Teacher also writes

By Grace Camacho, On-Line Forty-Niner

Wednesday, December 2, 1998

Dr. Robert Thayer, who has taught psychology for more than 30 years at Cal State Long Beach, is more than just a professor.

Thayer has published two books, "The Origin of Everyday Moods: Managing Energy, Tension and Stress," which discusses one's everyday mood experience.

The second book, "The Biopsychology of Mood and Arousal," deals with theory on how moods originate.

Thayer said he is currently working on a third book, which will be out next year. The book focuses on why people overeat.

Thayer received his bachelor's from the University of Redlands and his doctorate in psychology at the University of Rochester.

He has been interviewed by several radio stations, television stations, national magazines and newspapers regarding his studies with moods and how they influence lives.

Some broadcast appearances include the National Public Radio, CBS Health Minute, Voice of America, television stations WOR in New York and WJOL in Chicago, where he spoke on the causes, effects and dynamics of moods. His press attention includes the front page of USA Today, Vogue, Los Angeles Times, Reader's Digest and Men's Health.

Some awards and honors Thayer has received are Keynote Speaker for the National Walk Week in 1987 at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., and Phi Beta Kappa Scholar of the Year in 1991.

With all the attention Thayer gets, he said he still has the energy to teach classes.

"I love teaching. It's a rewarding experience to teach educated and thoughtful people. I enjoy it a great deal," he said.