bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of stress and emotions on association football referees’ decision-making
Authors: Neil Rich , Bayston Paul , Hanton Sheldon , Wilson Kylie
Published: January 2023

Grounded in Lazarus’ (1999) Cognitive Motivational Relational Theory of Emotions and informed by Courneya and Carron’s (1992) Game Location Framework, this study examined the influence of stress and emotions on the decision-making of UK association football referees who were refereeing at different competitive levels. Through the use of interviews, it was found that stressors emanating from the crowd, previous mistakes, confrontation, players with bad reputations, and assessors evaluating referee performance was associated with threat or harm stress appraisals. These appraisals were associated with negative emotions that, when not managed, influenced poor perceived decision-making. In particular, the amateur referees reported situations where they were not able to cope with the stress and negative emotions experienced, and displayed either counter-attacking decision-making through giving decisions against the offending player, coach or team, or incorrect decisions due to a lack of focus caused by anxiety. In comparison, professional referees demonstrated problem-focused and emotion-focused coping strategies that promoted better decision-making. Implications for referee development are provided, as are recommendations for future research.
Group-based reflective practice in sport psychology: Experiences of two trainee sport and exercise scientists
Authors: Huntley Emma , Kentzer Nichola
Published: January 2023

Reflective practice is becoming increasingly recognised as a tool used to enhance the development and effectiveness of sport psychology practitioners. It has recently become an established feature within UK-based training and accreditation programmes for sport psychology practitioners and it was the personal benefit found by the authors of group-based reflections within their own training experiences that stimulated this reflection. This exploratory paper provides the personal accounts of two trainee sport and exercise scientists. The narratives outline the perceived importance of using group-based reflective practice to develop applied practitioner skills. These, in concert with literature from other fields, resulted in the development of a model for successful group-based reflective practice that outlines the conditions and skills that are proposed to be important for such practice as a tool for learning.
Using feature films in the teaching and assessment of sport psychology
Authors: Lafferty Moira
Published: January 2023

Whilst the use of feature films in teaching has received wide attention and is used successfully as a pedagogical tool in a variety of disciplines (e.g. psychiatry, social work, mainstream psychology and medicine) there are no examples of how it may be used by lecturers as a tool or medium for teaching applied sport psychology. The present paper explores the benefits of using feature films in teaching and describes a personal journey of how film clips were integrated into the curricula of a Level 6 applied sport psychology module.
Understanding mental toughness in elite football officiating: Perceptions of English Premier League referees
Authors: Slack Liam A. , Butt Joanne , Maynard Ian W. , Olusoga Peter
Published: January 2023

The purpose of the present study was to gain a detailed understanding of Mental Toughness (MT) in the context of elite football officiating. Competition-specific and off-field situations perceived to require MT as well as corresponding behaviours and cognitions utilised by mentally tough referees were identified. Fifteen English Premier League (EPL) referees were individually interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. Through inductive and deductive content analysis, 70 situations converged into five higher-order themes: (a) pre-match situations; (b) during-match situations; (c) post-match situations; (d) general elite refereeing situations; and (e) general-life situations. Throughout emerging themes, a multifunctional set of adaptive patterns of behaviour (e.g. act as a barrier between players, looking calm and composed) and cognitive strategies (e.g. draw upon life experiences, awareness of players’ emotions) were outlined. Theoretical and applied implications for sport psychology practitioners and researchers operating in the area of MT are discussed.
Coaching under Pressure: Mental skills training for sports coaches
Authors: Olusoga Peter , Maynard Ian , Butt Joanne , Hays Kate
Published: January 2023

While athletes have benefitted from systematic Mental Skills Training (MST) (e.g. Thelwell & Greenlees, 2001), there is little evidence of such programmes existing for sports coaches, despite coaches being considered performers too (Frey, 2007). This study involved the development, implementation, and evaluation of a ‘Coaching under Pressure’ MST programme, aimed at enhancing coaches’ ability to cope with stressors and coach effectively in ‘stressful’ situations. Five coaches from one of Great Britain’s most successful sporting universities (British Universities and Colleges Sport rankings) participated in a six-week MST intervention programme. Coaches’ use of mental skills (MSQ), perceptions of precompetition state anxiety (CSAI-2md), and coping abilities (MCOPE) were assessed before and after the series of workshops. While statistical significance was only found for a small number of the observed variables, the practical significance of the intervention for coaches was highlighted via a social validation questionnaire. Specifically, coaches described positive changes in their coaching performance as a result of the intervention. The findings have implications for the development of coach education programmes, and for sport organisations that must be aware of the stressors involved in coaching and ensure that coaches have access to relevant, research informed, MST at all stages of their careers.
Athlete perceptions of intra-group conflict in sport teams
Authors: Paradis Kyle F. , Carron Albert V. , Martin Luc J.
Published: January 2023

The study of conflict has been of primary interest in various fields such as organisational psychology for decades (e.g. Barki & Hartwick, 2004). In sport psychology, however, conflict research has been almost nonexistent (Lavoi, 2007) with few exceptions (e.g. Holt et al., 2012; Sullivan & Feltz, 2001). The importance of understanding conflict in sport and in groups, however, has been acknowledged because it has potentially serious implications for group outcomes (Lavoi, 2007). The present study investigated competitive sport athletes’ perceptions of intra-group conflict in sport. Ten intercollegiate athletes: (N=5 males, N=5 females; Mage=25.00, SD=2.87) participated in semi-structured interviews. Athletes perceived the nature of conflict to manifest itself in several ways including: (a) disagreements; (b) negative emotions; and (c) interference/antagonistic behaviors. In addition, conflict episodes were perceived to arise in task and social situations. The findings are discussed in terms of their contributions to current perspectives on intra-group conflict in sport.
Using solution-focused brief therapy with an amateur football team: A trainee’s case study
Authors: McCormick Alister
Published: January 2023

This case study describes the application of a solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) theoretical framework by a Trainee Sport and Exercise Psychologist working with an amateur football team. The case study describes SFBT and how the practitioner was guided by SFBT principles during each stage of service provision. It is not intended to describe a ‘success story’ or the neat application of a theoretical framework. Instead, it reflects a trainee’s real-life (and somewhat ‘messy’) application of SFBT principles in a team context. It demonstrates that not everything will go to plan and emphasises the importance of adapting to the context.
Case Study 1: The challenges of consultancy with an amateur league soccer team
Authors: McArdle Gerry , Barker Jamie
Published: January 2023

This case study describes the challenges faced in the delivery of sport psychology services to an amateur league soccer team from a trainee sport and exercise psychologist’s perspective. The report outlines the consultation context and various ethical issues associated with delivery of service in this context. The theoretical and philosophical frameworks which guided the consultancy are described and justified with regard to the client and the context. It is explained how these factors guided the development of the programme for service delivery. The report also offers an evaluation of the work and reflections on the process of service delivery from a trainee’s perspective.
Conducting a systematic review: Demystification for trainees in sport and exercise psychology
Authors: Tod David , Eubank Martin
Published: January 2023

The purpose of this article is to define and detail the steps in conducting systematic reviews for trainees and supervisors. We also offer suggestions garnered from our experiences reading, conducting, publishing, and reviewing such manuscripts. Steps include: developing specific questions and inclusion/exclusion criteria; undertaking a multi-strategy literature search; implementing replicable data extraction methods; assessing study quality; and employing transparent procedures for synthesising and presenting results. Suggestions include: developing a proposal and having it reviewed; allowing sufficient time to conduct a review; keeping meticulous records; and adhering to established procedures.
Shared mental models, role ambiguity, team identification and social loafing in elite sports groups: A mediation analysis
Authors: Giske Rune , Rodahl Stein E. , Haugen Tommy , Høigaard Rune
Published: January 2023

The aim of this study was to test a multiple mediation model linking athletes’ shared mental models (SMMs) to social loafing through role clarity and team identity. The following hypothesis was tested: An SMM is directly and negatively associated with social loafing; athletes’ perceived SMMs are positively related to role clarity and team identification, which in turn is negatively related to social loafing. In total, 152 male professional senior players from all 10 teams in an elite ice hockey league participated. Data were analysed using a linear regression procedure and bias-corrected bootstrapping technique to measure indirect effects. The results confirm the hypothesis and demonstrate that SMMs have an indirect effect through the mediators. Coaches and sport psychologists should be aware of the significance of SMMs in their work to enhance team performance. Facilitating SMMs may reduce social loafing through role clarity and team identification.
The application of a serious, non-digital escape game learning experience in higher education
Authors: Humphrey Kimberley
Published: January 2023

The application of games within higher education is not a new trend. With the development of serious games, educational practitioners are beginning to utilise game mechanics in tandem with learning mechanics to develop new and exciting ways of placing learners at the centre of their education. One area of non-digital gaming that has been adopted for use within education is the platform known as BreakoutEDU. A learning platform developed from the growing escape room games industry, it offers the potential for developing a novel way of further developing novel methods for a learner-centred approach to teaching. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to highlight the practical application of developing a serious, non-digital escape game for use within the domain of sport and exercise psychology.
An exploration of game-strategy efficacy beliefs in UK youth sport coaches
Authors: Fiander Matthew F. , Jones Martin I. , Parker John K.
Published: January 2023

In the sport domain, game-strategy efficacy is the belief that coaches can lead teams or athletes to a successful performance in competition. Developmentally-focused youth sport coaches, however, may define success differently to those working in other contexts. Researchers suggest that if youth sport coaches define successful performances in terms of winning only, the psychosocial development of young athletes could be hindered. Therefore, scholars and practitioners need to understand how developmentally-focused youth sport coaches cultivate their game-strategy efficacy beliefs to improve coach education and personal development programs. The purpose of this study was to explore UK developmentally-focused youth sport coaches’ game-strategy efficacy beliefs and to examine the sources and outcomes of perceived efficacy. A secondary focus was the generation of practically relevant and useable findings that developmentally-focused youth sport coaches could utilise. Data was obtained by interviewing 10 male youth sport coaches and analysed using an interpretive description methodology. Results are presented as a representative bricolage from the perspective of two fictional coaches who either have high or low game-strategy efficacy. These results highlighted sources of game-strategy efficacy within the UK developmentally-focused youth sport context, including acknowledgement, playing experience, relationships with athletes and peers, results, self-image, and success. Additionally, two outcomes of game-strategy efficacy included releasing control and self-evaluation. The findings offer coaches a chance to explore their own game-strategy efficacy beliefs against others in similar positions while opening a dialogue between research findings and those in the field.
Measuring electrical activity in the brain during exercise: A review of methods, challenges, and opportunities
Authors: Wright Michael J. , Karageorghis Costas I. , Nowicky Alexander V.
Published: January 2023

Background:

During the last decade, the use of mobile electroencephalography (EEG) devices has furthered understanding of the mechanisms that underlie psychophysical and affective responses during the execution of gross movements (e.g. walking and cycling). Such devices can also be used to shed new light on the mechanisms that underlie attention allocation, fatigue-related symptoms, emotional reactions, and behavioural outcomes associated with physical activity programmes. This advancement could, potentially, herald a new era for the field of sport and exercise psychology, wherein researchers will be able to investigate athletic performance and exercise behaviour from a different perspective.

Objective:

In this review, we explore some of the most recent approaches used to measure electrical activity in the brain during exercise.

Practical recommendations:

We provide an overview of the practical issues that researchers face in this field, such as dealing with artefacts elicited by body and cable movements and how to process the biological signal. We also review methods that researchers can employ to prevent electrical artefacts from compromising the fidelity of data. We make a case for assessing psychological and psychobiological parameters in tandem with EEG in order to arrive at a fuller understanding of exercise-related phenomena.
A case study of a trainee sport psychologist adopting a person-centred approach with a professional basketball player
Authors: Black Zoe Alyx , McCarthy Paul
Published: January 2023

This case study reports the experiences and reflections of a trainee sport and exercise psychologist adopting a person-centred approach to service delivery with a professional basketball player. We supplement personal reflections and notes from client work with learning logs and supervision as part of coursework components on a taught doctorate in sport and exercise psychology. This case study examines the client change process and how working in in a non-directive and relational manner enabled the client to take responsibility for shaping sessions to meet his unique reality, needs and preferences. Throughout this paper the trainee reflects on the experiences and specific challenges of working non-directly, offering unconditional positive regard and empathy. This case study contributes to the literature by presenting person-centred therapy within a professional sport environment and supports the recommendation of counselling and communication skills training in the development pathway for applied sport and exercise psychology practitioners.
Emotional reflections of an athlete referral: The practitioner perspective
Authors: Drew Karla , Morris Robert
Published: January 2023

In this case study the author outlines the impact of consultancy sessions with an athlete while enrolled on the British Psychological Society’s (BPS) Qualification in Sport and Exercise Psychology (QSEP). The case addresses a number of the consultancy related competencies (e.g. establish, develop and maintain working relationships with clients, conduct consultancy) but the main focus is on considering personal and professional standards and ethical issues. In doing so, the author briefly outlines the consultancy that took place as well as the steps taken during the process of seeking a clinical referral. The article concludes with personal reflections and an evaluation of the referral process from the perspective of a trainee sport psychologist.
Beauty is skin deep: Addressing racism within ‘The Beautiful Game’. A critical review of male english football and social media-based racism through the lens of counselling psychology
Authors: Twizell Oliver
Published: January 2023

Social media-based racism is growing exponentially with new social media platforms developing at a rate that research struggles to keep up with. Football is an active participant on these platforms which has subsequently led to well documented media reports of racial abuse. However, research has been limited within English football when attempting to understand the extent of social media-based racism, social media behaviour, racism campaigns, programmes and legislation to tackle online racism within the industry, which this paper addresses. The purpose of this paper is to provide a critical review of the literature on social media-based racism within male English football through the lens of applied psychology. Opportunities for applied psychology from a social justice perspective to challenge social media-based racism through therapy, research, and training are highlighted. Micro and macro approaches to address social media-based racism are examined, with proposed future developments discussed.
A platform for youth voice in MST4Life™: A vital component of process evaluations
Authors: Tidmarsh Grace , Thompson Janice L , Quinton Mary L , Parry Benjamin J , Cooley Sam J , Cumming Jennifer
Published: January 2023

Objectives

To explore the factors impacting successful delivery of MST4Life™, a sport psychology informed mental skills training intervention, from the perspective of young people experiencing homelessness. Engaging participants in evaluating programme implementation contributes to developing effective and meaningful programmes and provides opportunities for empowerment and positive development beyond the programme

Methods

Qualitative data were collected from 44 participants (female N=20, male N=13, not reported N=11; average age=20.3years), between April 2015 and July 2018. Participants took part in diary rooms to discuss their experiences with MST4Life™ via audio or video recording, or written responses. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis,

Results

Three main themes were developed: (1) programme content: A move towards meaningful and engaging activities; (2) creation of a supportive, safe, and empowering environment; and (3) challenges and barriers to young peoples’ engagement in the programme

Conclusions

The environment purposefully created by programme facilitators and frontline staff helped young people to feel supported, valued, and fosters continued programme engagement. Results highlight a strengths-based delivery style, meaningful and transferrable content as key programme components. This study demonstrates the essential nature of process evaluations and how sport and exercise psychologists can enhance accessibility of data collection methods.
On the outside looking in: Trans identity experiences in and through UK sport participation
Authors: Gibbs-Nicholls Sophie , Mellick Mikel
Published: January 2023

Using interpretative phenomenological analysis, this study utilised semi-structured interviews with five trans participants in sport to explore their lived experiences of ‘inclusive’ sport participation. The potential role for sport psychologists in promoting and supporting trans sports participants’ overall sense of perceived inclusion and belonging was also considered. Analysis revealed three core themes: the experience of personal acceptance of identity and social inclusion, the ‘internal’ battle between identity and expression, and the changing role that sport played during gender affirmation as a facilitative and or debilitative coping resource. The findings indicate areas in which sport psychologists can better support and enhance the gender affirmation experience of trans participants in sport by improving feelings of inclusiveness (social support), a sense of acceptance and promoting overall mental wellbeing. This research is particularly useful for practitioners, coaches and other athletes for understanding the supportive role sport can play throughout the gender affirmation process.
Challenges accessing physical activity from a transgender perspective: A systematic review
Authors: Pattinson E.M. , Newman H.J.H. , Kiemle-Gabbay L.R.
Published: January 2023

The gender-diverse community faces numerous barriers that make physical activity difficult to access, meaning they are less physically active than their cisgender counterparts, compounding the existing health and wellbeing inequalities experienced by this group. The current study conducted a systematic review of sporadic literature relating to trans, non-binary and intersex people’s experience of physical activity with the aim of understanding how individuals negotiate and experience physical activity environments. A systematic searching of 8 databases and screening highlighted 30 academic papers for review. A narrative synthesis of the experiences of trans, non-binary and intersex individuals formed a three-layer model of influence. The first layer encapsulated the systemic and systemic influences such as transphobia and trans-moral panic. The second layer included external influences such as others’ behaviour, gendered spaces and exclusionary policies. The third layer was made up of internal influences such as internalised transphobia and gender concealment. The focus on fitting gender non-conforming individuals into a binary system through gendered spaces, pressures to switch teams and provide ‘proof’ of gender conformity set a dangerous precedent of the physical activity space as an unwelcoming and unsafe place for those who do not conform to the gender binary. If there should be a hope to address the health inequalities faced by the trans, non-binary and intersex community, the focus must move away from conformity and the debate of ‘fairness’ towards true inclusion and creating an environment where gender minorities can feel safe to engage with physical activity.
Gay Psychologists and Gay Clients: Exploring therapist disclosure of sexuality in the therapeutic closet
Authors: Lea James , Jones Robert , Huws Jaci C.
Published: January 2023

Therapist self-disclosure of sexuality can be therapeutically beneficial when both therapist and client identify as gay. This study attempted to explore the views and experiences of gay male clinical psychologists disclosing their sexuality to gay male clients. Five gay male clinical psychologists were interviewed, and subsequent transcriptions were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Six main themes emerged from the data: Being gay in a straight world; Disclosure and the therapeutic agenda; Contexts of disclosure; Other ways of knowing; Disclosure of sexuality: a big deal?; and The invisible curriculum. Overall, the study highlighted the participants’ thoughtfulness regarding their decisions and reasons to disclose, suggesting that disclosing their sexuality could be beneficial, but also potentially unhelpful to their gay clients. It is hoped that these findings will generate discussion and reflection, and in a small way help make gay issues more visible within clinical psychology, psychotherapy and counselling training.
Analysis of the category ‘Gay Identity’: Situated knowledge in Mexico
Authors: Lozano-Verduzco Ignacio , Rocha Sánchez Tania E.
Published: January 2023

Identity is a dialectic, permanent process between the person and their surrounding contexts. This paper analyses the production of a gay identity within a context of strict gender and sexuality norms that exclude homoeroticism. Because of heteronormativity, any identities outside this system suffer from stigma. We analyse Mexico’s gay movement to understand how ‘gay’ and ‘homosexual’ have become identity categories that help understand where the gay movement in Mexico stands, and its impact on identity development. Through a literary revision and critique, we conclude that gay identity makes the stigma against homoeroticism visible, but moves towards the normalisation of sexual expression. Because of this normalisation, ‘gay identity’ must be a temporary term that should be questioned and deconstructed since it assumes that all people who identify with it are homogenous, and does not recognise sexual fluidity.
Same-sex marriage and same-sex adoption: Socio-political context of the rights of gay and lesbian people in Belgium
Authors: Scali Thérèse , D’Amore Salvatore
Published: January 2023

Belgium is considered as being in the forefront of a number of rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people (LGBT). In the 1990s, the law on legal cohabitation made it possible for same-sex couples to draw up cohabitation contracts. Belgium then became the second country in Europe to authorise marriage between same-sex partners in 2003, as well as opening up access to parenthood in 2006. The aim of this paper is to describe the changes that have taken place in Belgian legislation from traditional family law through to the opening up of marriage and parenthood to same-sex couples, analysing the arguments which have been put forward in support and against it, as well as the potential rationale behind shared agendas. It will also describe the emergence of the LGBT movement in Belgium, the various non-governmental organisations that are active in the country and the role they play. An overview of current events will be presented (changes in the number of marriages, divorces and adoptions in Belgium). Finally, the paper will discuss the issues concerning social acceptance of same-sex couples and families, and the challenges that LGBT people living in Belgium still have to face.
‘We can’t help you here’: The discursive erasure of sexual minorities in South African public sexual and reproductive health services
Authors: Morison Tracy , Lynch Ingrid
Published: January 2023

Worldwide, sexual and gender minorities struggle to access sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services. In South Africa, sexual prejudice is entrenched and pervasive in health systems and SRH services do not cater for a diverse range of people. Though health reform is underway, little attention has been given to how sexuality is being addressed in this process, particularly in the National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme currently being piloted. We analyse interview data generated in an NHI pilot district, using discursive methodology, informed by a sexual and reproductive justice standpoint. We show how sexual and gender minorities are discursively in/visibilised in health settings and discuss these findings in relation to the social justice and solidarity aims of health systems reform.
Anti-LGBT movement in South Korea and the professionals on their side
Authors: Yi Horim , Kim Seung-Sup
Published: January 2023

Note from the Editor: In recent issues of Psychology of Sexualities Review (vol 6 and 7/1) we published contributions from around the globe in two special issues on international perspectives. Following the publication of the last issue we received a letter from two scholars from South Korea. What follows is their account of the rising anti-LGBT movement they are witnessing and the collusion by psychological/psychiatric professionals in the country.
A qualitative exploration of queer Muslim women and the intersection between religious and sexual identities
Authors: Williamson Morgan , Nadarzynski Tom , Pollard Alex
Published: January 2023

Some members of multiple minority groups experience conflict between their sexual and religious identities which could lead to negative impacts on their wellbeing. The present study aimed to examine the intersection of religion and sexual identity for queer Muslim women. Eight lesbian/bisexual/sexual minority Muslim women were interviewed about their lived experiences using a semi-structured interview. A thematic analysis, informed by internal conflict theory, identified five themes: (i) compartmentalised identities; (ii) religious expectations; (iii) Is being gay a choice? (iv) ‘I am who I am’: acceptance; and (v) authenticity. The results revealed an internal conflict from compartmentalised identities, but acceptance was a dominating theme. It investigates a novel issue and future research is warranted regarding the development of interventions to improve wellbeing for queer Muslim women.
Religion, identity and mental health: Perceived relationships within a multi-dimensional framework
Authors: Rogers M. Brooke , Loewenthal Kate Miriam
Published: January 2023

An analysis of past research obtained through a systematic review suggested that it is possible to explore the relationship between religious identity, level of practice and mental health, especially self-esteem, in religious and non-religious individuals. The results of this interaction are often contradictory in nature. Several theoretical approaches and models were used to illustrate relationships between variables identified through a separate qualitative study (religious identity, religiosity, shame, guilt, forgiveness and self-esteem). The combination of studies on different social, racial, ethnic and religious groups suggest that the contradictory findings might be explained by the possibility that religious identity and different forms of religious practice affect levels of mental health in a unique manner for each social group.
Psychological meanings of living rooms in the management of impression and identity: A literature review
Authors: Ozaki Ritsuko , Kempen Elizabeth
Published: January 2023

This article explores the psychological meanings of the living room and the mechanism by which these meanings work together to achieve impression and identity management, focusing on the public and private use of the living room. Historical documents on house design in Britain show that impression and identity management have been achieved through the ‘right’ location, appearance and purpose of the living room. A detailed examination of the literature is made in order to deepen our understanding of the ways in which a housing feature such as the living room plays an active role in the management of impression and dentity. In particular, the paper discusses the importance of the ‘front’ setting in impression management and of personalisation in identity management, in addition to the achievement of those management endeavours through the use of symbolic items. At the end of the literature review, a conceptual map of the living room is presented. It shows the way in which different elements are interrelated, create meanings and contribute to, impression and identity management; and operationalises the concept for empirical research on psychological meanings of housing features such as a living room.
Developing conceptions of well-being: Advancing subjective, hedonic and eudaimonic theories
Authors: Boniwell Ilona , Henry Jane
Published: January 2023

This paper reviews and challenges academic ideas of well-being. It begins by outlining the dominant approach to defining and measuring well-being, known as subjective well-being (SWB). Having examined its cognitive and affective components and corresponding measures, the paper progresses to question SWB by introducing the distinction between hedonic and eudaimonic well-being. Next, the viability and limitations of the eudaimonic paradigm are discussed, including the lack of conceptual coherence in the current definitions of eudaimonic well-being. Finally, the paper examines the potential role of qualitative research on well-being to help refine develop and refine the concept of well-being.
HIV diagnosis and identity processes among men who have sex with men (MSM) in London, Athens, and New York
Authors: Daramilas Christos , Jaspal Rusi
Published: January 2023

Given the advent of highly effective antiretroviral therapy, HIV is now considered a manageable chronic condition. However, the social, psychological and indeed physical aspects of living with HIV can be challenging. In this research note, the social psychological aspects of HIV diagnosis are discussed in the contexts of three cities – London, Athens and New York – in which men who have sex with men (MSM) face particular inequalities vis-à-vis HIV. It is argued that identity process theory from social psychology can offer particularly fruitful insights into the social psychological implications of HIV diagnosis and that the theory can help inform psychological and behavioural interventions for MSM diagnosed with HIV. This research note provides basic surveillance data for the three city contexts and reviews key literature in the area of HIV psychology from the perspective of identity process theory. Some testable hypotheses are developed on the basis of existing research and theory concerning HIV.
Experiences of musical performance anxiety in final-year undergraduate music students: An interpretative phenomenological analysis
Authors: Robinson Georgina , Nigbur Dennis
Published: January 2023

Musical performance anxiety (MPA) is a common problem for musicians. However, the majority of work in this area is quantitative in nature, meaning that analyses of musicians’ individual experiences are lacking. This study therefore explored the subjective experiences of performance anxiety in undergraduate music students through the use of semi-structured interviews. Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) was used to analyse the experiences of four undergraduate music students, including how MPA feels, how it is dealt with, and what causes it. Three themes emerged from the analysis: the psychological impact of the audience, issues of trust, and the musical identity. These results are compatible with several quantitative studies and contribute an original idiographic perspective on how music students experience and understand MPA. This has implications for both amateur and professional musicians: If the underlying mechanisms are better understood, it may be possible to introduce interventions to help musicians cope with their anxiety.
The national flag: An agent of prejudice?
Authors: Muscat Joseph , Lauri Mary Anne
Published: January 2023

This study explored significant effects on prejudice towards foreigners expressed by Maltese individuals when exposed to the Maltese national flag, taking into consideration their nationalistic and patriotic tendencies. A volunteer sample of university students was surveyed via a web-based questionnaire where nationalism, patriotism and prejudice against foreigners were measured using the image of the Maltese flag as an experimental variable. Analysis of the results indicates that for the sample population, subtle exposure to the Maltese flag has the effect of reducing expressions of prejudice. These results provide some insight into the psychological factors that may mould reactions Maltese people have towards foreigners with consequent political and social implications.
Member profile
Authors: Acar Yasemin Gülsüm
Published: January 2023

Yasemin Gülsüm Acar is a Visiting Scholar at the University of St Andrews.
Mid-Career Award
Authors: Drury John
Published: January 2023

The BPS Social Psychology Section Mid-Career Award is given in recognition of outstanding research in social psychology by a mid-career scholar. Recipients may be of any nationality but must currently be working in a UK institution. Mid-career is defined loosely and might typically apply to scholars awarded their doctorate between 5 and 20 years ago.
Psychology Network Student Award 2006
Authors: McIntosh Jennifer
Published: January 2023

Jennifer McIntosh, a third year psychology student at York St John University College, is the winner of the Psychology Network Student Award 2006. Jennifer wins £250 (kindly sponsored by the Society), and her essay will now compete for the Higher Education Academy’s overall Student Award 2006. The Psychology Network would like to congratulate Jennifer on her achievement, and to thank all those who entered this year’s Award. Details of the Award, together with a wealth of other useful information for psychology students, can be found at:www.psychology.heacademy.ac.uk/html/students.asp
An alternative support to the medical model of medication for long-term schizophrenia
Authors: Patel Shuresh
Published: January 2023

This article is concerned with debates around schizophrenia. Some historical background to schizophrenia is also outlined. The theory is that alternative support, like long-term clinical hypnotherapy and long-term CBT plus psychotherapy and counselling, is effective in helping some schizophrenics to reduce their medications to improve their qualityof life. The main biographical source is a book by Rosalind Hewitt entitled ‘Moving On:A guide to good health and recovery for people with a diagnosis of schizophrenia’(Karnac Books, January, 2007). The other inspiration was an article in ‘The Psychologist’, September, 2005, called ‘The NHS has got it wrong’. The analysis criteria is my evidence medically of my lifetime recovery in terms of my qualityof life with my long-standing schizophrenia for over 26 years. I have discovered these alternative therapies personally and I now report a temporary improvement in my condition.The conclusion is that the alternative therapies experience is at least effective in reducing my medication for schizophrenia to the international minimum recommended dosage level by the Medical Model and sofor me is an effective support mechanism to the Medical Model. Currently I am trying a medication dosage below any recommended minimum dosage levels but I am still in a stage of transition; the results are not finalised at this point in time.

The key phrases are that long-term clinical hypnotherapy, long-term CBT, long-term counselling and long-term psychotherapy – in combination – have never been medically documented before; this is a first international clinical trial of its kind
Understanding schizophrenia’s symptoms across cultures: Time for anthropological research to make its presence
Authors: Shalhoub Huda
Published: January 2023

Many studies have shown that certain ethnic minorities in the UK are more likely to be diagnosed with schizophrenia than British-born citizens. The most prominent research has focused on African-Caribbean and British white incidence rates while disregarding other immigrant groups. The US and the UK are currently marked by a constant influx of international migration and thus research on cross-cultural differences in manifestations of schizophrenia must be seen as a crucial and inescapable step for adhering to culturally sensitive and competent psychiatric systems. This paper is based on field work that aimed at: (1) estimating prevalence rates of schizophrenia diagnosis in London amongst newly-arrived Eastern European, North African and Middle Eastern patient cohorts; (2) assessing and elaborating etiological explanations regarding the differences between schizophrenia manifestations in UK and non-UK born cohorts, from a mental health professional’s perspective; and (3) understanding the difficulties that mental health professionals face in their day-to-day practices with a schizophrenia diagnosis in culturally diverse groups of patients. Drawing on these aspects of field work, I intend to demonstrate that clinical interpretations can only be accurately portrayed when there is a profound dyadic cross-cultural dialogue between practitioner and patient.
Not a mind reader or a shrink!
Authors: Forsyth Tia
Published: January 2023

This article is light-hearted and aimed at highlighting everyday stereotypes.
Elderly relatives’ memory phenomenon
Authors: Karsten Patricia
Published: January 2023

Anecdotally, elderly relatives may seem rather forgetful about recent events (such as what they watched on television the night before), but love recounting stories from their youth (e.g. the Queen’s Coronation). How well have theories of memory accounted for this phenomenon?
Is romance dead?
Authors: Sambaryte Eiminta
Published: January 2023

This article will explore the contemporary issues of romance within heterosexual relationships. In a modernist society we as individuals are faced with confusion about gender, notwithstanding the notion of romance. However, one could argue that romance is a myth. The ideologies of feminine and masculine has changed drastically in the last century, with the rise of feminism and the rethinking of the dominant male.
The older people’s challenge
Authors: Galbraith Gemma
Published: January 2023

‘…near or above the age of fifty, the elasticity of the mental processes on which treatment depends is as a rule lacking – old people are no longer educable…’ (Freud, 1905)
A week in the life of a placement student
Authors: Toomer Emily Kate
Published: January 2023

Emily is currently on placement as part of her psychology degree at Cardiff University, working as a psychology research assistant within a pain management department. Here she reflects on the experience she has gained in her diary of a typical week.
HIPPOCAMPAL NEUROGENESIS IN DEPRESSIVE DISORDER
Authors: Carboni Tatiana
Published: January 2023

RECENT RESEARCH SUGGESTS THAT A LOSS OF SYNAPTIC PLASTICITY IN SPECIFIC AREAS OF THE CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM, ESPECIALLY THE HIPPOCAMPUS, CAN PLAY A ROLE IN THE PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF DEPRESSION (MASI, 2011). GIVEN THE EVIDENCE FOR HIPPOCAMPAL VOLUME CHANGES IN DEPRESSIVE PATIENTS AND ATROPHY OF HIPPOCAMPAL NEURONS UNDER STRESS, NEUROGENESIS (THE DEVELOPMENT OF NEW NEURONS IN THE ADULT BRAIN’S DENTATE GYRUS) HAS RECEIVED A LOT OF INTEREST AS A POSSIBLE MEDIATOR OF STRESS EFFECTS ON THE HIPPOCAMPUS (ANACKER, 2014).
The coach-client relationship and contributions made by the coach in improving coaching outcome
Authors: O’Broin Alanna , Palmer Stephen
Published: January 2023

This paper highlights the paradox of the potential importance of the coach-client relationship to coaching outcome, with a serious lack of studies in this area. Formal research into the coach-client relationship is critical, as its confirmation as a factor instrumental in coaching outcome would have implications for coaching effectiveness, coaching competencies, and coach training.
Should there be a counselling element within coaching?
Authors: Simons Chris
Published: January 2023

This paper summarises some of the findings from a Doctoral research project which profiled the personalities of successful leaders of change. The aim was to ascertain whether the personal attitudes of senior executives who are successful at leading change impact on change within their organisations through their leadership style and behaviour. The project looked at attitude formation and development within 11 successful leaders’ own psyche with regard to change through a qualitative in-depth case study approach. The main conclusion to be drawn from the project was that a high degree of self-knowledge is essential for successful leadership of change and one of the conclusions drawn from the project was that where coaching is a significant aspect of senior executives’ development, there may be a need for the coach to facilitate the coachee in recognising how the past is impacting on the present. This means that the coach would need to have an awareness of how introjects from the past may be brought to a conscious state of awareness and may well involve a need for coaches themselves to receive some kind of counselling training.
MBTI®types and executive coaching
Authors: Passmore Jonathan , Rawle-Cope Margaret , Gibbes Carla , Holloway Mark
Published: January 2023

This paper reviews the outcome of research from the British Psychological Society and Association for Coaching members undertaken in the Autumn of 2005 on coaching behaviour. The focus of this paper is on personality preferences of executive coaches as indicated by the MBTI®. The results suggest potential differences between the MBTI®types of the general population and executive coaches.
Multimodal Relaxation Method
Authors: Palmer Stephen
Published: January 2023

This paper describes the Multimodal Relaxation Method (MRM) which can be used in life, executive, business, sports or health coaching to enhance performance and reduce or manage stress. Within sports and health coaching it can be used to reduce physical tension and enhance physiological control, e.g. lower heart rate and reduce blood pressure.
Highlighting the psychology in coachingProfessor Siegfried GreifDr Kristina GyllenstenProfessor Alex LinleyDr Siobhain O’RiordanDr Reinhard StelterStephen Palmer: Reflections on some of the key issues
Authors: Palmer Stephen
Published: January 2023

Stephen Palmer interviews the Keynote Speakers from the 1st European Coaching Psychology Conference.
Coaching the Narcissist: How difficult can it be? Challenges for Coaching Psychologists
Authors: Mansi Angela
Published: January 2023

Paper presented at the 1st European Coaching Psychology Conference, December 2009.

This study will investigate how coaching psychologists have managed the coaching process when dealing with narcissistic personalities. It explores some of the problems that coaching psychologists might encounter in working with narcissists and how they have addressed these in order to facilitate effective psychological coaching. It will also address the paradox that while often attracted to coaching, narcissists can present difficulties in that they do not see much area for improvement. The primary objective is to explore the psychological coaching process from the coach’s standpoint. The narcissist profiles include traits such as charm, confidence, a strong sense of self-belief. Narcissistic personalities are often highly confident, charming, exploitative and with an overbearing sense of entitlement (DSM-IV, 1994). Such strengths, however, can often combine with a lack of empathy for others, a failure to recognise their shortcomings and an inability to reflect on their mistakes

This study considers two different data collection methods to assess for narcissistic personality profiles; 360° feedback and psychometric test scales. The hypothesis is that individuals with narcissistic personalities profiles (indicated by 360° feedback ratings) and high scores (>90th percentile) on the Narcissistic cluster (Moving Against profile) of the Hogan Development Survey (HDS) will be most resistant to coaching, particularly towards those aspects which challenge the person’s self view.

Interviews with coaching psychologists will also be conducted to explore the psychological coaching process from thecoach’s perspective, and determine what difficulties, if any, they found in coaching Narcissistic personality types and how they address these.
Highlighting the Psychology in Coaching
Authors: Liston-Smith Jennifer
Published: January 2023

1st European Coaching Psychology Conference, 17–18 December 2008.