Department of Psychology
Postgraduate Psychology
MSc Psychology (Conversion)
Are you considering a career in psychology? Would you like to train in psychology but don’t necessarily have a background or a British Psychological Society (BPS) accredited degree in this subject? Our MSc conversion course is specifically designed for graduates with non-BPS accredited Psychology degrees or in subjects other than Psychology who wish to train as psychologists. Successful completion of our course will give you a recognised qualification that will allow you to apply for the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) from the BPS. Obtaining GBC means you can then go on to further postgraduate study in psychology with a view to becoming a Chartered Academic or Practising Psychologist in areas such as Clinical, Counselling, Forensic, Health or Occupational Psychology.
Course Features Our course will give you a thorough and intensive grounding in the areas of psychology that form the core of the BPS curriculum. These are biological psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, individual differences and social psychology. You will also study research methods and statistics and complete the course with a supervised research dissertation. As well as providing you with knowledge of psychology, our course will help you to develop the skills that many employers are looking for in graduates today. Through our use of innovative teaching and assessment methods you will develop skills such as critical thinking and evaluation, data handling and analysis, and presentations and team working.
Course Structure This course is structured on a trimester (three-term) basis. You will complete three modules in each of the first two trimesters and your research dissertation in the final trimester. Trimester 1 • In the Researching Thought and Behaviour module you will learn about the research and analytical methods that you need to study psychology. • In Cognitive Psychology you will learn about the fascinating processes that drive how we think and feel. • In Social Psychology you will develop a critical understanding of humans as social beings, and of the psychology behind our social (and antisocial) behaviour. Trimester 2 In the second trimester you will cover the other three core areas of Psychology, developing your research and transferable skills along the way. • Biological Psychology will see you cover the fundamentals of this discipline and the importance of biological systems in human behaviour. • In Developmental Psychology you will learn about the historical foundations of child development and fundamental aspects of social and cognitive development in young children and adolescents. • Finally, in Individual Differences you will have the chance to gain the knowledge and skills to critically evaluate theories and research into individual differences in intelligence, cognition, personality, and their measurement.
During Trimester 2, you will begin working with one of our supervisors on your own research project, which will become your focus during Trimester 3 in the summer. This will allow you to develop your knowledge and expertise in an area that particularly interests you.
Entry Requirements Our course is open to students with any undergraduate degree of a 2:2 standard or above. You do not need to have prior experience studying Psychology to apply for this course. Please contact us for more details on entry routes to this course so that we can discuss your needs.
MSc Family and Child Psychology
This exciting and innovative postgraduate course is focused on the study of the psychology of children and families in our modern, multicultural and diverse society. Our course is designed to give you an in-depth and critical understanding of classic, contemporary and applied issues within the areas of child and adolescent development, family structure, functioning and transition, and the role of the family within wider culture and society. Our tutors are experts in their field, and will draw on current psycho-social approaches and research to inform your understanding of development and change at individual, familial and societal levels. During the course you will also learn about the implications that such change can have in terms of psychological, social and educational policy and on the interventions that may be required when children and families reach crisis.
The programme is aimed at graduates from the social sciences in the UK and overseas who wish to develop their conceptual understanding of families and child development. It is also aimed at early and mid-career professionals working in the fields of health, education, social welfare and social policy. Finally, if you wish to develop skills in research methodologies and undertake applied research, then this course is for you.
Programme structure and assessment This programme is structured on a trimester basis and can be completed full time (over one year) or part time (over two years). You will complete three modules in each of the first two trimesters and an independent research dissertation in the final trimester Trimester 1 • In the Researching Thought and Behaviour module you will learn about the research and analytical methods that you need to study psychology. You will receive expert teaching and training in both quantitative statistics and qualitative research methods. • Child and Adolescent Development involves critically evaluating and applying both classic and contemporary theoretical approaches to development in a real life context. • In Advanced Skills for Research and Practice you will gain expert training in the successful management and completion of research projects in professional and applied settings. Trimester 2 • In Family Psychology in Society you will learn about the current research and theory relating to the complex issues surrounding child care, child protection and abuse, domestic abuse and the impact of deprivation. This module will also focus on key policies and legislation in these areas. • Family Lifestyle and Transition focuses upon the changing family unit, and the adjustment of family members to transitions within the life cycle. You will examine issues such as contemporary family systems theories, diverse family units, and separation and divorce. • In Child and adolescent mental health and developmental disorders you will consider the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of a range of disorders within the family context. You will learn about the contribution of psychological research to intervention and treatment, as well as developing awareness of relevant ethical and professional issues.
During Trimester 2, you will begin working with one of our supervisors on your own research project, which will become your focus during Trimester 3 in the summer. This will allow you to develop your knowledge and expertise in an area that particularly interests you. Methods of assessment: you will complete a diverse range of assessments to demonstrate and consolidate your learning and to enhance your employability. Examples include qualitative and quantitative written reports, oral presentations, dissemination and review exercises, case studies and reflective writing. You will work independently and with your peers as part of a group.
Entry Requirements Our programme is open to students with an undergraduate honours degree in Psychology of 2.2 or above. Candidates with degrees in other relevant social sciences, and/or particular experience in relevant fields are also encouraged to apply, and we will review suitability for entry to the course on an individual basis.
Department of Psychology
MSc Applied Psychology
Psychology is a discipline which can be applied to almost any field of work. Using scientifically tested psychological principles and processes, we can support individuals and groups, organisations, and professions in achieving their goals. From health promotion to consumer behaviour, the applications of psychology are pervasive in today’s modern society.
The Masters in Applied Psychology programme is focussed on the applications of psychology in the every day. The programme may be of interest to those who wish to apply their psychological knowledge to other careers or disciplines, such as but not limited to management and human resources, teaching, marketing or health. This programme can also be a useful steppingstone for those considering future professional or doctoral training in psychology or allied fields.
Our programme is designed specifically for graduates who already have a good grounding in psychology, who wish to learn how psychological knowledge can be applied to real-world issues. Much of the teaching takes an ‘active learning’ approach, whereby students are supported in their learning through practical exercises and experiential learning. The programme is taught by a highly qualified team, with experience of the varied ways in which psychology can be applied.
Programme structure and assessment This programme is delivered on a trimester basis and can be completed full-time (one year) or parttime (two years). Full-time students complete three modules in each of the first two trimesters, focusing on the Research Dissertation in trimester three. Part-time students complete four taught modules in year 1 (80 credits) followed by the dissertation and remaining taught modules in year 2 (100 credits). Applied Psychology in Context provides you with expert support as you actively explore ideas for how evidence-based psychological principles might be used to address specific individual issues or societal challenges set by the tutor. Applications of Psychology in the Real World* is an experiential module in which you will have the opportunity to experience the workplace in a context which encourages your understanding and application of psychology. As well as completing 120 hours of placement, you will benefit from a series of workshops delivered by the School of Psychology, incorporating external/guest speakers where possible and appropriate. Professional Issues in Psychology supports students to learn how applied psychologists ensure their practice is safe and ethical, and how they assess the bounds of their own competence. You will learn about dealing with the public, the media, and other organisations. In Advanced Skills for Research and Practice you will gain expert training in the successful management and completion of research projects in professional and applied settings. Many of these skills are also transferrable outside the research context, including project planning, time management, and so on. Intervention Approaches in Applied Psychology introduces students to a number of evidence-based intervention processes that are commonly used in coaching and therapy with individuals and small groups. Students get to practice these techniques safely in role play settings. In the Applied Research Methods module, you will further develop your knowledge of research methods and statistics to enable you to apply these skills to various research contexts. You will explore both quantitative and qualitative techniques.
Research Dissertation You will have the opportunity to design and conduct a research project under supervision, including applying for ethical approval, collecting and analysing data, and writing up your findings. Topics explored can include anything from parenting and attachment, to physical and psychological health, aspects of forensic psychology and more.
Assessment Assessment types are varied on this programme, to reflect the diversity of applications of psychology can have in the real world. There is heavy use of coursework, including portfolios, role play videos, presentations, and lab reports together with some written tests.
Entry Requirements The teaching on this programme builds on core knowledge and competencies usually gained as part of an undergraduate degree in psychology. Therefore, this programme is open to students with an undergraduate honours degree in psychology, 2:2 or above. Applicants with other degrees will be considered on an individual basis. Please get in touch with us to discuss this further. *subject to approval
Master by Research
(MRes)
Master by Research
(MRes)
Are you interested in a particular area of psychology? Do you enjoy research and project work? If so, the MRes in Psychology, with an emphasis on individual research work, could be the course for you. Working closely with your supervisors, and completing two taught modules you will have the opportunity to develop knowledge and skills that will help you in both academic research and non-research orientated careers such as project management, marketing, consultancy and health care.
Why study an MRes at Chester? The School of Psychology at Chester comprises a number of active research teams producing internationally recognised work. We often have capacity to supervise the kind of extended Master’s-level project required for the award of a Master by Research degree. We are actively engaged in conducting and disseminating research on health psychology, contextual behavioural science, cognition and emotion, forensic psychology, childhood and developmental psychology, sport and exercise psychology, mental health, psycho-oncology, and much else besides. Our friendly student-focused Department regularly performs well on national measures of student satisfaction, and our well-funded library and laboratory facilities will ensure you get the support you need to successfully complete your studies.
Course Structure PS7002 Research Dissertation: This 140-credit research project is on a topic negotiated with your supervisor before you even start the course. This will take up over three quarters of your time on the course. PS7303 Advanced Skills for Research and Practice: This 20-credit taught module examines contextual factors in conducting research such as funding, speaking at a conference, and how to work effectively in a research team. Choice of: PS7301 Researching Thought and Behaviour: This 20-credit taught module provides a succinct overview of quantitative and qualitative research methods in psychology. Or: PS7602 Applied Research Methods: This 20-credit taught module explores more advanced quantitative and qualitative research methods in psychology.
Admissions Process Because an MRes course focuses heavily on you conducting your own research, it’s essential that you have a supervisor who can support the proposed project. The first step in the admissions process is therefore to check whether there is someone in our Department who might be suitable to supervise you in conducting your research. You can read about our staff members’ interests and expertise here: www.chester.ac.uk/psychology/staff. To apply, or for further information, please use the contact details below.
Contact Us School of Psychology, University of Chester, Parkgate Road, Chester, CH1 4BJ t: 01244 513479 e: PsychologyPG@chester.ac.uk
www.chester.ac.uk/pg/psychology-mres
Department of Psychology Research activities are an important part of our work in the School of Psychology here at the University of Chester. We pride ourselves on having a supportive environment for those at all stages of their research career and for conducting research that has real-word impact. We have a growing postgraduate research student community and our undergraduate students can get involved too. All of our research-active staff supervise final-year undergraduate dissertation projects, often leading to work used in scientific publications and presentations at national and international conferences.
For admissions enquiries: Admissions University of Chester Parkgate Road Chester, CH1 4BJ t: 01244 511000 e: admissions@chester.ac.uk
For further information, please contact: School of Psychology
In the 2014 Research Excellence Framework assessment, 37% of our research activity was rated as World Leading or Internationally Excellent. It would be impossible to tell you about all of our research in this leaflet, so please do visit our departmental webpages which include research profiles for all of our members of staff and postgraduate research students.
t: 01244 513479 e: psycholgy@chester.ac.uk
www.chester.ac.uk/psychology
www.facebook.com/UoCPsych
School of Psychology: @UoCPsych University of Chester: @uochester
Like many universities across the UK, we are carefully planning for the next year to ensure the health and safety of our students and to ensure that however the situation may develop or change, the academic year will be completed for all students. This may mean we use some alternative modes of delivery to those described in this leaflet, but we’ll still be delivering a high quality learning experience. Further details will follow on our website once plans have been confirmed. The University of Chester is committed to the active promotion of equality of opportunity. Applications are particularly welcome from those groups currently under-represented in higher education. For a copy of our diversity and equality policy, please contact us at enquiries@chester.ac.uk This document is available in larger formats upon request. Please email: enquiries@chester.ac.uk for further details.
please recycle
Department of Psychology
Research
Forensic The forensic research team aims to produce theoretically-informed and evidence-based research that has an applied focus, with clear potential impact in the areas of investigative and forensic psychology. Strong collaborative links with practitioner colleagues promote practice-based research, allowing us to address issues that are directly relevant to real world criminal justice settings, and to contribute to the development of practitioner training. Current programmes of research include: Downplaying crime severity amplifies perception of guilt: The effect of directional errors in confession evidence (Dr Glenys Holt) Enhancing comprehension of the police caution in people with learning disability (Dr Michelle Mattison) The Media representation of terrorist offences (Dr Jeremy Phillips) Verbal cues to deception in police interviews with homicide suspects (Dr Clea Wright)
Centre for Contextual Behavioural Science Contextual Behavioural Science is a branch of psychological science that focusses on applying theories and interventions drawn from behavioural psychology to improve the lives of individuals and groups in societies. Our internationally-recognised work in this area focusses on three primary programmes of research:
Family, Infant And Child Psychology Our research focuses upon different aspects of development and well-being across the lifespan, including implications for education and practice. We have strong local and national links with voluntary and public sector organisations and collaborate on research projects and audits. Current research programmes include: The long-term effects of parental divorce in the typical population – examining attachment to parents and partner, current relationship satisfaction, self-esteem, anxiety and depression (Dr Linda O’Neill & Dr Julian Lloyd)
The role of private speech in primary school children’s drawing development (Dr Julie Kirkham) Evaluating an intervention programme for mothers who are at risk of, or have had, their children removed (Dr Lisa Oakley & Dr Mandy Urquhart) Motivations and obstacles relating to the decision to foster (Dr Mandy Urquhart & Dr Hayley Gilman) Understanding factors associated with child abuse linked to faith or belief (Dr Lisa Oakley and Sarah Vaughan). Predictors of theory of mind in emerging adulthood (Dr Julie Kirkham & Dr Suzanne Stewart)
• Dr Lee Hulbert-Williams is leading a programme of work on meaning. Using both laboratory-based and applied research his work is exploring the correlates of authenticity, sense of coherence, and living one’s personal values. He is also testing intervention techniques that might be helpful to support people who want to live more meaningful lives. • Prof Nick Hulbert-Williams is leading a programme of work in psychosocial oncology. This work is leading to a better understanding of how we can meet the psychological and supportive care needs of those affected by cancer, including patients, their families, and their healthcare professionals. • Dr Kevin Hochard is leading a programme of work to better understand the causes and prevention of selfharm and suicide from a contextual behavioural science perspective.
The Chester Research Unit for the Psychology of Health (CRUPH)
How is our research having impact in the community?
CRUPH conducts cutting-edge psychological research and consultancy to help improve professional practice in the fields of health and wellbeing from a sociocognitive perspective. Using multiple methodologies, we seek to better understand at an individual and population level the influences, attitudes and beliefs on health related behaviours, the healthcare consultation, and wellbeing. We examine behavior change, stress and coping, the impact of long-term conditions, healthcare communication and decision making, and the role of social support networks. We have expertise in intervention development and evaluation work at a regional and national level. Current research programmes include:
Our department has a strong commitment to the University of Chester mission to serve and improve the communities within which we live and work. Much of our research is on the application of psychology to change and understand behaviour in the real world, and it is important to us that we see the difference that our work is making. Here are just a few examples of how our research is demonstrating a positive impact on our local, national and global communities:
• Community Care Pathways at End of Life (CAPE; Local Investigator: Dr Brooke Swash) • Psychological impact of risky health behaviour (Dr Janine Carroll) • Exploring the psychological and cognitive effects of physical activity and exercise (Dr Annie Scudds & Dr Nicola Lasikiewicz) • CHANGES - Initiation activities, group cohesion, and intervention development in sport (Professor Moira Lafferty) • The relationship between psychiatric conditions and pain (Sarah Vaughan)
Applied Cognition and Evolution (ACE) ACE group members are researching important questions that apply theory from cognitive and evolutionary psychology to better understand human and animal behaviour. Some of our current research projects include: • Hemispheric differences in facial emotion perception, the processes that drive aesthetic appreciation, and the influence of location on preferences and judgements (Dr Paul Rodway) • Emotion contagion; brain lateralisation of emotional sounds and voices; prosody; language and speech; and meaning and emotion in image interpretation (Dr Astrid Schepman). • Theory of mind and social cognition in both healthy adults and people living with mental illnesses (Dr Suzanne Stewart). • Social behaviour, personality, self-recognition and communication in non-human primates (Dr Lindsay Murray)
Professor Nick Hulbert-Williams’ work in psychosocial oncology has led to a better understanding of who may be most at risk of psychological distress following a cancer diagnosis and how we might better support them in dealing with this stressful event. We are working closely with a number of NHS Trusts and with Maggie’s Centres in the UK, with CanTeen and the PeterMac Cancer Centre in Australia, and with a number of Provincial-based Cancer Care teams across Canada to develop and implement Acceptance and Commitment Therapy based communication skills training to improve the care provided to those affected by cancer diagnosis and treatment around the world.
Associate Professor Michelle Mattison’s research into memory and police interviewing has led to greater insight into the needs of vulnerable witnesses and has led to improvements in interviewing techniques available to police officers. This research has been endorsed by The Advocate’s Gateway and presented to police officers and criminal justice practitioners across the UK, Europe and Australia. Working in collaboration with Professor Penny Cooper the research was shortlisted as ‘International Collaboration of the Year’ by the Times Higher Education Awards (2017) and ‘International Partnership’ by the Educate North Awards (2018). Professor Moira Lafferty’s research into initiation activities in sport has resulted in the development of the Challenging Hazing and Negative Group Events in Sport (CHANGES) Intervention portfolio which was shortlisted for an Educate North Award in 2016. Delivered to over 1000 student sport officers in the United Kingdom, this stream of work has resulted in partnerships with British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) and Scottish Student Sport. The research has informed National Policy and resulted in invitations to participate in work with National Governing Bodies for Sport.
Forensic The forensic research team aims to produce theoretically-informed and evidence-based research that has an applied focus, with clear potential impact in the areas of investigative and forensic psychology. Strong collaborative links with practitioner colleagues promote practice-based research, allowing us to address issues that are directly relevant to real world criminal justice settings, and to contribute to the development of practitioner training. Current programmes of research include: Downplaying crime severity amplifies perception of guilt: The effect of directional errors in confession evidence (Dr Glenys Holt) Enhancing comprehension of the police caution in people with learning disability (Dr Michelle Mattison) The Media representation of terrorist offences (Dr Jeremy Phillips) Verbal cues to deception in police interviews with homicide suspects (Dr Clea Wright)
Centre for Contextual Behavioural Science Contextual Behavioural Science is a branch of psychological science that focusses on applying theories and interventions drawn from behavioural psychology to improve the lives of individuals and groups in societies. Our internationally-recognised work in this area focusses on three primary programmes of research:
Family, Infant And Child Psychology Our research focuses upon different aspects of development and well-being across the lifespan, including implications for education and practice. We have strong local and national links with voluntary and public sector organisations and collaborate on research projects and audits. Current research programmes include: The long-term effects of parental divorce in the typical population – examining attachment to parents and partner, current relationship satisfaction, self-esteem, anxiety and depression (Dr Linda O’Neill & Dr Julian Lloyd)
The role of private speech in primary school children’s drawing development (Dr Julie Kirkham) Evaluating an intervention programme for mothers who are at risk of, or have had, their children removed (Dr Lisa Oakley & Dr Mandy Urquhart) Motivations and obstacles relating to the decision to foster (Dr Mandy Urquhart & Dr Hayley Gilman) Understanding factors associated with child abuse linked to faith or belief (Dr Lisa Oakley and Sarah Vaughan). Predictors of theory of mind in emerging adulthood (Dr Julie Kirkham & Dr Suzanne Stewart)
• Dr Lee Hulbert-Williams is leading a programme of work on meaning. Using both laboratory-based and applied research his work is exploring the correlates of authenticity, sense of coherence, and living one’s personal values. He is also testing intervention techniques that might be helpful to support people who want to live more meaningful lives. • Prof Nick Hulbert-Williams is leading a programme of work in psychosocial oncology. This work is leading to a better understanding of how we can meet the psychological and supportive care needs of those affected by cancer, including patients, their families, and their healthcare professionals. • Dr Kevin Hochard is leading a programme of work to better understand the causes and prevention of self- harm and suicide from a contextual behavioural science perspective.
The Chester Research Unit for the Psychology of Health (CRUPH)
How is our research having impact in the community?
CRUPH conducts cutting-edge psychological research and consultancy to help improve professional practice in the fields of health and wellbeing from a sociocognitive perspective. Using multiple methodologies, we seek to better understand at an individual and population level the influences, attitudes and beliefs on health related behaviours, the healthcare consultation, and wellbeing. We examine behavior change, stress and coping, the impact of long-term conditions, healthcare communication and decision making, and the role of social support networks. We have expertise in intervention development and evaluation work at a regional and national level. Current research programmes include:
Our department has a strong commitment to the University of Chester mission to serve and improve the communities within which we live and work. Much of our research is on the application of psychology to change and understand behaviour in the real world, and it is important to us that we see the difference that our work is making. Here are just a few examples of how our research is demonstrating a positive impact on our local, national and global communities:
• Community Care Pathways at End of Life (CAPE; Local Investigator: Dr Brooke Swash) • Psychological impact of risky health behaviour (Dr Janine Carroll) • Exploring the psychological and cognitive effects of physical activity and exercise (Dr Annie Scudds & Dr Nicola Lasikiewicz) • CHANGES - Initiation activities, group cohesion, and intervention development in sport (Professor Moira Lafferty) • The relationship between psychiatric conditions and pain (Sarah Vaughan)
Applied Cognition and Evolution (ACE) ACE group members are researching important questions that apply theory from cognitive and evolutionary psychology to better understand human and animal behaviour. Some of our current research projects include: • Hemispheric differences in facial emotion perception, the processes that drive aesthetic appreciation, and the influence of location on preferences and judgements (Dr Paul Rodway) • Emotion contagion; brain lateralisation of emotional sounds and voices; prosody; language and speech; and meaning and emotion in image interpretation (Dr Astrid Schepman). • Theory of mind and social cognition in both healthy adults and people living with mental illnesses (Dr Suzanne Stewart). • Social behaviour, personality, self-recognition and communication in non-human primates (Dr Lindsay Murray)
Professor Nick Hulbert-Williams’ work in psychosocial oncology has led to a better understanding of who may be most at risk of psychological distress following a cancer diagnosis and how we might better support them in dealing with this stressful event. We are working closely with a number of NHS Trusts and with Maggie’s Centres in the UK, with CanTeen and the PeterMac Cancer Centre in Australia, and with a number of Provincial-based Cancer Care teams across Canada to develop and implement Acceptance and Commitment Therapy based communication skills training to improve the care provided to those affected by cancer diagnosis and treatment around the world.
Associate Professor Michelle Mattison’s research into memory and police interviewing has led to greater insight into the needs of vulnerable witnesses and has led to improvements in interviewing techniques available to police officers. This research has been endorsed by The Advocate’s Gateway and presented to police officers and criminal justice practitioners across the UK, Europe and Australia. Working in collaboration with Professor Penny Cooper the research was shortlisted as ‘International Collaboration of the Year’ by the Times Higher Education Awards (2017) and ‘International Partnership’ by the Educate North Awards (2018). Professor Moira Lafferty’s research into initiation activities in sport has resulted in the development of the Challenging Hazing and Negative Group Events in Sport (CHANGES) Intervention portfolio which was shortlisted for an Educate North Award in 2016. Delivered to over 1000 student sport officers in the United Kingdom, this stream of work has resulted in partnerships with British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) and Scottish Student Sport. The research has informed National Policy and resulted in invitations to participate in work with National Governing Bodies for Sport.
Forensic The forensic research team aims to produce theoretically-informed and evidence-based research that has an applied focus, with clear potential impact in the areas of investigative and forensic psychology. Strong collaborative links with practitioner colleagues promote practice-based research, allowing us to address issues that are directly relevant to real world criminal justice settings, and to contribute to the development of practitioner training. Current programmes of research include: Downplaying crime severity amplifies perception of guilt: The effect of directional errors in confession evidence (Dr Glenys Holt) Enhancing comprehension of the police caution in people with learning disability (Dr Michelle Mattison) The Media representation of terrorist offences (Dr Jeremy Phillips) Verbal cues to deception in police interviews with homicide suspects (Dr Clea Wright)
Centre for Contextual Behavioural Science Contextual Behavioural Science is a branch of psychological science that focusses on applying theories and interventions drawn from behavioural psychology to improve the lives of individuals and groups in societies. Our internationally-recognised work in this area focusses on three primary programmes of research:
Family, Infant And Child Psychology Our research focuses upon different aspects of development and well-being across the lifespan, including implications for education and practice. We have strong local and national links with voluntary and public sector organisations and collaborate on research projects and audits. Current research programmes include: The long-term effects of parental divorce in the typical population – examining attachment to parents and partner, current relationship satisfaction, self-esteem, anxiety and depression (Dr Linda O’Neill & Dr Julian Lloyd)
The role of private speech in primary school children’s drawing development (Dr Julie Kirkham) Evaluating an intervention programme for mothers who are at risk of, or have had, their children removed (Dr Lisa Oakley & Dr Mandy Urquhart) Motivations and obstacles relating to the decision to foster (Dr Mandy Urquhart & Dr Hayley Gilman) Understanding factors associated with child abuse linked to faith or belief (Dr Lisa Oakley and Sarah Vaughan). Predictors of theory of mind in emerging adulthood (Dr Julie Kirkham & Dr Suzanne Stewart)
• Dr Lee Hulbert-Williams is leading a programme of work on meaning. Using both laboratory-based and applied research his work is exploring the correlates of authenticity, sense of coherence, and living one’s personal values. He is also testing intervention techniques that might be helpful to support people who want to live more meaningful lives. • Prof Nick Hulbert-Williams is leading a programme of work in psychosocial oncology. This work is leading to a better understanding of how we can meet the psychological and supportive care needs of those affected by cancer, including patients, their families, and their healthcare professionals. • Dr Kevin Hochard is leading a programme of work to better understand the causes and prevention of selfharm and suicide from a contextual behavioural science perspective.
The Chester Research Unit for the Psychology of Health (CRUPH)
How is our research having impact in the community?
CRUPH conducts cutting-edge psychological research and consultancy to help improve professional practice in the fields of health and wellbeing from a sociocognitive perspective. Using multiple methodologies, we seek to better understand at an individual and population level the influences, attitudes and beliefs on health related behaviours, the healthcare consultation, and wellbeing. We examine behavior change, stress and coping, the impact of long-term conditions, healthcare communication and decision making, and the role of social support networks. We have expertise in intervention development and evaluation work at a regional and national level. Current research programmes include:
Our department has a strong commitment to the University of Chester mission to serve and improve the communities within which we live and work. Much of our research is on the application of psychology to change and understand behaviour in the real world, and it is important to us that we see the difference that our work is making. Here are just a few examples of how our research is demonstrating a positive impact on our local, national and global communities:
• Community Care Pathways at End of Life (CAPE; Local Investigator: Dr Brooke Swash) • Psychological impact of risky health behaviour (Dr Janine Carroll) • Exploring the psychological and cognitive effects of physical activity and exercise (Dr Annie Scudds & Dr Nicola Lasikiewicz) • CHANGES - Initiation activities, group cohesion, and intervention development in sport (Professor Moira Lafferty) • The relationship between psychiatric conditions and pain (Sarah Vaughan)
Applied Cognition and Evolution (ACE) ACE group members are researching important questions that apply theory from cognitive and evolutionary psychology to better understand human and animal behaviour. Some of our current research projects include: • Hemispheric differences in facial emotion perception, the processes that drive aesthetic appreciation, and the influence of location on preferences and judgements (Dr Paul Rodway) • Emotion contagion; brain lateralisation of emotional sounds and voices; prosody; language and speech; and meaning and emotion in image interpretation (Dr Astrid Schepman). • Theory of mind and social cognition in both healthy adults and people living with mental illnesses (Dr Suzanne Stewart). • Social behaviour, personality, self-recognition and communication in non-human primates (Dr Lindsay Murray)
Professor Nick Hulbert-Williams’ work in psychosocial oncology has led to a better understanding of who may be most at risk of psychological distress following a cancer diagnosis and how we might better support them in dealing with this stressful event. We are working closely with a number of NHS Trusts and with Maggie’s Centres in the UK, with CanTeen and the PeterMac Cancer Centre in Australia, and with a number of Provincial-based Cancer Care teams across Canada to develop and implement Acceptance and Commitment Therapy based communication skills training to improve the care provided to those affected by cancer diagnosis and treatment around the world.
Associate Professor Michelle Mattison’s research into memory and police interviewing has led to greater insight into the needs of vulnerable witnesses and has led to improvements in interviewing techniques available to police officers. This research has been endorsed by The Advocate’s Gateway and presented to police officers and criminal justice practitioners across the UK, Europe and Australia. Working in collaboration with Professor Penny Cooper the research was shortlisted as ‘International Collaboration of the Year’ by the Times Higher Education Awards (2017) and ‘International Partnership’ by the Educate North Awards (2018). Professor Moira Lafferty’s research into initiation activities in sport has resulted in the development of the Challenging Hazing and Negative Group Events in Sport (CHANGES) Intervention portfolio which was shortlisted for an Educate North Award in 2016. Delivered to over 1000 student sport officers in the United Kingdom, this stream of work has resulted in partnerships with British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) and Scottish Student Sport. The research has informed National Policy and resulted in invitations to participate in work with National Governing Bodies for Sport.
Department of Psychology Research activities are an important part of our work in the School of Psychology here at the University of Chester. We pride ourselves on having a supportive environment for those at all stages of their research career and for conducting research that has real-word impact. We have a growing postgraduate research student community and our undergraduate students can get involved too. All of our research-active staff supervise final-year undergraduate dissertation projects, often leading to work used in scientific publications and presentations at national and international conferences.
For admissions enquiries: Admissions University of Chester Parkgate Road Chester, CH1 4BJ t: 01244 511000 e: admissions@chester.ac.uk
For further information, please contact: School of Psychology
In the 2014 Research Excellence Framework assessment, 37% of our research activity was rated as World Leading or Internationally Excellent. It would be impossible to tell you about all of our research in this leaflet, so please do visit our departmental webpages which include research profiles for all of our members of staff and postgraduate research students.
t: 01244 513479 e: psycholgy@chester.ac.uk
www.chester.ac.uk/psychology
www.facebook.com/UoCPsych
School of Psychology: @UoCPsych University of Chester: @uochester
Like many universities across the UK, we are carefully planning for the next year to ensure the health and safety of our students and to ensure that however the situation may develop or change, the academic year will be completed for all students. This may mean we use some alternative modes of delivery to those described in this leaflet, but we’ll still be delivering a high quality learning experience. Further details will follow on our website once plans have been confirmed. The University of Chester is committed to the active promotion of equality of opportunity. Applications are particularly welcome from those groups currently under-represented in higher education. For a copy of our diversity and equality policy, please contact us at enquiries@chester.ac.uk This document is available in larger formats upon request. Please email: enquiries@chester.ac.uk for further details.
please recycle
Department of Psychology
Research
Department of Psychology
please recycle
For admissions enquiries: Admissions University of Chester Parkgate Road Chester, CH1 4BJ t: 01244 511000 e: postgrad@chester.ac.uk
For further information, please contact: School of Psychology t: 01244 513479 e: PsychologyPG@chester.ac.uk
www.chester.ac.uk/psychology
www.facebook.com/UoCPsych
School of Psychology: @UoCPsych University of Chester: @uochester
Like many universities across the UK, we are carefully planning for the next year to ensure the health and safety of our students and to ensure that however the situation may develop or change, the academic year will be completed for all students. This may mean we use some alternative modes of delivery to those described in this leaflet, but we’ll still be delivering a high quality learning experience. Further details will follow on our website once plans have been confirmed. The University of Chester is committed to the active promotion of equality of opportunity. Applications are particularly welcome from those groups currently under-represented in higher education. For a copy of our diversity and equality policy, please contact us at enquiries@chester.ac.uk This document is available in larger formats upon request. Please email: enquiries@chester.ac.uk for further details.