Adam Peal
Assistant Professor
JWU Faculty Since 2023
Adam Peal recently joined the faculty at Johnson & Wales University and is the founder of The Walden Learning Collective. He holds a Ph.D. from Pennsylvania State University, specializing in applied behavior analysis and educational psychology.
Peal established The Walden Learning Collective to focus on practical behavioral interventions. Additionally, he co-founded The Behavioral Education Research Initiative (BERi) to promote advances in behavioral science research.
Outside academia, Peal leads the Cache Valley sangha, drawing from his Buddhist meditation practices. He is also a professionally trained actor and the voice behind the podcast 'The Behaviorists' Guide to the Universe,' centered on behavior science and critical thinking. For leisure, he's and avid Cincinnati Reds fan.
At JWU, Peal seeks to share his extensive experience with both students and colleagues.
Education
- Ph. D., Special Education; ABA, Pennsylvania State University
- M.S., Psychology, Utah State University
- B.A., Psychology, The Ohio State University
- B.A., Theater, The Ohio State University
Teaching Interests
Science of Behavior
Applied Behavior Analysis
Instructional Design, Creativity, Problem Solving & Critical Thinking
Research Methods
Gender and Sexuality
Introduction to Psychology
Educational Psychology
Cultural Topics with Psychology
Buddhist Psychology
Scholarly Interests
Applied and experimental behavior analysis, behavioral economics, critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, the development of interventions for severe problem behavior in clinics and schools, teacher decision making, behavioral pediatrics, autism spectrum disorder and mindfulness-based interventions for students and teachers.
Courses
- PSYC4200 Cultural Psychology
- RSCH4050 Research Seminar in Psychology
Extra Curricular Roles
Dharma Leader - Cache Valley Sangha
Co-Founder and Executive Director - The Walden Learning Collective
Co-Founder - The Behavioral Education Research Initiative
Producer & Host - The Behaviorists' Guide to the Universe
Professional Affiliations
The Association of Behavior Analysis International
Publications
- Garner, J., Peal, A.M., Klapatch-Totsch, J., & Gamba, J. (2022). Freedom or Exploitation: The Integration of Behavior Analysis in a Capitalist System. Behavior and Social Issues. 31(1), 174-189.
- Frank, J.L., Kohler, K., Peal, A., & Bose, B. (2017). Effectiveness of a school-based yoga program on adolescent mental health and school performance: Findings from a randomized controlled trial. Mindfulness, 8(3), 544-553.
- M., Peal A., & Reynolds, B. (2011). Relationship between weight status and delay discounting in a sample of adolescent cigarette smokers. Behavioral Pharmacology, 22(3), 266.