Research Program

Behavioral Sciences

Behavioral science combines insights from psychology, economics and other social sciences to understand how people make decisions relevant to their well-being. The Schaeffer Center applies the field’s knowledge to find ways to enhance that wellbeing.

For example, antibiotics prescribed inappropriately waste resources, can cause health complications and have helped give rise to antibiotic-resistant “superbugs,” while the opioid crisis claims more than 115 lives every day. Schaeffer experts have employed theories of behavioral sciences — or nudges — to influence provider prescribing behavior without reducing their autonomy in both of these areas.

Program Leadership

  • Wändi Bruine de Bruin, MSc, PhD

    Co-Director, Behavioral Sciences Program, USC Schaeffer Center
    Provost Professor of Public Policy, Psychology, and Behavioral Science, USC Price School of Public Policy
    Behavioral Scientist, USC Center for Economic and Social Research

  • Co-Director, Behavioral Sciences Program, USC Schaeffer Center
    Norman Topping Chair in Medicine and Public Policy and Professor, USC Price School of Public Policy
    Chair, Department of Health Policy and Management, USC Price School of Public Policy

Featured Research and Perspectives

Opportunities

Applying for the 2023-2024 Roybal Center for Behavioral Interventions in Aging Pilot Projects

The Roybal Center for Behavioral Interventions in Aging seeks proposals for pilot projects that involve randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
Learn More