The suggestion comes as a result of work by Dr Dyer which has seen him announced as the 2008 Praxis Prize winner for his research in the area of PTSD. The Praxis Prize is awarded annually to the postgraduate student who has completed the best project relevant to the field of mental health and social care, from Queen’s University’s School of Psychology.
From Dunmurry Dr Dyer’s research examined the relationship between symptoms of complex post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and outcomes of anger, aggression and self-harm. By comparing those with PTSD and C-PTSD, Dr Dyer found that people with Complex-PTSD had significantly higher levels of physical aggression and self-harm, than those with PTSD.
His findings have implications for clinical practice as they suggest that addressing alterations of self-perception (such as shame and self-loathing) among people with Complex PTSD at an early phase in treatment will be beneficial.
Course Director at Queen’s for the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, Dr Chris McCusker, said: “Kevin’s research adds to the knowledge base of cognitive processes and features associated with PTSD and will be of interest to the scientific and clinical communities alike. He conducted his research with the academic flair and insight that characterised his clinical training”.
Sonia Mawhinney, Senior Research Officer with Praxis Care said: “Praxis Care is delighted to award the Maria McConnell Memorial Prize to Dr Kevin Dyer. Kevin’s research investigated the role of anger, aggression and self harm on Complex PTSD. The research was conducted to a high standard with a sophisticated analysis of results. This is a disorder which affects many users of mental health services and Kevin’s research findings will no doubt lead to further research in this field”.
Kevin will receive a trophy and a cheque for £250. His name will be added to a perpetual plaque, which is in the School of Psychology at Queen’s.
Source: By Queen's University Belfast
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