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Esther K. Papies

Esther K. Papies

I study the cognitive processes underlying the regulation of behavior and behavior change, especially in the domain of health behavior. My research uses mainly social cognition methods and focuses on the question of how behavior is regulated as a function of personal goals and environmental cues that can interfere with these goals. As an example, my work in the domain of dieting behavior has shown that chronic dieters perceive attractive food mainly in terms of its hedonic relevance, which interferes with their dieting goal and triggers overeating. I also conduct research on goal-directed habits and on mechanisms of behavior change, including goal priming. More recently, I started developing a grounded cognition framework to processes of self-regulation, and I integrate insights from contemplative practices and mindfulness into strategies for behavior change.
I received the Dissertation Award of the Dutch Association of Social Psychological Researchers (2008) and the Early Career Award (Jaspars Award) of the European Association for Social Psychology (2011). In 2010, I received a 3-year VENI-grant from the Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research to continue my work on nonconscious motivation and the regulation of eating behavior.

Primary Interests:

  • Applied Social Psychology
  • Attitudes and Beliefs
  • Health Psychology
  • Judgment and Decision Making
  • Motivation, Goal Setting
  • Persuasion, Social Influence
  • Social Cognition

Research Group or Laboratory:

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1:26 Featured SVG

Low Socioeconomic Status and Obesity: What's the Link?

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  • 1:26

    Low Socioeconomic Status and Obesity: What's the Link?

    Length: 1:26


  • 1:40

    Healthy Hydration Habits: Desires and Behaviour

    Length: 1:40


  • 9:22

    The Psychology of How (Not) to Describe Plant-based Foods

    Length: 9:22



Journal Articles:

Other Publications:

Courses Taught:

  • Applied Social Psychology: From Theory to Intervention
  • Attitudes and Attitude Change
  • Health Promotion: A Social Psychological Approach
  • Social Cognition

Esther K. Papies
58 Hillhead Street
University of Glasgow
Institute of Neuroscience and Psychology
Glasgow G12 9DN
United Kingdom

  • Phone: +441413307293

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