Antonio Cepeda-Benito

Antonio Cepeda-Benito is a Professor in the Department of Psychological Science at the University of Vermont. He leads research in cross-cultural psychology, health psychology, and eating disorders, with a focus on tobacco regulatory science and body image. His work spans collaborations in Spain, Chile, and the US, addressing topics like smoking cessation, food cravings, and placebo effects.

Education:

• B.A. in Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (1988)
• M.S. and Ph.D. in Experimental Psychology, Purdue University (1991, 1994)

Research Interests: Cepeda-Benito investigates health-related stigmas, body image dynamics, and disordered eating. He develops validated questionnaires (e.g., Smoker Self-Stigma Questionnaire) and explores placebo effects in treatment contexts. Current projects include a smoking cessation clinic with UVM Cancer Center and studies on rural populations and women of reproductive age.

Awards:

• Fulbright Scholar (2024), Zambrano Professor (2022–23)
• Top 100 Most Influential Hispanics (2009)
• National Awards in Mentorship (2008) and Public Service (2006)
• Student-nominated Academic Inspiration Award (1999)

Grants & Labs: Leads the Cross Cultural Psychology Lab. Collaborates with institutions like the Vermont Center on Tobacco Regulatory Sciences and Universidad Católica de Valencia. Research emphasizes societal impact of academic networks and transnational collaborations.