bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prospective assessment for dementia in individuals with a learning disability – what does the baseline data tell us?
Authors: Doswell Sophie , Duffin Suzanna
Published: January 2023

It is recommended that both direct observation of the individual with intellectual disability and the collection of information from knowledgeable carers are completed to make a diagnosis of dementia (Burt &Aylward, 1999). The prospective assessment strategy is increasingly being recommended as the approach of choice (Aylward et al., 1995). Within the London Borough of Merton, a prospective assessment has been developed, using the Cognitive Assessment for People with Learning Disabilities (Oliver & Crayton, 1993) and the Hampshire Assessment for living with Others – short form. The baseline data of 43 service users was analysed, to ascertain the pattern of scoring and to explore the relationship between the Cognitive Assessment for People with Learning Disabilities and the Hampshire Assessment for Living with Others – short form. The results are presented and discussed.
Enhancing provision for people with a learning disability who challenge services
Authors: Slater Sean , Baillie Aubrey
Published: January 2023

Recent Government reports (Department of Health, 1993/2007, 2007) highlight both the paucity of good quality specialist provision for adults with learning disabilities who challenge services, and the costs to both services and service users. This article describes plans to develop a high quality service for such people in Herefordshire, together with a methodology for assessing the effectiveness of the enhanced service provision and a business case for it.
The children of Birmingham with severe intellectual disability who show challenging behaviour
Authors: Oliver Chris , Petty Jane , Davies Louise , Ruddick Loraine , Bacarese-Hamilton Monique
Published: January 2023

In two large-scale survey studies we generated estimates of the number of children in Birmingham with severe intellectual disability who show challenging behaviours such as self-injury and aggression. In this brief report we detail the results of these surveys in order to facilitate strategic planning of service provision now and in the future.

Based on teacher reports we estimate that approximately 700 children in Birmingham with a severe intellectual disability aged between 4 and 18 show at least one form of challenging behaviour and approximately 220 show at least one form of challenging behaviour at a level that would be considered clinically severe. For a younger age group, approximately 320 children with severe intellectual disability in Birmingham aged between 2 and 12 are estimated to show at least one form of challenging behaviour and 64 show at least one form of challenging behaviour at a clinically significant level.

Parent reports suggest the figures are higher. Based on these reports we estimate that approximately 570 children with severe intellectual disability in Birmingham show at least one form of challenging behaviour at a clinically significant level and 430 parents say they need significant help. Of these parents, only 1-in-3 will have received a relevant clinical contact in the preceding month and parents are more likely to have had contact with a social worker.

These data show that there are a large number of children in Birmingham with severe intellectual disability who show severe challenging behaviour and whose parents are struggling to cope. Given increased longevity for those with severe intellectual disability and the persistence of challenging behaviour well into adulthood, there are clear implications for the quality of life these children are likely to experience and the level of service provision that will be needed in the future from social services, health and education.

We believe that strategic initiatives from social services, health and education are required to identify those children who are at the highest risk for showing severe and longstanding challenging behaviour and provide effective, early intervention.
Specialist, palliative and rehabilitative care for adults with learning disabilities
Authors: Lee Jo , Conboy-Hill Suzanne
Published: January 2023

For a proportion of people with learning disabilities, recovery is a more lengthy process than for others and access to rehabilitative or end-of-life care proves so difficult that death, sometimes avoidable, is likely to occur in an acute hospital ward.
Assessing the impact of challenging behaviours for outcome measures 1: A review of existing scales used with adults
Authors: Turton Rai
Published: January 2023

The present paper reviews scales that are used to assess challenging behaviours presented by adults and evaluates their suitability as outcome measures. The main criteria are that they should assess actual and potential harm, as indicated by Emerson’s definition of challenging behaviour. A literature search identified 10 scales. Several of these were derived from earlier scales and three earlier scales were included in the review. Due to a lack of focus on harm, none of the reviewed scales meets the criteria. An alternative approach is indicated.
Evaluating the contribution of systemic practices to services for people with a learning disability
Authors: Dawes Elizabeth A.
Published: January 2023

This paper will discuss how systemic approaches can contribute to services working for people with learning disabilities. A number of challenges to implementing these approaches will also be discussed.
Clustering and Payment by Results in health services that support people with learning disabilities
Authors: Bush Alick , Dodd Karen
Published: January 2023

This report provides a brief update on the current direction of clustering and Payment by Results (PbR) in health services for adults who have a learning disability. It describes the background to the area, the issues and challenges for psychologists, and sets out recommendations for the involvement of the Faculty. The basis of the report is a national clustering workshop that was held in London at Guy’s Hospital on 15 September 2011 and hosted by the Department of Health, with a further follow-up training event on 24 November 2011.
People with learning disabilities experiences of a Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Skills Group: A thematic analysis
Authors: Hall Lyndsey , Bork Natalie , Craven Sally , Woodrow Ceri
Published: January 2023

The use of different psychological therapies for adults with learning disabilities is often limited. This article evaluates the adaptation of dialectical behaviour therapy for use with this client group.
Developing a joint-working pathway to parenthood: Learning from the lived experiences of mothers with learning disabilities
Authors: Theodore Kate , Raczka Roman , Kleinberg Iiris
Published: January 2023

This summary paper describes the development of a joint-working service pathway informed by the lived experience of mothers with learning disabilities.
Positive Behaviour Support – the role of Clinical Psychologists
Authors: Morris Julian
Published: January 2023

This discussion paper was produced to provide an overview of the (envisaged) role of clinical psychologists in relation to the provision, leadership and effective implementation of Positive Behaviour Support (PBS). It is intended initially as a prompt for discussion within the Faculty for People with Intellectual Disabilities, the Division of Clinical Psychology (DCP) and the Group of Trainers in Clinical Psychology (GTiCP).
‘Knowing me, Knowing you’ – a group exploring life with a learning disability and how to maximise strengths
Authors: Doswell Sophie , Caplan Karen , Brooks Michelle
Published: January 2023

This paper describes a 10-session pilot group which was developed in response to clinical observations that many of the individuals referred to the psychology service with presenting problems such as anxiety, depression or interpersonal difficulties appeared to be struggling with the underlying issue of understanding and coming to terms with their disability. The group, therefore, aimed to help individuals understand the label of learning disability and consider their position in relation to this.
The effect of changing labels denoting intellectual disability on lay people’s attitudes and causal beliefs
Authors: Davies Georgia , Lee Kloe , Scior Katrina
Published: January 2023

This article reports the results of a pilot study designed to test the effects of replacing the label ‘learning disability’ with ‘intellectual disability’ on lay people’s attitudes. In a web administered survey, in which the label was randomly varied, an unrepresentative convenience sample of 172 British citizens completed measures of attitudes, causal beliefs and social distance. Only a few small differences were found as a result of label manipulation. We suggest that these differences may be due to the label intellectual disability being largely unfamiliar to lay people in the UK. Nonetheless the possible small negative effects of a change to the label ‘intellectual disability’ observed in this study merit further investigation.
Implications of attachment theory for practice: A workshop to inform development of clinical practice guidance
Authors: Skelly Allan
Published: January 2023

This paper reports on a day workshop held with the Northern Ireland Regional Faculty on 12 October 2015 at the Muckamore facility, to inform the development of clinical practice guidelines on Attachment and Intellectual Disabilities. Group work was undertaken to identify possible issues that might arise for clinical psychologists in their work, firstly in assessment, and then in intervention. In terms of intervention, themes were ordered according to the proposed guidance structure through which psychologists might apply attachment theory: psychological therapy; positive behaviour support; supervision; consultation; promoting user involvement; and cultural issues. A key over-arching theme of the day was that each client and each problem that presents to psychologists requires detailed and individualised formulation.
Beyond IQ: The case for a new conceptualisation of intellectual disabilities
Authors: Hare Dougal Julian
Published: January 2023

In this paper, I advance the case that the identification of intellectual disabilities on the basis of classical test theory is increasingly being superseded by advances in genetic medicine. As result, we will have to adapt our current practices to take account of developments in the field of genetics and behavioural neuroscience and develop new approaches to clinical assessment and intervention with people with intellectual disabilities that take account of both aetiology and behavioural phenotype.
Trauma-informed practice in intellectual disability services: Recommendations for mental health professionals in the UK
Authors: Allan Skelly
Published: January 2023

This paper reports on the thinking of a multi-professional national group promoting trauma-informed working in Intellectual Disability services, in which the Faculty is collaborating. The paper explains the need to take account of trauma and attachment difficulties in clinical and social care services, and the need to promote trauma-informed approaches. A simple acronym, SECURED, is proposed as an aide-memoire for professionals to apply in their work.
Executive summary of research: Adapting the GAD-7 and PHQ-9 clinical measures for people with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Jenny Breen , Kate Theodore
Published: January 2023

This research project was completed as part of the requirements for the degree of Doctor in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy) at Royal Holloway, University of London.
FPID News
Authors: Skelly Allan
Published: January 2023

Some things change; and some remain the same. Please find a selective briefing on current developments below.
‘Coping with feelings’: An evaluation of an adapted skills-teaching group to address emotion dysregulation for adults with learning disabilities
Authors: Russ Victoria , Nicholls Hannah , Rouse Helen
Published: January 2023

Difficulties with emotion regulation are commonly experienced by people with learning disabilities (LDs). This paper provides an overview and evaluation of an eight-week group aimed at teaching skills to support eight adults with LDs to effectively manage their feelings. The group was based on Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) principles and was adapted in order to take account of the needs of people with LDs. After attending the group, clients reported lower levels of psychological distress, and reported making progress towards achieving their goals of managing feelings more effectively. Feedback from clients and carers indicated that the group had been a valuable and enjoyable intervention. We conclude that relatively short-term, group-based interventions based on DBT principles may be a valuable resource to offer to adults with LDs who are struggling to manage their emotions.
Care and treatment reviews: A reflection from within an assessment and treatment unit
Authors:   Anonymous
Published: January 2023

Care and treatment reviews (CTRs) were introduced by NHS England following the Winterbourne View investigation with the purpose of ensuring people with learning disabilities admitted to assessment and treatment units are safe and receive the care they needed to enable a successful discharge back into the community. Yet in my three and a half years’ experience as a clinical psychologist working in assessment and treatment units, CTRs rarely achieve what they set out to do, and leave staff feeling demoralised, humiliated and defensive which is ultimately to the detriment of the person they are aiming to help.
Interventions from cognitive behavioural therapy and ideas from narrative therapy in supporting a woman with intellectual disabilities with irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Coy Garret , Baum Sandra
Published: January 2023

A psychologist saw Cilla because she had tummy aches and lots of problems with her poo. Cilla had been seen by lots of doctors. The doctors said that they could not find a reason for her tummy aches. Cilla said that she was fed up with feeling poorly. Cilla worried about her tummy and stopped doing things she liked. This meant that she spent more time worrying about it. Cilla and her sister talked to the psychologist. They talked about people’s bodies and poo. They talked about how our thoughts, feelings and the things we do can cause changes to our bodies and our poo. Cilla kept a diary about how she was feeling. Cilla thought that her problems were due to tablets that she was taking for her thyroid. Cilla was told that this was not the case, but she found this hard to believe. Cilla went away with her other sister to the seaside for a few days and enjoyed herself. Cilla did not worry about her tummy as much there, and it seemed to get a bit better. Cilla’s sisters both talked about how Cilla could do more activities and how this might help her to not spend so much time worrying about her tummy. At the last session with the psychologist, Cilla said that she was looking forward to going on holiday and had started yoga, and her sisters said that they felt more able to help Cilla themselves.
Staff wellbeing initiatives in a multidisciplinary community learning disability service in response to the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Hall Rosie , Lopez Natalie D.
Published: January 2023

In response to the pressure and potential burden on staff members in a busy London Community Learning Disability Service during the Covid-19 pandemic, several staff wellbeing initiatives emerged. These included a weekly wellbeing newsletter, wellbeing sessions, virtual lunches and reflective practice sessions. Through using a responsive approach, the initiatives were adjusted to meet demand and the need of the staff members within the service. Feedback has suggested that in particular, the wellbeing session and newsletter were the most valued and gave staff members a sense of connectedness and belonging and helped to manage anxiety. These initiatives are now ongoing. To increase the reach and potential benefits of the wellbeing initiatives across the service our learning indicates management modelling, protected time and collaboration across disciplines may be important factors.
Restoration of routine neuropsychological testing during the Covid-19 pandemic in a community health service for people who have intellectual disabilities: Changes to administration and service user views
Authors: Rawlings Gregg H. , Yates Luke , Beail Nigel
Published: January 2023

• Covid-19 has made health services change how they do things. Covid-19 has changed how we test people for learning disabilities. Now we do the test dressed in PPE and use social distancing.

• We asked people doing a test what they thought of these changes. We found that most people were a bit scared of coming to the appointment. Most people liked the PPE and said that they felt safe. Most people said the PPE did not affect their performance. Some people said that they found the PPE a bit scary. Some people said they are used to people wearing PPE.

• We also looked at how many people were referred for a learning disability test during Covid19. We found that fewer people were referred for a learning disability test during lockdowns.

• These findings can help other learning disability services make changes for Covid-19
Our service response to racism
Authors: McKellar Jack , Rogers Laurence
Published: January 2023

• In this article, we talk about how people can be treated differently because of their ‘race’. This is called racism.

• We think services for people with learning disabilities don’t do enough to help stop racism. We think clinical psychologists can do more to help stop racism and make services fairer.

• We talk about some ways our psychology team has tried to help stop racism in our service and help people with learning disabilities get treated more fairly.
Working systemically with individuals with an intellectual disability to promote empowerment
Authors: Beal Erin M.
Published: January 2023

Easy read summary

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This article shows how society can in lots of ways oppress individuals who have a diagnosis of a learning disability.

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This is an important topic to think and talk about if we want to change the ways that people with a learning disability are treated and make sure they have more person-centred support.

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The person is not the ‘problem’ and it is not their disability that takes away their power. Instead, it is the culture that we live in that does not value them enough and this needs to change.

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Good practice recommendations include supporting families and teams with psychoeducation, and indirect work with teams to change the way we view people with a learning disability and the mental health problems they may have.

Individuals with an Intellectual Disability (ID) have struggled to have their psychological needs met throughout history due to the deficit language used by society, which has reduced their power. This article highlights how this group has been stigmatised and the negative implications that this has for their psychological wellbeing using a systemic lens. It outlines good practice recommendations using systematic ways of working to provide individuals with an ID and those that support them a more person-centred form of care. These recommendations utilise a strengths-based approach that seeks to highlight stories of ability, resilience, and merit.
The influence of prior relationship on perceptions of stalking in mock jury deliberations
Authors: Scott Adrian J. , Gavin Jeff
Published: January 2023

Ex-partner stalkers are more persistent and more likely to use violence than stranger or acquaintance stalkers, but are less likely to incur criminal convictions. The current research explores the influence of prior relationship on mock jury deliberations and verdict decisions in relation to a hypothetical case tried under the Protection from Harassment Act (PfHA) 1997. Six mock juries were presented with one of three versions of a hypothetical case summary and were asked to provide unanimous verdicts concerning whether the defendant was guilty of an offence. Both mock juries in the stranger condition reached unanimous guilty verdicts, while neither mock jury in the ex-partner condition was able to agree a unanimous verdict. It was apparent that the differing perceptions of the defendant’s and plaintiff’s behaviour varied as a function of their prior relationship.
Forensic psychologists and the approved clinician role
Authors: Gillmer Bruce T. , Taylor John L.
Published: January 2023

The first psychologists have become approved clinicians and are now taking responsibility for the overall care of patients detained under the Mental Health Act. The policy context of the role, preparation for approval, and opportunities for transforming patient-focussed structures, are considered.
A long time coming? The Firesetting Intervention Programme for Mentally Disordered Offenders (FIP-MO)
Authors: Gannon Theresa A. , Lockerbie Lona , Tyler Nichola
Published: January 2023

This article focuses on existing published accounts of firesetting treatment for mental health patients in the UK, highlights key challenges facing individuals tasked with designing and evaluating such programmes, and then provides an overview of ongoing multi-site firesetting treatment and associated research currently being undertaken in secure forensic mental health hospitals in the UK. Finally, information is presented for practitioners who are interested in adopting the programme and partaking in the wider research evaluation.
Psychological Therapies Network (PTN) Adult Forensic Mental Health Services
Authors: Jones Eric , Collinson Rachel
Published: January 2023

This article describes the rationale for the development of the Psychological Therapies Network (PTN), an overview of the PTN, information regarding its current operation and views of multi-disciplinary staff. The review concludes with recommendations for further development to aid efficient PTN management in the future.
Summit Against Violent Extremism (SAVE)
Authors: Gaynor Danielle , Gargan Ian
Published: January 2023

This paper summarises an article previously published in theJournal of Aggression, Conflict and Peace Research(Gargan, Meldon, Aherne, Fitzgerald & McNicholas, 2012;http://www.emeraldinsight.com/journals.htm?articleid=17055039) but makes explicit links to the theme of social connection and attachment relationships.
Exploring Offence Paralleling Behaviours in Incarcerated Offenders
Authors: Akerman Geraldine , Beech Anthony R.
Published: January 2023

This paper aims to develop an understanding of what constitutes Offence Paralleling Behaviour in a custodial setting, how it relates to current levels of sexual interest and how it may predict risk of future offending. Two groups of men, one group convicted of sexual offences and one not, all located in a prison-based therapeutic community, volunteered to participate in research to help validate a newly developed psychometric measure of current sexual interest. Potential Offence Paralleling Behaviours (OPBs) were considered, with the intention of being able to assess seriousness of such behaviours based on empirically developed risk factors (Hart et al., 2003; Hanson & Harris, 2000, 2001; Mann, Hanson & Thornton, 2010). Examples of such were sought from file information, self-report and staff observations and the Sexual Offence Paralleling Behaviour Checklist (SOPBC) developed. It was predicted that that those who had exhibited OPB would score higher on the newly-developed Current Sexual Interest Measure (CSIM; Akerman, Bishopp & Beech, submitted). Five cases in each group were explored in more detail in order to examine the relationship between self-reported and exhibited behaviour. In relation to these case studies, preliminary findings indicated that the men are self-reporting their sexual interests on the CSIM in a way that is largely consistent with their observed OPB behaviour and as assessed on the SOPBC. It is suggested that it is possible to identify the behaviours highlighted as predictive of risk in the custodial setting, and so more systematic case management plans can be developed.
Uniformed clinical psychology in the British Army
Authors: Precious Duncan
Published: January 2023

The Army is only as good as its soldiers so mental well-being is as essential as physical fitness. As a military clinical psychologist your aim is to reduce psychological distress, enhance and promote psychological well-being by the systematic application of knowledge derived from psychological theory and research. It’s your job to provide professional psychological assessment and treatment to those who need it as part of a military multidisciplinary mental health team both in the UK and overseas. Clinical psychologists are more than psychological therapists: you will use your research competence to critically evaluate research publications and when required design and carry out applied research and audit. Your specialist clinical skills and experience will give you the edge when supporting your mental health colleagues and others through provision of clinical supervision and training.
Effects of military operational tour on perceptions of mental illness and offending
Authors: Roberts Kathleen
Published: January 2023

Purpose:

To further understanding of attitudes towards mental illness and perceived likelihood of crime for soldiers returning from military duty.

Method:

An attitudinal survey was undertaken and analysed to compare attitudes towards mental illness and crime using data gathered from military and non-military personnel.

Results:

Statistical analyses demonstrated significant differences in attitudes held by military and non-military personnel with regard to the causes of mental illness and the need for support services, and the likelihoods of soldiers being affected by mental illness and offending following military duty.

Conclusion:

Whilst some significant differences in attitudes were found, overall the results suggest there to be little or no effect of military occupation or operational tour experience on attitudes towards mental illness and offending.
Research forum: Health Related Schemas
Authors: Kemmish Amanda
Published: January 2023

This section brings new and thought–provoking ideas and research to the attention of readers. We would be delighted to receive short comentaries on any paper or group of papers which might interest our readership. Reviews of particular issues, or of a new or existing journal, are also welcome. Commentaries, preferably on disk (WordPerfect or ASCII) or e-mail, and informal enquiries should be directed to: Dr Lynn Myers, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences, University College London Medical School, Riding House Street, London W1N 8AA (e-mail:l.myers@ucl.ac.uk).
Participants’ views on a Pain Management Programme (PMP): A qualitative analysis
Authors: Quigney Ciara , Callaghan Wendy
Published: January 2023

There has been a wealth of quantitative studies over the years evaluating the effectiveness of PMPs. However, there have been few qualitative investigations. Furthermore it is often unclear which aspects of PMPs lead to improvement. The aim of this study was to explore participants’ views on factors they considered led to their improvement, if any, and helpful and less helpful aspects of the PMP. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with eight randomly chosen PMP past members. The interview transcripts were analysed using content analysis. Six core categories emerged from the analysis: ‘support’, ‘beneficial content’, ‘changes as a result of the PMP’, ‘additional lifestyle changes’, ‘less helpful aspects’, and ‘improvements to the PMP’. The main finding from the study was that participants found different aspects of the programme helpful and unhelpful. In addition the strategies that participants had learned were continued with and new activities were undertaken.
HIV and Health Psychology: An overview
Authors: Flowers Paul
Published: January 2023

This paper presents an overview of issues within the field of HIV pertinent to health psychology. It draws upon several qualitative studies to illustrate the history of the HIV epidemic and chart transformations in HIV management. As such it addresses understandings of HIV prevention, HIV testing and contemporary HIV care. Throughout this paper both substantive issues and theoretical perspectives are brought together. This illuminates both the importance of health psychology for understanding HIV and also the importance of examining HIV to understanding some key aspects of health psychology.
Religious and spiritual correlates of psychological health
Authors: Crawford Gillian , Tiliopoulos Niko
Published: January 2023

This study assessed the relationship between elements of the most commonly used in the psychology of religion literature dimensions of religiosity and spirituality, and psychological health. Questionnaires were completed by 91 British Christians. Results suggest that the religious dimensions tend to have a positive, and at times rather strong, relationship with psychological health, while spirituality was found to be largely independent from the latter. This study highlights and discusses the complexity of the above relationships and their potential implications in the field of health psychology.
Psychological factors associated with skin exposure and skin protection in the UK – the case of young people: An overview of selected literature
Authors: Chouliara Zoë , Karatzias Athanasios
Published: January 2023

The damaging effects of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation (e.g. sunbathing and use of sunbeds) have been well-documented in previous research. These include skin cancer, eye damage, photodermatosis and premature skin ageing. Young people run higher risk than other age groups for UV-related health damage. We provide an overview of previous literature on factors associated with skin exposure and skin protection behaviours. There is limited research on attitudes, beliefs and behaviour in relation to UV exposure in the UK. Existing research has rarely focused both on skin exposure and skin protection in a single study, resulting in a limited understanding of beliefs and behaviour regarding UVR exposure related behaviours, especially the use of sunbeds. Despite their increased risk from UV exposure, UK studies have rarely focused on young people. Finally, previous research has focused on health beliefs as predictors of sun protection/sun exposure at the expense of other potentially significant factors, e.g. appearance concern and proneness to depression. The findings are discussed in the light of directions for future research.
A cautionary tale of an MSc research placement in an applied setting
Authors: Jones Helen
Published: January 2023

Conducting research projects within a health setting can be a very rewarding experience, as good quality research can contribute towards an enhanced quality of life for many patients. However, for those of you who have been involved in applied health psychology research, I’m sure you are aware of the many problems and difficulties that can arise. As a Master’s student going in to a research placement ‘blind’, this was a nerve-racking time and, in retrospect, I now feel that a little reassurance that others were feeling the same would have been indispensable. So here’s what I hope will prove to be some ‘top tips’ for how to survive your research placement within an applied health setting such as the NHS.
Progression from undergraduate study in psychology to postgraduate study in health psychology: An exploratory study
Authors: Kilinç Stephanie , Campbell Carol
Published: January 2023

The experience of progression from undergraduate study to postgraduate study is an under-researched area in the teaching and learning literature. Phenomenological interviews were conducted with five current health psychology postgraduates. Students who welcomed the development of more specific undergraduate degrees saw them as a means of developing critical thinking, discussing a shift in the notion of what constitutes a specific rather than a broad undergraduate degree. The concept of experiential learning (Kolb, 1984) and reflection was prominent in participants’ responses, highlighting the need for practical based tasks in both undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Coupled with the increasing importance of relevant practical experience, a need for more subject-specific undergraduate degrees is advocated.
‘I just felt better’: A report of an interview-based investigation into behavioural and psychological issues emerging from a group working with the smoking ban in England
Authors: Meyrick Jane , McPartlin Kelly
Published: January 2023

Background

The introduction of a smoking ban in England has the potential to improve the health of both hospitality workers and their customers. In order to better understand the psychological and behavioural impact of the ban, we explored the perception of bar workers of its effect on them and their workplace

Methodology

Semi-structured interviews were carried out with eight hospitality workers in the bar industry, identified through snowballing of contacts and analysed for emerging themes.

Conclusions

The smoking ban successfully achieves its two key aims in changing the behaviour of the hospitality workers interviewed, who reported better health and greater opportunity for smokers to give up. These findings should be confirmed through large-scale quantitative research. Interesting, unanticipated effects of the ban also emerged.
Conference Report: The moralisation of health behaviour: An expanded conference report of Professor Joop van der Pligt’s keynote speech
Authors: Dale Hannah
Published: January 2023

This short report details Professor Joop van der Pligt’s keynote address at the DHP/EHPS Conference 2008. It positions this within the literature, and expands on the topics covered. Some of Professor van der Pligt’s work focuses on the role of attitudes and morals, particularly in relation to eating behaviours and nuclear energy. In his speech, Professor van der Pligt also discussed the moralisation of health behaviours, including smoking and eating. It is clear that morals play a part in the intentions and behaviour of individuals; however, inciting moral concerns in interventions may not be an effective method in eliciting behaviour change.
An interview with … Professor Nichola Rumsey
Authors: Parveen Sahdia
Published: January 2023

Sahdia Parveen interviewed keynote speaker Professor Nichola Rumsey from the Centre for Appearance Rsearch at the University of the West of England at the Annual DHP Conference.
Interviews, Letters & Readers’ Opinions – DHP Conference Bursary: An interview with … Professor Ronan O’Carroll
Authors: Cook Erica
Published: January 2023

Erica Cook spoke to Professor Ronan O’Carroll at the 2009 Annual Health Psychology Conference about his career as a psychologist.
Research: DHP Internship Health behaviour change communication in primary care: Health care professionals’ and trainees’ views
Authors: Chisholm Anna
Published: January 2023

Primary care health professionals frequently encounter patients suffering from illnesses associated with lifestyle choices. Behaviours such as smoking, drinking alcohol, engaging in poor diets and physical inactivity are well known to have contributed to the increase in lifestyle-related illnesses like coronary heart disease, hypertension and diabetes. Behaviour change theories and interventions have attempted to reverse thistrend yet lifestyle-related diseases remain the biggest killers in society. The current study aimed to explore health professionals’ views of their role in behaviour change in order to reduce the existing gap between behaviour change theory and implementation of behaviour change interventions within routine clinical practice. Theoretical sampling in accordance with grounded theory methodology guided a purposive sample (N=14) which included medical trainees and qualified general practitioners. Individual semi-structured interviews explored participants’ views of behaviour change management in primary care. Results showed that participants were largely sceptical over the types of techniques they believed to be effective to change patients’ unhealthy behaviour. Their skills in facilitating healthier behaviours had primarily occurred through personal experience rather than formal training. The results of this study indicate the importance of delivering consistent training to health care professionals about effective, evidence-based behaviour change strategies. Further work is required to investigate the barriers to behaviour change interventions and the most effective methods for training medical practitioners in effective theoretically informed behaviour change.
Events: How did the Division of Health Psychology Annual Conference 2010 contribute to the answer to the House of Lords’ Call for Evidence on Behaviour Change?
Authors: Campbell Kasia
Published: January 2023

A report from the Division of Health Psychology Annual Conference 2010, Queen’s University Belfast, 15–17 September 2010.
The psychological and psychosocial factors that are self–reported by an obese population
Authors: Thompson Hayley , Yilmaz Joanna Steadman
Published: January 2023

The increasing prevalence of obesity has prompted research aimed at understanding the factors associated with obesity, with the ultimate aim of developing more effective treatments. In previous research correlations have been reported between obesity and a number of psychological factors including binge–eating and low self–esteem. This study aimed to audit the psychological and psychosocial factors self–reported by clients attending an assessment with a Psychological Support for Obesity Service. Data collected during routine clinical practice were retrospectively reviewed, alongside measures of Body Mass Index (BMI). Clients reported a variety of psychological issues including depression and bereavement. A significant correlation was found between higher BMI and low self–esteem (p<.05). In light of the results, recommendations for clinical practice and further research are discussed.
Health Literacy: Applications to Health Psychology
Authors: Smith Samuel G. , von Wagner Christian
Published: January 2023

This article aims to provide an overview of the emerging field of health literacy. It begins with a definition of health literacy and brief information on the current prevalence of low literacy levels, followed by three examples of how health literacy can be relevant to health psychology. The article then leads onto our recommendations for future research directions.
The role of health psychologists in applied settings: An online survey and interviews with health psychology practitioners
Authors: Cleanthous Sophie , Molin Amy , Senior Vicky , Wearden Alison
Published: January 2023

This document reports on the findings of a survey conducted by the Division of Health Psychology Practitioners and Research Sub–committees.
Coping with relationship change: A phenomenological study of relatives of people with dementia
Authors: Street Rachael , Mercer Jenny
Published: January 2023

This study explored the experiences of individuals with a family member with dementia, but who were not the primary caregiver. Particular focus was given to the changing nature of their relationship. Seven semistructured interviews were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). Two main themes, ‘Awareness of change through illness’ and ‘Negotiating changing relationships’, highlighted the challenges involved in maintaining a relationship when the pre–existing roles around which the relationship was formed alter. Findings revealed that showing care for the loved one and maintaining some level of emotional intimacy were important for participants. Future research with the families of those with dementia may help establish methods of coping with relationship change. In addition, there is a need to develop interventions that can support the wider family network to discover ways of maintaining emotional intimacy with the sufferer.
How to recruit and retain participants from hard-to-reach groups
Authors: Cheetham Tara
Published: January 2023

This article intends to discuss the variety of different definitions of ‘hard–to–reach’ groups which can be useful in determining how to recruit these participants. Various recruitment strategies will be discussed including the use of social media, posters/flyers, newspaper press releases and radio interviews. The involvement of other people in recruitment strategies will also be discussed, particularly in relation to help from participants (e.g. snowball sampling), organisations (e.g. charities, schools, hospitals) and health professionals. Ongoing contact and feedback are suggested as useful means of retaining participants in longitudinal or follow-up studies as well as ways of encouraging participants to take part in future research. In conclusion, research with hard to reach populations can be difficult but there are a variety of useful techniques available to recruit and retain such participants.
Doing Consultancy in Health Psychology – Stage 2 Training Independent Route
Authors: Patel Neesha
Published: January 2023

Consultancy is one of the five core competencies of the British Psychological Society’s, Stage 2 Health Psychology Training programme. Consultancy during Stage 2 training can be undertaken in a wide range of settings from the NHS, private commercial and public health to university academia, and with individuals, groups or an organisation. Trainees are required to demonstrate each competency in two work areas but competencies can be dovetailed so that one work area may fulfill two competencies. I started my training via the Society’s Stage 2 qualification (independent route) alongside my PhD at Manchester University in 2010. In this article I will briefly describe what consultancy is in health psychology, why trainee health psychologists need to have training in consultancy, how to seek opportunities for consultancy, the benefits of doing consultancy, and finally, some top tips based on my experience of doing this competency.
Rethinking pluralism as epistemological tolerance: Ensuring the integrity of methodological approaches
Authors: Conroy Dominic
Published: January 2023

Reflections from the Qualitative Methods in Psychology 2013 annual conference in Huddersfield, 4–6 September.
DHP Annual Conference 2015: Reflections on the impact of Health Psychology. A meeting with Professor Karen Rodham, DHP Chair
Authors: O’Neill Gillian
Published: January 2023

I caught up with the new DHP Chair, Professor Karen Rodham, at the end of the three–day 2015 annual conference in London last September. The following article provides a summary of the key topics discussed.
Does image congruence impact the effectiveness of a gain–framed physical activity message?
Authors: Howlett Neil , Gardiner Joanne , Foster Abbie
Published: January 2023

Background

Gain–framed messages can improve processing and physical activity, however inconsistency remains about the merits of using different accompanying images. This study explored whether gain–framed messages alongside positive images (congruent) were more effective than negative (incongruent) images at increasing Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) constructs and moderate–to–vigorous physical activity (MVPA).

Method

Using a mixed design participants (N=110) were randomly assigned to read a gain–framed physical activity booklet containing either congruent or incongruent images. Data were collected at two time points (baseline and one week later) using online questionnaires assessing SCT constructs and interviews about MVPA over the previous seven days.

Results

A time by condition interaction showed that intentions (p=.039, η2=.04) and self–efficacy (p=.005, η2=.07)increased in the congruent condition only. There was a time main effect for self–regulation (p=.001, η2=.09) and MVPA (p=.011, η2=.06), but no difference between conditions. Changes in self-regulation predicted changes in MVPA in both conditions (congruent, p=.003; incongruent, p=.030).

Conclusions

Congruence between message content and images increased intentions and self–efficacy, but not MVPA. Improving self–regulation may increase physical activity levels regardless of message congruence.
Presenting research for the first time at the 2016 EHPS/DHP joint annual conference
Authors: Robson Emily
Published: January 2023

This is a short reflective account about my experiences of presenting research at this year’s European Health Psychology Society (EHPS) and Division of Health P ychology (DHP) conference in Aberdeen, Scotland. I aim to briefly discuss my thou hts regarding the benefits of attending and presenting research at a health psychology conference, drawing upon personal experience to highlight positive aspects.
Forget cancer let’s MOVE: A behaviour change support model for physical activity for young people during and after cancer
Authors: Cross Ainslea , Sheffield David , Elander James
Published: January 2023

This paper describes a model of behaviour change support for a referral physical activity cancer service for young people. The service is underpinned by the self–determination (Deci & Ryan, 2008) principles of autonomy, competence, and relatedness. A range of tailored physical activity programmes are provided in community, in–patient, and online settings Each young person receives behaviour change support using motivational interviewing, which incorporates mental contrasting and implementation intentions. This paper seeks to share practice on how health psychology theory and techniques have been applied to support young people to be more physically active, both during and after their cancer treatment. Additionally, we share our experiences of providing consultancy to shape service development and planning.
Practitioners’ conceptualisations of ‘evidence-based practice’ as a barrier to changing practice
Authors: Coxon Astrid , Cross Jane L.
Published: January 2023

The promotion of evidence-based, healthcare practice is a key concern for healthcare professionals both in the UK and internationally. However, what healthcare professionals understand by the term ‘evidence-based practice’ varies, and this can have implications for changing practice. This discussion piece describes a doctoral research project exploring the implementation of a new Enhanced Recovery Pathway (ERP) in three NHS hospitals. ERPs are evidence-based approaches to streamlining surgery and research demonstrates the positive impacts that their introduction has had for patient hospital stay, morbidity and mortality, post-surgical complications and quality of life. The ERP discussed in this article was designed to address the specific, complex needs of patients with cognitive impairment who fracture their hip. These patients are currently underrepresented in published literature regarding ERP effectiveness. As such, the evidence informing the ERP’s design consolidated current best practice guidelines, expert consultation and guidance from public and patient involvement groups. Staff members who were tasked with coordinating the implementation interpreted this to mean that the ERP was not sufficiently ‘evidence-based’. This presented an unexpected barrier to changing staff behaviour and successful ERP implementation. To promote successful intervention implementation, policy makers need to carefully consider how staff conceptualise ‘evidence-based practice’ and their attitudes towards newly introduced practices.