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20 Apr 2010 14:18:03
Graduate Sarah Davies has won recognition for a new study suggesting that recovering alcoholics can better manage their addiction by focusing on their positive life experiences.
Sarah, who graduated with a first-class BSc Honours in Psychology earlier this year, jointly authored the study with Dr. Gail Kinman, Professor of Occupational Health Psychology at the University. Their findings were presented to the British Psychological Society’s Annual Conference in Stratford upon Avon last week.
Responses gathered from Alcoholics Anonymous’ meetings and related internet groups and forums suggest that problem drinkers who were oriented towards the past, and who had a positive view of their previous life experiences, tended to be more successful in managing alcohol dependency than those with a more negative view of the past.
Sarah said: “The notion of ‘spirituality’ can be neglected in psychological research as, understandably, it is impossible to ‘measure’ scientifically, or to ‘see’ or ‘prove’. However, many individuals regard spiritual or religious beliefs as a source of psychological strength. People turn to faith and spirituality to help them through tough times and to gain understanding of tragic or difficult events in life.”
Sarah said she is delighted to receive recognition for what is her first conference presentation so early in her career and intends to start doctoral level training in counselling psychology later this year.
Watch out for the May issue of Life which has a longer version of this article.
Latest news» 2010» April» Stay positive to keep sober, says Sarah
