PhD Studentship: Understanding the Mechanisms Driving the Reduction of Repetitive Negative Thought, Psychology – PhD (Funded)

Primary supervisor: Professor Ed Watkins, University of Exeter

Secondary supervisor:

to be determined depending on focus, University of Exeter/LMU Munich/UCLA

Project Description:

This PhD is located within a wider project examining the mechanisms driving the reduction of repetitive negative thought via cognitive-behaviour therapy. This large-scale flagship research project seeks to understand the active ingredients of cognitive-behavioural therapies that reduce worry and rumination, to optimise transdiagnostic interventions to prevent and treat common mental health disorders.

The project will integrate experimental psychopathology approaches, close engagement with experts-by-experience/lived experience and a definitive international factorial treatment trial. The project involves collaboration between the University of Exeter, University of California Los Angeles, and LMU Munich. The project provides an excellent opportunity for a graduate seeking to develop a research career in clinical and applied research. The focus of the project will be on investigating the active mechanisms underpinning cognitive-behavioural therapy through an integration of experimental studies and lived experience engagement.

Key mechanisms that could be examined in more detail include: reducing the habitual nature of repetitive negative thought; shifting from abstract to concrete, specific thinking; shifting from self-criticism to self-compassion; improving attentional focus to the present moment; developing insight and understanding of difficulties.

Funding Comment

This award provides annual funding to cover Home tuition fees and a tax-free stipend. For students who pay Home tuition fees the award will cover the tuition fees in full, plus at least £19,919 per year tax-free stipend. Students who pay international tuition fees are eligible to apply, but should note that the award will only provide payment for part of the international tuition fee and no stipend.

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