Alison Bryant Ludden

Alison Bryant Ludden is a Professor of Psychology at the College of the Holy Cross, where she has been a faculty member since 2004. She also holds an affiliation with the Urban Studies program and served as the director of the Montserrat first-year program from 2019 to 2025. Her work bridges developmental psychology and education, with a focus on adolescent health and behavior.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Education and Psychology, University of Michigan
• M.A. in Developmental Psychology, University of Michigan
• B.A. in Psychology, Colgate University

Research Interests:

Ludden's research centers on adolescent development, particularly the psychosocial factors influencing health behaviors. She investigates substance use (caffeine, energy drinks, alcohol, marijuana, vaping) among adolescents, linking these behaviors to academic stress, sleep patterns, and civic engagement. Her work also explores how mentorship and school environments shape adolescent outcomes.

Publication Trends:

Her publications span over a decade, with a consistent focus on adolescent health behaviors, substance use, and educational contexts. Recent work (2023) explores hope and college transitions, while earlier studies delve into caffeine use patterns, rural adolescent behaviors, and civic engagement. The studies employ both qualitative and quantitative methods, often involving Holy Cross students as co-authors.

Scientific Awards:

• None explicitly listed in the provided text

Teaching & Mentorship:

Ludden teaches courses such as Psychology of Adolescence, Adolescent Health, and Research Methods 1. She has mentored numerous students, many of whom are co-authors on her publications, reflecting her commitment to undergraduate research.

Labs & Teams:

While no specific lab is mentioned, her work involves collaborative research with students and colleagues, particularly in the Psychology Department and Montserrat program.