معرفی
James C. Denniston serves as Professor of Psychology within the Department of Psychology at Appalachian State University's College of Arts and Sciences. His internationally recognized research program investigates fundamental mechanisms of information processing in animal models, with direct implications for understanding human learning and developing improved behavioral therapies.
His academic credentials include:
- Ph.D. in Experimental Psychology, State University of New York at Binghamton (1999)
- M.A. in Experimental Psychology, Bucknell University (1994)
- B.A., New York University (1992)
Professor Denniston's research centers on extinction mechanisms and relapse phenomena in associative learning. His groundbreaking work demonstrates that extinction produces an easily disrupted inhibitory association rather than erasure of the original memory, explaining why conditioned fears often return after treatment. By investigating temporal coding in conditioned inhibition and contextual renewal effects, he has identified critical variables for creating more durable behavioral interventions. His research program bridges basic animal learning principles with clinical applications for phobia treatment, particularly through multi-context exposure protocols that prevent relapse.
Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals a cohesive research trajectory focused on temporal dynamics in learning processes. The work consistently employs sophisticated animal learning paradigms to dissect inhibitory mechanisms, with increasing emphasis on clinical translation after 2003. Key journals publishing his work include Journal of Experimental Psychology: Animal Behavior Processes and Learning & Behavior, reflecting his standing in the experimental psychology community.
Professor Denniston maintains active research collaborations, most notably with Ralph R. Miller, resulting in numerous high-impact publications. His sustained publication record since 1996 indicates successful grant funding for laboratory operations. While specific student mentoring details aren't provided, his frequent co-authorship with junior researchers suggests strong commitment to training the next generation of experimental psychologists through hands-on research experience in animal learning methodologies.
