Vol 2 Issue 1 - Welcome to the Issue (Guest Editorial)

Guest Editorial by Professor Andrew Scholey (School of Psychology)

Abstract

Welcome to this second edition of Northumbria Psychology Bulletin which showcases the outstanding research conducted by our Psychology students at all levels, both on campus and remote. Having returned to Northumbria following a seventeen year absence, I am struck by the transformation of the research infrastructure and culture during the intervening period. This bulletin is a perfect example of that upward trajectory in Psychology research excellence. The quality of papers in this volume is a testament to the staff and students in the School of Psychology, as is the range of subject matter and methodologies. The papers in this issue include: a cross-sectional, quantitative investigation into the impact of gratitude writing; an examination of the influence of atypical sensory processing on autistic and ADHD traits; a qualitative exploration of the efficacy of online mental health interventions; and assessment of the effectiveness of a brief checklist for mitigating attentional blindness in radiology. Taken together, these papers reflect both the methodological breadth and the applied aspects of our Psychology degrees. Each study also has clear benefits with respect to impact on, and engagement with, relevant communities. To echo the editorial from Volume 1 of this series, it is particularly impressive that this bulletin exists because of continued student engagement beyond the degree. While there are institutional benefits from distinguishing our students with respect to research track record, clearly this bulletin stems from the intrinsic personal motivation to take self-initiated research ideas through to publication. I am sure that this volume will stimulate and engage readers and form part of a highly successful series.