Physical inactivity is a worldwide problem and, therefore, understanding how to increase physical activity is important. Engagement with physical activity is in part determined by social factors (i.e., the influence of others). For instance, physical activity leaders play a central role in our motivation for, enjoyment of and, ultimately, engagement in physical activity. As yet, however, research exploring how leaders can facilitate health-enhancing behaviours is limited (see Stevens et al., 2022 for a review). Given that group identification is proposed to play an important role in our engagement with physical activity, the social identity theory of leadership (SIL) holds promise in understanding effective leadership in physical activity contexts. Indeed, initial research on SIL in physical activity settings suggests that followers whose leaders engage in identity leadership attend more frequently (e.g., Stevens et al., 2018) and exert more effort in sessions (Steffens et al., 2019). However, more research is needed to explore the role of SIL in helping people engage in physical activity. Therefore, broadly speaking, the aim of this PhD is to explore the application and effectiveness of SIL in physical activity settings.
Given that research on this topic is in its infancy, there is scope to shape this research to match your interests.
The project will be supervised by Dr Sean Figgins in collaboration with Prof Vivian Vignoles.
References
Stevens, M., Rees, T., Cruwys, T., & Olive, L. (2022). Equipping physical activity leaders to facilitate behaviour change: An overview, call to action, and roadmap for future research. Sports Medicine, 8, 33. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40798-022-00423-0
Stevens, M., Rees, T., & Cruwys, T. (2021). Social identity leadership in sport and exercise: Current status and future directions. Psychology of Sport and Exercise, 55, 101931. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychsport.2021.101931
Doctoral Tutor role
You will also be expected to take up Doctoral Tutoring during your 6 semesters (3 years) of funding. This work is paid at Grade 5.1 (currently £13.88 per hour), and covers contact time, preparation and marking. You will be expected to work approximately 165 hours per year, dependent on modules selected and availability.
Doctoral Tutors will be encouraged to study for a formal teaching accreditation (Associate of the Higher Education Academy), including enrolling on a ‘starting to teach’ module in the first term. Candidates who demonstrate interest in and suitability for the Doctoral Tutor role will be preferred.
Eligibility
This award will pay fees at the Home or International rate (as required by the applicant's fee status). International students must move to Sussex for the duration of the PhD and will not be permitted to register as Distance Learners. The studentship does not include additional funding towards the costs of visas or travel to the UK for international students
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 other relevant discipline (e.g. Neuroscience, Engineering, Computer Science).
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
Timetable
- Deadline: Wednesday 13 January 2023 (23:59 GMT)
- Interviews (on Zoom): February 2023
Continue with Facebook
