Stephen D. Benning

Stephen D. Benning is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. His research focuses on the psychophysiology of emotion and personality, particularly the two-factor model of psychopathy (fearless dominance vs. impulsive antisociality) and its implications for emotional processing, reward systems, and risk-taking behavior. He has developed novel psychophysiological measures like the postauricular reflex to study positive emotion in psychopathology.

• Education: Ph.D. in Clinical Science and Psychopathology Research (University of Minnesota, 2006)
• Employment: UNLV (2012–present); Vanderbilt University (2006–2012)

His work spans psychopathy, autism, depression, and schizophrenia, with a focus on translating animal models to human studies. He has secured multiple NIH grants, including NIMH R21 awards for hedonic processing in depression and autism. His lab (PEPlab) explores intersections of personality, emotion, and morality, particularly in Las Vegas’ unique context.

Recent publications highlight his contributions to misophonia, moral decision-making, and behavioral risk assessment. He emphasizes open science practices and methodological rigor, advocating for alpha justification and replication studies. Awards include the UNLV Outstanding Teaching and Mentoring Award (2024) and the Howell Award for Undergraduate Research (2000).

Scientific Awards:

• Outstanding Teaching and Mentoring Award (UNLV, 2024)
• Howell Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Research (Rice University, 2000)
• National Merit Scholar (1996–2000)
• Volunteer Service Award (Walk-In Counseling Center, 2004)
• Student Poster Award (Society for Psychophysiological Research, 2003)