Evolutionary Social Psychology Laboratory
WELCOME
Welcome to the Evolutionary Social Psychology Lab (ESPL) at USM!
This lab is directed by Dr. Donald Sacco in the School of Psychology.
Our Focus
Social psychology is a scientific discipline that studies how other people are capable of influencing an individual’s thoughts, feelings and behavior. Evolutionary psychology is a framework indicating that much as the body
evolved through processes of natural and sexual selection, the human brain (and therefore, the mind) is a product of biological evolution as well. Bridging these frameworks, the Evolutionary Social Psychology Lab (ESPL) conducts research to understand the adaptive origins of human social behavior. Humans are motivated to belong to groups, provide for family and friends, avoid disease, attract mates, have families, and enjoy good entertainment. Research in the ESPL is interested in understanding why, how, and under which circumstances we pursue these different (and sometimes competing) activities.
Research Topics:
1. The causes and consequences of social inclusion and exclusion.
2. Non-verbal social behavior.
3. Psychological and physical mating preferences.
4. Psychological Immune System.
5. Stereotyping and Prejudice.
6. Research Ethics
7. Face Perception and Memory.
