Anita Li

Anita Li, Ph.D., serves as Assistant Professor in the Psychology Department at the University of Massachusetts Lowell's College of Fine Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, with dual affiliation in the Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism Studies program. A Board Certified Behavior Analyst since 2013, she brings extensive clinical experience with developmental disabilities across diverse settings and holds formal training from Western Michigan University, Florida Institute of Technology, and the University of Florida.

Her educational background includes:

• Ph.D. in Psychology (2020), Western Michigan University
• M.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis (2015), Florida Institute of Technology
• B.S. in Psychology (2010), University of Florida

Dr. Li's research centers on behavior analysis, behavioral health, and equity, with emphasis on burnout prevention, physical activity interventions, psychotropic medication management, and gender/diversity issues. She employs quantitative methodologies including single-subject designs, surveys, and citation analyses to bridge theoretical principles with real-world applications in clinical, educational, and organizational contexts.

Her 15 most recent publications reveal a consistent trajectory toward methodological rigor and social impact, featuring influential citation studies on gender representation, innovative behavioral health interventions for developmental disabilities, and critical examinations of systemic inequities in academia. These works demonstrate her dual commitment to advancing basic science through tools like CyberRat simulations and driving practical change via OBM (Organizational Behavior Management) frameworks.

Dr. Li's scientific recognition includes:

• All University Graduate Teaching Award (2020), Western Michigan University
• All University Graduate Research Award (2018), Western Michigan University

She actively mentors doctoral candidate Jack Blake, master's students Tien Pham and Cam Conlon, and multiple undergraduates including poster award winner Ian Plourde. Current funded projects examine the gender wage gap evolution (2016-2023), OBM leadership dynamics, operant simulation efficacy, and contingency management for substance use disorders, with IRB-approved burnout studies commencing January 2024.

Her research team collaborates internationally on OBM initiatives, recently presenting workshops at the Reykjavík OBM Network Conference, while maintaining strong ties with the Journal of Organizational Behavior Management and behavior-analytic communities through editorial roles and invited addresses.