On Full Moons, Do People Become a Bit Mean?

Have you ever noticed that during a full moon, people around you seem to be a bit more irritable or confrontational? The idea that full moons can influence human behavior has been a topic of debate for centuries. In this article, we will delve into the various theories and scientific studies that explore the relationship between full moons and human behavior, particularly in terms of mood and aggression.

Historical Beliefs

Throughout history, many cultures have attributed peculiar behaviors to the full moon. Ancient Greeks and Romans believed that the moon’s gravitational pull could affect the human body, leading to mood swings and increased aggression. Similarly, the werewolf legend, which dates back to medieval times, suggests that people could transform into werewolves during a full moon, causing chaos and violence.

Scientific Theories

While the idea of werewolves and lunar influence on human behavior may seem like folklore, some scientists have conducted studies to investigate the potential connection. One of the most notable theories is the “lunar effect,” which suggests that the moon’s gravitational pull could affect human behavior and physiology.

One study, published in the journal “Current Biology,” found that people are more likely to commit crimes during a full moon. The researchers analyzed data from 1,663 prison inmates and found that the rate of violent crimes increased by 13% during full moons. However, it’s important to note that this study doesn’t prove a direct cause-and-effect relationship between the full moon and aggression; rather, it suggests a correlation.

Biological Factors

Some scientists believe that the full moon’s influence on human behavior may be due to biological factors. For example, the moon’s gravitational pull could affect the production of hormones, such as serotonin, which plays a crucial role in regulating mood and aggression. A study published in the “Journal of Affective Disorders” found that serotonin levels in the brain are lower during a full moon, which could contribute to increased aggression and irritability.

Additionally, the full moon’s light could disrupt the body’s natural circadian rhythms, which regulate sleep and wakefulness. Poor sleep quality has been linked to increased aggression and irritability, so it’s possible that the full moon’s light could exacerbate these issues.

Sociological FactorsWhile biological factors may play a role in the full moon’s influence on human behavior, sociological factors cannot be overlooked. People’s perceptions and beliefs about the full moon can also contribute to the perceived increase in aggression and irritability. For example, if people believe that the full moon makes them more aggressive, they may behave accordingly, leading to a self-fulfilling prophecy.

One study, published in the “Journal of Personality and Social Psychology,” found that people’s beliefs about the full moon’s influence on their behavior can actually affect their mood and aggression. The researchers divided participants into two groups: one group was told that the full moon would make them more aggressive, while the other group was told that the full moon would have no effect. The group that believed the full moon would make them more aggressive reported feeling angrier and more aggressive than the other group, even though there was no actual difference in their behavior.

Conclusion

While there is no definitive evidence that full moons directly cause people to become more aggressive or mean, the idea remains a popular topic of discussion. The various theories and studies suggest that the full moon’s influence on human behavior may be due to a combination of biological, psychological, and sociological factors. Whether or not you believe in the lunar effect, it’s clear that the full moon continues to captivate our imagination and spark curiosity about its potential impact on human behavior.