Alejandro Garcia Wins Second Place at the 2025 GSC Research & Creative Achievement Symposium
Lay Beliefs and Culture lab
Welcome to the LBC lab at the University of Mississippi. We study how lay beliefs about the self, culture, and society shape authenticity, belonging, and inequality.
Who we are
Our lab is led by Dr. Rivera and includes graduate students in the Experimental Psychology PhD Program, along with dedicated undergraduate research assistants.
Research
What we do
Our lab studies how lay beliefs—people’s everyday theories about the self and the social world—shape well-being, relationships, and social perception. We examine topics such as authenticity, belonging, meritocracy, and inequality, asking how cultural narratives and social identities influence psychological outcomes and social interactions.
Join the Lab
Dr. Rivera plans to review applications from prospective graduate students interested in beginning the Ph.D. program in Fall 2027. Learn more about the University of Mississippi’s Experimental Psychology PhD program and how to apply.
University of Mississippi undergraduates who are interested in gaining research experience in social psychology are invited to apply to join the Lay Beliefs and Culture Lab. Students may participate for course credit or as volunteers. Complete the undergraduate research assistant application.
For additional information, contact us at lbclab.olemiss@gmail.com
