Area of research expertise - Outline

My main research interests lie in the impact of early experiences on later functioning and well-being. My PhD thesis focused on the relevance of early attachment experiences as a broader framework to explain aspects of human emotions, cognitions and behaviours in later life.

Current research activities

I am currently working in collaboration with colleagues from the University of Edinburgh and Police Scotland to evaluate the impact of trauma awareness training on police officer attitudes towards trauma-informed policing. Recent projects also include on-going investigations into attachment-related differences in the regulation of anger and expression of aggression. In addition, I am currently working in collaboration with colleagues from the University of the West of Scotland on an exploratory project focused on the predictors and outcomes of the sending and receiving of sexually explicit messages in a UK population. 

Desired research direction

The overarching aim of my research is to understand the ways in which early experiences relate to poor social and emotional outcomes in adulthood, such that relevant risk factors can be targeted to reduce such outcomes. I then hope to use this evidence to work with educators, support workers and policy makers to help inform the development of attachment and emotion regulation based interventions to improve the developmental trajectory of affected young people.

Target Collaborative Companies (National, International, up to 3)

1. Social network operators

Target Collaborative Organisations (National, International, up to 3)

1. Police Scotland

2. Local Authorities

3. Sacro

Teaching expertise

My primary teaching interests lie in Forensic, Social and Developmental Psychology. However, I have experience teaching on a wide range of modules across all levels of study, both at the University of the West of Scotland (as outlined below), and at Queen Margaret University.