Brian Hicks, PhD

Dr. Hicks’ research has focused on examining the interplay among genetic, environmental, and developmental influences on the emergence, persistence, and desistence of substance use disorders, antisocial behavior, and disinhibitory personality traits (e.g., impulsivity, aggression). He is also a collaborator on longitudinal neuroimaging studies of adolescents and young adults to investigate the interplay between brain development and substance use. His research on firearms has focused on using survey methods to increase understanding on a variety of topics nationally and in Michigan. These include the prevalence and correlates of defensive gun use, offensive gun use, nonfatal firearm victimization, thoughts shooting others and firearm suicide, the links between firearms and suicidal thoughts and behaviors, gun carriage, and attitudes about gun violence prevention laws.