Experimental, 4th Year
Adam Beam
Tell us about yourself?
I am currently a fourth-year graduate student in the experimental psychology program. I am originally from Riverside, California and I completed a B.A. in Psychology and M.A. in Psychological Science at California State University, San Bernardino.
What research have you been working on lately?
My research has focused how the identities we hold can act as motivational factors for attitudes, perceptions, and behavior. I have also examined how identities can mitigate and/or exacerbate the effects that experiencing bias has on an individual’s well-being. One of my most recent projects has examined how advocacy for social movements from high-status political leaders may be counterproductive in aiding movements aimed to counteract inequalities within the United States.
What is your favorite thing about being a graduate student in the department?
My favorite thing about being a graduate student in the department is the opportunities to collaborate and work on my research from different perspectives. Learning how to incorporate other theoretical perspectives into my own work has enabled me to take my research into different directions.
What is your favorite thing about living in Oxford?
My favorite thing about Oxford is Whirlpool trails. I’m a big nature person and so I am glad that there are trails here that I can see some wildlife and take my dogs to.
What is your favorite course you have taken so far?
My favorite course I have taken so far is Advanced Social Cognition taught by Dr. Carrie Smith. I truly enjoyed learning about different theoretical mechanisms that shape human behavior each week and thinking about how these theories are different but also relate to one another.
What do you do when you are not studying?
When I am not studying or working on research, I am usually spending time with my partner, my 2 dogs (Darla and Dolly), and binge-watching shows on Netflix.
What is a really interesting or really boring fact about yourself?
In my house I have a very large coffee table book that is all about Dolly Parton and her music.
