Attentional processes and differences in psychobiological stress reactivity
Not stated
- Funding
- Self-Funded PhD Students Only
- Application deadline
- Year-round applications
About the project
About the Project This interdisciplinary PhD project explores the attentional mechanisms underlying dysfunctional psychobiological responses to acute psychological stress. Drawing upon frameworks such as Attentional Control Theory and stress reactivity frameworks, the project aims to determine whether disruptions in attentional control contribute to maladaptive biological stress responses and whether protective factors such as exercise/cardiovascular fitness buffer these effects. According to Attentional Control Theory, stress and anxiety impair goal-directed attentional control and promote bottom-up processes (e.g., focus on threat-related stimuli). Additionally, dysregulated psychobiological stress reactivity (i.e., exaggerated and/or blunted responses) is associated with adverse physical and mental health outcomes. Despite extensive research examining attentional disruption under stress and the health implications of dysfunctional stress reactivity independently, little research has integrated these perspectives to examine whether attentional processes help explain individual differences in stress reactivity profiles. Whilst a range of lifestyle behaviours (e.g., movement behaviours) have been linked to individual differences in psychobiological stress reactivity, the cognitive mechanisms underpinning these associations remain poorly understood. Attentional mechanisms may represent a key cognitive pathway that help to explain maladaptive responses to acute psychological stress. For example, heightened vigilance toward threat-related stimuli may contribute to exaggerated stress responses. Understanding these mechanisms may provide novel insight into stress management and inform future interventions targeting maladaptive stress responses. This PhD project aims to: 1. Systematically review the evidence linking attentional processes with psychobiological responses to acute psychological stress. 2. Experimentally examine whether stress-induced disruptions in attentional control are associated with psychobiological stress reactivity patterns. 3. The effects of an acute intervention on attentional and psychobiological responses to a stress task. The successful candidate will gain hands-on training in: · Experimental design · Advanced data collection techniques · Psychological assessment · Eye tracking technology · Data analysis and interpretation · Ethical research practice This project offers a unique opportunity to be part of broader experimental medicine research group and contribute to a growing body of psychophysiological research. Ideal candidates will have a background in either psychology, sport science, or health sciences, and a keen interest in research. The project will last 3 years and be available full-time. Both Home and International students are welcome to apply.