Peter Giacobbi | College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences

Biographical Sketch

Dr. Giacobbi's research focuses on testing theory-based interventions to prevent chronic disease using inter-disciplinary team science and the creative application of new and existing technologies. His expertise is in the use of guided imagery as a mind-body technique to assist with health behavior change. Guided imagery is the controlled visualization of goals and aspirations and is important in the regulation of human behavior. His research publications reflect ongoing efforts to creatively deliver this behavior change technique using various delivery modalities that include in-person, telephone, social media, and mobile health (mHealth) applications.

Given that many behavioral risk factors for chronic disease cluster together (i.e., poor diet, exercise, and smoking), Dr. Giacobbi is particularly interested in testing interventions that simultaneously address multiple health behaviors.

During his days in graduate school, Dr. Giacobbi served as a volunteer assistant golf coach with the men's golf teams at Miami University and the University of Tennessee. He also worked closely with the women's volleyball team at Miami. Prior to his arrival in CPASS, Giacobbi was an assistant professor in public health at the University of Arizona (2008-2012) and in the College of Health and Human Performance at the University of Florida (2000-2008).In his personal time, he enjoys walking his dog, training in the martial arts, and public health advocacy.

Committees and Memberships

Member, American Psychological Association (APA), 2016-Present
Member, American Public Health Association (APHA), 2016-Present
Member, Society of Behavioral Medicine, 2006-Present

Educational Background

Ph.D., Education/Sport and Exercise Psychology, University of Tennessee
M.S., Sport Behavior and Performance, Miami University
B.A., Psychology, State University of New York

Professional Highlights

H-Index of scientific productivity of 28
Deputy Director of the West Virginia Prevention Research Center funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Current funding from the National Institutes of Health testing the impact of a guided imagery smoking cessation intervention compared to an evidence-based cognitive-behavioral approach with the Arizona Smokers' Quitline
Also funded by the National Science Foundation to test a guided imagery intervention delivered through an mHealth application for pregnant women