Promoting Excellence in Health Psychology

Explore our cutting-edge research at the intersection of health psychology and public health. From vaccination uptake and pain perception to breast screening engagement, our work uncovers the psychological barriers and enablers shaping health behaviours - delivering insights that drive real-world impact.

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Leading The Way

Dr Daniel Gaffiero, a Chartered Psychologist and Lecturer in Health Psychology at the University of Derby (UK), leads the Gaffiero Health Behaviour Research Group with a vision to drive meaningful, evidence-based change in the field. His leadership focuses on uncovering the psychological mechanisms that shape health behaviours, with the Group working at the intersection of psychology, healthcare, and policy. Under Dr Gaffiero’s direction, the group addresses critical public health challenges including improving engagement with cancer screening and vaccination programmes, and exploring the cognitive processes behind health-related decision-making. With a strong emphasis on applied research and interdisciplinary collaboration, the team develops practical, impactful solutions to complex health issues. Central to the Group’s ethos is putting students at the heart of its work. By actively involving students in research, mentorship and scholarly activities, the Group fosters hands-on learning and professional development. Through this approach, Dr Gaffiero is not only advancing the field of health psychology but also cultivating a new generation of psychologists equipped to lead in a rapidly evolving world.

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Insights & Updates

Former MSc Health Psychology Student Publishes Her MSc Thesis

Former MSc Health Psychology Student Molly Roberts, supervised by Dr. Daniel Gaffiero, has had her work titled "Exploring barriers and facilitators to effective self-management in individuals with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis" accepted for publication in the journal Cogent Psychology (Taylor & Francis). The Gaffiero Health Behaviour Group wish to extend their congratulations to Molly.

03/06/25

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The Union Education Awards Success

On June 5th, 2025, the University of Derby came alive with celebration as the annual Union Education Awards took centre stage. A standout moment of the evening was the continued recognition of Dr. Daniel Gaffiero, whose unwavering commitment to student success was once again celebrated. After being honoured last year as Personal Academic Tutor of the Year, Dr. Gaffiero was proud to receive this year’s award for Postgraduate Research Supervisor of the Year.

21/05/25

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Midlands Health Psychology Network Conference 2025

On June 20th, 2025, the MHPN held their 20th Annual Conference titled 'Building the Future of Health Psychology'. The event was hugely successful with an abundance of positive feedback from attendees. A huge well done to the MHPN committee which features a number of members of the Gaffiero Health Behaviour Research Group including Stephanie Davey (Co-Chair), Dr Daniel Gaffiero (Vice Chair & Treasurer) and Brian Fenech (Membership Lead).

21/05/25

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Stephanie Davey interviewed by Vaccines Today about Childhood COVID-19 vaccination

Why did some parents decline the COVID-19 vaccine for their children, despite vaccinating themselves? In an interview with Vaccines Today, MSc graduate Stephanie Davey explores this question through her research using the Health Belief Model.

16/11/23

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