Scott Graupensperger, PhD

My research focuses on how social influences shape individuals’ health behaviors in both constructive (e.g., physical activity) and risky ways (e.g., alcohol use). I take a translational approach to my research in that I aim to understand how social processes, such as normative influences, relate to behavior so that we can leverage these influences to reduce harm and improve health.

Specific areas of interest include alcohol and other substance use, mental health, and gambling/sports betting. My primary focus is helping young adults during the transition into adulthood.

I have a background in sport psychology, and am passionate about helping athletes navigate the unique stressors involved in high-level sport. In this domain, I serve as a fellow at the U.S. Center for Mental Health and Sport.

Education

PhD, The Pennsylvania State University

Department Affiliations

Other Affiliations

U.S. Center for Mental Health and Sport

Recent Publications

Depressive Symptoms and Substance Use: Longitudinal Examination of Alcohol and Cannabis Coping Mechanisms in Young Adults.
(2025 Oct 8)
Prev Sci
Graupensperger S, Janson MA, Fairlie AM, Larimer ME, Lee CM

Impact of insurance type on outpatient mental health treatment of US adults.
(2025 May)
PLOS Ment Health 2(5):
Chwastiak LA, Graupensperger S, Ringeisen H, Edlund M, Guyer H, Bareis N, Monroe-Devita M, Dixon L, Stroup S, Swanson J, Swartz M, Hancq ES, Gibbons R, Kessler RC, Olfson M

Mental disorders and criminal legal involvement: Evidence from a national diagnostic epidemiological survey.
(2025 Apr)
PLOS Ment Health 2(4):
Swanson JW, Stenger M, Easter MM, Bareis N, Chwastiak L, Dixon LB, Edlund MJ, Graupensperger S, Guyer H, Monroe-DeVita M, Olfson M, Stroup TS, Winans KS, Swartz MS

Examining Trauma Cognitions as a Mechanism of the BRITE Intervention for Female-Identifying Individuals with PTSD Symptoms and Alcohol Misuse.
(2025 Jun 26)
Behav Sci (Basel) 15(7):
Lehinger EA, Joseph M, Lebeaut A, Graupensperger S, Kaysen D, Bedard-Gilligan MA

All My Friends Are Doing It: Perceived Social Norms Predict Heavier Sports Betting Behavior Among Young Adults.
(2025 Jun 28)
Health Educ Behav
Lambuth J, Shaygan A, Lostutter TW, Graupensperger S

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