Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is characterised by unwanted, unpleasant and intrusive thoughts that cause distress and repeated compulsive behaviours that are aimed at reducing this distress, or at preventing the thought-about event from occurring. Current psychological treatment approaches are effective for approximately 50% of people, which means that at least half of people with OCD continue to experience clinically significant symptoms after the therapy. Surprisingly, we know little about psychological factors that predict poor response to therapy (i.e. why some people benefit whilst others do not).
This project seeks to address this evidence gap. The first phase of this project (Study 1) will be to systematically examine published literature to derive predictors of treatment outcomes for OCD. The next two studies will recruit participants from the Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust OCD Clinic. Study 2 will use qualitative methods to better understand facilitators and barriers to engaging in therapy. Study 3 will draw on factors identified in Study 1 & 2 to inform a longitudinal study examining which of these factors predict therapy engagement and therapy outcomes.
Other optional opportunities for the PhD candidate include attendance at monthly OCD Clinic meetings and to observe and potentially contribute to clinical work.
This PhD will be jointly supervised by Dr Frances Meeten (Clinical Lecturer in Psychology) and Dr Clara Strauss (Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Lead of Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Clinic).
To discuss the details of your research interests further, please contact Dr Frances Meeten: [Email Address Removed]
Eligibility
This award will only pay fees at the Home rate.
Candidates must have, or expect to obtain, a First or a high Upper Second Class Honours undergraduate degree, or equivalent qualification, and/or a Merit (an average of 60% overall) in a Master's degree, in Psychology or a related discipline. It would also be desirable for candidates to have experience working with clinical populations and/or with young people.
International students may apply but must provide funding for the difference between Home fees and Overseas fees (approximately £18,500 in 20/21) themselves.
The University of Sussex believes that the diversity of its staff and student community is fundamental to creative thinking, pedagogic innovation, intellectual challenge, and the interdisciplinary approach to research and learning. We celebrate and promote diversity, equality and inclusion amongst our staff and students. As such, we welcome applications from all, regardless of personal characteristics or background.
How to apply
Please read our Psychology PhD FAQS before you start your application.
Please submit your application online for 'PhD in Psychology' for entry September 2021 following these instructions on How to Apply.
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