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My research focuses on the social psychological implications of the behavioral immune system.  The behavioral immune system is a cluster of psychological mechanisms (e.g., disgust) that have evolved to promote prophylactic behavior.  As other humans are a significant source of contamination, the behavioral immune system has important implications for social attitudes and behavior.  Thus far, my research has focused on how the behavioral immune system affects four different types of social phenomena: 1. The development of socio-cultural value systems (e.g., religion and political ideology).  2. Prejudice and avoidance of outgroup members (e.g., sexual minorities).  3. Moral attitudes and behavior (e.g., criminal attitudes, antisocial personality and psychopathy).  4. Attachment and interpersonal relationships.

Terrizzi, J. A., Shook, N. J., & Ventis, W. L. (2012). Religious conservatism: An evolutionarily evoked disease-avoidance strategy. Religion, Brain & Behavior, 2, 105-120.

Terrizzi, J. A., Shook, N. J., & Ventis, W. L. (2010). Disgust: A predictor of social conservatism and prejudicial attitudes toward homosexuals. Personality and Individual Differences, 49, 587-592.

Terrizzi, J., & Drews, D. (2005). Predicting attitudes toward Operation Iraqi Freedom. Psychological Reports, 96, 183-189.

Terrizzi, J. (2004). Predicting attitudes toward the Iraqi conflict: A path analysis. The Baker Institute for

Peace and Conflict Studies: Annual Report 2003-2004, 12-13.

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