The Mental-Physical Health and Behavior (M-PHAB) Lab at George Mason University
Director: Leah M. Adams, PhD ([email protected])
The Mental–Physical Health and Behavior (M-PHAB) Lab aims to use principles from psychological science to promote people’s physical and mental health in the presence of adversity. To do so, we mostly focus on understanding how people adapt to living with chronic illness and injury, and how we may better foster positive adaptation. Our research considers individuals and the broader systems they encounter and live within (e.g., partnerships, communities), recognizing that adversity exists at all levels. We are especially interested in the health-related experiences and outcomes of members of minoritized and/or marginalized communities, with a goal of improving equitable care.
Our Lab Logo: Our lab logo depicts a tree whose roots form the contours of a brain and whose limbs and branches resemble neurons.
The tree represents growth and being rooted in history. In our lab, we aim to do work that helps people continue to grow and thrive, while also being attentive to the world around them, including the context, environment, and history within which they are located.
The brain represents the integration of our mind and body. The brain is a physical organ that controls our physical selves and allows us to experience a rich inner life. In our lab, we focus on the deep interrelationships between physical functioning and mental functioning, recognizing that the two are often closely linked.
The limbs/branches represent development and connection. Like our brain’s neurons, we function and learn by forming connections – connections between our own experiences, connections between our experiences and others’, and connections with other people – and each of these connections help us change and develop over time. In our lab, we aim to do work that fosters meaningful connection with ourselves and each other.
Our lab is excited to accept a new clinical psychology PhD student for the Fall 2025 application cycle – please see the “Apply to be a doctoral graduate assistant” tab for more information!