We’re talking human behavior, communication, war, politics, and why violence keeps showing up in human history even when it makes absolutely no sense. From how language shapes the way we think and react, to how power, reinforcement, and political incentives keep conflict alive, we try to unpack what’s really driving it all.This conversation bounces between psychology, history, and modern global conflict — not from a “here’s the answer” place, but from a why do humans keep doing this? place.Along the way, we talk about:How communication and language shape behavior and social normsWhy war is usually less about ideology and more about power and politicsThe role reinforcement plays in violence and conflictHow historical events still influence modern warfareThe ripple effects of war beyond the battlefieldWhy global cooperation matters if we actually want a more peaceful futureWe also spend time questioning whether war is inevitable—or if we’re just really bad at reinforcing alternatives that don’t involve destruction.If you’re into psychology, behavior analysis, history, politics, or just thinking critically about why humans do what they do, this one’s for you. 👇 Connect with us:📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedocanalyzesanything/📧 Email: thedocanalyzesanything@gmail.com

Happy Holidays! We talk all the holiday stuff—how different cultures see Santa, favorite Christmas movies, weird and fun traditions, festive foods, and even creepy myths like Krampus and how they influence behavior. We bounce around to Christmas traditions from all over the world, mixing in random personal stories and stuff we find interesting. It goes from why some people put spider ornaments on their trees, to the Icelandic Yule Lads, to that wild Catalonian pooping log. Mostly it’s just us joking around about food, family traditions, and all the strange (and awesome) ways people celebrate the holidays, and appreciating how different and fun it all is. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Holiday Traditions 02:43 Cultural Perspectives on Santa Claus 04:38 Personal Holiday Experiences and Family Traditions 08:51 Favorite Holiday Movies 15:06 Unique Holiday Celebrations and Customs 20:47 Festive Traditions and Holiday Favorites 24:08 Cultural Significance of Holiday Foods 27:05 The Role of Myths in Holiday Behavior 29:07 Unique Holiday Customs Around the World 36:21 Family Traditions and Their Origins 42:12 The Evolution of Holiday Legends 43:52 Cultural Christmas Traditions 46:47 Unique Holiday Experiences Around the World 48:16 The Pooping Log: A Catalonian Christmas Tradition 51:07 Yule Lads and the Yule Cat: Icelandic Christmas Folklore 53:05 First Footing: Scottish New Year Customs 55:31 Czech Christmas Shoe Tradition 58:21 Guatemalan New Year Rituals 01:03:16 Reflections on Holiday Celebrations

Taylor joins for a battle royale! In this episode, we explore various aspects of human behavior focusing on gender roles and stereotypes in household dynamics, cooking, etc.The challenges women face in professional settings due to gender biases is also touched on, and Steve defends his love of the Air Force One sneaker (or tennis shoe, or shoe...). Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Human Behavior Analysis 03:00 Taylor Welcomed to the show! 05:43 Finding Things in the Refrigerator: A Common Struggle 11:53 Cooking Dynamics: Gender Roles in the Kitchen 17:42 Grilling vs. Cooking 23:41 Cultural Influences on Cooking and Gender Roles 31:11 Cooking with Kids: A Family Affair 33:09 The Man Flu 34:44 Gender Roles in Parenting and Work 39:33 Cultural Perspectives on Illness and Caregiving 48:27 Household Chores 55:02 Footwear and Functionality 56:03 Fashion Trends and Generational Differences 59:15 Comfort vs. Style in Everyday Wear 01:01:47 Sustainable Fashion Choices and Personal Style 01:07:43 Food Preferences and Picky Eating Habits 01:10:30 Future Conversations

Summary In this conversation, Dr. Sparks explores the complexities of addiction, discussing its definitions, the differences between physical and mental addiction, and the role of environment, culture and learning history in shaping addictive behaviors. We talk various forms of addiction, including substance abuse, gambling, and sex addiction, while also examining the impact of technology on modern addiction. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding addiction as a behavioral phenomenon rather than solely a medical diagnosis, emphasizing the need for a nuanced perspective on the topic. For questions, topics, and comments, email us at thedocanalyzesanything@gmail.com!

Summary Dr. Sparks and the crew take an all-over-the-place dive into human behavior and perspective taking. We cover everything from why naming your cookies before eating them feels a bit sadistic, to how we all see colors a little differently, to the way our learning history shapes the way we look at the world. We also get into selective attention, brand loyalty, food preferences, and why some snacks just feel better than others. On top of that, we chat about consumer habits, sustainability, the power of marketing, and how empathy and compassion actually show up in everyday life. Chapters 00:00 The Cheating Game: Naming Cookies 02:47 Perspective Taking: Understanding Different Views 05:32 The Color Debate: Blue vs. Green 08:29 Selective Attention: What We Notice 11:20 The Importance of Names: Attention Grabbers 14:17 The Flashed Face Distortion Effect 17:03 The Blue and Black Dress Phenomenon 20:00 Understanding Behavior: The Jerky Neighbor 23:04 Food Shapes and Perception 26:01 Conclusion: The Power of Perspective 28:00 Delayed Discounting and Consumer Behavior 30:55 The Impact of Learning History on Taste 35:49 Brand Perception and Product Experience 40:08 Sustainability in Consumer Choices 45:28 Cultural Perspectives on Food and Consumption 49:47 The Snow Cone Syndicate 51:15 Dungeons & Dragons: A New Perspective 55:04 Exploring Empathy and Sympathy 01:00:19 Art, Music, and Cultural Shifts 01:06:15 Understanding Empathy: Biological or Learned? 01:12:03 Final Thoughts and Holiday Reflections

Keywords parasocial relationships, intimacy, media celebrity, fan dynamics, one-sided relationships Summary Dr. Sparks and crew look into the concept of parasocial relationships, explaining how fans develop a one-sided intimacy with media celebrities, feeling as if they know them personally despite the lack of reciprocal interaction. Have a topic suggestion? Email us at thedocanalyzesanything@gmail.com !

Join us in this thrilling episode of TDAA as we dive into the world of daredevils! From the legendary Evel Knievel to modern-day thrill-seekers, we explore the psychology and motivations behind these adrenaline-fueled feats. Discover the stories of those who risk it all for fame, fortune, and the ultimate rush. Whether it's jumping over buses or walking tightropes, this episode is packed with daring tales and insightful analysis. Don't miss out on the action! #behavioranalysis #Daredevils #ThrillSeekers #AdrenalineRush

Keywords motivation, intrinsic motivation, extrinsic motivation, psychology, behavior, evolution, learning Summary In this conversation, Dr. Sparks discusses the complexities of motivation, challenging the common belief that intrinsic motivation is superior to extrinsic motivation. He argues that intrinsic motivation is essentially an evolved form of extrinsic motivation, prompting a reevaluation of how we understand these concepts in psychology and behavior.

What's in a name? The Doc and Co. explore the psychology behind naming, discussing its impact on identity, relationships, and emotional connections. We talk about how cultural context shapes our perceptions of names, the evolution of naming from pets to inanimate objects, and the role of superstitions in naming behaviors.    Have something interesting you'd like us to analyze? Email thedocanalyzesanything@gmail.com

We dive into the origins and evolution of Halloween, exploring its roots in the Celtic festival of Samhain, the cultural practices associated with it, and how it has transformed into the modern celebration we know today. Black cats, the merging of pagan and Catholic traditions, and the commercialization of Halloween festivities: let's analyze it! Dr. Sparks gets into the cultural significance of Halloween, discussing its origins, traditions, and personal experiences.

In this episode, Dr. Sparks Kyle and Brad dive into the complexities of anxiety, exploring its role as both a motivator and a challenge in our daily lives. From historical perspectives to modern-day implications, the discussion covers how anxiety can drive us to action or become a debilitating force Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-doc-analyzes-anything/id1818413411 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3aOpUjyNT9JfdCm1yb0SfD?si=751331ebb5244580 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@cooperantlearning

Keywords candy, hot takes, yo-yo tricks, making your bed, boneless wings, apples, banana flavors, olives, pickles, Greek food, cereal, soup, toilet paper preferences, sparkling water   Summary Hey! We're going to explore a variety of topics ranging from Greek food and family traditions to hot takes on food preferences, the debate over whether cereal is a soup, etc. Personal preferences regarding toilet paper and sparkling water - this episode's got it all.   Chapters 00:00 Candy Conundrums: The Gobstopper Debate 02:27 Introduction to Hot Takes: Setting the Stage 04:49 The Invisible Dog: A Hot Take on Behavior 07:46 Yo-Yo Tricks: The Art of Attention 12:47 Making the Bed: A Morning Ritual Debate 19:09 Boneless Wings: The Great Chicken Nugget Debate 21:31 Nostalgia and Wings: A Trip Down Memory Lane 24:04 The Case Race: College Shenanigans 25:23 The Decline of Chewing Gum: A Cultural Shift 28:22 Banana Flavors: Love or Hate? 33:29 Apples: The Great Debate 39:43 Olives: A Divisive Snack 41:03 Greek Food Favorites 43:07 Hot Takes on Food Preferences 44:11 Cereal: A Soup or Not? 47:48 Defining Soup and Sandwiches 01:01:48 The Legacy of Horrocks: 01:03:27 Toilet Paper Preferences: Over or Under?  

Keywords psychology, human behavior, stimulus pairing, Pavlovian conditioning, addiction, sensory stimuli, environmental cues, unlearning behaviors Summary In this episode, Dr. Steve and friends explore the peculiar phenomenon of feeling the urge to use the restroom in specific public places. Takeaways The urge to use the restroom in public places can be linked to psychological conditioning. Stimulus pairing can create strong associations between environments and bodily responses. Pavlovian conditioning explains how neutral stimuli can trigger conditioned responses over time. Sensory stimuli, such as smells, can evoke memories and influence behavior. Environmental cues play a significant role in addiction and cravings. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Bathroom Behavior 02:49 The Phenomenon of Defecation at Kohl's 05:43 Stimulus Pairing and Its Effects 08:43 Pavlov's Conditioning and Behavioral Responses 11:37 The Science Behind Sensory Stimuli 14:41 The Brown Note and Its Mythology 22:05 The Impact of ASMR on Health 23:13 Childhood Experiences with Card Games 25:14 Family Game Nights and Their Challenges 26:20 Pavlovian Conditioning in Everyday Life 28:01 Social Influences on Smoking Behavior 29:57 Breaking the Cycle of Addiction 31:49 Reinforcement Techniques in Behavior Modification 32:48 The Power of Pairing in Learning 36:23 Generalized Conditioned Reinforcers 37:10 Allergies and Environmental Triggers 41:41 Unlearning Distressful Pairings 46:04 Aversive Conditions and Toilet Training

Keywords autism, Tylenol, human behavior, psychology,, reinforcement, sensory processing, genetics, environmental factors, vaccines Takeaways The connection between Tylenol and autism is largely unfounded. Autism is defined by specific social and behavioral criteria. Social interaction deficits are a key aspect of autism. Reinforcement plays a crucial role in learning behaviors. Genetics may contribute to autism but are not the sole cause. Misconceptions about autism can lead to harmful treatments. Environmental factors may play a role in autism rates. Evidence-based practices are essential for effective treatment. Summary In this conversation, Dr. Sparks explores the connection between Tylenol and autism, discussing the recent Health Department announcement and the complexities of autism spectrum disorder, its diagnosis, and the role of reinforcement in behavior. They explore common myths surrounding autism, including misconceptions about vaccines and environmental factors, while emphasizing the importance of evidence-based practices in treatment. The discussion highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of autism and the various factors that contribute to its diagnosis and treatment. Sound bites "Tylenol doesn't cause autism." "Autism is not a disease." "Vaccines do not cause autism."   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Human Behavior Analysis 03:11 Debunking Myths: Tylenol and Autism 07:23 Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder 17:55 The Role of Social Interaction in Learning 30:50 Exploring Causes of Autism 32:28 The Dangers of Misguided Treatments 35:49 Understanding Correlation vs. Causation 40:08 Exploring Genetic Factors in Autism 46:00 Environmental Influences and Epigenetics 50:58 Debunking Vaccine Myths 51:48 The Search for Causes and Misconceptions 54:30 The Importance of Effective Interventions 57:55 Rising Diagnosis Rates and Their Implications 01:00:03 Conclusions and Moving Forward

Keywords social interactions, political violence, human history, fear, social media, positive reinforcement, media accountability, mental health, gun control, skepticism, empathy, negativity, technology Takeaways Navigating social interactions can be challenging in a digital age. Political violence is on the rise and affects societal well-being. Understanding human history helps contextualize current violence. Fear influences decision-making and can lead to aggression. Social media amplifies political discourse and can create echo chambers. Positive reinforcement is essential for societal improvement. Accountability in media is lacking, leading to misinformation. Mental health issues can lead to violence if not addressed. Gun control discussions must consider mental health factors. Skepticism is crucial for discerning truth in media but can be misunderstood. Empathy is necessary for constructive political discussions. Finding balance in a negative world is vital for mental health. Technology evolves faster than society can adapt, creating challenges. Summary In this conversation, your hosts explore the intersection of psychology, social behavior, and current events, particularly focusing on political violence, the influence of fear, and the role of social media. They discuss how societal negativity can lead to aggression and the importance of positive reinforcement and empathy in navigating these challenges. The conversation also touches on the complexities of mental health, gun control, and the need for accountability in media, ultimately advocating for a more positive societal outlook. Chapters 00:00 Navigating Social Interactions in the Digital Age 02:53 The Impact of Political Violence on Society 05:43 Understanding Human History and Violence 08:44 The Role of Fear in Decision Making 11:37 The Influence of Media and Social Media on Perception 14:44 The Psychology Behind Consuming Fear-Based Content 17:31 The Need for Accountability in Media 20:38 Skepticism and Critical Thinking in Society 23:26 Empathy and Compassion in Political Discourse 33:50 The Challenge of Political Messaging 39:11 Mental Health and Societal Negativity 44:57 Gun Control and Mental Health 50:54 The Role of Media in Shaping Perceptions 01:00:27 Navigating Modern Technology and Society

In this episode, Dr. Steve, Kyle, and Chad hit the brakes on everyday chatter to dive into the science of traffic safety. We unpack the research from Ron Van Houten at Western Michigan University, look at what the data really says about speeding and distracted driving campaigns, and even watch Kyle struggle (with love) to remember what his master’s thesis was about (spoiler: contingency management). It’s equal parts research, real talk, and a few laughs along the way. Whether you’re a data nerd, a safe-driving advocate, or just here for the banter, this episode will steer you in the right direction. 👀 Tune in, buckle up!

Dr. Sparks joins Kyle and Chad to explore one of the most fascinating topics in human behavior: invention, ingenuity, and genius. Are these forms of creativity the result of innate talent, or can they be explained through environmental contingencies, reinforcement histories, problem-solving under multiple control, and complex combinations of both physiological and operant conditions? In this episode, we unpack how behavior analysis sheds light on the science of creativity—how shaping, variability, and exposure to novel situations can lead to breakthroughs that change the world. We dive into: How reinforcement and stimulus control contribute to “genius” behavior Why problem-solving can be analyzed as a behavioral process The role of shaping, generalization and differential reinforcement in producing novel responses How environments rich in opportunity and feedback increase the likelihood of innovation Whether you’re curious about creativity, behavioral psychology, or the science of human potential, this discussion connects behavior analysis to the everyday question: where does genius come from?

The Doc Analyzes Anything | The Chameleon (Frédéric Bourdin) This week, the gang dives into the unbelievable story of Frédéric Bourdin—known as The Chameleon—who impersonated children and adults hundreds of times across the globe before finally getting caught. From his wild deceptions to the families, investigators, and systems he fooled along the way, this case is stranger than fiction. We break it down from a behavioral perspective, exploring the patterns that drove his choices, how reinforcement and consequences shaped his strategies, and what this case reveals about deception, trust, and human behavior. 🔎 Topics we cover: How Bourdin pulled off so many impersonations Why people believed him, even against the odds The behavioral principles behind deception and identity theft 👉 Subscribe for more cases where psychology, behavior analysis, and true crime collide!

The gang discusses self-diagnosis; what it is, why it might be gaining popularity, and the pros and cons from both a behavioral standpoint and cultural perspective. They explore how self-identifying can impact access to resources, mental health awareness, and social support, while also considering potential pitfalls like misinformation or mislabeling. Join us for a nuanced conversation that looks beyond the buzzwords and dives into the real-world implications of self-diagnosis.

Episode 9 – The Doc Analyzes Anything: Progress What does it really mean to call something “progress”? In this episode, we break down the idea of human progress—where we’ve advanced, and where we may have fallen behind. From rapid technological breakthroughs to lingering poverty rates and the decline of critical thinking, the conversation asks: are we truly moving forward? Join Dr. Steve Sparks, Kyle Steury, and Brad Clements as they dig into the paradoxes of progress and explore how we define success as a society. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more thought-provoking discussions!