Welcome to the Social Influence & Behavior Lab
Benjamin D. Douglas, PhD
Ben is an assistant professor of psychology at Ohio Wesleyan University and the director of the Social Influence and Behavior Lab.
Ben’s research examines group behavior and social influence. Ben is particularly interested in how people interpret social norms. He then applies his lab’s findings to critical social issues such as climate change and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). In his most recent work, Ben has identified how social norms messages and a newly identified type of message - behavioral requests - all affect (1) the perception of social norms and (2) behavior. In a secondary line of research, Ben examines psychological methodology and data collection procedures.
Ben completed his PhD at the University of Wisconsin–Madison working in the Brauer Group Lab and as a graduate fellow at the Institute of Diversity Science in the spring of 2025.
You can email Ben at bddouglas@owu.edu
Research Assistants
Bessy Aguilar Cruz
Bessy is a junior studying neuroscience and
pre-medicine with a minor in psychology. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her friends, crocheting, and listening to music. After graduation, Bessy hopes to apply to medical schools to pursue a career in clinical neuroscience.
Rukevwe Diohwo
Rukevwe is a Senior studying psychology and social justice with a minor in sociology/anthropology and philosophy. In her free time, she enjoys thrifting, going for walks, and having fun with friends. After graduation, Rukevwe intends to begin a masters program in either social psychology or something justice based.
Maddie Federico
Maddie is a junior studying psychology and neuroscience. In her free time she enjoys playing on the field hockey team and reading. After graduation, she plans on attending graduate school to pursue a career in psychology.
Xander Spain
Xander is a sophomore pursuing a major in psychology and a minor in philosophy. In his free time, he studies chess and spends time with friends. In the future, Xander plans to attend graduate school and pursue a career in clinical psychology.
Jacob Blubaugh
Jacob is a junior studying psychology and sociology with a minor in social justice. In his free time, Jacob enjoys running with the cross country and track teams, spending time playing games with his friends and roommates, and watching soccer. After college, he plans to go to grad school for social work with the hope of becoming a therapist/counselor.
Kali Kohler
Kali is a 3rd year student studying psychology and education. A hobby of hers includes running on the track and field team at OWU. After graduation, she plans to get her PhD in school psychology.
Luke Nelson
Luke is a 3rd year student studying psychology and sociology. In his free time he likes to socialize, volunteer his time, and dream about the future. After graduation, Luke aspires to emulate the character of the heroes he admires while doing his best to help communities as a paramedic/firefighter and therapist.