Ken Abrams

Ken Abrams is a Professor of Psychology at Carleton College, specializing in cross-cultural psychology, psychopathology, and health psychology. His research integrates cognitive science and behavioral therapy to address mental health challenges through innovative approaches like virtual reality.

Education: BA from Dartmouth College; MA and PhD from the University of Minnesota. He is a licensed psychologist in Minnesota (LP 6356) and has been at Carleton since 2008.

Research Focus: Abrams explores the intersection of cross-cultural psychology and psychopathology, with recent projects examining PTSD prevention via virtual reality, biochemical testing of anti-panic drugs, and simulated hallucinations to enhance empathy in schizophrenia research. His work also investigates addiction dynamics, including smoking and alcohol outcome expectancies.

Publications Trends: Recent studies span addiction psychology, virtual reality applications for mental health, cross-cultural psychopathology, and cognitive-behavioral interventions, reflecting a blend of clinical and technological approaches.

Professional Affiliations: Member of the American Psychological Association (APA), Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapy (ABCT), and International Association for Cross-Cultural Psychology (IACCP).

Labs & Teaching: Leads the Health Psychology Lab and teaches courses in cross-cultural psychology, psychopathology, and directed research. Upcoming courses include topics on vaccines and mental health.