loser effect

in many species, the reduced likelihood that an individual will win future contests over resources after repeated experiences of losing in such contests. Physiological changes, such as increased glucocorticoids (e.g., cortisone, cortisol) or decreased testosterone, often occur with the loser effect. Compare winner effect.

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Psychology term of the day

February 24th 2025

simple structure

in exploratory factor analysis, a set of criteria for determining the adequacy of a factor rotation solution. These criteria require that each factor show a pattern of high factor loadings on certain variables and near-zero loadings on others and that each variable load on only one factor. This minimizes the complexity of the factor solution, allows each variable to be most strongly identified with a specific factor, and increases interpretability.