bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating a Tree of Life group for individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Coppock Clare , Adlington Rebecca , Fisher Katrina , MacCormack Maggie
Published: January 2023

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a progressive neurological condition commonly associated with high rates of emotional distress. Whilst the evidence-base for psychological intervention for individuals with MS is increasing, few existing studies have explored the effectiveness of narrative therapy approaches. This paper evaluates the impact of a ‘Tree of Life’ group intervention on a range of outcome measures evaluating the psychological and physical sequelae of MS and uses the Reliable Change Index (RCI) to calculate clinically significant change. It was found that 78.95 per cent of participants (N= 15) achieved a clinically reliable improvement on at least one outcome measure. The greatest frequency of reliable improvements was observed on measures of depression and self-efficacy. Whilst follow-up data was poor, findings suggest that for a number of individuals, improvements were sustained at three-month follow-up. This paper is the first to evaluate a Tree of Life group intervention for individuals with MS and findings support existing literature and offer preliminary evidence to support the use of group psychological interventions for individuals with MS.
Attending the creative knowledge mobilisation workshop at DHP conference 2018: A review
Authors: Bains Kiran K. , Turnbull Triece Turnbull
Published: January 2023

Disseminating knowledge is an important element of practice in health psychology. This can help research to have positive impact in wider society. Digital technologies and social media create a plethora of available avenues for students to share research and practice, but it can be difficult to envisage how creative methods can be used to mobilise knowledge effectively with the public and stakeholders. A Creative Mobilisation workshop hosted at the DHP Conference for students aimed to address this topic.
What can trainee health psychologists’ competencies contribute to the NHS?
Authors: Anderson Niall C.
Published: January 2023

From a former Trainee’s perspective, the NHS Education for Scotland Stage 2 Training programme provides one route for budding Health Psychologists to develop personally and professionally through experiential, high-quality, NHS-based training. However, from the NHS’s perspective it is important to also consider how Trainees may contribute to key areas of health improvement. The article outlines ways in which a trainee health psychologist may contribute to the NHS, using examples from my own training in relation to the five Stage 2 competencies (Figure 1).
Reflections on the benefits of challenges of transitioning from being a trainee to a qualified health psychologist
Authors: Anderson Niall C.
Published: January 2023

I was previously employed as a trainee health psychologist by NHS Education for Scotland to complete the BPS Stage 2 Qualification in Health Psychology. Having qualified, I was employed initially as a NHS-based practitioner health psychologist, and subsequently as a university-based Senior Research Associate. This has afforded me the fortunate position of being able to reflect upon the transition from being a trainee to qualified health psychologist. The article provides a reflective account my experience of the transition between preparing to submit the portfolio to one-year post-qualification, with a particular focus on the main benefits and challenges experienced.
Non-pharmacological interventions for Covid-19: How to improve adherence
Authors: Gialama Maria , Papaloukas Periklis , McGilloway Sinead
Published: January 2023

Non pharmacological interventions (NPIs) have been widely recommended in the battle against Covid-19. Numerous NPIs, including personal protection, social distancing, and environment and travel measures, have been implemented globally to reduce Covid-19 incidence and mortality. Adherence to these measures is crucial in determining their effectiveness. This article discusses some important barriers and facilitators to adherence, based on existing knowledge and mainly recent literature in the area. We propose three ways in which adherence may be improved, including: (i) targeting individual-level barriers; (ii) addressing structural and societal factors; and (iii) facilitating healthy social norms/social emotions. Collectively, these highlight the important role of individual behavior (and adherence) in containing, and mitigating the impact of, Covid-19 now and into the future.
How to… Mental contrasting for health behaviour change: Practice applications and interventions
Authors: Cross Ainslea
Published: January 2023

Mental contrasting is a self-regulation imagery strategy that involves imagining a desired future and mentally contrasting it with the present reality, which is theorised to prompt the individual to realise that action is required to achieve the desired future (Oettingen et al., 1997, 2000; Oettingen, 2012). Recent research has combined mental contrasting with implementation intentions (MCII) (‘if–then plans; Oettingen & Gollwitzer, 2018; Oettingen, 2012), which is hypothesised to strengthen the effects. This article looks at the evidence for mental contrasting, how it has been used in interventions and experiments and describes case studies of its application in practice. Finally, this paper provides an overview of the key issues for implementing mental contrasting in applied health psychology practice.
Consultancy case study: Piloting online group reflective practice for health professionals during the coronavirus pandemic
Authors: Brady Roseanna , Varkonyi-Sepp Judit , Byrne Jemma
Published: January 2023

This case study describes a consultancy project which included providing advice and piloting an intervention to provide psychological support to UK health professionals during the coronavirus pandemic. In April 2020, a health charity requested advice from the Health Psychology Exchange (HPX) on implementing reflective practice for health professionals. One health psychology consultant, supported by HPX colleagues, advised the charity to pilot online group reflective practice, negotiated with the client, and contracted to design, deliver, and evaluate the pilot. The pilot was informed by a rapid review of evidence for reflective practice during crises, by relevant clinical practitioner experience, and by supplementary targeted literature searches. In two separate groups, 13 senior health professionals attended three one-hour sessions using the ‘Head and Heart’ model. The pilot was evaluated using an adapted version of the Clinical Supervision Evaluation Scale pre- and post-pilot, and participant and consultant reflections. Responses were overwhelmingly positive. The pilot results support group reflective practice online despite occasional interruptions in internet strength. As a result, the client commissioned training and supervision for facilitators to deliver online group reflective practice at scale. This case study describes the approach to consultancy, and outlines the pilot intervention itself.
Panic buying in the community as a coping strategy in response to Covid-19
Authors: Jaspal Rusi
Published: January 2023

Panic buying was widespread during the early phase of the Covid-19 outbreak in the UK and elsewhere. Drawing on identity process theory, this study explores the psychological motivations for engaging in panic buying behaviours in response to the Covid-19 outbreak in London. Fifteen people participated in an interview study concerning the impact of the outbreak on their buying behaviours. The qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis. The analysis yielded three themes: (i) Covid-19 as a threat to continuity and self-efficacy; (ii) Buying to resist change; and (iii) Buying to restore self-efficacy. The results suggest that Covid-19 and the measures put in place to control it may have potentially deleterious effects for the continuity and self-efficacy principles of identity, which in turn may lead to the maladaptive coping strategy of panic buying. In order to manage the pandemic effectively, it will be necessary to promote more adaptive and sustainable coping strategies to reduce the risk of engagement in panic buying. More specifically, building identity resilience and facilitating access to social support should be important foci for health and wellbeing interventions in the general population.
The effect of antibody test result knowledge on transmission reducing behaviours
Authors: Morrow Alison , Dale Hannah , Jenks Sara , Batchelor Becky
Published: January 2023

Objective

To understand the effect knowledge of antibody status has on adherence to transmission reducing behaviours (TRBs). Design: Cohort study conducted between October and December 2020.

Methods

Eighty-two participants, who had community diagnosed and treated SARS-CoV-2 infections, were recruited by email invitation. Participants completed a baseline health beliefs questionnaire, provided blood samples for antibody testing, received their result two to four weeks later and then completed follow-up health belief questionnaires. The questionnaire was designed based on the constructs of the Health Belief Model, the most prominent framework for understanding why individuals may or may not act in the face of a threat.

Results

Fifty-six participants completed follow-up health belief questionnaires. Knowledge of antibody status did not affect adherence to TRBs. Increased perceived benefits, cues to action and self-efficacy, and decreased perceived barriers to comply with TRBs were significantly associated with higher compliance. No significant correlation was found between measures of susceptibility or severity and adherence to TRBs.

Conclusions

Interventions to increase perceived benefits, cues to action and self-efficacy, and decrease barriers to engaging in TRBs should be explored. The sample comprised mostly of healthcare workers who may perceive themselves to be more at risk or susceptible to infection due to their unique experience of the pandemic. Further research should be conducted with a larger, more diverse sample.
Exercise changes and challenges across two lockdowns in England: A mixed-methods exploratory study
Authors: Warley William , Snuggs Sarah
Published: January 2023

While physical activity has been extensively positively associated with physical and mental health, evidence indicates that some individuals have struggled to maintain sufficient exercise levels during the recent Covid-19 lockdowns. Using a mixed-methods design, this study aimed to characterise the features of lockdown-related physical activity and exercise behaviour changes and explore the challenges that people faced during these periods. Adult participants (N=163) who had experienced both the first and second formal lockdowns in England in 2020 were recruited to take part in an online survey. The questionnaire included demographic questions, measures of physical activity and resilience, and four open-ended questions about challenges and changes in physical activity over lockdown. Results indicated that younger adults were more likely to have reduced their activity over lockdown than others and that commonly reported challenges to exercise included logistical, motivational and time-related difficulties. Strategies to accommodate these challenges often relied on technology. Implications for future interventions are discussed.
Duty of care in an unregulated industry: Initial findings on the diversity and practices of Australian coaches
Authors: Spence Gordon B. , Cavanagh Michael J. , Grant Anthony M.
Published: January 2023

Little has been reported about the skills, experience and training of coaches in the Australian context, yet these are critical factors in the ethical practice of coaching. Previous research and experience suggests that formal coach training varies considerably in terms of curricula and quality. At the same time, data is emerging that suggests a significant number of coaching clients may be using coaching as a socially-acceptable form of meeting therapeutic needs. This raises questions about the duty of care coaches owe to their clients in safeguarding their mental health and well-being. Similarly, it raises questions about the degree to which current industry training assists coaches discharge that duty of care. In order to explore these issues empirically, a total of 148 Australian coaches answered a questionnaire covering three areas: (i) current coaching practice; (ii) background experience and coach training (iii) ethics and professional affiliations. A minority of respondents reported a background in psychology or counselling, yet more than 10 per cent of respondents indicated that they regularly coached clients in relation to issues commonly associated with serious psychological distress (e.g. fears about personal loss, life crises, social isolation and self esteem). The preliminary data presented here indicate that there is need to identify the range and depth of issues presented in coaching, the training needed for coaches to effectively identify and refer clients with mental health issues, and the limits and responsibilities of our duty of care as coaches.
Reflexive questions in a coaching psychology context
Authors: Hieker Carola , Huffington Clare
Published: January 2023

Asking the right questions at the right time is an essential tool of coaching psychology so as to generate self-awareness in the coachee as well as a sense of responsibility and the will to make a change.

In this article, building on principles and methods originally developed in the family therapy arena, the authors show how reflexive questions can be used in coaching psychology. The target group for this article is, therefore, coaching psychologists and executive coaches in general who want to enhance their skills in asking effective questions.

By applying Tomm’s taxonomy of questions (Tomm, 1967, 1988) to Dilts’ model of change (Dilts, 1996), the authors bring together theories from systemic therapy with a change management framework based on neurolinguistic programming. The deliberate and perhaps provocative combination of two different approaches derived from the therapy field might be especially useful for coaching psychologists who are involved in change processes in organisations and who are open to applying new ideas to their practice.
Who wants to change their personality and what do they want to change? A response to Allan, Leeson & Martin
Authors: McCredie Hugh
Published: January 2023

This paper is a response to the assertion by Allan et al. (2014) that personality, as measured by the Big 5 factors, is amenable to change by coaching interventions. It challenges the evidence on which the assertion is made, the robustness of further evidence cited and argues that convincing evidence will only be found in changes to the biological structures underpinning the Big 5 factors and/or their functioning. It questions whether coaching interventions might be more suitably directed at the achievement of personal and/or behavioural objectives.
Walking a mile in an executive’s shoes: The influence of shared client-coach experience on goal achievement
Authors: Chinn Alex T. , Richmond James P. , Bennett John L.
Published: January 2023

Objectives:

To evaluate the relationship between shared industry or professional experience and client goal achievement.

Design:

An exploratory, quantitative approach was taken to survey the degree to which shared experience influenced the client’s coach selection decision and the impact on client goal achievement.

Results:

Findings suggest no correlation between the coach’s professional or industry experience as client selection factors and the degree of client goal achievement.

Conclusions:

Matching based upon shared subject matter expertise may prematurely eliminate coaches who might have been an ideal fit.
Large-scale survey of trust and safety in coaching supervision: Some evidence that we are doing it right
Authors: de Haan Erik
Published: January 2023

Objectives:There is increasing interest in supervision across the executive and workplace coaching professions, and so it is worth exploring whether promised benefits can be demonstrated. A large-scale empirical survey was conducted into the satisfaction, trust and vulnerability of coaching supervisees. Results are compared with those that have been achieved in other areas of supervision such as occupational therapy and counselling supervision.

Design:We employed a cross-sectional design focused on relatively experienced coaches, directed at large numbers so as to measure differences within the population. We inquired into satisfaction and trust in general terms, and we also asked more specifically about the most worrying, concerning or shameful episode in the coach’s practice over the last few years, whether this episode had been brought to supervision and if the ensuing supervision had been helpful.

Methods:The sampling strategy was snowballing out from our own experienced coach networks, with help from European professional organisations. The web-based questionnaire was short, easy to use and entirely confidential with no requirement to leave any personal data. Five hundred and eighteen full responses were received on the questionnaire, from 356 female and 162 male coaches from 32 countries. Statistical properties of the responses were computed and two-sample t-tests and non-parametric (Mann-Whitney) U-tests were conducted to look at the influence of gender, age, experience, nationality, amount and nature (i.e. group versus individual) of supervision on satisfaction and trust scores.

Results:The results show that these experienced coaches are considerably safer, more satisfied and more trusting of their supervisor than was found in comparable research in counselling and psychotherapy. Significant differences were found in the appreciation of supervision by men and women, and also with supervisee age and relative exposure to supervision.

Conclusions:With this sample of relatively senior coaches it appears that highly trusting and satisfactory supervision relationships are emerging, perhaps thanks to current practice where most coaches self-select and engage supervisors out of the proceeds of their own work. Nevertheless, even in this sample there are still just under eight per cent occurrences of insufficient trust and safety around really worrying episodes. There are also demonstrable differences within the overall diversity of the profession.
The client as active ingredient: ‘Core self-evaluations’ as predictors of coaching outcome variance
Authors: Tee David , Shearer David , Roderique-Davies Gareth
Published: January 2023

This pilot study builds on previous research applying the ‘active ingredients’ model to coaching psychology and seeking to identify client traits that may predict coaching efficacy. It examines the relationship between the four ‘core self-evaluation’ traits (self-esteem, generalised self-efficacy, locus of control and neuroticism) and the attainment of contracted coaching goals. Data were collected from 45 participants on a co-coaching programme based in a UK university. A multiple regression analysis was conducted to test the hypothesis that there will be a correlational relationship between client ‘core self-evaluation’ scores and coaching goal attainment, with the results showing a positive but non-significant relationship. A reliance on self-reporting, an inconsistency in the use of Goal Attainment Scaling as a means of operationalising the criterion variable and a greater homogeneity in goals set are all suggested as possible improvements for future research on client coachability.
13th Conference of the Neuropsychological Rehabilitation Special Interest Group of the World Federation for NeuroRehabilitation (NR-SIG-WFNR) – Glasgow, 11-12 July 2016An academic/research perspective
Authors: Crompton Catherine
Published: January 2023

The Division of Neuropsychology Scotland Committee, with support from NHS Education for Scotland, was delighted to award bursaries to two of our early career members to attend the recent NR-SIG-WFNR Conference in Glasgow. Here they report on their experiences, from academic and clinical perspectives.
Homelessness and brain injury: What role do we play as socially-conscious service providers?
Authors: Forrester Rebecca L. , Weatherhead Ste , Rosebert Ché , Hewett Nigel , Worthington Andrew
Published: January 2023

The homeless population is vulnerable to the impact of health inequalities and complex unmet needs. Neuropsychological deficits are particularly prevalent, with considerable risk of traumatic brain injury, dementia and the neurological effects of substance misuse. Services must adapt pathways and protocols to provide much-needed support. There are economic, clinical, political and academic arguments for doing so, but is there the motivation from our profession and the context in which our profession works?
The obscure hemisphere: What do stroke clinicians know about right-versus lefthemisphere lesions?
Authors: Fowler Elizabeth A. , Sala Sergio Della , Hart Simon R. , McIntosh Robert D.
Published: January 2023

To investigate clinical knowledge of left and right cerebral hemisphere cognitive impairments, we devised a questionnaire asking respondents to ascribe cognitive symptoms to each hemisphere. Stroke physicians (N = 109), but not neuropsychologists (N = 56), ascribed more symptoms to the right hemisphere than to the left, showing a lack of specificity for this side. Physicians may tend to select this side when uncertain, because they (wrongly) assume they know less about the ‘obscure’ right hemisphere.
Evidence-based treatment of mild TBI: A service audit and checklist to improve concordance with guidelines
Authors: Foxhall Mia , Tooze Alana , Marks Elizabeth
Published: January 2023

Purpose:Widespread acceptance of treatment options for mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) has so farbeen limited in the UK. Guidelines have been created to standardise treatment, based on expert consensus (Ontario Neurotrauma Foundation; ONF). However, research indicates that clinician guidelines are not always used consistently. This paper audits the use of ONFguidelines in one mTBI clinic and explores recommendations to improve concordance.

Methods:Criterion-based audit was used to assess guideline usage for patients seen within the clinic between January and August 2016.

Results and conclusion:Results indicated that the clinic provided thorough assessment and reliable information, although intervention guidelines were not used consistently. Inter-rater reliability suggests patient notes were difficult to interpret.

Outcome:A checklist was developed to guide clinics in recording assessment and intervention in line with ONF guidelines. A pilot is required to assess usability.
‘I realised I'm not the only one’: A service evaluation of an ‘adjustment to acquired brain injury group in neurorehabilitation
Authors: Fiadhnait O’Keeffe , Clodagh Cogley , Rebecca Schnittger , Emer O’Loughlin , Andrea Higgins
Published: January 2023

We describe implementation of an adjustment group for inpatients with ABI, reflecting the opportunities and challenges of delivery and evaluation of real-world clinical service initiatives. Realising that others had similar issues – ‘I’m not the only one’-helped to normalise and make sense of the emotional reactions and experiences of ABI. Facilitating groups focussed on psychological consequences of ABI is an effective and feasible way of increasing access to psychological support for inpatients with ABI.
‘I know it, but I don’t feel it’: Reflections on using compassion focused therapy (CFT) to tackle the limitations of traditional cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) after acquired brain injury (ABI)
Authors: Ferguson Emma
Published: January 2023

After ABI, CBT is often recommended for clients with psychological distress, but clients commonly report dissonance between their cognitive understanding of therapy and their emotions – the ‘head–heart lag’. CFT may help shift this ‘knowing/feeling’ disconnect, particularly for those with high self-criticism and shame (which often present after ABI). A case reflection is presented where CFT had a successful outcome after traditional CBT had not been sufficiently effective in shifting the client’s emotional state.
Homelessness and head injury: Health, wellbeing and social integration in referrals to a neurocase management service
Authors: Worthington Andrew , Edwards Lee , Joiner Lauren
Published: January 2023

This paper describes the setting up of a pilot community neurocase management service for homeless adults with a brain injury. Whilst homelessness is a major problem in the UK and elsewhere, to date few brain injury or homelessness services have considered the complex medical, psychological and social factors affecting this population specifically. Investment of resources in service provision should be based upon evidence of the presenting needs and best practice in meeting these. This paper addresses the first of these two requirements, focusing on the initial cohort referred into our service. More detail about the interventions received and outcomes achieved, along with a discussion of the challenges encountered in providing the service will be provided in a follow-up paper. The need for psychologically-informed services to promote social inclusion is supported by our data which revealed concerning levels of community estrangement. Our data also confirm that homelessness often occurs in the context of multiple comorbidities which traverse conventional boundaries across medical, social care and criminal justice systems, meaning that collaborative working is essential. The argument for neuropsychological input in designing and delivering support alongside other services is clear.
Training multidisciplinary staff on the neuropsychological aspects of stroke: An evaluation of a workshop approach
Authors: Carroll Cliodhna , Kent Elizabeth C.
Published: January 2023

Neuropsychological difficulties post-stroke are common. Guidelines recommend that multidisciplinary team members are trained in recognising neuropsychological symptoms to aid appropriate rehabilitation. A workshop designed to enhance staff knowledge of these issues was evaluated using quantitative and qualitative methods. Findings suggest that staff perceived improved knowledge and confidence in skills related to identification and treatment of psychological and cognitive symptoms. Future work will need to evaluate whether these positive findings translate into wider clinical gains.
Experiences of individuals with Parkinson’s disease who report sensed presence
Authors: Cant Richard , Devenney Grace , Harris Paddy , Hastings Kimberley , James Andrew , Morton Claire , Salimi Natalie , Woods Jacqueline
Published: January 2023

Sensed presence (SP) refers to feeling a sentient entity to be nearby without any physical presence. SPs occur in various situations and conditions, most notably in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Six patients with PD were interviewed about their SP experiences to provide a series of cases focussing on social and emotional aspects of SP, and are discussed in relation to current theories. The prognostic potential of SP to predict visual hallucinations and cognitive decline is considered.
Experiences of attending a reflective practice group in a neuro-rehabilitation setting: A mixed methods service evaluation
Authors: Bowler Jenny , Clarke Charlotte , Morton Nick , Moran Jenna
Published: January 2023

This service evaluation aimed to explore ward staff’s experiences of attending a reflective practice (RP) group within an inpatient neuro-rehabilitation setting. Thirteen staff members completed a bespoke questionnaire and three staff members engaged in semi-structured interviews. Findings suggested that the group was a good use of participant’s time, felt a safe space, and was a good space to discuss team dynamics. There were mixed findings regarding whether the group improved staff’s confidence or their understanding of patient’s behaviour. Thematic analysis revealed four core themes, including ‘organisational pressures’ which impacted the RP group; ‘group practicalities’; ‘benefits and improvements’; and the ‘safe space’ of the group. Future evaluations would benefit from using a validated questionnaire and measures of burnout to explore the wider impact of RP.
A values-based approach to goal setting in neuro-rehabilitation following severe brain injury: An audit of service development
Authors: Rose Alexandra , Rendell Luke
Published: January 2023

Background

A patient-centred, values-based goal setting pathway was launched on a level 1 neuro-rehabilitation service to create a holistic process that adhere to national guidelines, promotes interdisciplinary goal-focused rehabilitation and makes rehabilitation of personal value to patients.

Methods

A service audit was completed following implementation and provision of training. The audit was separated into neuro-rehabilitation versus Prolonged Disorder of Consciousness (PDoC) assessment. Surveys and interviews were completed with staff and service users to elicit their views.

Results

A global improvement in adherence to goal setting processes was seen, however, less adherence was noted with PDoC patients. Staff reported increased confidence in goal setting, but had ongoing challenges in PDoC patient scenarios. All service users provided positive feedback.

Conclusion

This approach appears to be acceptable and meaningful to service users and an appropriate method of goal setting in rehabilitation after severe acquired brain injury, with more exploration needed in PDoC groups.
Work–Life Balance Group
Authors: Kinman Gail , McDowal Almuth
Published: January 2023

Reflections from the inaugural Work and Families Researchers’ Network Conference: so that’s we mean when we talk about work-family conflict!
Are the eight areas and OP curriculum fit for purpose? Key findings from an expert panel
Authors: Patterson Fiona , Harrington Sue , Stevenson Hazel , McDowall Almuth
Published: January 2023

We launch a report from a DOP Expert Panel to review the eightknowledge areas and the education curriculum for occupational psychology. You can read the full report athttp://bit.ly/dop-8-areas. In this article, we summarise the key issues and recommendations, and describe how the DOP plans to tackle them going forward.
New Voices
Authors: Neale Laura , Elsey Vicki
Published: January 2023

Welcome again to this new section aiming to encourage new/young members of the Division to engage with us more through contributing to our divisional publication.

We have an article from Vicki Elsey, the MSc Occupational Psychology programme leader at Northumbria University. Vicki designed the Professional Doctorate in Occupational Psychology (DOccPsych) at Northumbria and is now a DOccPsych student herself. I invited her to write an article which describes the experiences of herself and two other students (Mandi Sherlock-Storey and Elouise Leonard-Cross) to increase understanding of this relatively new qualification, and to document their thoughts about undertaking a professional doctorate. Thank-you to Vicki, Mandi and Elouise for contributing and sharing their experiences. I hope you will find this article informative; please get in touch with Vicki if you would like to share your experiences or thoughts regarding the professional doctorate.

Please promote this section amongst your colleagues and/or students to ensure it can continue to exist.

Contributing is a great opportunity to share your thoughts, experiences or research with 4000 members of your professional community. We are interested in receiving articles that you feel will be informative and useful and they won’t go through a strict peer review process. The more from the heart, the better! We are happy to discuss any ideas that you may have so please get in touch.

Articles, queries and comments can be sent to either me, Laura Neale (DOP postgraduate rep) or Robert Goate (OP Matters editor). We hope to hear from you soon!
DOP 2015 Conference: Your thoughts in print…
Authors: Offutt Ryan , Gras Heike , Offutt Ryan , Viragos Anna , Gulko Tatiana , Mistry Maya , Hughes Helen , Bourne Alan , Bolton Lucy
Published: January 2023

Whilst waiting for the delegates’ feedback report to come through, the Conference Committee received a number of testimonials describing individual conference highlights and overall experience of the 2015 event! We present a selection of them below…
New Voices 3: Top key recommendations for developing effective training programmes
Authors: Hammond Kate
Published: January 2023

You are about to bid for a learning and development project and want to stand out from the crowd. Here are 10 recommendations that might help ensure that your training programme has the edge. These come from common themes that arise in academic research, practitioner publications, government publications and the suggestions of your fellow practitioners in social media such as blogs and LinkedIn discussions.
Conference: Qualifications Board Update
Authors: Ingman Angie
Published: January 2023

Welcome to the latest update from the Qualifications Board This time Mollie Williams is our latest interviewee and an insight into her and her role follows.
British Psychological Society Education Section Conference 2009
Authors: Dawson Anneka
Published: January 2023

Preston Marriott Hotel, Lancashire. 30 October – 1 November 2009.
A cognitive approach to humour: Absurdity and understanding
Authors: Young Mairi
Published: January 2023

‘To possess a good sense of humour or at least to laugh freely and frequently at humorous and pleasurable events is regarded as thoroughly healthy and desirable by virtually all.’ (Chapman & Foot 2007, p.1)
The Literacy Research Association Annual Conference 2012
Authors: Kucirkova Natalia
Published: January 2023

San Diego, 28 November to 1 December.
7th International Tinnitus Research Initiative (TRI) Tinnitus Conference
Authors: Fackrell Kathryn
Published: January 2023

Valencia, Spain, 15–26 May 2013
Dyslexia in Higher Education – 20th Society of Scientific Study of Reading Annual Conference
Authors: Kwok Rosa
Published: January 2023

Hong Kong, 10–13 July 2013
QMiP Pre-Conference Workshop: Introduction to Constructivist Grounded Theory
Authors: Darby Helena
Published: January 2023

University of Huddersfield, 4 September 2013
Cricket, confidence and self-modelling: A QSEP trainee’s reflective case study
Authors: Britton Darren
Published: January 2023

The following case study details my work with a collegiate cricketer over the course of almost a year-and-ahalf, and the development and use of a self-modelling video: a collection of video clips of the client performing his skills in practice. This video was designed to provide him with sources of sports-confidence in preparation for his performances. It was also designed as an alternative to imagery. I reflect on the efficacy of my work, my characteristics as a consultant, the nature of the consultancy over an extended period of time (with varying levels of client-consultant contact), and the practicalities of making a self-modelling video (particularly for a trainee working at an amateur college level), along with its application to sports performance preparation.
The PsyPAG Quarterly: A retrospective
Authors: Norris Emma
Published: January 2023

The PsyPAG Quarterly has been the voice of the psychological postgraduate community since PsyPAG’s conception. We publish a range of articles from ‘Research in Brief’ giving an overview of postgraduate research, ‘Discussion’ pieces giving summaries or debates in a research field to ‘Conference Reviews’ and more (see Quarterly Submission Guidelines in this issue). This enables postgraduates to go through a peerreview process and publish their work in a national publication. As part of this commemorative 30th anniversary issue, we take a look back at our publication’s past.
Value, collaboration and networks: The benefits of volunteering your time on a committee
Authors: Davies Emma L.
Published: January 2023

Studying for a postgraduate degree can be a very intense experience. It is hence often useful to have a change of scenery and expand your CV by volunteering as part of an external committee. This article describes the benefits and potential drawbacks to consider before searching and applying for a post.
Teaching and/or research?
Authors: Radford John
Published: January 2023

The relationship between teaching and research is one that affects academics and Higher Education generally: making it an issue that postgraduates should be aware of. This article aims to inform postgraduates of this issue for their current studies and potential future work in academia.
Submitting and publishing papers during your PhD
Authors: Broadbent Hannah
Published: January 2023

Papers are an essential part of the academic research process. This article provides practical information on how to manage the writing and submission of papers alongside PhD studies.
An apple a day keeps the doctor away… Five minutes of exercise a day helps the doctorate stay!
Authors: Zhou Jin
Published: January 2023

Postgraduate study can often be a very sedentary time, with lots of writing and computer-based research. This article shows how exercise can benefit your health and studies, whilst also providing some simple example movements to incorporate into your daily routine.
Confidence: A pre-requisite for the viva voce experience
Authors: Bowles Harry C.R.
Published: January 2023

The viva is an essential component of the PhD experience. Serving alongside the thesis as the culmination of many years hard work, the viva is widely seen as a stressful experience. This article seeks to de-mystify the viva and provide tips on how to prepare and successfully complete it.
How can social psychology help us better understand political orientations?
Authors: Harper Craig
Published: January 2023

At the recent 30th Annual PsyPAG Conference in Glasgow, I was fortunate enough to be awarded the organisation’s Rising Researcher Award. As part of this award, I was invited to present work that myself and colleagues have been doing at the University of Lincoln on the social psychology of social and political orientations. In this article, I review some of the key theories currently used in this area, before describing some data that we’ve collected prior to the 2015 British General Election. I then conclude the article by outlining some potential avenues for further research.
The British Psychological Society Developmental Section and Social Section Annual Conference 2015
Authors: Purewal Kiran , Tyler Chloe
Published: January 2023

For the first time, the British Psychological Society held a conference that joined together the Developmental and Social Sections. The event was held over three days (9–11 September) at The Palace Hotel, in the heart of Manchester. Researchers often fall into both the Developmental and Social Sections and can find it difficult to decide where to present their work. This joint annual conference provided the perfect opportunity for such researchers to present their work to audiences of both developmental and social psychologists. With four keynote speakers, a ‘meet the experts’ session, and a vast array of posters and talks, organisers of the event should be proud to have planned and hosted such a large-scale and well thought-out conference. This article discusses the range of talks and workshops presented at the event, along with two postgraduate researchers’ experiences of presenting their research for the first time.
Taking the plunge: Tips for preparing, attending, and presenting at your first conference
Authors: Rees Alice
Published: January 2023

The first conference I attended was during the first year of my PhD studies and I gave an oral presentation. The conference was in experimental pragmatics (XPRAG) and was held in Chicago. XPRAG is a biannual conference which brings together people from a range of backgrounds, including psychology and linguistics, who have an interest in experimental approaches to studying pragmatic phenomena. Reflecting on my experience, I have compiled a list of hints and tips which I hope will help others when they come to presenting their research at conferences.
Five tips to maximise the return of parent consent forms
Authors: Poland Sarah
Published: January 2023

Psychologists who are carrying out research on children are faced with the challenge of obtaining parental consent for children to participate in their study (opt-in). This is a challenge I faced with my own research on children’s cognitive abilities and social behaviour and in this article I outline five tips to maximise the return of parent consent forms.
Good sleep quality as a pathway to resilience – A pilot study investigating the relation between sleep and resilience using a daily diary
Authors: Cosgrave Jan , Heugten Dalena van
Published: January 2023

Are we thinking about sleep’s relationship to mental health in the right way? Sleep and circadian disturbances are often cited as a risk factor for mental health problems, yet couldn’t one so easily argue the inverse? Instead, might sleep act as a protective shield from psychopathology? Clearly, these lines of thought are not mutually exclusive, but I am interested in sleep’s relationship to resilience: Can a good night of sleep affect how capable you feel to cope with the woes of the following day?
Open Dialogue: Neuroscience and Education: The brain in the classroom
Authors: Goswami Usha
Published: January 2023

Recent advances in neuroscience have been hailed with enthusiasm by some educators, and treated with sceptical caution by others. Here I outline the potentially exciting applications of the state of the art to education, while acknowledging the rather limited contribution made by neuroscience to date. I argue that it is crucial for education to engage with neuroscience, so that an informed critical stance can be adopted to the different claims that are appearing about brain-based learning. Education as a discipline has been slow to take the initiative, creating a knowledge gap that is being filled by those actively marketing various educational programmes to teachers and schools on the basis of often spurious claims about the brain
The effects of deadlines and goal orientation on intrinsic motivation
Authors: Porter Laura , Remedios Richard
Published: January 2023

This study examined the effects of deadlines on intrinsic motivation, when either mastery or performance goals were adopted. Forty-eight university students were asked to solve a set of anagrams under four different conditions: deadline/mastery goal, deadline/performance goal, no deadline/mastery goal, no deadline/performance goal. The independent variables, deadline and goal orientation, were manipulated by means of task instructions. To measure intrinsic motivation, participants completed a questionnaire, which included three sub-scales: enjoyment, perceived choice, and pressure. When the three sub-scales were combined to form a single intrinsic motivation score, no main effects or interactions were observed. However, when each sub-scale was analysed individually, results revealed that those adopting a performance goal orientation reported feeling significantly more pressure when given a deadline compared to those with no deadline, whereas those adopting a mastery goal orientation reported little pressure with or without a deadline. Possible explanations for these results are discussed.
Developing a mini-project: Students’ questions and learning styles
Authors: Almeida Patrícia , de Jesus Helena Pedrosa , Watts Mike
Published: January 2023

This paper is based upon a growing body of work shaped by the ‘Questions in Chemistry’ project at the University of Aveiro, Portugal (Pedrosa de Jesus, Teixeira-Dias & Watts, 2003; Teixeira-Dias et al., 2005). At this point we are concerned with the different kinds of questions raised by students with different learning styles (Kolb, Boyatzis & Mainemelis, 2001) and also with the role of these questions during the development of ‘mini-projects’ in undergraduate chemistry.

Our paper focuses on one group of four students, each with a different ‘Kolb learning style’ as they develop a mini-project called ‘Chemical Detectives’. Data were collected through Kolb’s Learning Styles Inventory (Kolb, 1999), through participant observation of group meetings and of meetings with the tutor, through semi-structured interviews with members of the group, through an analysis of the oral and written questions asked by the group in the development of the mini-project and through the ensuing oral presentation made by the four students to the whole class.

The results show that, during the development of the mini-project, students with different learning styles ask different kinds of questions, confirming the results found in other circumstances (Pedrosa de Jesus, Almeida & Watts, 2004; Pedrosa de Jesus et al., 2006).
Open Dialogue peer review: A response to Tymms, Merrell & Coe
Authors: Torgerson Carole J.
Published: January 2023

Randomized experiments evaluating policy interventions are feasible.
Dreaming of other spaces: What do we think about when we draw?
Authors: Knight Linda
Published: January 2023

Parents, carers and educators of young children show a deep interest in the drawings that children produce. In the past, this interest was often directed toward emergent representational schema that young children were seen to utilise to process ideas and understandings of their world. The attention paid to these specific drawings was particularly prompted by the influence and broad application of stage development theories (Kellog, 1967; Lowenfeld & Brittain, 1964; Piaget, 1975) on early childhood teaching and learning.

More recently, connections between young children and learning have been enhanced, to implement more socially inclusive teaching and learning strategies (MacNaughton, 2005; Dahlberg & Moss, 2005) and recognise diversity and plurality in early childhood contexts. With this in mind, there is a subsequent need to reconsider the ways adults engage with children as they draw, to rethink how such drawings are ‘viewed’ and ‘read’.

This article examines how the drawings produced by young children might be informed. It explores, through Deleuzian and Guattarian (1972/1983) concepts of dreaming and becoming, a transforming, bodiless engagement, and the Foucauldian (1986) concept of heterotopic space, how a child might search for and access referents during the drawing process. Applying such concepts facilitate expansion on the analysis of drawing that has been, historically, firmly situated within stage development theories. Deleuzian and Guattarian, and Foucauldian readings also assist in beginning to theorise on developing more socially inclusive experiences in early childhood contexts.

The theories presented in this article inform an inter-generational collaborative approach to drawing (Knight, 2008) that opens up lines of communication between adult and child that challenge dominant beliefs and discourses of early childhood teaching and learning. Two specific accounts form fieldwork undertaken in a pre-school and a long day-care centre during 2008 serve to provide samples and discussion points.
Work in Progress: Distance learners’ conceptions of reflection in higher education
Authors: Alden Bethany , Richardson John , Price Linda
Published: January 2023

With the increasing focus on reflective learning in the higher education course curriculum it seems germane to investigate what learners think of reflection in learning. Using a research design similar to Säljö’s (1979b) study on conceptions of learning, this study explores distance learners’ conceptions of reflection and of themselves as reflective learners. Initial findings from this study are presented in the work in progress paper. These ideas will be used as a springboard for a longitudinal study of Open University students’ conceptions of reflection and how these notions may change over their higher education experience.