Lisa Libby

Dr. Lisa Libby is a Professor of Social Psychology at The Ohio State University, affiliated with the Department of Psychology. Her research focuses on how subjective perceptions shape cognition, emotion, and behavior, with a particular emphasis on mental imagery and visual perspective. She explores how manipulating these processes can improve decision-making, emotional well-being, and social harmony. Libby holds a PhD from Cornell University (2003), an MA from Simmons College (1997), and a BA from Williams College (1996).

• Education:
  • PhD in Psychology, Cornell University, 2003
  • MA in Psychology, Simmons College, 1997
  • BA in Psychology, Williams College, 1996

Her research investigates how visual perspective in mental imagery influences self-perception, memory, and goal pursuit. Key themes include the interplay between imagery, identity, and decision-making, with applications to personal and interpersonal contexts. Libby's work highlights how shifting perspectives (e.g., first- vs. third-person imagery) can alter emotional responses, reduce bias in self-assessment, and enhance adaptive behaviors.

Her advising contributions include mentoring students like Valenti G. and Shaeffer E.M., who have co-authored influential studies on imagery perspective and memory. Libby's lab at Ohio State University continues to advance understanding of how subjective experiences are constructed and manipulated through psychological mechanisms.

Her research spans cognitive and social psychology, addressing topics such as autobiographical memory, regulatory fit, and the psychological effects of motion on conflict resolution. She has contributed to major academic volumes, including The Oxford Handbook of Social Cognition and Advances in Experimental Social Psychology.