Medication adherence in young people with first episode psychosis: a longitudinal mixed-methods biopsychosocial study of decision making.

About the project

About the Project Antipsychotic medication can reduce or resolve psychotic symptoms and help prevent relapse, but adherence remains challenging, particularly for young people with first episode psychosis. Decisions to continue, modify, or stop medication are influenced by more than clinical factors, involving beliefs, experiences, side effects, and wider biopsychosocial contexts. This PhD will investigate how young people make decisions about medication adherence using a longitudinal mixed-methods design. Through qualitative interviews and diaries, and quantitative measures, the study will explore how perceptions of illness and treatment evolve over time. Findings will inform patient-centred strategies to improve adherence and support recovery. Academic criteria: Applicants for a studentship must have obtained, or be about to obtain, a first or upper second-class UK honours degree, or the equivalent qualification gained outside the UK. English requirements: IELTS with an overall score of 6.5 with 5.5 in all subskills, or acceptable alternative. Essential criteria First class/good upper second degree, or a distinction/merit at masters’ level, in a relevant subject Strong knowledge of health psychological theory and processes Proven ability to carry out robust research Experience handling confidential data Excellent communication skills Desirable criteria Experience of working in mental health context Good knowledge of mental health pharmacology Experience of working with young people and their families Experience collecting and analysing interview and patient reported outcome measures data Experience evaluating psychological variables and/or health behaviours Experience of mixed methods data analysis Experience of open research practices Experience with public and patient involvement in research or experience communicating with patient groups How to apply Applicants should apply directly through the GW4 BioMed3 webpage here: https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research/programmes/programme/healthcare-sciences GW4 BioMed MRC DTP . Studentships have a start date of 1 st Oct 2027. Please click on the How to Apply button to access the application guidance and form. Application deadline is 5pm Wednesday 21st October 26. Please note that we may close the application process before the stated deadline if an unprecedented number of applications are received– check the GW4 BioMed website for details and updates. Interviews for shortlisted candidates will be 26/27 th January 2027. Link to web pages: For information relating to the GW4 scheme, please visit here: GW4 BioMed MRC DTP . For information about Cardiff University's School of Healthcare Science Postgraduate Research Programmes, please visit here: Healthcare Sciences - Study - Cardiff University

Research areas