasing the power of the mind in shaping human behavior and health.
