Lindsey C. Fast

Lindsey C. Fast, Ph.D., is an Applied Social Psychologist specializing in health and environmental issues.

How did you discover Western?

I was searching for a university position in the state of Colorado. The environment—mountains, skiing, snow, outdoor sports, etc.—and the type of student who comes along with such an environment are what led me to Western.

What are some of the highlights of your career?

• Fast, L.C., Weaver, J.F., Miller, S.D., & **Ferrin, T. (2016). Training Effects on Emergency Management Activation Response. Journal of Oranizational Psychology 16(1).
• Fast, L.C., Harman, J.J., Maertens, J.A., Burnett, J., & **Dreith, F. (2015). Creating a measure of self-efficacy for portion control. Eating Behaviors, 16, 23-30. doi: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2014.10.009
• Weaver, J., Harkabus, L.C., Braun, J., Miller, S., Cox, R., Griffith, J., & Mazur, R.J. (2014). An overview of a demographic study of United States Emergency Managers. Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society, 95, 199-203.
• Harkabus, L.C., Harman, J.J., & **Puntenney, J. (2013). Condom accessibility: The moderating effects of alcohol use and erotophobia in the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills Model. Health Promotion Practice, 14(5), 751-758.
• Pitts, V.E., Wright, N., & Harkabus, L.C. (2012). Communication in virtual teams: The role of emotional intelligence. Journal of Organizational Psychology 12(3/4), 21-34.
• Weaver, J. F., & Harkabus, L. (2012). A preview of the CIRA emergency manager demographic survey. International Association of Emergency Managers, 29(6), 17-18.

What most excites you about your field?

My research has been motivated by an interest in using social psychological theory to investigate factors that influence health behaviors. Primarily I examine mechanisms and variables that affect individual health promotion and risk prevention behaviors, while also investigatating individual and contextual predictors of communication and decision-making. By adopting a multidisciplinary approach to research, I try to foster collaborations with other disciplines and communities, transitioning results into practical application.

What is your favorite thing about the Gunnison Valley?

My favorite thing about the Gunnison Valley is the cold weather and the snow—it keeps certain types of people away. I enjoy outdoor recreation, and that is what the Gunnison Valley is all about.