Health Psychology: Fully Funded PhD Scholarship: Reducing parental burnout: A mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy trial (Joint Research Study)

This scholarship is funded by Swansea University and Communauté Université Grenoble Alpes.

Start date: October 2018

Project Description:

Like job burnout, parental burnout can have a significant impact on physical and psychological well-being (Kwok and Wong, 2000). The distinction between the two burnout syndromes suggests a need for development of specific treatments (Roskam et al 2017). The consequences of parental burnout include detrimental consequences for the parent (escape ideation and suicidal thoughts, increase in addictive behaviours, sleep disorders, physical and mental health disorders), for the couple (increase in the frequency and intensity of conflicts) and for the child (neglect, communication and developmental delay) (Roskham et al 2017). Developing efficient interventions to treat parental burnout is crucial.

Aim:

The main aim of the project is to develop and assess specific interventions to reduce parental burnout. Two different evidence-based interventions will be compared: a tailored mindfulness based intervention and a cognitive behaviour stress management program. We will assess their effects, mechanisms of action, and compare their efficacy to a control group. A secondary aim is to consider individual differences in parents to determine who might benefit most from each type of intervention.

A mixed method realist approach will adopted to ensure the efficacy of the interventions and that the experiences of participants are be fully measured and explored.

Supervisors:

This project will be supervised by:

Professor Jaynie Rance and Professor Paul Bennett (CHHS: Swansea University), Dr Aurélie Gauchet and Dr Rebecca Shankland (Université Grenoble Alpes).

Facilities:

The research will be conducted at both partner institutions (University Grenoble Alpes and Swansea University). Both partner institutions have excellent facilities to provide support, training and skills development. The project also offers opportunities to develop skills and gain experience in clinical research and interventions within a vibrant collaborative environment. Opportunities for development of dissemination skills will be available through presentation at local research and interest groups, and attendance at conferences.

Eligibility
Candidates should hold a master’s degree in psychology (preferably Health Psychology).

We would normally expect the academic and English Language requirements to be met by point of application. For details on the University’s English Language entry requirements, please visit – http://www.swansea.ac.uk/admissions/englishlanguagerequirements/

Due to funding restrictions, this scholarship is open to UK/EU candidates only.