We recently wrote a blog on a recent study that finds that an individual’s use of facial expressions, such as smiles, is related to the migratory history of where they’re from. More specifically, the recent research suggests that if you come from a country of immigrants, you’re more likely to crack a friendly smile on the street.

A recent Science Podcast highlighted this research in their May 8 show. You can listen to the podcast in it’s entirety here. Fast forward to 6:45 to listen to the research on smiles!

The entire article entitled Long history migration explains cultural differences in emotional expressivity and the social function of smiles is available via this link.

Research shows a vital connection between children’s emotional health and their academic performance. Retired University of Washington professor of psychology Dr. John Gottman is well known for his research on marriage.  After 14 years of studying 650 couples with the aid of videotape and sensors, Gottman needs only a half hour with a couple to predict with 90 percent accuracy whether they will stay married.

Gottman has also made important discoveries about young children, their emotional health, and early learning. Learning CurveOne study shows that in two thirds of relationships, couples had a big drop in happiness and both fighting and hostility increased, after the birth of their first child. This in turn affected their parenting. Parents, who are sensitive to their baby and its signals, have babies that are more confident and more secure, which leads them to learn better.

Click here to view the embedded video.