Examining attitudes towards abstinence from alcohol in the UK: a multi-perspective investigation

Summary

Alcohol remains the most significant drug of choice for citizens across the UK [1]. In 2021, 350 alcohol-specific deaths were registered in NI, one less than in 2020 when the highest number of alcohol-specific deaths was ever recorded in the region [2]. Males and those aged 45-64 years account for the majority of alcohol-specific deaths. The socio-economic costs of alcohol-related harm to the NI economy is estimated at £900m/annum [3].

Reducing alcohol consumption therefore not only advisable to improve individual health and reduce the risk of premature mortality, but also has considerable societal and economic benefits. It is a complex public health challenge, particularly given that epidemiological evidence indicates that trends in alcohol use have changed in the UK over the last two decades [4]. For example, younger adults are delaying the first onset of drinking and generally consume alcohol in less hazardous patterns when compared to previous cohorts, middle-aged drinkers experience high levels of alcohol-related harm which represent a significant healthcare burden for the NHS [4].

Adults of all ages experience considerable challenges when attempting to stop or reduce their drinking given the important role alcohol plays in many social occasions [5]. Abstainers often report that they experience bullying, expressions of nonacceptance and sometimes even physical confrontations during social occasions [6]. Alcohol abstinence is often view by drinkers as deviant, unusual or unsociable behaviour. Drinkers may perceive non-drinkers or abstainers as judgmental in drinking situations and therefore posing a threat to the group’s aim to get drunk and have connection with others.

This project will exploit existing survey resources to characterise the attitudes and behaviours of adult drinkers and non-drinkers in the UK with respect to alcohol abstinence. It will also involve primary data collection in consultation and collaboration with existing alcohol research groups and charities across the UK.

Please note: Applicants with a 2:1 degree in Psychology (or close to completion) are encouraged to apply.

AccessNI clearance required

Please note, the successful candidate will be required to obtain AccessNI clearance prior to registration due to the nature of the project.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement
• A demonstrable interest in the research area associated with the studentship
• Evidence of academic writing skills (a short sample of academic written work of the applicant's choosing (Max 3 pages, A4, font 11)) – please upload in the section entitled Research Proposal

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Publications record appropriate to career stage
• A demonstrable interest in or experience of using open science methods

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)
• Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)

Our fully funded PhD scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £19,237 (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

These scholarships, funded via the Department for the Economy (DfE) and the Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS), are open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.