Dr. James F. Sallis
Dr. James F. Sallis is a professor of psychology at San Diego State University since 1983. Dr. Sallis completed his PhD in Clinical Psychology in 1981 at Memphis State University under the mentorship of Dr. Kenneth Lichstein. Dr. Sallis current research is focused on examining how environment and psychological factors influence physical activity and dietary behaviors, as well as obesity (www.activelivingresearch.org)*. Dr. Sallis is also interested in using research to change policy and practice.
Dr. Sallis primary focus is research with little focus on clinical work. Dr. Sallis, along with other colleagues and students, developed the SPARK program (www.sparkpe.org). The focus of SPARK is the development of healthy lifestyles, motor skills and movement knowledge, and social and personal skills. The program was initially started as an NIH study and it evolved to a disseminated program affecting more than one million students daily. The SPARK programs are a great example of how research influences the practice of physical activitiy in schools, which one of his primary interests. Dr. Sallis has been feature in many printed and televise media talking about his research. He has been featured in the New York Times, USA Today, and ABC-TV World News to name a few.
Dr. Sallis has taught some courses at SDSU. He taught undergraduate Health Psychology and currently only teaches an advanced doctoral course in Behavioral Medicine Interventions.
*These studies are being conducted with all ages, with one study being international in scope. Active Living Research is a granting program for The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation that supports studies to prevent childhood obesity and promote active communities.
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