Kristen G. Anderson

Kristen G. Anderson is a Professor of Psychology at Reed College and Principal Investigator of the Adolescent Health and Women’s Health Research Programs. She serves as Vice President of the Research Society on Alcohol (beginning 2024) and previously held roles such as Academic Director of the Summer Institute on Addictions at the University of Amsterdam (2016–2020). Her research focuses on developmental psychopathology, addictive behaviors, and gender diversity, with a specialization in alcohol and drug use decision-making in social contexts. Dr. Anderson has received grants from the National Institutes of Health (NIAAA, NIDA) and the ABMRF, and led the Portland site of Project Options, a national alcohol prevention program.

Education: Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Kentucky (2003), postdoctoral training at UCSD (2003–2005). Earlier degrees include a B.A. in Psychology from Drew University (1992) and an M.Ed. in Special Education from American International College (1996).

Research Interests: Mechanisms of substance use initiation, methodologies for assessing peer-driven decision-making (e.g., the SIDE simulations), and health promotion for marginalized groups. Her work integrates social-cognitive models and longitudinal studies to understand risk-taking behaviors.

Grants & Funding: Current and past grants include NIH-funded studies on gender and alcohol use (2022–2025), and a Fulbright Award (2013–2014). She has collaborated internationally, including at the University of Amsterdam.

Awards: CEIS Fulbright Scholar (2013–2014).

Teaching & Mentorship: Courses include Clinical Psychology, Psychopathology, and statistical analysis. Mentors students in research labs, emphasizing skills in assessment, statistics, and scientific writing. Advises on projects related to addiction, gender studies, and prevention strategies.

Labs/Programs: Leads the Adolescent Health and Women’s Health Research Programs, and co-directs the Mental Health, Youth, and Society summer program at the University of Amsterdam.