Obsessive compulsive disorder : integration of cognitive-behaviour therapy and clinical psychology care into the primary care context

In primary care, evidence-based psychological treatments for obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), have not been readily available. We aimed to develop models of care for OCD that account for barriers to access and can be integrated into general practice settings. Multiple methodologies and sources were utilised, including literature reviews, a reference group, focus groups, interviews and questionnaire responses from consumers, psychologists and/or GPs. It was found that there were similarities and some differences among stakeholders in attitudes and knowledge about OCD, and views about treatment and assessment in primary care. Three models of care for patients with OCD were developed and integrated into a treatment program operating through a division of general practice. Participating GPs preferred referral to a specialist clinic, irrespective of participation in an educational program about OCD. Based on these findings, it is suggested that effective integration of specialist CBT treatments for OCD into primary care is possible if the needs and views of all stakeholders are accounted for.

Competing ethical paradigms in forensic psychiatry and forensic psychology: commentary for a special section of legal and criminological psychology

In her paper Gwen Adshead (2013) identifies the principle of respect for justice as the foundation for ethical practice in forensic psychiatry. This commentary discusses how forensic psychologists have approached a key aspect of the justice principle, the ethical imperative to promote the welfare of the individual client. The approaches of the psychiatric and psychological professions are compared and the role of psychologists as allied health professionals working in the forensic setting considered.

The potential utility of Daoist theory and practice in psychology

This thesis attempted to demonstrate the potential for adaptation from the Chinese philosophical tradition of Daoism into modern psychology. The candidate was able to succesfully demonstrate a link between Daoist thinking style and reduced stress levels, especially in Chinese individuals.

Childhood neurodevelopmental factors and risk of psychotic experiences in early adolescence: genotypic variation and developmental endophenotypes

This thesis was about understanding the childhood developmental factors that may lead to psychotic experiences in early adolescence. It also contributed to efforts towards preventative strategies for children with a high risk of psychotic symptoms, and arguably schizophrenia. Based on the findings, the author concluded, that further research on this topic should focus on the development of early detection methods and interventions for high risk children.

Violent offending, masculinity and age: exploring the role of developmental processes in adulthood

While the link between violent crime and masculinity is often implicitly assumed, to date, research has not specifically investigated beliefs about violence and masculinity at different stages of the adult life-course. This thesis explored the role of maturational processes in the way beliefs about masculinity and violence may differ in early and middle adulthood. Results of a quantitative study did not uncover statistically significant differences between younger and older adult violent offenders on a measure of criminal thinking. However, results of an interpretative phenomenological analysis indicated that beliefs about masculinity may differentially influence violent crime at different stages of adulthood. The results of these two studies provide a foundation for arguing that beliefs about violence and masculinity change throughout the life-course, and that masculinity in particular may be important treatment target in contemporary rehabilitation programs.