bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EHPS/DHP Conference 2016: Summary of DHP Award for ‘Outstanding MSc Thesis’ and reflections on conference highlights
Authors: Perski Olga
Published: January 2023

As a winner of the DHP award for ‘Outstanding MSc Thesis’, I was invited to present my work at the joint EHPS/DHP Conference 2016 in Aberdeen, Scotland. In this brief report, I provide a summary of my thesis, entitled ‘Understanding user engagement with a novel smoking cessation smartphone application in UKbased adult smokers: An exploratory analysis of usage data from a randomised controlled trial’, and my reflections on the positive aspects of the conference.
Realising the value… of health psychology
Authors: Kirkby–Geddes Emma , Sternberg Nicola
Published: January 2023

Our attendance at NESTA’s ‘Realising the Value’ event in Manchester last autumn demonstrated a real and pressing opportunity for health psychology to raise its visibility. It is a discipline with much to contribute to the changing and evolving health and social care landscape in the UK. We report here on our reflections from attending the event.
How can psychology make healthcare safer? An interdisciplinary seminar for early career researchers
Authors: Chatburn Eleanor
Published: January 2023

As the recipient of the DHP Annual Research Seminar Competition Award for 2016, I present a brief report of the event proceedings and my rationale for organizing an early career seminar on the topic of the role of psychology in healthcare improvement.
Understanding what influences people’s attitudes towards individuals with dementia
Authors: Katharine Bowles , Margaret Husted
Published: January 2023

Stigmatisation of people with dementia is a problem that affects people’s quality of life. This is an increasing problem due to the growing numbers of people diagnosed with dementia as indicated by dementia being the leading cause of death in the UK (Starr, 2017). Identifying the causes behind negative perceptions should help remove, or reduce, stigma. This study investigated how a person’s age, familiarity, knowledge, or fear, of dementia influenced their attitudes towards people with dementia. Findings from 130 participants aged 18 to 64 years old showed that fear of dementia ha,d a significant negative correlation with attitudes towards people with dementia. However, age, familiarity and knowledge, did not have a significant effect on participant’s attitudes. Overall, regression analysis indicated that these predictor variables only explained six per cent of variance in attitudes toward people with dementia. This indicates that interventions focused on reducing fear ofdementia may have a positive effect on public attitudes towards people with dementia, but clearly there are more complex explanations that need to be sought to explain the current levels of stigma seen.
Structured discussionAn oral history of UK health psychologyExploring myths and barriers in relation toN-of-1 studies in health psychology
Authors: Chater Angel , McDonald Suzanne , Quinn Francis , Morrison Val , Cassidy Tony , Johnston Derek , Johnston Marie
Published: January 2023

In order of first author surname
Service evaluation of a pilot psychology clinic including psychological intervention within a Tier 2 community adult weight management service
Authors: MacDonald-Gibb Kirsty , McCallum Mary , Young Kerry , Pittendreigh Jen , Campbell Fiona
Published: January 2023

Background:Obesity levels in Scotland are amongst the highest in the developing world and psychological co-morbidities are common amongst the obese population. and evidence suggests that psychological approaches, can result in sustained weight loss, improved wellbeing and reduced binge eating. However, there is limited evidence of effective intervention supporting weight outcomes in a general setting.

Aim:The aim of this pilot intervention was to determine if the addition of a psychology clinic within a Tier 2 community adult weight management service (CAWMS) supported positive weight management outcomes.

Methods:Service evaluation data was gathered at an urban and rural GP practice within Grampian. Patients were referred to the pilot psychology clinic if mild to moderate mental health concerns were highlighted. Eight patients (average age 46 years; mean BMI 46.2) attended between four and eight appointments within the psychology clinic. Progress, goal setting, barriers and relapse prevention were discussed using a motivational interviewing approach. Psycho-education, self-management advice and brief psychological interventions, were offered where appropriate.

Results:Mean weight loss for patients who attended the psychology clinic was 7.4kg. Mean HADS anxiety scores did not change, whereas HADS depression scores reduced by 3.5, although not statistically significant (p > 0.001). Qualitative feedback suggests that the majority of patients found the addition of psychological support helpful.

Conclusion:The pilot has highlighted the value and importance of a psychology clinic within Tier 2 CAWMS. Feedback from dietitians suggests that the addition of psychological support better informed their understanding of patients concerns. It highlights the need for ‘joined-up’ working within the community weight management service.
A systematic review of evidence about the role of alexithymia in chronic back pain
Authors: Kapadi Romaana , Elander James , Bateman Antony H.
Published: January 2023

Individuals with alexithymia struggle to make sense of their emotions. Alexithymia has been associated with a range of physical illnesses, but may influence different illnesses differently, so to understand the role of alexithymia in illness it is important to focus on specific conditions. This article reviews evidence from ten reports published between 2000 and 2018 of studies with samples of adults with chronic back pain that used the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS). The studies were conducted in Germany, Israel, Italy, Russia, Turkey and the US. Eight studies involved clinical samples and two involved public transit workers. Studies that compared participants with high and low alexithymia consistently found associations with measures of pain. The findings show that more severe alexithymia plays a role in the experience of chronic back pain, and support the incorporation of alexithymia-related elements in interventions to help people with chronic back pain improve their emotional regulation and reduce their pain-related distress.
Men’s experiences of living with melanoma: An interpretative phenomenological analysis
Authors: Healey Rebecca , Taylor Jill , Swainston Katherine
Published: January 2023

This study explores men's subjective lived experiences of melanoma. An interpretative phenomenological approach was employed using in-depth semi-structured interviews and photo-elicitation. Six men took photographs to illustrate their lived experiences. These images were discussed and interpreted by the men during the interview process. Four themes were developed from data analysis: waiting and uncertainty, 'melanoia', the physicality of melanoma, and positive reframing and altered time perspective. Physical, psychological and social impacts were identified within men's accounts of their experiences which influenced illness experience. Photo-elicitation was noted by both the researchers and the men participating as having benefits during the interview process. Men also described therapeutic benefits of this tool by providing a focus for reflection.
Professional responsibilities relating to addressing discrimination and difference in health psychology therapeutic practice
Authors: Cain Sasha , Bains Kiran Kaur
Published: January 2023

Applied HPs work in the context of cultural and societal change. Recently this included the #BlackLivesMatter Campaign, the #metoo movement, LGBTQIA inclusion and a national pandemic; all of which have highlighted inequalities in UK society.

HPs often work therapeutically with clients who experience discrimination linked to the direct and indirect consequences of health conditions, lifestyle behaviours and disabilities as well as relating to other visible and invisible differences.

HCPC guidelines on discrimination require registrants to not discriminate towards others and to challenge colleagues who discriminate against others. However, responsibilities are not contextualised and do not address the personal impact of discrimination faced by the psychologist themselves (personally and professionally), which may impact the perceived safety of raising professional concerns.

The British Psychological Society guidance for practitioner psychologists on discrimination does not address how to discuss difference and discrimination within therapeutic practice. Internationally there are examples of guidance that could be adapted for the UK.

HPs need to take a strong affirmative position on tackling discrimination in its broadest definition across marginalised groups. Professional guidance/best practice that recognises the personal experiences of discrimination and clarifies roles and responsibilities would support us to do this.
Person-centred coaching psychology: A meta-theoretical perspective
Authors: Joseph Stephen
Published: January 2023

Coaching psychology provides a new professional arena for thinking about psychological practice. Many will recognise the ethos of coaching psychology as different from the medical model and many coaching psychologists would not recognise a description of the profession as grounded in the medical model. It will be argued, however, that because coaching psychology has emerged in relation to other professional branches of psychology which do adopt the medical model, it has as a consequence implicitly adopted the values of the medical model. The implication of the medical model is the view that we ourselves are the expert on our client’s life. This stands in contrast to the person-centred model view which is that our client is their own best expert. It will be argued that coaching psychology should reject the medical model and instead adopt the person-centred meta-theoretical perspective.
The coaching psychology movement and its development within the British Psychological Society
Authors: Palmer Stephen , Whybrow Alison
Published: January 2023

To many members of the British Psychological Society (BPS) it may appear that the BPS Special Group in Coaching Psychology (SGCP) has come from nowhere to somewhere in a short space of time. It held its inaugural meeting on 15 December 2004 and by March 2005, it had become the third largest BPS subsystem with over 1600 Founder Members and by December 2005, it had almost 2000 members. Its path through the BPS bureaucracy helped to shape it into an inclusive branch of applied psychology. This paper will cover the history of the coaching psychology movement within the BPS.
Experiences of coaching and stress in the workplace: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis
Authors: Gyllensten Kristina , Palmer Stephen
Published: January 2023

Objectives:This paper will present the findings from a qualitative study exploring experiences of workplace coaching.

Design:The study adopted a qualitative design. Semi-structured interviews were used and the method of analysis was Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (Smith, Jaraman & Osborn, 1999).

Methods:Two large organisations participated and nine individuals, who had taken part in coaching, were interviewed. The interviews focused on the participants’ experiences of coaching, and one of the topics investigated was coaching and stress.

Results:‘Management of Stress’ was identified as a main theme which, in turn, comprised of a number of sub-themes. According to these sub-themes coaching had helped the participants to reduce stress indirectly, to cope with stressful situations, and was a resource that the participants would consider using in the future. Moreover, coaching also had the potential to cause stress.

Conclusions:It was concluded that coaching could help to reduce stress indirectly and help individuals to cope with stressful situations. However, as coaching also had the potential to cause stress it was suggested that it was important that coaches clearly explain what can be expected from coaching. In addition, limitations with the study were discussed.
Assessing the efficacy of a cognitive behavioural executive coaching programme
Authors: Libri Vincenzo , Kemp Travis
Published: January 2023

Objectives:Cognitive behavioural techniques have been the mainstay of psychological treatment for many psychologists in clinical practice. However, there is little known in relation to the efficacy of cognitive behavioural techniques for performance enhancement within a non-clinical setting, such as those found in organisational environments. The present study examined the effects of a cognitive behavioural based executive coaching intervention for a finance sales executive.

Design:A within subject, ABAB single case design was utilised in this study.

Methods:The participant was a 30-year-old Australian male, employed as a full-time finance sales executive. Each phase of the single case design had a duration of three weeks. Follow-up measures were taken at six months (week 36) and at 18 months (week 88) after the conclusion of the intervention.

Results:It was shown that a cognitive behavioural executive coaching programme enhanced a 30-year-old Australian male finance executive’s sales performance, core self-evaluation, and global self-ratings of performance following his participation in an executive coaching intervention.

Conclusions:The present study suggests that executive coaches should consider incorporating cognitive behavioural techniques into their coaching programmes. Further research into executive coaching models, approaches and outcomes, is needed, particularly by academics within the field of organisational psychology.
Strengths use, self-concordance and well-being: Implications for Strengths Coaching and Coaching Psychologists
Authors: Govindji Reena , Linley P. Alex
Published: January 2023

An emphasis of the coaching psychology and positive psychology movements has been strengths and well-being. This study examined two generic aspects of strengths – strengths knowledge and strengths use, together with organismic valuing, and their relations with subjective well-being, psychological well-being, and subjective vitality. Theory suggests that people who know their strengths, use their strengths, and follow the directions that are right for them (i.e. organismically valuing) will be happier. Participants (N=214) completed measures of these variables, as well as measures of self-esteem and self-efficacy. Analyses showed that strengths knowledge, strengths use, and organismic valuing were all significantly associated with well-being and vitality. Regression analyses showed that self-esteem, organismic valuing, and strengths use all predicted unique variance in subjective well-being and psychological well-being, but only self-esteem significantly predicted unique variance in subjective vitality. The discussion locates the findings in relation to strengths coaching, and suggests directions for future research and coaching psychology applications.
GAS powered coaching:Goal Attainment Scaling and its use in coaching research and practice
Authors: Spence Gordon B.
Published: January 2023

As the demand for an evidence-based approach to coaching grows, so does the need for rigourous outcome measures. However, despite the fact that coaching is a goal-focused process, there has been little discussion in the coaching literature about different approaches to measuring goal attainment. Given that goal attainment represents a key dependent variable for coaching interventions, it is important that this gap in the literature be addressed. This paper seeks to stimulate discussion about this important issue by describing an approach to the measurement of goal outcomes, Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS), and discussing the strengths and limitations of the approach. Whilst goal attainment processes are multifaceted and measurement is complicated by a multiplicity of goal constructs and the inherent instability of goals, it is argued that the GAS methodology offers coaches a way of neutralising some of these challenges. In addition, GAS has the potential to stimulate dialogue between practitioners and researchers, as it could provide a methodological framework and language accessible to both.
Positive coaching with frontline managers: Enhancing their effectiveness and understanding why
Authors: Yu Nickolas , Collins Catherine G. , Cavanagh Michael , White Kate , Fairbrother Greg
Published: January 2023

Coaching is increasingly being used in the health sector, with staff and patients. Despite this increase there is only a small body of empirical evidence that demonstrates the effectiveness of coaching in health care settings.

Objectives:This study evaluated the effectiveness of a workplace coaching programme (WCP) aimed at enhancing the work behaviours and well-being of 17 managers in a large Australian teaching hospital.

Design:A within-group, pre-post test study design was used.

Methods:The WCP consisted of needs-based workshops and group and individual coaching over a six-month period. Positive social science provided the theoretical underpinning for the WCP, and this was applied through an integrated solution-focused, cognitive-behavioural methodology. A questionnaire was used to collect data at two time points. Data was analysed using the Wilcoxon Sign Rank Test.

Results:Participation in coaching was associated with significantly enhanced proactivity, core performance, goal-attainment, self-insight, motivation, positive affect, and autonomy. Significant effects on self-reflection, negative affect and psychological well-being were not found.

Conclusion:The study provides preliminary evidence in favour of workplace coaching as an effective approach for facilitating work effectiveness. Further research utilising larger sample sizes and controlled study designs is warranted.
Strengths coaching with leaders
Authors: Linley P. Alex , Woolston Linda , Biswas-Diener Robert
Published: January 2023

Positive psychology and coaching psychology share a number of common themes and fundamental assumptions. Blending positive psychology, strengths approaches and coaching psychology, our work in strengths coaching with leaders enhances both leadership and organisational capability. In this article, we explore the role of leaders as climate engineers and provide a brief history of strengths approaches, together with definitions of what we mean by strengths and strengths coaching, and how we use these in practice. We introduce the integrative Realise2 model of strengths and weaknesses which distinguishes between the six areas of realised strengths, unrealised strengths, regular learned behaviours, infrequent learned behaviours, exposed weaknesses, and unexposed weaknesses, before going on to demonstrate how leaders can make weaknesses irrelevant through role shaping, complementary partnering, strengths-based team-working or personal development. We examine the golden mean of strengths use, looking at strengths both overplayed and underplayed, before concluding with a view on the benefits of strengths coaching for both leadership and organisational capability. The Appendix provides 10 summary points in a strengths coaching checklist for leaders.
Coaching from the inside: Building an internal group of emotionally intelligent coaches
Authors: McKee Annie , Tilin Felice , Mason Delores
Published: January 2023

While many senior executives can both afford and benefit from world class external coaching, this may not be an affordable or manageable option for many leaders in large organizations. Developing a cadre of internal coaches has the benefits of: (1) cost containment; (2) internal capacity to create a coaching culture; and (3) coaches make better managers. In a case study of a large European bank implementing a culture change the authors trained coaches how to coach using emotional intelligence and a change model called intentional change. Surveys and interviews of the leaders who were coached by internal coaches revealed five tangible results: (1) an increase in the speed of managers’ leadership growth; (2) an increase in manager loyalty to the company; (3) improved communication among people; (4) increased ability to solve conflicts; and (5) a renewed passion and awareness that part of their ability is to develop others.
A systematic review (SR) of coaching psychology: Focusing on the attributes of effective coaching psychologists
Authors: Lai Yi-Ling , McDowall Almuth
Published: January 2023

Objective:

Whilst a number of narrative reviews on coaching exist, there is no systematic review (SR) yet summarising the evidence base in a transparent way. To this extent, we undertook a SR of coaching psychology evidence. Following the initial scoping and consultation phase, this focused on coaching psychologists’ attributes, such as the required knowledge, attitudes and behaviours, associated with a conducive coaching relationship and subsequent coaching results.

Design:

The SR review process stipulates a priori protocol which specifies the review topic, questions/ hypotheses, (refined through expert consultation and consultation of any existing reviews in the field, and replicable review methods including data extraction logs).

Methods:

The initial search elicited 23,611 coaching papers using 58 search terms from eight electronic databases (e.g. PsyINFO). Following initial sifts, 140 studies were screened further using seven inclusion criteria. Study results from the included papers were integrated through Narrative Synthesis.

Conclusion:

This SR highlighted that the coaching relationship is a key focus of coaching research and practice, where professional psychological training /background is necessary to understand and manage coachee’s emotional reactions. The review also highlighted that coaches’ attributes have a significant influence on the effectiveness of coaching process and results. The review concludes with a proposal for an initial Coaching Psychologist Competency Framework to underpin future studies, and notes the short comings of existing competency based frameworks for coaching practice.
Intentional personality change coaching: A randomised controlled trial of participant selected personality facet change using the Five-Factor Model of Personality
Authors: Martin Lesley S. , Oades Lindsay G. , Caputi Peter
Published: January 2023

Objectives:

Recent literature suggests that personality may be more amenable to change than was previously thought, and that participant selected intentional personality change may be beneficial. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of a 10-week structured intentional personality change coaching programme on participant selected personality facets.

Design:

Participants were assigned to the personality coaching group or a waitlist control group using a waitlist control, matched, randomised procedure (personality coaching group, N=27; waitlist control group, N=27).

Method:

A structured coaching programme, designed to identify and modify a limited number of personality facets, chosen by the client, was employed.

Results:

Participation in the personality change coaching programme was associated with significant positive change in participant selected facets, with gains maintained three months later. Neither age of participant nor number of facets targeted significantly affected change outcomes.

Conclusions:

These findings suggest that a structured personality change coaching programme may facilitate beneficial personality change in motivated individuals.
Evaluating a coaching and mentoring programme: Challenges and solutions
Authors: Bachkirova Tatiana , Arthur Linet , Reading Emma
Published: January 2023

Objectives:

This paper describes an independently conducted research study to develop appropriate measures and evaluate the coaching/mentoring programme that the London Deanery had been running for over five years. It also aims to explore specific challenges in the evaluation of a large-scale coaching programme and to suggest new solutions.

Design:

The challenges to evaluation included the need to use established but also context-relevant measures and the need for a rigorous but also pragmatic design that took into account a number of practical constraints. Overall it was a mixed method research design consisting of a within-subject quantitative study with support of a qualitative grounded theory methodology conducted in parallel.

Method:

The selected measures for the quantitative part of the study included employee engagement, self-efficacy and self-compassion. An additional questionnaire SWRQ (Specific Work-Related Questionnaire) was developed as the result of a qualitative investigation with stakeholder representatives. It included a self-estimation by the coached clients of the extent to which they could attribute each change to the coaching received rather than any other factor. The qualitative part of the study included interviews with stakeholders and the analysis of responses to an open question in the SWRQ.

Results:

120 (78 per cent) of matched responses pre- and post-coaching were analysed and seven stakeholders interviewed. The results of the quantitative and qualitative analysis show improvement in all chosen scales. The analysis also shows that coaching was a major contributor to these changes.

Conclusions:

The paper argues for the development of additional methods in outcome research on coaching programmes that are aligned with the main principles and philosophy of coaching as a practice.
What does coaching have to offer to young people at risk of developing mental health problems? A grounded theory study
Authors: Robson-Kelly Liz , van Nieuwerburgh Christian
Published: January 2023

Objectives:This study sought to identify what coaching psychology has to offer young people at risk of developing mental health problems.

Design:The study used a semi-structured interview design and self-reflective data analysis within a qualitative approach.

Method:Grounded theory was employed to analyse the transcripts and self-reflective data from coaches and young people and to build a series of descriptive and conceptual codes, and in the creation of a theoretical model.

Results:The study results in a theoretical model, which suggests the experience of coaching creates a process, a positive relationship and a set of skills where the young person, through growing accountability, awareness and responsibility, develops choice and control over their thoughts, feelings and behaviour. This helps them to deal with their situations.

Conclusions:The study results in an initial theoretical model to assist with the application of coaching interventions, targeted specifically at young people at risk of developing mental health problems. It provides a tentative theoretical understanding that requires further research.
How is behavioural change sustained over time? Coachee perceptions of the effects of coaching one year later
Authors: Nanduri Ventaka
Published: January 2023

Objectives

This study addressed three research questions: How do participants perceive the effects of coaching and sustain changes a year later? What challenges were experienced by the coachees in sustaining their changes? What factors enabled the coachees in sustaining their changes?

Design

The study employed Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to understand the felt experiences of former coachees on the effects of coaching after a period of 12 months.

Methods

Seven former coachees were purposively selected as participants. Informed consent of the participants and ethical clearance were obtained to conduct research interviews. Semi-structured interviews of the participants were conducted using open-ended questions. The interview conversations were audio-recorded and transcriptions were obtained from a service provider. IPA was used to analyse data and identify themes relevant to the objectives.

Results

The study revealed a number of aspects about sustainable change, these include sincere efforts through concentration and self-discipline, and intrinsic motivation supported by coaching to change>

Conclusions

Sustained effects of coaching over a time are linked to coachee satisfaction derived from fulfillment of their goals and desires. The coach’s role in reinforcing client interests/passion and coachee action to maintain the changes are both crucial in achieving durable effects.
‘Adjusting to that new norm’: How and why maternity coaching can help with the transition back to work after maternity leave
Authors: Moffett Jane
Published: January 2023

Objectives

Maternity coaching is delivered in certain sectors, with the aim of retaining women after maternity leave. Enabling women to stay in the workforce is a current focus of both government and industry in the UK. The objectives of this research were to determine if there are any key elements that are common to successful maternity coaching programmes which could inform recommendations for maternity coaching programmes across a variety of employment sectors.

Design

Semi-structured interviews were used. Eleven participants from five different participating organisations were recruited. Participants had all returned to work after receiving maternity leave.

Methods

The interviews were coded and analysed to identify themes. They were also analysed with relation to the Schlossberg 4S Transition Model, Stern’s Transition to Motherhood theory and Dilts’ logical levels tool.

Results

With this cohort of high-performing women, we found that coaching was influential in enabling them to engage on a deep level, developing increased self-awareness and finding ways to navigate their way back into the workplace at this time of major transition. The relationship with the coach, and the breadth and depth of the outcomes of coaching were key findings.

Conclusions

Coaching at this time appears to enable a re-adjustment on a deep personal level, helping with the return to work after maternity leave.
Team coaching: Three questions and a look ahead: A systematic literature review
Authors: Traylor Allison M. , Stahr Elliot , Salas Eduardo
Published: January 2023

Today’s organisations most often call upon teams, rather than individuals, to solve their most complex problems. In an effort to improve team processes and performance, organisations invest both time and money into team development interventions, including team coaching. Despite frequent mentions of team coaching in academic literature and its popularity in practice, we know very little about the efficacy of team coaching and reviews on this topic are scant. Accordingly, we conducted a systematic review of the team coaching literature in organisations, providing an overview of the state of the science of team coaching. Our review highlights the general effectiveness of team coaching across studies, identifying mediating mechanisms that explain its effectiveness, outcomes impacted by team coaching and boundary conditions to its efficacy. We end with implications for practitioners and academics and a number of avenues for future research in this timely domain.
Active ingredients in executive coaching: A systematic literature review
Authors: Pandolfi Camillo
Published: January 2023

This critical review has examined the evidence of active ingredients (antecedents, mediators and moderators) through which outcomes are produced in executive coaching (EC) engagements. Most literature suggests EC interventions are generally effective (e.g. Grover & Furnham, 2016). However, there is a paucity of rigorous research investigating how EC works (Bickerich et al., 2018). Various authors have called for research to fill this gap and to further EC as evidence-based practice (Athanasopoulou & Dopson, 2018). A systematic search was conducted to identify recent meta-analyses, reviews and articles through five databases, selecting peer-reviewed articles published globally between 2009 and June 2019. A stepwise analysis identified 46 active ingredients cited in 28 included articles. Evidence of EC active ingredients is still in its infancy and focused on coachees’s and coaches’ characteristics, and coaching relationship (respectively 32 per cent, 25 per cent and 20 per cent of citations). This confirms the key role of individual characteristics and importance of building a solid alliance. On the flipside, the coaching process (17 per cent citations) and contextual elements (seven per cent) remain largely unexplored areas. This review also shed some light on neglected aspects like the need for coaches to be competent in dealing effectively and ethically with all the stakeholders in the triangular EC relationship. Methodological limitations and research-gaps are discussed, and recommendations are made for research and practice.
Understanding what drives the coaching working alliance: A systematic literature review and meta-analytic examination
Authors: Graßmann Carolin , Schermuly Carsten C.
Published: January 2023

Research in coaching has confirmed the working alliance between clients and coaches to be a key factor for coaching outcomes, such as clients’ goal attainment and preventing negative effects. However, surprisingly little is known about which factors contribute to establishing working alliances. We conducted a systematic literature review to investigate which factors influence the working alliance between clients and coaches. We included studies when they pertained to individual and work-related coaching, reported quantifiable data and potential antecedents referred to the client, the coach, or both. Wherever possible, we also analysed relationships by meta-analytical means. We identified 21 samples in 18 studies in our literature review. As suggested by social exchange theory, we identified factors that focus on clients (e.g. change motivation), coaches (e.g. perceived competence), and the client-coach dyad (e.g. similarity). The number of studies allowed us to examine clients’ change motivation and coaches’ perceived competence by meta-analytical means, which revealed medium-sized effect sizes (for change motivation: r=.37, p<.001, k=8; perceived competence: r=.42, p<.001, k=4). Coaches’ experience was not significantly related to working alliance, r=.10, p=.22, k=4). Personality and personality similarity appear unrelated to working alliance, whereas behavioural similarity was identified as an antecedent. Both coaches and clients contribute to establishing working alliances. Clients’ motivation and coaches’ perceived competence rank among the most promising antecedents for establishing a working alliance in coaching. Several coach behaviours have been suggested in relation to working alliance. These results contribute to a better understanding of the factors that are related to the working alliance in coaching, which may also help coaches to reflect on and improve in their practice. In particular, more behaviour-oriented studies are needed in pursuing the driving factors in coaching working alliances.
A preliminary evaluation of intensive short-term dynamic psychotherapy within a functional neurological symptoms service
Authors: Russell Leo A. , Turner Ann C. , Yates Philip J.
Published: January 2023

This outcome study evaluated the quality of life and emotional wellbeing of patients referred with functional neurological symptoms (FNS) to an NHS Community Neuropsychology Service and treated with a course of Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP). Measures of quality of life and emotional wellbeing demonstrated significant improvement amongst the eleven patients treated. These outcomes support the view that ISTDP may be a helpful psychological treatment option for patients with FNS.
Reflections from the ‘front line’: Acute neurorehabilitation during Covid-19 from an assistant psychologist perspective
Authors: Mairs Jodie , Blackwell Deborah , Teager Alistair J.
Published: January 2023

The Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic has impacted on the population across social, economic and political spheres to an unprecedented degree. Within the NHS, it brought about rapid change within a short period as services adapted to provide safe and effective practice. Whilst many of these developments were positive, the pace and complexity of the ever-changing situation had a profound impact on the day-to-day routine, referrals and wellbeing of service users and staff. In this article, two assistant psychologists reflect on their experience of working in acute inpatient neurorehabilitation during this time and highlight some of the challenges and positives that arose.
Distress associated with recurrent complex visual hallucinations in Dementia with Lewy Bodies: The application of adapted cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
Authors: Cook Julia
Published: January 2023

The evidence base for both medical and psychological interventions for distress associated with recurrent visual hallucinations in dementia is limited. A case is presented within which a CBT model specifically designed to target recurrent complex visual hallucinations, proposed by Collerton and Dudley (2004) was implemented, informed by a Cognitive Rehabilitation (CR) based approach for people with dementia (Clare, 2008). This led to a successful outcome; both the distress and the hallucinatory experiences were alleviated.
The response and experience of Clinical Psychologists and Neuropsychologists working in inpatient neurorehabilitation during the first wave of the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Wilson Michelle , Bates Jenny , Williams Francesca , Ohlsson Matilda
Published: January 2023

Inpatient neurorehabilitation services have been significantly impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic and Clinical Psychologists (CP) working in these services had to adapt in various ways. An online questionnaire explored how CPs worked during the first wave of Covid-19 in the UK, as well as how they planned to work as the national restrictions were easing. The experiences of CPs during this time were also explored. Forty-two CPs completed the questionnaire. Their responses demonstrated variability in approaches. Most services had to prioritise and adapt in response to reduced staffing, changed aims of the rehabilitation service, and guidelines to prevent Covid-19 transmission. This included prioritisation of work and working remotely. A number of challenges were faced including undertaking patient work, resource issues, and service level challenges. However, a number of positives were also reported including increased efficiency and gratitude. There were also both challenges and positives related to team working.
A qualitative exploration of videoconferencing technology in clinical neuropsychology: Clinicians’ perspectives
Authors: Simpson Adele , Donaldson Isla , Jack Roisin
Published: January 2023

Objective: The implementation of videoconferencing technology (VCT) in healthcare has been expedited by the Covid-19 pandemic. This study aimed to explore clinicians’ experiences of using VCT and their views on its suitability for delivering neuropsychological care.

Method: An exploratory thematic analysis was conducted using data from two focus groups of professionals working in clinical neuropsychology (N=9). Results were reported in accordance with COREQ criteria for qualitative research.

Results: Six key themes were developed. Clinician experiences of using ‘technology’, the perceived ‘suitability’ of VCT for patients, and the potential ‘impact on wellbeing’ that VCT could have on both clinicians and patients, were highlighted. ‘Changing the therapeutic milieu’ and ‘neuropsychological considerations’ – such as assessment validity and opportunities for cognitive rehabilitation – were also conceptualised. VCT was also viewed as a means of ‘facilitating access’, particularly throughout Covid-19 restrictions.

Conclusions: Whilst benefits of VCT were identified, a number of concerns were raised about how routine use of VCT may impact clinicians and their patients. Clinicians tended to view VCT as an adjunct to traditional services in the context of Covid-19, rather than a potential replacement. Further research is required to better understand the perspectives of professionals working in neuropsychology and their patients.
Head and neck cancer patients’ return-to-work experience following facial change as a result of surgery: An interpretative phenomenological analysis
Authors: Owen Deborah
Published: January 2023

Background

head and neck cancer (hNc) is the sixth most common cancer internationally. the corollary of improved survival rates however, is a proliferation of individuals returning to work. these individuals possess a unique set of needs – not only does hNc affect basic daily functions, such as breathing and speaking, but highly visible surgical results can be particularly distressing. Patients may experience a change in relationships and a shift in their sense of identity

Aim

: A hermeneutic interpretative phenomenological analysis of hNc patients’ return-towork experience following facial change as a result of surgical intervention. hermeneutic inquiry is a particularly pertinent method as it explores how hNc patients feel about themselves, how they feel they are perceived, and their understanding of others. Previous hNc research has either tended to focus on coping strategies, or physiological problems. this study explores how the participants situate themselves in the occupational context using heidegger’s concept of ‘being-in-the-world’.

Method

Interpretative phenomenological analysis of semi-structured interviews with six hNc patients (four women and two men) who had finished prosthetic/cosmetic treatment.

Results

Analysis revealed three themes related to the patients’ experience of facial alteration as a result of cancer surgery: their presence in the world, their consideration of ‘being’ in the eyes of others, and their ‘being’ in relation to others. For some individuals, re-establishing the occupational self after facial change is a challenging but satisfying process. the degree of visibility of the facial disfigurement was not an indicator of the level of psychological impact on the ndividual however social self-efficacy and organisational support were significant factors in mitigating the positive association between facial difference and acceptance in the job-role.
Some not very evidencebased reflections on DOP 2014
Authors: Briner Rob B.
Published: January 2023

I think I know what you’re thinking. Something like: ‘Oh nooooo. Not that again. Not that evidence-based stuff. Yawnaroonie. Like, whatever. Yadda yadda. La la la – I’m not listening. Is that the time already? Won’t you and it just go away? Please, no more.’
Practitioner of the Year Award : Behaviour change and health improvement at Transport for London
Authors: Lewis Rachel , Donaldson-Feilder Emma
Published: January 2023

The Division’s flagship Practitioner of the Year award has gone to Rachel Lewis and Emma Donaldson-Feilder of Affinity Health at Work for their work with Transport for London (TfL). Their evidence-based and behaviour change approach informs and underpins TfL’s Health Improvement Plan, assisting in the choice of ‘best’ health improvement activities and the implementation of activities in ways that maximise effectiveness. They presented this paper at the conference.
Meet the Keynotes
Authors: Beddoes-Jones Fiona
Published: January 2023

Dr Fiona Beddoes-Jones asked all of this year’s inspirational keynote speakers the same 10 questions so you could get to know them a little better. You can access their professional profiles fromhttp://www.bps.org.uk/dop2015; more details of their keynote presentations will also be available there in due course.
Psychology People in Profile
Authors: Beattie Geoffrey , Doran Kate
Published: January 2023

Continuing the series of interviews with high-profile psychologists, Kate Doran touches base with Professor Geoffrey Beattie, widely regarded as one of the leading international figures on nonverbal communication, currently Professor of Psychology in the School of Psychological Sciences and Professorial Research Fellow in the Sustainable Consumption Institute at the University of Manchester.
Improving responses to rape and sexual assault: Delivering a victim-centred system
Authors: Scurlock-Evans Laura
Published: January 2023

Review of a Public Policy Exchange symposium, Broadway House, London, 28 November 2013.
Doing research in the NHS
Authors: Cheetham Tara , Norfolk Rhiannon
Published: January 2023

University of Manchester, 21 October 2013.
Negotiating the PhD journey
Authors: Adie Jillian , Buck Robert
Published: January 2023

This article reviews a PsyPAG funded pre-conference workshop for postgraduate students at the British Psychological Society’s Psychology of Education Section Annual Conference, November 2015, Kents Hill Park Training and Conference Centre, Milton Keynes.
Translanguaging: A new approach to bilingual education
Authors: Beres Anna M.
Published: January 2023

Bilingual education, for decades focused on the separation of two languages during learning, has witnessed a major change over the past 20 years and has moved towards the flexible use of bilingual children’s languages in the classroom. Translanguaging is a pedagogical strategy, first described in the context of Welsh education by Cen Williams (1994), in which students receive information in one language and produce an output of their learning in their other language. It has since been popularised globally, and is now thought to be the best way to educate bilingual children. However, so far, insights into the potential benefits of translanguaging come from qualitative and observational methods, and focus heavily on language learning. In my PhD, by using neuroscientific methods, I focus on quantifying the potential benefits of translanguaging beyond the realm of language learning. This article describes briefly the educational situation in Wales in the 20th century as something that gave rise to translanguaging and is followed by a discussion of translanguaging research to date. In then describes the neuroscientific investigation of translanguaging conducted as part of my PhD. Finally, it proposes new avenues for translanguaging research.
Costly conferences and steep study visits: A whistle-stop tour of funding sources for postgraduate students
Authors: Smith Harriet M.J.
Published: January 2023

Many postgraduate students experience a lack of funds to help pay for CV-boosting activities such as attending conferences and organising study visits. Often the limited nature of departmental funding forces students to seek help from external bodies. Financial help for psychology postgraduate students is available from numerous sources, but navigating these can be complicated. This article aims to shed light on potential sources of funding, and to offer some general tips for constructing applications.
Ethical issues encountered in field study collaborations with organisations outside of academia
Authors: van Steen Tommy
Published: January 2023

In this reflective piece, I discuss the ethical issues academics and social psychologists can encounter when they collaborate with organisations outside of academia. A recently published paper, the Facebook contagion study, serves as an example to discuss issues such as informed consent, debriefing, and possible tensions between academics and organisations regarding the goal of the data collection.
Psychology people in profile: Dr Anne Abey
Authors: Roche Lauren
Published: January 2023

Dr Anne Abey is a qualified consultant clinical neuropsychologist, and is currently Head of Physical Health Psychology Services in Lincolnshire. She supervised me as a trainee clinical psychologist on placement earlier this year. I was inspired by her passion and enthusiasm for this field, and felt that her knowledge of this upcoming area of work would be interesting and useful for other psychology graduates to hear about.