Akihiko Masuda

Akihiko Masuda is a Professor of Psychology at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, where he bridges psychology and health science to explore human nature and potential through behavioral health research. Born in Nagano, Japan, he relocated to the United States for undergraduate studies and maintains an active research program with over 90 peer-reviewed publications and 40 book chapters.

His educational background includes:

• PhD in Clinical Psychology, University of Nevada (2006)
• MA in Psychology, University of the Pacific (1999)
• BA in Psychology, West Virginia University (1997)

Dr. Masuda's research centers on contextual behavioral science (CBS), with two strategic foci: (1) applying CBS models to understudied issues like self-concealment, stigma, and disordered eating through acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT); and (2) extending psychological flexibility frameworks to address health disparities and promote culturally competent practices among underrepresented populations. His work integrates Zen Buddhism principles with behavioral health interventions, emphasizing multicultural humility in clinical settings.

He has edited seminal volumes including Mindfulness and Acceptance in Multicultural Competency (New Harbinger, 2014), Handbook of Zen, Mindfulness and Behavioral Health (Springer, 2017), and Prejudice, Stigma, Privilege, and Oppression (Springer, 2020), establishing him as a leading voice in culturally responsive behavioral health.