Past research

Past research within the CaP group is aimed at increasing understanding of wellbeing within families through research. 

Netmums

Title of study: Netmums: Helping with Postnatal Low Mood (online CBT for postnatal low mood)

Who we are: Heather O'Mahen, Principle Investigator, Esther Wilkinson, Research Associate; Julia Mckinley, Netmums' coordinator.

Aims/Goals: Low Mood in the Postnatal period is common, but accessing appropriate help can be difficult. Caring for an infant and other children can be quite a lot of work, and infant's schedules are often unpredictable. Using the internet to deliver help for low postnatal mood gives mums a flexible and private way to access care. This study is working with Netmums to examine an internet-based Cognitive Behavioral Treatment (CBT) especially designed for mums struggling with low mood during the postnatal period. The program is interactive and supported by care workers.  CBT is an effective treatment for postnatal low mood. We are now looking to see how acceptable and effective CBT for postnatal low mood is when it's delivered on the internet.

An investigation into the impact of thinking style on the mother-infant relationship

Who we are: Michelle Tester (MPhil/PhD student), Heather O'Mahen (Senior Lecturer), Anke Karl (Senior Lecturer)

Aims/goals: It is the aim of this study to examine how mothers' thinking styles affect the relationship that they have with their babies.  We intend to use what we learn from this study to further our understanding of the important role that mother-infant interactions play in a child's development.