Redefining Patience: A Psychological Exploration
December 20, 2024 - 14:30
Patience, often considered a virtue, has long been a concept that eludes clear definition. UC Riverside psychology researcher Kate Sweeny has taken a closer look at this intriguing trait, questioning its traditional associations. While philosophers and religious scholars extol patience as a moral quality, Sweeny notes a common sentiment among individuals who identify more with impatience. This discrepancy prompted her to investigate whether patience is truly linked to moral character or if it is more about our coping mechanisms in the face of everyday frustrations.
In her research, Sweeny aims to delineate the characteristics of both patience and impatience, exploring the underlying factors that influence these behaviors. By examining how people respond to delays and obstacles, she hopes to uncover the psychological elements that shape our experiences of waiting and frustration. This inquiry not only seeks to clarify the nature of patience but also challenges the notion of it being an inherent virtue, suggesting instead that it may be more about our responses to life's challenges.
MORE NEWS
February 23, 2026 - 20:03
The Brain Science Behind the MunchiesNew research is providing fascinating insights into the well-known phenomenon of `the munchies,` revealing the precise neurological mechanisms that cannabis activates to stimulate appetite. The...
February 23, 2026 - 08:11
5 moments when one should stay silent at work, as per psychologyIn the constant hum of the modern office, where speaking up is often equated with competence, choosing silence can feel counterintuitive. However, psychological research reveals that strategic...
February 22, 2026 - 23:45
The Evolutionary Psychology Fueling Our Fascination with IncelsDespite representing a tiny fraction of the population, the concept of the `involuntary celibate,` or incel, commands disproportionate attention in media and public discourse. Researchers now...
February 22, 2026 - 02:03
Local students present research at UNG psychology eventDAHLONEGA, Ga. — University of North Georgia students are preparing to showcase their work at UNG’s Annual Research Conference on March 20, building on a tradition of academic excellence. The...