Project: Considering nutrition in EP practice

2 minute read
diets,
doctoral training,
nutrition,
professional practice
+ 2 others

This thesis project aims to explore Educational Psychologists’ consideration of nutrition, in their work.

Project focus

To explore Trainee/EPs understanding of and experience with nutrition and their views on incorporating nutrition in their work and future practice.

This study has two components:

  1. a UK-wide survey which aims to explore a UK-wide picture of current EP practice around nutrition
  2. an interview component which will explore EPs’ views around nutrition in their role in more depth, also considering motivations for EP practice choices.

Both components are open to qualified EPs and 2nd and 3rd year TEPs.

How you can participate

If you are a UK-based EP or 2nd/ 3rd year TEP, you are invited to participate in this study by completing this survey which should take around 15 minutes.

Researcher

Gwen van Stappen (Trainee Educational Psychologist, University of Bristol).

Supervised by Dr Dan O’Hare and Beth Tarleton

This research has received ethical approval from the University of Bristol School for Policy Studies Ethics Committee.

Research Questions

  1. To what extent, if at all, do UK EPs consider nutrition and the impact of this on learning and well-being in their work?
  2. What influences EPs’ practice considering nutrition in their work or not?
  3. What are EPs’ views on incorporating the impact of nutrition in their work?
  4. What are EPs’ views on what ideal future practice looks like considering nutrition in their work?

Further background information

Maslow’s hierarchy (1943) suggests that nutrition is one of the building blocks for children to develop in other areas including academic learning, social relationships and managing emotions which are all key aspects of child development. Nutrition has been shown to impact mental health and wellbeing (Grajek et al., 2022), as well as cognition (Parletta, Milte & Meyer, 2013).

As Educational Psychologists, many see our role as one of looking at children and young people holistically rather than from one angle, as many professionals do in their areas of expertise (MacKay, 2006). With this in mind, the study aims to start a conversation, exploring nutrition within Educational Psychology.

by Gwen van Stappen