When picturing a “typical” alcoholic, people tend to imagine a person drinking at home alone. But that focus overlooks the social origins of many serious alcohol problems, say the authors of a new review paper in the journal Current Directions in Psychological Science.

An intriguing editorial in the Psychedelics journal announces an expanded focus beyond traditional psychedelic compounds to include the full spectrum of consciousness-altering substances. Editor-in-Chief Dr. Julio Licinio frames this approach as part of humanity's ongoing quest to transcend our inherent incompleteness.

A new study published in The American Naturalist links grazing halo patterns in coral reefs, as well as those in other patchy habitats, to the spatial patterns of the shelter habitat itself. The researchers found that grazing halos are distinct when the coral is clustered but merge into each other when the coral is dispersed. According to the lead author, "...gaining a better understanding of how halo patterns reflect reef community dynamics may be useful in reef conservation efforts."

Friendship comes with complex pros and cons – possibly explaining why some individuals are less sociable, according to a new study of gorillas.

Snuff tubes uncovered at Chavin de Huantar in Peru reveal how leaders used mystical experiences to cement their power.