Everyday Psychology – Dave Thomas's Blog

Why Do We Wave Back at Strangers Who Weren’t Waving at Us?

Someone across the road lifts an arm. You lift yours, delighted, with the broad, warm wave of a person who has just been recognised. Then you see her: the woman…

DaveThomas November 11, 2026

Everyday Psychology Humour Why Do We Do That?

Why Do We Say “You Too” When the Waiter Says “Enjoy Your Meal”?

The waiter puts your plate down, smiles and says, “Enjoy your meal.” And you, a grown adult with a mortgage and a driving licence, reply: “You too.” He is not…

DaveThomas November 4, 2026

Everyday Psychology Food and Daily Life Why Do We Do That?

Why Do We Smell Food That We Already Know Has Gone Off?

The fridge of no return You open the fridge and spot a container that has been lurking at the back for an unspecified period of time. You know what it…

DaveThomas October 21, 2026

Everyday Psychology Why Do We Do That?

Why Do We Open the Fridge Twice, Looking for Different Answers?

You open the fridge. You stand there. You survey the shelves — the sad lone yoghurt, the jar of something unidentifiable at the back, the block of cheese that's seen…

DaveThomas September 18, 2026

Everyday Psychology Why Do We Do That?

Why Do We Pretend to Check Our Watch When We Don’t Wear One?

You're standing at the bus stop, or hovering near the office kitchen, or waiting for a mate who's "two minutes away" for the fourth time. Someone catches your eye. And…

DaveThomas September 13, 2026