James Effiong

James Effiong

Assistant Professor
College of Health Sciences
Department of Psychology
Office
MB 3114

Dr. James Effiong is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology. As a Social Psychologist, his research centers on understanding the psychological dynamics of traumatic bonding among victims of intimate partner violence. With over a decade of experience, he is a dedicated lecturer and researcher committed to fostering inclusive learning environments for undergraduate and graduate students from diverse backgrounds. Dr. Effiong has collaborated extensively with colleagues on psychology and interdisciplinary research initiatives and has significant experience guiding students in conducting their research projects. 

Education and Training

  • Ph.D. in Social Psychology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, 2021
  • M.A. in Social Psychology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, 2015
  • B.S. in Psychology, University of Uyo, 2010 

Research Interests

Dr. Effiong is interested in understanding how personality characteristics and early life experiences can serve as risk factors for the development and maintenance of traumatic bonding among female victims of intimate partner violence. Additionally, his research aims to identify effective strategies for bystander detection and intervention. Dr. Effiong also examines how cultural and environmental stressors contribute to substance use and abuse among vulnerable women and youth. Furthermore, he explores how substance use by both victims and perpetrators of intimate partner violence can exacerbate traumatic bonding in victims. 

Selected Publications

Effiong, J. E., Ibeagha, P., Iorfa, S. K. (2022). Traumatic bonding in victims of intimate partner violence is intensified via empathy. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships. (DOI: 10.1177/02654075221106237/ ID: JSPR-21-349.R2). 

Effiong, J. E., Nnam, M. U., Iloma, D. O., Okechukwu, G. P., & Obi, C. F. (2020). The role of defensive pessimism and love and sex perception on rape victim blame attribution among public servants in a Nigerian city. Journal of interpersonal violence, 0886260520964036. 

Chukwuorji, J. C., Nweke, A., Iorfa, S. K., Lloyd, C. J., Effiong, J. E., & Ndukaihe, I. L. (2020). Distorted cognitions, substance use and suicide ideation among gamblers: A moderated mediation approach. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, 1-12. 

Courses

  • PSYC 1301 Introduction to Psychology
  • PSYC 3344 Life-Span Psychology
  • PSYC 4393 Senior Seminar
  • PSYC 6371 Social and Cultural Psychology
  • Accepting:
    • Master’s Thesis/Project Students
    • Graduate Research Assistants
    • Undergraduate Research Assistants
    • Independent Study or Research