In the realm of healthcare, producing interventions that are both effective and acceptable to patients and providers is paramount. However, there are currently no reliable, evidence-based quantitative methods for assessing the acceptability of these interventions. The Theoretical Framework of Acceptability (TFA) and its accompanying questionnaire (TFA-Q), developed by Dr. Mandeep Sekhon, have become widely used tools in this area. Despite their popularity, the TFA-Q has not yet been psychometrically tested, nor does it specify thresholds for acceptability.
Research Focus
Building on the TFA, this PhD project aims to:
- Review the evidence supporting the use of the TFA in assessing healthcare intervention acceptability
- Refine and psychometrically test the TFA-Q across various long-term health conditions
- Develop recommendations for using the validated TFA-Q in both practice and research settings
By validating the TFA-Q, researchers can better assess intervention acceptability across multiple domains (e.g., burden, self-efficacy). This will help identify areas where interventions can be refined to enhance acceptability, maximize patient adherence, and ultimately improve treatment outcomes.
Research Environment
The successful PhD candidate will join the Prevention, Healthcare, and Rehabilitation section, working alongside a distinguished and rapidly growing team of health psychologists, implementation scientists, academic clinicians, and allied healthcare professionals. The team’s research encompasses:
- Disease prevention (including behavior change trials)
- Mental health research
- Primary care research
- Evidence-based healthcare
- Rehabilitation and management of long-term conditions
- Personalized self-management support
Skills Development
The PhD candidate will acquire a comprehensive skill set, including:
- Systematic evidence syntheses
- Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement
- Qualitative methods (e.g., semi-structured interviews, focus groups, thematic analysis, framework analysis)
- Quantitative methods (e.g., psychometric testing, COSMIN Guidelines)
- Co-design methods (e.g., participatory workshops)
- Implementation science methods (e.g., engagement with the Implementation Science theme within the NIHR ARC South London)
Entry Requirements
Essential:
- An undergraduate degree (or equivalent qualification gained outside the UK) in a relevant area, expected by April 2025
- Preferably a 1st or 2.1 Honours undergraduate degree in Psychology or health/medical-related sciences
- Applicants with a 2.2 undergraduate degree (or equivalent) should clearly demonstrate their relevant experience, skills, and suitability for undertaking a PhD
Desirable:
- A postgraduate degree (e.g., Masters, MPhil), particularly in a mixed-methods subject, is advantageous but not required
Funding
This home studentship provides funding for three years of full-time study, covering home tuition fees and a tax-free stipend in line with UKRI rates.
How to Apply
Key Dates:
- Application Deadline: Monday, March 3
- Interview Week: Beginning Monday, March 17, 2025
Successful candidates will receive a verbal offer, followed by a formal offer letter and a registration pack with joining information. Unsuccessful candidates will be notified of the outcome and can request feedback if desired.
