Optimising accessibility and understanding the mechanisms of change of online resilience interventions for young people with chronic conditions

As of 2020, there are approximately 5,000 people under 18 years old with cystic fibrosis (CF) in the

United Kingdom. The transition from paediatric to adult services for adolescents with CF can be

associated with anxiety and instability, which in-turn can impact the patient’s already vulnerable

physical health. Psychological narrative therapy sessions aiming to develop resilience in young

people with CF could enable a smoother transition of care. However, it is vital that such therapies are

tailored to meet the unique needs of this patient population. This PhD will aim to investigate the use

of a single online group narrative therapy session to increase resilience in adolescents with CF.

Three studies are proposed. Because of the lack of published literature surrounding online resilience

interventions with young people, a systematic review will evaluate the efficacy of online resilience

interventions delivered to adults. A mixed-methods study will investigate how current narrative

therapy techniques can be adapted to meet the needs of young people with CF and establish the

therapy's acceptability. A third study will explore impact of an online narrative therapy session on the

resilience of young people with CF, and will explore the therapy's mechanisms of change from the

participant’s perspective.

Eligibility 

Applicants must have obtained or be about to obtain a First or Upper Second class UK honours degree, or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK, in a relevant discipline.  Candidates with experience in qualitative methods and an interest in Health Psychology are encouraged to apply.

Before you Apply 

Applicants must make direct contact with preferred supervisors before applying. It is your responsibility to make arrangements to meet with potential supervisors, prior to submitting a formal online application.  

How to Apply 

For information on how to apply for this project, please visit the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Doctoral Academy website (https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/). Informal enquiries may be made directly to the primary supervisor. On the online application form select the appropriate subject title.

For international students, we also offer a unique 4 year PhD programme that gives you the opportunity to undertake an accredited Teaching Certificate whilst carrying out an independent research project across a range of biological, medical and health sciences.  

Your application form must be accompanied by a number of supporting documents by the advertised deadlines. Without all the required documents submitted at the time of application, your application will not be processed and we cannot accept responsibility for late or missed deadlines. Incomplete applications will not be considered. If you have any queries regarding making an application please contact our admissions team admissions.doctoralacademy@manchester.ac.uk  

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion  

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. The full Equality, diversity and inclusion statement can be found on the website https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/equality-diversity-inclusion/