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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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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On Friday 19th September 2025, Brian Fenech, who recently completed his MSc in Health Psychology at the University of Derby and is now undertaking a PhD at the University, presented his thesis at the EMDOC 2025 Conference — a leading event showcasing postgraduate and early-career research in psychology. His talk, “When confidence matters more than benefits: a health belief model paradox in breast cancer screening intentions”, explored how young women’s confidence in navigating screening procedures may outweigh perceived benefits in shaping intentions to attend screening. This finding has implications for designing more effective breast cancer screening campaigns. All of us at the Gaffiero Health Behaviour Research Group extend our warm congratulations to Brian, a valued member of our research group.
25/09/25
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William Colgrave has had his undergraduate thesis titled "Impact of menu calorie labelling on hypothetical meal choices in the United Kingdom: An exploration of potential public health benefit versus risk for disordered eating harm" accepted for publication in the journal Advances in Public Health (Wiley). The rest of the Gaffiero Health Behaviour Group wish to extend their congratulations to William for this significant achievement.
02/09/25
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On 15/07/25 the MSc Health and Forensic Psychology cohorts attended the annual 'Empirical Research Project' Conference. This served as an opportunity for students to present their research in a 3MT format, and listen to a range of internal and external guest speakers highlighting the importance of multidisciplinary working. Pictured are Pavel Nadlicky (Left), Karoline Podbielska (Middle), Dr Daniel Gaffiero (Right) and Pranaya Prakash (Right).
17/07/25
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Former UG Psychology Student Alicia Powell, supervised by Dr. Daniel Gaffiero, has had her work titled "Between the Lines: An Interpretation Phenomenological Analysis Exploring Injury, Mental Health and Support in Professional and Semi-Professional Football in the United Kingdom" accepted for publication in the journal Cogent Psychology (Taylor & Francis). The Gaffiero Health Behaviour Group wish to extend their congratulations to Alicia for this fantastic outcome, and wish her the very best for the future.
17/07/25
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