Research Team

Welcome to the SETO Lab!

I’m Professor Elizabeth Seto, and I’m a social psychologist interested in studying a variety of topics historically found in existential philosophy. I received my B.A. in Psychology at Baylor University and my Ph.D. in Social and Personality Psychology at Texas A&M University. I joined the Psychology Department at Colby College in 2017. I am teaching Introduction to Psychology (PS111), Research Methods and Statistics in Psychology II Lab (PS215L A and PS215L C), Social Psychology (PS253) and Seminar and Collaborative Research in Experimental Social Psychology paired-courses (PS336 and PS337) during the 2022-2023 academic school year.

My research team and I are currently pursuing two lines of research. Our first line of research examines the mechanisms and psychological consequences of belief in free will. Specifically, we are interested in how belief (or disbelief) in free will influences different components of our self-concept and our social behavior. Our second line of research focuses on understanding how people experience authenticity. In other words, under what circumstances do we find or feel closer to our true selves? I welcome the opportunity to discuss my work, and if you are interested in joining my research team, you can find me in Davis 302 or reach me at [email protected]

Emily Riley ’23

I am a senior from West Newbury, Massachusetts majoring in Psychology and History with a minor in Philosophy. I have always been interested in further understanding the relationships we form with ourselves and others. I have found that studying philosophy as well furthers my understanding of psychology and allows me to examine the same questions from the perspectives of two different disciplines. In the past I have been a Learning Assistant for Intro to Psychology, helping students find success in the course. I had some amazing experiences during the Spring 2022 semester while abroad in Cork, Ireland, but I am happy to be back at Colby for my senior year. In my free time I enjoy making art, writing, playing basketball, and getting outside.

John Silberman ’24

I am a junior from Wayland, Massachusetts majoring in psychology and Spanish. I find psychology fascinating, especially social psychology and how we perceive ourselves in the social world. On-campus, I am a member of the Colby track and field team and working to become a leader for the Outing Club. Outside of school, I like to read, play video games, spend time with friends, hike, and rock climb.

Zoey Ricco ‘24

I am a junior from Middleboro, Massachusetts majoring in Psychology and Classical Civilizations. I’m especially interested in social psychology and how self-perception is impacted by our social interactions. On campus, I am involved in Colby Dancers. When I have free time, I enjoy reading fiction, writing, hiking, drawing, and spending time with my friends.