Research funding awarded to University duo

Jodie Betham, a second year BSc (Hons) Psychology student, and Dr Niall Galbraith, Senior Lecturer and Undergraduate Course Leader in Psychology, have been awarded £1600 by The British Psychological Society (BPS) as part of its 2013 Undergraduate Research Assistantship Scheme.

The scheme is a prestigious award that marks out a student as a future researcher and potential academic. It is hoped that the senior researcher, to whom the award is made, will develop the student's potential and interest in research.

The duo’s research is titled ‘Adolescents’ misconceptions of psychology and the relationship with help-seeking’, and aims to tackle what adolescents know and think about psychology through the use of questionnaires.

Speaking about the research project, Dr Galbraith said: “Previous research shows that the general public often misunderstand the profession of psychology. It is thought that public misconceptions of psychology act as a barrier to public acceptance of the profession and limit its ability to contribute to society.

“No study to date has looked at adolescents' misconceptions of psychology, but given that adolescence is such an important period for forming attitudes, such a study is needed. Furthermore, misconceptions of psychology may well influence students' decisions about studying the subject in school or university.

“The British Psychological Society’s Research Assistantship scheme is very well regarded nationally so it was very pleasing to receive the award.”

The scheme provides an undergraduate with 'hands-on' experience of research during the summer vacation, to gain an insight into scientific research and to encourage them to consider an academic career.

Speaking about the Assistantship’s funding, Jodie Betham said: “I feel very proud and lucky to have been selected for this scheme, and being awarded funding by the BPS is very exciting.

“The real life experience I'll gain through this project will really help me in the future as I am aim to become a researching Clinical Psychologist. I’m sure the research will prove to be an interesting and rewarding experience.”

For more information please contact Patrick Campbell in the Media Relations Office on 01902 322448

Date Issued: Friday 14 June 2013