Welcome! Our lab mostly conducts research on personality and individual differences–most notably, narcissistic personality. With regard to narcissism, we focus on four primary questions: (1) What is narcissism and how should narcissism be measured? (2) Who is more or less narcissistic? (3) What are the costs and benefits of narcissism to the self and others? and (4) How and why do narcissists think and act like they do? We also conduct research on topics related to narcissism, such as psychopathy, self-esteem, and empathy. Occasionally, when we’re feeling especially curious or foolish, we do research on totally unrelated topics.
Dr. Josh Foster, Principal Investigator
Hi! I’m Josh Foster, a Professor of Psychology at the University of South Alabama, where I’ve been since 2005. My main research focus is on personality and individual differences—especially narcissistic personality. That said, I have a wide range of research interests and collaborate with researchers on everything from evolutionary psychology to religion and spirituality (although, students who want to work with me really need to be interested in narcissism and/or other related personality traits).
To date, I’ve published over 70 peer-reviewed papers, which have been cited more than 20,000 times. I’m especially proud of mentoring both undergraduate and graduate students in my lab, many of whom have gone on to successful careers in academia, data science, mental health, marketing, as well as graduate programs all over the country.
Outside of work, I enjoy watching sports, playing video games, exercising (or at least thinking about it), and spending time with my family. My wife, Dr. Hope Jackson, is an amazing clinical psychologist who specializes in treating eating, anxiety, and mood disorders. We have two boys—Mathew and Colin—who specialize in sports, video games, YouTube, and generally being silly.
Current Graduate Students
Haley Hearn
Haley is a 2nd year student in the BBS program. She did her undergraduate studies right here at USA where she majored in Psychology and minored in Biology. Her first year research project focused on narcissism and memory. She is currently working on her thesis, which is an extension of this project.
Ashlee Bissonnette
Ashlee is a 1st year student in the BBS program. She did her undergraduate studies at the University of Montevallo where she majored in Psychology and minored in Creative Writing. She is currently working on her first year research project, which focuses on narcissism and leadership.
Some Former Graduate Students
News, Information, and Stuff You Can Use
What’s the average narcissism score?
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Congratulations to David Willard for winning this year’s Most Outstanding Graduate Student
Congratulations to David Willard (M.S., 2025) for winning the Most Outstanding Graduate Student in the BBS program. It’s been an honor to mentor David through
CV template for students
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