The cerebellum does more than just control movement
As a clinical neuroscientist, Prof. Dr. Dagmar Timmann (Project Leader A05, F02) studies the diverse functions of the human cerebellum and also focuses on disorders such as ataxias. For a long time, the cerebellum was regarded primarily as the center of motor control – but it is now known that it is also involved in cognitive and emotional processes, a fact reflected, among other things, in the recognition of cerebellar cognitive-affective syndrome (CCAS).
For more than 30 years, Timmann has focused on researching the cerebellum. She is particularly fascinated by the scientific discovery of new connections: By carefully integrating her own findings with those of other research groups, she continually uncovers new perspectives on how the cerebellum functions.
As co-spokesperson for the SFB 1280 “Extinction Learning” and a member of the SFB/TRR 289 “Treatment Expectation,” Timmann bridges basic research and clinical neuroscience. At the Erwin L. Hahn Institute, she particularly values the collegial and constructive scientific exchange as well as the close collaboration across disciplinary boundaries.
New Year, New Me: The Facts
As the calendar turns to a new year, millions of people around the world commit to New Year’s resolutions, making promises to use the new year as a fresh beginning and an opportunity for transformation. In 2024, almost three-quarters of the British population set themselves New Year’s resolutions — that’s around 40 million people (or the entire population of Canada). This tradition was particularly strong among younger generations, with 96% of Generation Z (aged 18-27) planning resolutions, compared to just 35% of the Silent Generation (aged 79+).
Most common new years resolutions:
- Saving more money (52%)
- Eat healthier (50%)
- Exercise more (48%)
- Lose weight (37%)
- Spend more time with family/friends (35%)
How long do most resolutions normally last before being broken?
- Data from America (2016) shows that 75% of individuals maintain their resolutions through the first week.
- 64% of individuals maintain their resolutions through the first month.
- 46% of individuals in America keep their resolutions past the 6-month mark.
What makes resolutions stick?
Oscarsson et al. (2020) conducted research into what makes New Year’s resolutions stick. Biggest success rates depended on how people phrased their goals. Participants who set approach-oriented goals (trying to move toward or maintain a desirable outcome or state) than those with avoidance-oriented goals (trying to move toward or maintain a desirable outcome or state) were significantly more successful (58.9% vs. 47.1%) at sticking to their goals.
The study also investigates the effects of outside support. These participants received monthly follow-ups and emails with information and exercises for coping with hurdles when striving toward personal goals, and were also encouraged to set goals using the SMART technique and to set interim goals. The group that received some support was exclusively and significantly more successful compared to the groups who received a lot of support or no support at all.
Additionally, you might feel more successful if you set goals that are measurable in numbers. While success for a person striving to quit smoking or lose weight could easily be measured in the number of cigarettes smoked or body mass index, the success for a person striving to “take better care of themselves” could be highly subjective and possibly impossible to measure.
So as we enter 2026, let’s remember to work with our brain’s natural learning system: Frame your goals positively, break them into manageable steps, and celebrate small wins along the way.