Research Interests
Open to PhD applications in the field of mental health and sport, behaviour change intervention to improve health. Also interested in the use of whole systems approaches to diet and healthy weight.
Current Research Opportunities
- An Autonomy Supported Daily Mile to Improve Children’s Cognitive Function and Wellbeing
- The Development of Psychologically Informed Mental Health Guidelines for Community Sport
Public outreach & key achievements
Gavin has published extensively both nationally and internationally in the area of mental health and well-being, including four books entitled, Sport and Exercise Psychology: Practitioner Case Studies (2016, Wiley-Blackwell); Mental Health Interventions in Sport: Research Theory and Practice (2019, 2024 Routledge) and Understanding Sport Psychology (2021, SAGE). He has led on systematic reviews, cross sectional, prospective, and case studies on mental health, and has designed RCT interventions using psychological behaviour change theory to enhance health and well-being for children and adults in schools, sports clubs, prisons, secure hospitals and workplace settings.
he led the development of the 'Wellbeing in Sport Action Plan for Northern Ireland', international consensus statements on mental health in sport, and whole systems approaches to diet and healthy weight across countries. Gavin's research has been cited in public policy, endorsed by the World Health Organisation, and reported at Westminster, Stormont and other associations globally.
Research students
| PhD Title | Coproduction of a Physical Activity Intervention for those with Severe Mental Illness in a forensic clinic |
| Name | Rebecca Feeney |
| Year of Study | 2023 - 2026 |
| PhD Title | Mental Health Awareness Programmes for Adolescents in Community Sport |
| Name | Nora Sullivan |
| Year of Study | 2022 - 2025 |
Discover More
- Faculty of Engineering and Physical Science
- Honorary Research Fellow University of Hertfordshire