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Understanding the psychological wellbeing of people with cancer is a key component of assessment and intervention in quality cancer care. However, the unique experiences of rural cancer populations are less often explored than those from urban centres. The aim of this study was to perform a meta-analysis of Australian studies that compared the psychological wellbeing experiences of people with cancer from rural and urban locations. Five databases were searched, and 19 studies, involving 16,947 participants, assessing and comparing the psychological wellbeing of rural and urban populations with cancer were included. The analysis indicated that Australian rural cancer populations have greater odds of worse psychological wellbeing than those from urban areas (OR = 1.54, 95% CI [1.01, 2.35], p = 0.044). This disparity remains when cancer types are analysed separately, with a slightly smaller odds ratio for rural people with breast cancer (OR = 1.29, 95%CI [1.01, 1.64], p = 0.046) and a slightly larger odds ratio when cancers excluding breast cancer were reviewed (OR = 1.78, 95% CI [1.59, 2.01], p = <.001). Significant heterogeneity was found. Despite increasing emphasis in Australia on psychological wellbeing throughout the cancer journey, there remain significant disparities whereby rural people experience greater impacts upon their psychological wellbeing. The wellbeing of Australian rural populations with cancer remains an area in which clinical and political focus is imperative. Whilst screening is a necessary first step, additional clinical implications for improving rural access to appropriately skilled health professionals who provide oncology-specific assessment and intervention are suggested. What is already known: Cancer is a major public health issue, and its psychosocial impacts are substantial, not just on patients but on their families and the broader community. The prevalence of clinically significant psychological distress is higher amongst people with cancer than the general population. However, identification, treatment, and provision of psychological support is inconsistent across services and geographical areas, and notably lacking in rural areas. Disparities in screening, assessment and intervention for psychological wellbeing in people with cancer remain, despite the fact that systematic application of screening, appropriate referral, and intervention can improve quality of life and reduce healthcare costs associated with inpatient and outpatient cancer care. What this paper adds: This article extends outcomes from previous systematic reviews and analyses from Australia and internationally with the addition of meta-analytic methods. It was specifically designed to solely focus on Australian cancer populations. The results suggest that Australian rural populations with cancer may have anywhere from 30% to 70% greater odds of experiencing poorer psychological wellbeing than those from urban areas. This paper highlights ongoing disparities in rural psycho-oncology that may be impacting wellbeing outcomes from rural people in Australia, and urges psychologists, other health professionals, and policy-makers to proactively address these inequities with improved screening, assessment and intervention for their rural populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a review of literature, research, and practice relating to suicide and intentional self-injury. It incorporates both an international perspective and a particular focus on Australia. The paper reviews the epidemiological knowledge base, noting its complexity and the ways in which risk factors may vary with the population or subpopulation being studied. While much of the recent focus on suicide has been shaped by the increase in youth suicide, suicide remains a significant problem across all adult age groups. Hence, this paper discusses suicide across the life span, but also identifies youth suicide and Indigenous suicide as two areas of particular concern. In relation to Indigenous suicide, it is important to move from a national focus to examine regional suicide patterns and conditions of risk within particular communities. The paper considers core principles of clinical assessment and intervention, acknowledging the powerful emotions and sensitive, complex judgments involved in this work. Mental health service provision is briefly reviewed and issues of concern identified, ranging from gaps in services to the need for more research and training in referral processes. Conceptualisations of suicide prevention and postvention are outlined, noting considerable debate about preferred approaches and a clear need for careful evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This response to the Australian Psychological Society's discussion paper on suicide reinforces the call for ongoing and appropriate psychological involvement with Indigenous Australians. It concurs with the observation that that the opportunities for involvement are many, but recommends that all must be considered within historical and contemporary contexts. Additionally, the sensitive nature of suicide for many Indigenous people and communities highlights the priority of establishing good working relationships as a precursor to research, clinical, and preventative involvement. Dilemmas likely to confront those considering involvement are described and the importance of psychologist self-care within such involvement is highlighted and strategies considered. In conclusion, it is acknowledged that while involvement and even interest in suicide may vary amongst psychologists, a reading of the APS discussion paper on suicide provides a solid reference and good starting point for informing that involvement, particularly in relation to Indigenous youth suicide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hearing voices is a highly stigmatised experience, despite being common across clinical and non-clinical populations. The stigma held by healthcare professions of the clinical populations they work with can have a detrimental impact on the recovery trajectory of people with mental illness, with early career professionals and students thought to have among the most negative attitudes. The current study examined the efficacy of an education intervention to reduce implicit and explicit stigma surrounding voice hearing in psychology students (N = 49). With the world turning to digital delivery methods in the face of COVID-19, the study also examined the impact of intervention delivery mode: comparing online with face-to-face delivery. Results indicated that the education intervention was associated with improvements to explicit – but not implicit – stigma towards voice hearing. Comparisons between education delivery type suggested online and face-to-face delivery methods found no difference in associated reductions to explicit stigma. These findings provide further support for the use of education interventions to reduce stigma surrounding voice hearing and support the online administration of such interventions to allow for more widespread education delivery to a broader audience. What is already known about this topic: Hearing voices is a common yet highly stigmatised experience. Stigma towards mental illness is common among by healthcare professionals, with early career professionals and students holding particularly negative attitudes. Education interventions can be effective in reducing stigma held towards mental illness in healthcare professionals. What this paper adds: This paper supports the use of an education intervention to reduce psychology students' explicit stigma towards voice hearing. It also provides support for education interventions to be delivered in both online and face-to-face formats. This may allow education interventions to be delivered to broader audiences in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In view of the rise of racist rhetoric in Australian public life in recent years, this paper reviews psychological research on racism and prejudice as they are expressed at every level of society from government policy to the intrapersonal sphere. It draws on evidence arising from social, developmental, clinical, and community psychology. The mental health system is used as an exemplar to analyse the operation of institutionalised racism, and some observations are made about the past, present, and potential future roles of psychological research and practice in relation to race and racism. The paper concludes with a series of recommendations about ways to reduce racism and prejudice at all levels of society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The physical health of individuals with severe mental illness (SMI) is generally far worse than the general population. Emerging electronic and mobile health (e-& mHealth) technology may provide new ways to offer interventions in order to reduce modifiable lifestyle risk factors in this vulnerable population. This scoping review aimed to assess the state of knowledge about the use of e-& mHealth technology-based interventions to address modifiable lifestyle risk factors amongst individuals with SMI. EMBASE, Medline (Ovid) and PsycINFO were searched to identify papers published up to July 2021. Extended PRISMA guidelines for scoping reviews were followed to report the results. A total of 85 papers were identified, of which 10 met the inclusion criteria. These interventions were effective in bringing about positive and clinically significant impacts in weight loss, diet, smoking cessation, and physical activity for some participants. However, many participants did not experience these benefits. Overall, participants indicated that they were satisfied with, and receptive to e-& mHealth interventions. The evidence base for the use of technology-based interventions to improve modifiable lifestyle risk factors for people with SMI is very limited. More rigorous research on the use of technological tools is needed to determine how more users could benefit from them. Further research and intervention development should be undertaken in collaboration with people with SMI to ensure that unique requirements and preferences are included. What is already known about this topic: The rates of mortality for individuals with SMI are several times those of the general population. Reducing the major modifiable lifestyle risk factors for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) among those with SMI is crucial. The use of emerging e-& mHealth technologies could expand the reach of services to improve modifiable lifestyle risk factors among this population. What this paper adds: More studies are currently required to build on the current evidence base regarding the feasibility and effectiveness of e-& mHealth technology to improve the modifiable lifestyle risk factors of those with SMI. Emerging research on the use of e-& mHealth technology to improve modifiable lifestyle risk factors of those with SMI looks promising. Findings from research can inform the design of future health interventions targeting this vulnerable patient population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reviews recent literature on psychological aspects of work, unemployment, and underemployment in Australia at the beginning of the 21st century. It examines different notions of 'work', including paid employment and unpaid work (e.g., emotional work, volunteer work). It draws attention to the fact that, in our society, most of the important emotional work is carried out by women (caring for children, disabled relatives, and elderly dependent parents). It discusses the well-documented negative effects of unemployment and underemployment and the corresponding benefits of having work, focusing on young people, middle-aged people, and retired people. Finally, it discusses the psychological and health costs of being employed, in the light of the changes in the workplace that have occurred in the last decade: increased work pressures, less job security, increasing needs for retraining, increased income inequality, and an inequitable distribution of paid work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gambling has always held a prominent place in the Australian cultural ethos. However, recent legislative changes have resulted in the expansion of new and existing forms of gambling within the community. This trend has met with stringent criticism from various community sectors, primarily health, welfare and Church organisations who express concern over the deleterious consequences produced by excessive gambling behaviour. This paper describes the extent of gambling within the Australian community and its social acceptance as a form of recreation. It recognises that, for psychological and sociological reasons, certain groups may be at greater risk for developing gambling problems and that a further proportion may experience impaired control over their behaviour leading to severe personal and familial distress including suicide and family and marital breakdown. Why people persist at gambling and the psychological processes leading to impaired control is poorly understood. Psychologists have a major role to play in research, therapy, and community education, and in guiding social policy development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People who work with a multicultural clientele and who are trained in psychology sometimes wonder about the applicability of theories and techniques developed and normed over many years for homogeneous white Anglo-Saxon middle-class populations, and subsequently applied to people of other ethnic origins. Racism and prejudice as matters of political and social context are not part of the life experience (as victim) of most individuals within middle-class Anglo-Saxon populations. on the other hand, for many people belonging to identifiable minorities this may be a daily occurrence, with a range of psychological consequences for mental health and wellbeing. However, a focus on the affects of racism and prejudice for individuals is not generally undertaken in the mainstream training of psychologists, nor are these topics prominent in general psychological theory. This commentary on 'Racism and Prejudice: An Australian Psychological Society Position Paper' (Sanson et al., 1998) supports the view that it is incumbent on psychology as a discipline to have a leading role in examining racism and prejudice, the perpetrators and the victims. However this approach needs to extend further to make issues surrounding ethnicity, culture, and minority experience central to the training of all psychologists practicing and researching in a multicultural community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The subject of euthanasia is a recurrent theme in public debate and one with significant psychological implications. This discussion paper is designed to assist in rational consideration of euthanasia from a psychological perspective, without itself taking a position on the debate. It first addresses definitional issues and summarises common arguments in favour of and against euthanasia, which cover ethical, legal, technical and spiritual domains. We note the paucity of research bearing on these arguments. Australian and overseas research, focusing on attitudes towards euthanasia and on the relationship of depression to attitudes, is reviewed. The current legal situation in various States and Territories in Australia is outlined, with particular attention to some psychological considerations which arose in relation to the short-lived Northern Territory Rights of the Terminally III Act (1995). We analyse some of the multiple potential influences on the decision making of a person contemplating euthanasia, which result in the need for carers to examine their own attitudes and feelings. Finally, we identify some of the possible roles for psychologists in regard to the euthanasia debate, including research, assessment, therapy and advocacy. We end with a call for psychologists to become more informed about and involved in this important social policy issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In view of recent trends in Australia and overseas towards an increased reliance on punishment as a primary response to crime, this paper reviews the psychological research evidence on the efficacy of punishment, and considers alternatives to present trends. It discusses the circumstances under which punishment has positive and detrimental effects, and the limited ability of the justice system to deliver punishment in a manner which might achieve the goals of rehabilitation and deterrence against reoffence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dysfunctional mental imagery is integral to the maintenance of many psychological disorders and is typically associated with stronger affective and behavioural responses than verbal cognitions. This finding extends itself to the high prevalence of suicidal mental imagery in disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder. Imagery Rescripting is a therapy approach which has been found to effectively reduce dysfunctional mental images across various mental health conditions. Thus, Imagery Rescripting of suicidal mental imagery may be effective at reducing such cognitions and ultimately associated risk. However, this remains an unexplored area within the treatment literature. This paper puts out an urgent call for clinical research to evaluate the effectiveness of such a treatment intervention, and to assist, we propose and describe a clinical approach to this to stimulate further thought and research. There are also many research questions of clinical relevance that must be explored in this field of work, which we put forward and consider in this commentary piece. What is already known about this topic: Mental imagery is a form of cognition that generates stronger emotional responses compared to verbal-linguistic thinking and is integral to the maintenance of most psychological disorders. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approaches are typically more effective when mental imagery techniques – such as Imagery Rescripting (ImRs) – are incorporated to target intrusive, distressing mental imagery. Mental images of suicide (comprised of both flash-back and/or flash-forward mental images) are more distressing, realistic and promote suicidal behaviours more than verbal thoughts, and are common in disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder. What this topic adds: Urgent clinical research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of ImRs at reducing intrusive suicidal mental images, and thus related risk, and this paper proposes and describes an approach for researchers to use as a framework. There are several clinical research considerations to be made when examining ImRs of suicidal mental images, including around the delivery and safety of the intervention. More research is needed to clarify the above clinical considerations, and to further understand change mechanisms, to learn the most safe and effective ImRs approach. If ImRs is found to be effective at reducing suicidal images in upcoming clinical trials, it is strongly recommended clinicians receive adequate training and ongoing clinical supervision from an experienced practitioner given the complexities around this approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an argument that mainstream psychological practice is not equipped to respond to distress associated with the climate emergency. This is because the field focusses on individual pathology, rather than ecological context. It remains reticent about activism and politics and is ontologically aligned with the Anthropocene, a new era in which the human species is creating an observable effect in the geological record, to the detriment of the planet and its life forms. An introduction is provided to ecopsychology, a movement that has sought to subvert and transform mainstream psychology over the last three decades. Ecopsychology still offers an opportunity for mainstream psychology to alter its approach in the face of the climate emergency. What is already known about this topic: Clinical psychology is focussed on intrapsychic processes and indiivdual therapy. Psychology is typically hesitant about including political activism in clinical theorising or practice. New conceptualisations of both the psyche and practice are required in the Anthropocene. What this paper adds: Eco-psychology provides a framework for psychology in the climate crisis. The history of eco-psychology has ontological implications for traditional psychology. Interventions need to consider human distress as tied to the distress of non-human others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is offered as a commentary on the Australian Psychological Society's position paper 'Psychological Aspects of Gambling Behaviour'. Comment is made on the extent to which the paper meets its stated objectives and the ways in which it contributes significantly to understanding of the theoretical bases of problem gambling behaviour and treatment strategies. It is argued, however, that the position paper is lacking where it omits reference to motivational theory and derivative treatments. Finally, comment is also offered regarding discussion of the disease model. This discourse is based on my clinical experience as a psychologist and problem gambling counsellor working within the Victorian BreakEven network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is a comment on a position paper on punishment and behaviour change written for the Australian Psychological Society. The present paper suggests that insufficient attention has been given to the value of general deterrence, and that there is reason to believe that, under the right circumstances, general deterrence can be a very effective way to change behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A survey of all papers published in the Australian Journal of Psychology from 1970 to 1985 (inclusive) showed that personality and social psychology was the main topic area published, that of the various Australian cities most papers came from Adelaide and that the institution most represented was Flinders University. The most published author was N. Feather. Lists of the top 12 authors and institutions are also given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article comments on the Australian Psychological Society discussion paper on the psychology of work and unemployment and discusses issues concerned with the need to take a multidisciplinary perspective, the effects of changes in the nature of work on the attitudes of employees towards their organisations, and the effects of value differences on attitudes towards work and non-work both across and within cultures. The article recognises the need to conduct theoretically based studies that take account of economic and psychological variables, goal structures and action tendencies, and the factors that facilitate or impede goal attainment for those in work or unemployment. Also emphasised is the need to create environments for people that give structure and purpose to their daily lives, and the general issue of justice-related concerns that emerge in the context of work and unemployment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectivesMethodResultsConclusions\nKey PointsTo produce national clinical norms for WASC-Y, examine the internal consistency of the WASC-Y scales, compare scores from a clinical sample with previously published community sample data, and test the degree to which other scales predict the Suicide Scale.We analysed WASC-Y data from 1226 Aboriginal youth who had presented to mental health services between 2007 and 2022 and compared their scores to the original community norms.Our sample shows a higher level of mental health risk than does the normative sample that varied according to gender. We found high levels of suicidal behaviour in the clinical sample: 41.5% admitted to thoughts of suicide and 25.0% reported one or more suicide attempts. One in 23 reported a high likelihood that they would attempt suicide again. Knowing someone who has suicided was associated with higher Suicide Risk. Linear modelling showed that Suicide Risk is predicted by a combination of all other WASC-Y scales and gender, with females at higher risk than males. There is emerging evidence that Cultural Resilience provides some mitigation of Suicide Risk.Our data provide the first culturally and psychometrically valid national mental health profile of Aboriginal youth accessing mental health services, including separate clinical norms for males and females. Aboriginal youth present with serious levels of suicide and mental health risk that urgently require improved access to clinically and culturally competent services. Our findings provide evidence of construct validity, in that scale scores showed meaningful associations with each other and with other variables in expected ways.What is already known about this topic: The WASC-Y stands alone as a culturally valid, psychometrically sound, and clinically valid screening tool to assess Aboriginal youths’ suicide risk, mental health risk, and cultural resilience.WASC-Y norms were derived from a non-clinical sample of 13- to 17-year-old school students in Western Australia.Clinical norms for WASC-Y are needed.The WASC-Y stands alone as a culturally valid, psychometrically sound, and clinically valid screening tool to assess Aboriginal youths’ suicide risk, mental health risk, and cultural resilience.WASC-Y norms were derived from a non-clinical sample of 13- to 17-year-old school students in Western Australia.Clinical norms for WASC-Y are needed.What this paper adds: We now have separate clinical norms for male and female Aboriginal youth that show high rates of suicidal ideation and behaviour.Suicidal ideation and behaviour are significantly higher among Aboriginal youth who know someone close to them who has suicided than among those who do not.Linear modelling indicates that scores on the Suicide Scale are best predicted by a combination of all other WASC-Y scales and gender.We now have separate clinical norms for male and female Aboriginal youth that show high rates of suicidal ideation and behaviour.Suicidal ideation and behaviour are significantly higher among Aboriginal youth who know someone close to them who has suicided than among those who do not.Linear modelling indicates that scores on the Suicide Scale are best predicted by a combination of all other WASC-Y scales and gender. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This commentary reflects my experience conducting research and working with people with disabilities, older people, and their carers. I also am a member of a faculty that educates health professionals who work with people who are dying or who have long-term illnesses or disabling conditions. Over the last 15 years my research has focused on psychosocial issues associated with disability and also with ageing. In this research I have been concerned about what it is like to live with a disability or to age. My current research is investigating quality of life and service provision issues for people with recently acquired brain injury and spinal cord injury, and for people with these disabilities as they move across the adult lifespan. This work also considers issues for carers and close family members. My previous project explored quality of life and service provision issues for older people and their carers following discharge from inpatient hospital treatment. Much of the literature on euthanasia focuses on issues for older people or people who are living with a terminal illness. This commentary has been widened to incorporate issues relevant for people with severe physical disabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of person-first language (i.e., the person with a disability) versus identity-first language (i.e., the disabled person) is a source of ongoing debate. Proponents of person-first language argue for its use, so as not to objectify or stereotype a person by their illness or disability. Conversely, advocates of identity-first language state that it affirms pride in the person's disability. Overall, however, there is a growing use of identity-first language. Both proponents of person-first and identity-first language are aligned in their quest to maximise respect and inclusivity of people with disabilities and health conditions. Limited research examining the language preferences of those with disabilities and/or medical issues has been mixed. The majority of the research has focused on autism, multiple sclerosis and deaf/blind populations. In some cases, studies have methodological issues, and researchers have concentrated on the perspectives of students, employees and counsellors. Factors that may influence preferences, such as disability type, severity, acceptance and identity, have not been adequately examined in the research. Future research is required to gain an evidence-based understanding of language preferences that can improve social inclusion for people with varying disabilities and health conditions. What is already known about this topic: (1) There is ongoing debate about the use of person-first versus identity-first language. (2) Both proponents of person-first and identity-first language are aligned in their quest to maximise respect and inclusivity of people with disabilities and health conditions. (3) Some disability scholars have proposed that psychologists use person-first and identity first language interchangeably. What this paper adds: (1) An overview of previous research finds that much has not been conducted in people with disabilities and is inappropriate for generalisation more broadly (2) There is a deficit in knowledge about factors that may influence language preferences, such as disability type, severity, acceptance and identity which have not been adequately examined. (3) Future research is required to gain an evidence-based understanding of language preferences that can improve social inclusion and maximise respect for people with varying disabilities and health conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Access to valid and reliable neuropsychological measures for use with culturally diverse groups in Australia is limited. The aim of this study was to adapt and translate a selection of English language neuropsychological tests, employ several existing standardised Greek language tests, and provide specific reference group normative data for Greek Australian older adults. A convenience sample of 90 healthy older Greek Australians (M = 77.14 ± 4.46; range = 70–85), with a primary school level of education (M = 5.60 ± 0.68; Range = 4–6), was recruited throughout the Melbourne metropolitan area. Several neuropsychological measures were administered which assessed domains such as verbal and visual memory, confrontational naming, and executive functions. Regression modelling revealed that age, education and sex predicted between 5% and 35% of the variance of test scores, with age being the most significant predictor of performance across a majority of measures. Therefore, the normative data for all tests were stratified according to three age bands (70–74, 75–79, 80–85). The use of culture-specific tests and norms for assessment of older Greek-Australians with limited education may facilitate accuracy of assessment findings, improve diagnostic outcomes, and reduce misclassification. What is already known about this topic: The use of English language tests with migrant populations and tests developed in nations of origin can lead to misclassification when applied to long-term immigrant peers. The use of test content derived from English language tests has been found to be inappropriate for use with culturally diverse groups. Access to norms and tests for assessment of culturally diverse groups in Australia are limited. What this topic adds: This paper provides a template for translating and adapting existing English language tests for use with culturally diverse groups. This is the first study to provide a set of comprehensive norms for Greek Australian older adults. Utilising culturally appropriate and specific reference group norms for Greek-Australians may improve the accuracy of assessment findings and reduce misclassification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The trajectory of effective biomedical management means HIV is now considered a manageable chronic, not terminal, illness. However, despite the biomedical advances, many people living with HIV (PLHIV) continue to experience psychosocial challenges which are associated with poorer quality of life (QoL). This review explores the literature concerning psychosocial factors contributing to poorer QoL among PLHIV. The findings suggest that stigma/discrimination, social disconnectedness, and mental health difficulties remain prevalent psychosocial issues for this population, and typically occur comorbidly. Psychosocial comorbidities have compounding deleterious effects on QoL and can impede the individual's capacity to engage in medical care, creating major barriers to sustained biomedical management. Consequently, HIV management has evolved towards a multidisciplinary model of long-term condition management, whereby psychosocial services play an integral role. This narrative review outlines the important role of mental health practitioners (and other psychosocial services) in HIV management, providing a point of intervention for clinical services. What is already known about this topic: Successful biomedical management of HIV has allowed PLHIV to live longer. However, the literature suggests several significant psychosocial issues remain. HIV is associated with a range of unique psychosocial factors that are related to a diminished QoL in this population. These include the deleterious effects of stigma/discrimination, social disconnectedness, and mental health issues on QoL among PLHIV. What this paper adds: This narrative review highlights the impact of multiple psychosocial comorbidities on QoL amongst PLHIV. The review highlights the important role of mental health practitioners (and other psychosocial services) in HIV management. The paper provides points of intervention for clinical services to improve QoL among PLHIV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is characterised by a range of symptoms including acute stress, flashbacks and avoidance of situations that trigger trauma. Women from Arabic-speaking backgrounds have been shown to have a higher likelihood of developing PTSD due to life stressors experienced. This paper aimed to provide an overview of the experiences and social circumstances of Arab women experiencing PTSD in Australia. Family, gender roles, religion, mental health stigma, trauma, re-settlement challenges, acculturation and discrimination were some of the factors explored in this review. The paper also aimed to review evidence-based treatment for PTSD such as cognitive behavioural therapy, narrative exposure and eye movement desensitisation therapy and whether these westernised approaches can extend to women from Arab backgrounds. Directions for culturally appropriate interventions and how to adapt treatments to suit the needs of individuals from the Arab community experiencing PTSD are discussed as well as considerations for specifically supporting women from Arab backgrounds who need treatment. Future avenues for research are canvassed and discussed within. KEY POINTS What is already known about this topic: (1) Women from Arabic speaking backgrounds in Western countries have been shown to have a higher likelihood of developing PTSD due to the life stressors that they have experienced. (2) Particular life stressors include migration and acculturation stressors, marginalisation, financial concerns, family responsibilities and for some, family violence which can exacerbate distress and contribute to the expression of PTSD symptoms. (3) No effective PTSD treatments for Arab populations in general, let alone Arab women have been identified in research. What this topic adds: (1) Effective mental health treatment for Arab women must take into consideration certain cultural values such as family, women's role/status and stigmas around mental health. (2) Some of the main factors to consider include beliefs and values, communication and language, shame, strict gender roles and religious healing. (3) There is a significant need for immediate future research to be conducted for this community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the two decades since the study by Kavanagh et al. (1993) has given additional insights into effective dissemination of family interventions, the accompanying papers show that progress remains limited. The effectiveness trial that triggered this series of papers offers a cautionary tale. Despite management support, 30-35 hr of workshop training and training of local supervisors who could act as champions, use of the full intervention was limited. In part, this seemed due to the demanding nature of the intervention and its incompatibility with practitioners' roles, in part, to limitations in the training, among other factors. While the accompanying papers note these and other barriers to dissemination, they miss a more disturbing finding in the original paper: Practitioners said they were using several aspects in routine care, despite being unable to accurately describe what they were. This finding highlights the risks in taking practitioners' reports of their practice in files or supervision sessions at face value and potentially has implications for reports of other clinical work. The fidelity of disseminated treatments can only be assured by audits of practice, accompanied by affirming but also corrective feedback. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) was developed for clinicians and researchers as a brief screening instrument for behavioural and emotional problems in children. Administered in its traditional pen‐and‐paper format, the SDQ has demonstrated sound psychometric properties. The SDQ is increasingly being administered online, despite there being little evaluation of the psychometric properties and norms of the instrument in this new administrative context, and none in an Australian (or English‐speaking) sample. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to explore the psychometric properties and present normative data for the online administration of the parent‐report version of the SDQ in an Australian sample. Methods: Participants were parents (n = 1,070) of Australian primary school‐aged children (5 to 12 years) who completed the SDQ online via a web‐based software program. Results: Results demonstrate sound psychometric properties for the SDQ in its online administrative format that are comparable to previous Australian studies utilising the traditional pen‐and‐paper format of the SDQ. Moreover, we provide normative data on the SDQ subscales, as well as the impact supplement when administered online. Conclusions: Together, the results support the use of the SDQ online, and provide emerging evidence that the psychometric properties and the norms for the parent‐report SDQ in an English‐speaking sample are similar regardless of online versus pen‐and‐paper administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There will be an increased need for psychologists to provide mental health services in residential aged care facilities. Experience while training is invaluable to improving both confidence and interest in working in this area. Awareness of potential barriers and ethical situations that may impede good mental health care is necessary when providing supervision. This paper reviews issues that supervisors need to be aware of when working with students in this clinical space. Barriers and enablers of clinical placements in residential aged care settings are discussed. Models of care, ethical considerations relating to risk, consent and working systemically, multiple clients, practical difficulties of being off-site and clinical aspects of adapting therapy to residential care settings are identified as key issues related to supervising students. Potential solutions, resources and practical approaches to these issues are also highlighted. A positive approach to the complexities of working in residential aged care settings can lead to quality supervision and clinical care in this much needed area. What is already known about this topic: There is a high degree of mental health issues amongst older adults living in residential aged care. Concerns have been raised about how clinical psychologists will meet future workforce demands. There is a lack of supervisors with experience in providing clinical guidance in this area. What this topic adds: Supervising in residential aged care has been enabled by an increased level of funded psychological services available to aged care residents in Australia. Several unique ethical issues can arise within supervision in residential aged care contexts that need to be discussed with students to improve their competence. There are practical approaches to adapting clinical interventions and working systemically that serve to facilitate a student's placement journey in residential aged care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Young people with complex trauma typically experience numerous psychosocial and functional impairments. Differing models exist for measuring and determining mental health recovery from complex trauma, but those emphasising functional change may be underrepresented. Four databases were searched (Web of Science, CINAHL Complete, MEDLINE and Cochrane Library) for studies published between 2010 and 2021 to identify and summarise existing psychosocial interventions and their impact on quality of life, occupational activity, risk behaviour and/or use of psychiatric emergency services. One primary reviewer conducted the study with the assistance of two senior reviewers. The results are presented in the form of a narrative synthesis. Over 12,000 studies were examined. Eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Four functional outcomes were reported in the literature – Quality of Life, occupational functioning, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. Results were inconsistent regarding improvements in functional outcomes with treatment. All interventions were effective in reducing posttraumatic stress. Few intervention studies report on functional outcomes. Interventions described in this paper may have potential to improve functioning in young people with complex trauma but research in this area is limited. Future researchers are encouraged to include measures of functional change alongside traditional symptom reports. What is already known about this topic: (1) Young people who experience complex trauma are more likely to experience delays in psychosocial development and barriers to occupational participation. (2) Psychosocial interventions are effective in reducing the consequences of complex traumatic stress reactions such as complex PTSD. (3) Youth consumer-driven recovery models are in early development. What this topic adds: (1) Traditional concepts of recovery remain predominant in intervention research. Transitioning to consumer-driven recovery models is lagging. (2) It is not clear if current interventions for PTSD/complex PTSD in youth have any impact on Quality of Life, frequency of psychiatric crises or occupational activity. (3) There are few solutions for practitioners or service designers seeking functional improvement for youth with complex trauma and complex PTSD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emerging research has revealed that metacognitive beliefs (i.e., beliefs about cognition) and meta-emotion beliefs (i.e., beliefs about emotions) may play a role in disordered eating behaviour. This study aims to compare the strength of the associations between metacognitive beliefs and meta-emotion beliefs with disordered eating behaviours in a non-clinical sample. An Australian community sample (N = 411) completed an online questionnaire measuring disordered eating behaviours (Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire-18), metacognitive beliefs (Metacognitions Questionnaire-30) and meta-emotion beliefs (Beliefs About Emotions Questionnaire). The independent associations between metacognitive and meta-emotion beliefs with disordered eating were tested using hierarchical multiple regression. Only Cognitive Self-consciousness was weakly independently associated with Cognitive Restraint. The belief that emotions are overwhelming and uncontrollable was moderately independently associated with Uncontrolled Eating and Emotional Eating. Metacognitive beliefs about cognitions were not independently associated with the three disordered eating behaviours measured in this study. Meta-emotion beliefs, or beliefs about emotions, have stronger unique associations with uncontrolled and emotional eating than metacognitive beliefs. Future longitudinal and intervention studies should focus on measuring beliefs about emotions to further understand their role in disordered eating behaviours. What is already known on this topic: (1) There is emerging evidence to suggest that metacognitive beliefs are associated with disordered eating behaviour. (2) Qualitative evidence has shown support for the role of meta-emotions, or beliefs about emotions, in eating disorders. What this paper adds: (1) Neither metacognitive beliefs nor meta-emotion beliefs are strongly associated with cognitive restraint eating behaviour. (2) Metacognitive beliefs appear to not be independently associated with uncontrolled eating or emotional eating. Rather, these eating behaviours appear to be strongly associated with negative beliefs that emotions are overwhelming and uncontrollable. (3) The link between meta-emotion beliefs and emotional eating and uncontrolled eating may help explain their reactive eating behaviour in response to emotions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little research has investigated professional identity in Australian clinical psychology postgraduate students. The current study examined potential predictors of professional identity for these students. Anonymous, self-report cross-sectional surveys for Australian postgraduate clinical psychology students were distributed via online survey links sent by their institution's Program Director. Respondents reported professional identity, motivation, engagement, satisfaction with program, resilience, burnout, demographics, and enrolment type. Data from 77 respondents were analysed. Students reported an average 4.25/5 for sense of professional identity as a psychologist. Age, work experience, and stage of program were not associated with professional identity. In multivariate analyses, higher student satisfaction, lower burnout, and lower engagement with "student" aspects of postgraduate study were associated with stronger professional identity. Levels of professional identity were relatively high and showed little influence of demographic variables. However, there is likely to be a reciprocal relationship between satisfaction with postgraduate study and professional identity for students, which would need to be evaluated in a different design to understand directions of association. Results also suggest that supporting postgraduate students in self-care and helping students to balance professional responsibilities and academic aspects of study are likely to assist in fostering postgraduates' professional identity. What is already known about this topic: Professional identity provides a sense of self in relation to membership of a specific profession. Students in health and social services professions, including psychology, have demonstrated emerging professional identities in their areas of study. In working professionals, professional identity has been found to be important for wellbeing and for relationships with colleagues and clients. What this paper adds: Professional identity amongst a sample of Australian postgraduate students in clinical psychology was independent of demographic variables such as age, gender, and previous work experience. Stronger professional identity in the current sample correlated with higher satisfaction with the program of study and lower level of burnout. In multivariate analysis, higher satisfaction with the program of study, lower burnout, and lower engagement with "academic" aspects of the program each independently predicted higher level of professional identity. From these cross-sectional findings, potential causal associations between predictors and professional identity remain to be clarified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alexithymia is a trait characterised by difficulty identifying and describing one's own emotions and externally orientated thinking. Alexithymia is of clinical interest in people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) given research that has highlighted elevated levels of overall alexithymia in people with ASD. Presently, little is known about what specific facets of alexithymia might be impaired in ASD, or whether deficits are present for both negative and positive emotions. This study therefore aimed to fill this gap, establishing a facet-level profile of alexithymia in people with ASD. Using the Perth Alexithymia Questionnaire, levels of alexithymia were assessed in sample of 55 people with a diagnosis of ASD and compared with 246 people in a community control sample. We found that all facets of alexithymia (across both valence domains) were substantially elevated in ASD (N = 55) compared to a community control sample (N = 246). Assessing all facets of alexithymia, across both valence domains, may help identify subgroups with particular social and communication difficulties, and in turn, support the development of personalised interventions. What is already known on this topic: Alexithymia is a multidimensional construct, comprised of at least three interrelated components: difficulty identifying one's own feelings (DIF), difficulty describing feelings (DDF), and an externally orientated thinking style (EOT). The Perth Alexithymia Questionnaire (PAQ) is a psychometrically sound measure of alexithymia. Alexithymia commonly occurs in people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). What this paper adds: In the ASD group, alexithymia was higher across all facets (i.e., DIF, DDF, EOT) compared to the community group, supporting the elevated levels of alexithymia in people with ASD. The PAQ may be important for recognising variability and individual differences among people with ASD, as whilst one third of participants with ASD scored in the "high alexithymia" range, two thirds did not. Identifying unique profiles of alexithymia may have key implications for personalised treatment and interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent mental health policy endorses a personal recovery framework that focuses on individual purpose and meaning. Therefore, psychology pre-registration training needs to promote knowledge and attitudes that are aligned with this framework.The 5 + 1 training pathway was recently established in Australia and emphasises readiness for practice. This study examined how provisional psychologists undertaking the 5 + 1 pathway perceived recovery. Semi-structured interviews were completed with nine provisional psychologists completing the coursework component of the 5 + 1 pathway. Interviews focused on perspectives of recovery and were analysed with thematic analysis. Three themes related to perspectives of (i) recovery as a process that involved building capacity to undertake key life roles, (ii) ways that psychologists can promote recovery through their stance and their practices and (iii) factors that have influenced participants' views of recovery. The findings indicate that provisional psychologists in the 5 + 1 pathway are able to develop appropriate but limited perspectives that are generally consistent with the personal recovery framework. Participants were more influenced by client contact than coursework. Learning about recovery could be enhanced by explicitly teaching models of recovery and incorporating views of people with lived experience. Key Points What is already known about this topic: Mental health clinicians' attitudes and perspectives of their work have an impact on the nature of the support they provide. Training plays an important role in developing psychologists' attitudes and perspectives towards recovery. The 5 + 1 internship is a recently established training pathway to registration as a psychologist. What this paper adds: This paper reports on one of few studies related to the Australian 5 + 1 training pathway for psychologists. Although unfamiliar with formal models of recovery, students' perspectives were mostly consistent with personal recovery but there were some indications of conceptual confusion. Recommendations are made for extending development of students' perspectives of recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evaluate the utility of brief online training for facilitating mental health professionals' perceived knowledge, confidence, and comfort in working with non-binary clients, and building positive attitudes. Baseline participants were 79 Australian registered mental health professionals, of whom 38 completed online training and a one-week follow-up assessment. Participants completed an assessment of attitudes, comfort, confidence, and perceived knowledge pertaining to non-binary people before and after completing online training. The training (30-minute average completion time) provided information on non-binary people's lives using text, images, embedded video, and links to optional resources. Follow-up measures completed one-week post-intervention indicated engagement in the training may lead to increased perceived knowledge, confidence and comfort. Attitudes were positive at baseline and were not significantly different at follow-up. Providing brief online training for working with non-binary people in mental health might improve practitioner perceived knowledge, confidence and competence at low cost and with easy access. Future research is required to account for limitations and build on current outcomes. Key Points What is already known on this topic: Little is known about the effects of brief online training regarding non-binary genders on mental health practitioner's attitudes, confidence, comfort, and perceived knowledge. Previous research has shown that brief training can increase positive attitudes for, knowledge of, behavioural intent, and cultural competence for working with sexual and gender minorities, though has not specifically focused on non-binary people. Previous literature has highlighted positive associations between practitioner knowledge and the well-being of non-binary people accessing health services. What this paper adds: This paper adds to the ongoing genesis of options for training mental health practitioners about non-binary people and relevant issues. Findings suggest beneficial outcomes from both prior professional training in this area and the brief training used in the study. The brief online training used in the study was associated with higher perceived knowledge, confidence, and comfort for working with non-binary clients, but further research is needed to understand reasons for change in these variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite parenting programs providing benefits to parents and children, fathers enrol five times less often than mothers and dropout at higher rates. To better understand how to encourage father engagement, this study asked 55 Australian fathers about their preferences regarding six attributes of parenting programs: content; delivery method; participants; facilitator gender; program duration; and cost. Participants were asked to complete an online experiment indicating the best and worst options presented within each attribute (e.g., comparing a parenting program delivered face-to-face, through zoom, online, via an app, or SMS-based). Fathers showed a strong preference for a program that included child-focused activities rather than parenting-partner-focused activities. Delivering the program via SMS was the least preferred delivery method, but there were no strong preferences around who participated in the program or the facilitator gender. There was a strong preference for a one- to two-month duration and a no, or low-cost program. These findings provide the first step towards developing father-focused parenting programs containing attributes that encourage father engagement. What is already known about this topic: (1) Childhood mental health problems are at alarming levels in Australia with around 1 in 8 children experiencing externalising or internalising behaviour problems. (2) Parenting programs are an effective method of addressing childhood behaviour problems. (3) Fathers enrol in parenting programs 5 times less often and have higher dropout rates than mothers. What this paper adds: (1) Fathers have a strong preference for parenting programs that focus on activities to do with their child, that run for 4-8 weeks, and are free or low-cost. (2) Fathers do not have strong preferences around who they complete a parenting program with, or who facilitates the program. (3) These findings provide the first step towards developing father-focused parenting programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By 2050, approximately one quarter of Australia's ageing population will comprise culturally and linguistically diverse individuals. While a number of valid neuropsychological measures are available for use with English-speaking individuals, existing measures may not be appropriate for use with older immigrant populations. The purpose of this review is to highlight existing challenges facing the Australian neuropsychological community in the context of assessing older immigrant populations and offer suggestions to improve clinical practice. By conducting a review of existing research related to assessment of culturally and linguistically diverse populations, this paper provides a) a critical overview relating to factors known to impact on the validity of assessment outcomes, b) examines published Australian studies relating to neuropsychological test adaptation and the development of normative data for use with older immigrant populations, and c) offers recommendations to guide assessment and clinical practice. The use of existing English language test and norms has the potential to underestimate cognitive function in older immigrant populations, leading to erroneous diagnostic outcomes. These issues are related to a) level and quality of education, b) inappropriate test content, c) nonrepresentative normative data, and d) a lack of familiarity with test taking procedures. Research addressing issues relating to cross-cultural assessment is gaining momentum within Australia, resulting in the development of demographically focused normative data and adapted tests to accommodate some cultural groups. Initial results have reported mixed success, indicating the need for further and carefully considered research. What is already known about this topic: The prevalence of age-related cognitive disorders in Australia is predicted to rise over the next 30 years. A large number of elderly Australians represent culturally diverse older immigrant populations. Neuropsychological tests and norms are influenced by age, education, language and culture. What this topic adds: An overview of research identifying limitations of neuropsychological assessment within culturally diverse older immigrant populations. An overview of neuropsychological measures and norms that have been developed for use with culturally diverse older immigrant populations in Australia. Recommendations and strategies to improve assessment of culturally diverse populations in Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports on a critical survivor-driven study exploring how Australian lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer and asexual (LGBTQA+) adults attempt recovery from religious Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity and Expression Change Efforts (SOGIECE), and what supports they find useful in this process. The study privileged the critical communal lens of self-titled survivors of perspectives through its reference group, and applied Bronfenbrenner's psycho-social lens, in an effort to ensure research used by psychologists was for and with survivors rather than on them. Qualitative data on SOGIECE survivor experiences and perspectives was collected using two focus groups and interviews including a total of 35 Australian SOGIECE survivors aged 18+ years. Findings suggested that post-SOGIECE recoveries were more successful if survivors experience three provisions: people who are affirming with whom to be freely themselves – especially health and mental health practitioners, family and friends, and survivor support groups; considerable time and internal motivation to enable support to be effective; and conflicting aspects of identities and beliefs are reconciled in ways that foreground survivors' autonomy in their reconstruction. SOGIECE survivors need recovery plans that consider complexities at all levels of their ecology of development; and diversify their exposure to affirming supports and ideas at all levels. Mental health practitioners should be especially careful to foreground survivors' autonomy in therapies, recalling that they likely experienced past abusive therapies/therapy dynamics. Key Points What is already known about this topic: People exposed to Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity and Expression Change Efforts (SOGIECE) are at increased risk for many mental health conditions. People exposed to SOGIECE are at increased risk of self-harm and suicide. SOGIECE survivors need distinct treatment considerations distinguishing 'pathology' from SOGIECE's 'negative effects', and challenging past social conformity-drives. What this topic adds: SOGIECE survivors need community (re)building aid in their recovery confluent with their own faith goals and avoiding conformity with therapists' (faith-negative/faith-positive) ideals. SOGIECE survivors need considerable time and different phases in recovery processes, to do developmental work discussing and reconciling dualities in identities, beliefs and social (re)engagements. Support approaches and resources closely aligned to SOGIECE survivors' presented identities were emphasised for the initial recovery decision-making, these could later vary more across treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The continuity of Australian First Nations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) culture has been threatened by colonisation and effects of this continue to have devastating impacts on their social emotional wellbeing [SEWB], especially mental health. This review analyses cultural interventions aiming to improve mental health outcomes for First Nations Australians (e.g., mood, self-esteem, suicide-attempts, self-harm, risky behaviours) to uncover the effectiveness and key components of such interventions. Databases PsycINFO, CINAHL, EMBASE, EMCARE, LIt.search tool from Lowitja Inst, Australian Indigenous Health InfoNet and Google Scholar were searched. Studies published between 2000 and 2021 which reported the impact of cultural interventions on the mental health of First Nations Australians were included. From 172 studies, only eight studies met inclusion criteria and all improved measured domains of SEWB. Six studies evaluated culturally adapted interventions (i.e., Western interventions adapted to be culturally appropriate) and two evaluated culturally grounded interventions (i.e., interventions developed by First Nations Australians). Participants called for more cultural components in culturally adapted interventions. The most successful studies used collaborative and participatory approaches in the designs, included First Nations members in their research teams and presented culturally grounded interventions. The paucity of literature limit findings. There was a limited ability to identify key mechanisms of change across some intervention studies, and large outcome variations across studies meant some aspects could not be compared. Nonetheless, this review concludes that culturally grounded interventions are the most promising and successful mental health interventions currently available for First Nations Australians which has many implications for practice and funding. What is already known about this topic: First Nations Australians experience poorer mental health and wellbeing than non-indigenous Australians. Previous attempts to improve the mental health of First Nations Australians utilising Western therapeutic interventions have been largely unsuccessful. More recent attempts to improve mental health for First Nations Australians utilising culture appear promising, that is, culturally adapted and culturally grounded therapeutic interventions. What this paper adds: (1) Culturally grounded interventions are effective, preferable over culturally adapted interventions, and best to use for improving the mental health and wellbeing of First Nations Australians. (2) Limited evaluations of cultural interventions have been conducted that provide empirical data showing the effectiveness of the intervention on mental health and wellbeing for First Nations Australians. (3) Successful forms of intervention evaluations with First Nations Australians utilise participatory and collaborative research approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is strong endorsement of competency-based frameworks for practitioner training and widespread use of group supervision in practitioner training. However, there has been little effort made to understand the components and anatomy of group supervision, or efforts made to evaluate its efficacy. The current study investigates the nature and extent to which abilities and skills within individual and group supervision are similar or distinct from each other. A total of 98 supervisees, across 21 groups, evaluated individual and group supervisor competence of their supervisors (N = 11) using the Supervision Evaluation and Supervisor Competence Scale. Hierarchical cluster analysis revealed that group supervision emerged as a distinct and independent cluster to individual supervision competencies. Additionally, supervisors were rated higher on individual than group supervision competencies. Group supervision should be considered a distinct competency requiring specific skills and therefore would likely benefit from specialised training to deliver competent group supervision. These preliminary results have implications for supervisor training, as well as clinical training programs in Australia and abroad who use group supervision as a form of clinical training. What is already known about this topic: Competency-based supervisory approaches are supported by regulatory authorities. The evaluation of competent group supervision has received inadequate research attention. There are no available measures of group supervision to evaluate supervisor competence. What this paper adds: First experimental exploration that establishes group supervision as a distinct competency in clinical supervision. Compared to individual supervision, supervisors were rated lower on group supervision competence and may require specialised training. A scale is included in the appendix for evaluation of both individual and group supervision competencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: There is a paucity of quantitative measures of resilience specifically validated for young Aboriginal people in Australia. We undertook the first investigation of validity and reliability of the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) in a sample of Australian Aboriginal people, with a focus on youth. Method: We conducted a cross-sectional study of resilience among a sample of 122 Aboriginal youth (15–25 years old) in New South Wales and Western Australia, featuring self-completes of the 10-item CD-RISC in online (N = 22) and face-to-face (N = 100) settings. A Rasch analysis using the 122 CD-RISC responses determined item independence, response category adequacy, differential item functioning, unidimensional measurement, person and item reliability, and item fit. Confirmatory factor analysis was also conducted, complementary to the Rasch analysis. Results: Four problematic items from the original instrument were removed, due to item dependence (items 2, 6 and 9; Q3,* > 0.30) and differential item functioning (item 4; > 0.43 logits between males and females). The final 6-item instrument exhibited improved item separation (ISI = 2.14) and reliability index values (IRI =.82) – suggesting an improved structure – however several limitations such as a prominent ceiling effect were evident (i.e., positive measure targeting coefficient of 0.99 logits). Conclusion: Findings suggest the CD-RISC instrument should be applied in Aboriginal contexts with caution. Further psychometric examination of the CD-RISC with Aboriginal youth is warranted before it can be used with confidence by researchers and clinicians. KEY POINTS What is already known about this topic: Resilience is generally thought of as positive outcomes despite exposure to risk. This can be a particularly important concept to consider in the period of youth and adolescence, when young people are experiencing wide ranging physical, emotional, and social changes and challenges. Aboriginal youth face unique circumstances that are necessary to consider when considering resilience relevant to an Aboriginal perspective. There is currently a lack in the literature in regards to defining and conceptualising resilience from an Aboriginal perspective, particularly relevant to young people. There is a dearth of instruments available that have been rigorously examined for their appropriateness and psychometric properties relating to resilience in Aboriginal youth. What this paper adds: This paper provides not only a first investigation of this version of the CD-RISC using Rasch analysis, but also the first time the CD-RISC's validity and reliability has been assessed for an Aboriginal sample in Australia. Analyses results illustrated a ceiling effect, highlighting the fact that for the instrument to be accessing the full range of resilience in the sample, new items need to be developed to tap into higher levels of resilience. With the findings of this paper as a foundation, further investigation and adaptation of the CD-RISC could potentially lead to a useful screening tool for assessing resilience and identifying Aboriginal youth who may require further support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Family violence causes brain injury and trauma for many victim survivors. Neuropsychologists play a central role in helping with these issues. We aimed to evaluate rates of family violence training, knowledge and clinical skills in Australian neuropsychologists. Method: An online, brief, self-report survey of psychologists practicing clinically in the area of neuropsychology Australia wide. The survey assessed prior training, knowledge and confidence together with awareness of specific family violence clinical skills, and barriers to competent practice. Results: Responses were received from every state and territory and represented more than 10% of the total registered endorsed clinical neuropsychology workforce (N = 92). Over 90% of respondents had undertaken family violence training, however 57% reported having little or no knowledge and 67% little or no confidence working clinically in the area. Knowledge of specific family violence skills was reduced, with only 20% indicating that they knew how to respond, when clients disclosed experiencing family violence. Conclusions: Further work is needed to improve the ability of the Australian neuropsychology workforce to respond to this important health issue. Response of neuropsychologists may be sub-optimal, particularly in regard to the provision of psychological support following disclosures a central tenant of World Health Organization guidelines. KEY POINTS What is already known about this topic: Family violence is a significant public health issue in Australia. Family violence can cause both brain injuries and psychological trauma and attenuated cognitive functioning has been associated with both of these conditions. Clinical neuropsychologists commonly work with clients who experience cognitive attenuation. What this paper adds: This paper is the first, to our knowledge, to survey training, knowledge, confidence levels and specific family violence clinical skills in Australian neuropsychologists. Over 10% of the endorsed clinical neuropsychology Australian workforce participated in this self-report online survey. Results indicated that most had received some family violence training, however, self-rated knowledge, confidence and awareness of specific family violence skills were relatively low and further training and professional development in this area is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This special issue of the Australian Psychologist on psychology at the end of life is most timely in view of the rising prevalence and mortality rates from cancer and other non-communicable diseases, largely due to the ageing of the world's population. An important focus in the papers in this edition is the subjective experience of patients and families and interventions that involve empathy, meaning-making, and narrative construction. This focus is a departure, in some respects, from the recent emphasis in psychology and psychiatry on interventions more specifically directed to cognitions and behaviour. It may also reflect a renewed interest in subjectivity and/or an awareness of the importance of such approaches in the treatment of patients and families living with advanced and terminal disease. I will discuss each of these papers in this edition and summarise briefly the work of our group on a psychotherapeutic intervention for patients with metastatic and advanced cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite operating from the same professional accreditation standards, discrepancies in what is recorded as Direct Client Activities (DCA) in postgraduate psychology trainee logbooks have been noted across training programs in Australia. The aim of this study was to create a consensus-based list of DCA to guide the completion of trainee logbooks while undertaking practicums in clinical psychology or clinical neuropsychology. A modified Delphi approach was used to gather data across three rounds. Two expert panels, representing the two areas of practice endorsement (AoPEs), rated the degree to which they agreed or disagreed with a range of activities being recorded as DCA in trainee logbooks. Activities with over 80% agreement or disagreement during any round were accepted or rejected from the final list, respectively. Sixteen activities for clinical psychology and 30 activities for clinical neuropsychology were endorsed by the expert panels. Only nine activities across the two panels did not reach consensus over the three rounds. This study has created a list of consensus activities within these two AoPEs which will facilitate benchmarking activities, and reduce confusion and anxiety for trainees, supervisors, and placement coordinators. Discrepancies do, however, remain across the AoPEs, warranting further clarification and definition refinement. What is already known about this topic: Logbooks are a key strategy in ensuring individual trainees and postgraduate training programs are meeting minimum standards set by accrediting bodies. Although required by the Australian Psychology Accreditation Council (APAC) to be recorded in trainee logbooks, there is a lack of consensus across Australian postgraduate psychology program providers as to what constitutes "Direct Client Activities". Inconsistent logging practices prevents benchmarking and creates confusion and anxiety for trainees, supervisors, and placement coordinators. What this topic adds: This paper was the first, to our knowledge, to obtain expert consensus on trainee Direct Client Activities for logbook recording within the clinical psychology and clinical neuropsychology areas of practice endorsement. The list provides greater certainty for "what counts" as Direct Client Activities for logbook recording within these two areas of practice endorsement, with 16 clinical psychology and 30 clinical neuropsychology activities endorsed. There is a need to better clarify the rationale and principles for recording Direct Client Activities across areas of practice endorsement, to inform ongoing practices in these areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite few studies assessing the effectiveness of phase-based interventions for treating complex trauma symptoms, such approaches have been endorsed by experts as a first-line intervention. The aim of this study was to evaluate Phase 1 of the Women's Trauma Recovery Program, a phase-based intervention for women who have experienced complex trauma. Quantitative assessments of posttraumatic stress, depression, anxiety and stress (baseline and Week 10) are reported for 11 participants. Six women also participated in qualitative interviews regarding their experience of the program. Descriptive statistics and interpretive phenomenological analysis were used to analyse quantitative and qualitative data, respectively. Four of nine participants with probable PTSD at baseline were asymptomatic at Week 10. Three superordinate themes were generated from the interview data: (1) Empowerment: the experience in Phase 1, (2) Recovery: an ongoing process, and (3) "Hey, I'm human": connection through shared experience. Phase 1 of the program demonstrated promising findings in terms of symptom improvement. Furthermore, participants perceived it as an empowering experience. The group modality enabled women to create connections that validated and normalised their experiences. Future studies of phase-based interventions with larger, well-powered samples are needed. What is already known about this topic: (1) Phase-based approaches are a recommended treatment option for individuals with complex trauma histories. Despite this, little research has examined such treatments for women who have experienced complex trauma. (2) Phase-based approaches assume that individuals who have experienced complex trauma may benefit from a period of safety and stabilisation, to develop the required coping skills to engage in trauma memory processing. (3) Capitalising on the Australian Medicare Rebate Scheme, combining a group phase and individual phase may reduce the cost burden for clients and enable clients to experience benefits unique to group and individual modalities. What this topic adds: (1) This paper presents Australian-first findings regarding the outcomes of the initial phase of a phase-based approach to treat women with complex trauma. (2) Phase 1 of the Women's Trauma Recovery Program, delivered in a group format, was associated with decreases in mental health symptoms for most participants and was perceived as empowering experience that facilitated interpersonal connections. (3) Using a group intervention as phase 1 of phase-based approaches may be an acceptable, effective, and cost-effective option for women with complex trauma histories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is known that parental experiences of perceived racism are associated with poorer mental health in children. However, little is known about the mechanism of transmission of intergenerational racism among Aboriginal Australians. This study aims to explore the causal effect of Aboriginal mothers' experience of perceived racism on children's social and emotional well-being mediated by parenting sense of competence. Pregnant Aboriginal women (N = 159) reported their experiences of perceived racism using the Measure of Indigenous Racism Experiences instrument, and completed a five year follow-up survey, reporting their sense of parenting competence using the Parenting Sense of Competence Scale and their child's social and emotional well-being using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. A single causal mediation analysis was used to examine the causal effects while accounting for confounding variables (mother's age, education, and socioeconomic status). Mothers who experienced perceived racism in at least one setting were at an increased odds of their child experiencing social and emotional difficulties (OR = 1.28, 95% CI [0.55, 2.98]). This effect was not mediated by parenting sense of competence, despite an effect between parenting competence and children's social and emotional well-being (OR = 0.44, 95% CI [0.19, 1.06]). The findings suggest that maternal experiences of perceived racism has a longitudinal effect on their children's social and emotional well-being, which is not mediated through the mothers' parenting sense of competence. These findings highlight the importance of reducing racism as these may have far-reaching effects across generations on socio-social and emotional well-being. What is already known about this topic: Racism is a significant public health issue in Australia as experiences of racism are highly prevalent among Aboriginal Australians, and associated with adverse health and wellbeing. The effects of racism are known to have pervasive intergenerational impacts, with parental experiences of racism affecting children's social and emotional wellbeing. To date, little is known about the mechanism by which parental perceptions of racism lead to adverse social-emotional wellbeing for children. What this topic adds: This paper is the first to explore whether parenting sense of competence mediates the effect of maternal experience of perceived racism on children's social and emotional well-being. Children aged five years were at an increased risk of social and emotional difficulties if their mother had experienced perceived racism in at least one setting during pregnancy. The impact of maternal experience of perceived racism on children's social and emotional well-being was not transmitted through the mother's parenting sense of competence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Socially anxious individuals may prefer social media platforms over in-person interactions. For those with high social anxiety (SA), Facebook-related tasks have been associated with anxiety, negative thoughts, and safety behaviours. However, Instagram-related research remains limited. The present study aimed to assess Instagram use alongside cognitive and behavioural processes among participants with low, medium, and high SA. We hypothesised that when using Instagram, individuals with higher SA would (1) experience more negative social cognitions, (2) report higher body image concerns, (3) endorse more safety behaviours when posting pictures, and (4) engage in more photo manipulation. A sample of 213 Instagram users completed an online survey and were divided into groups based on SA severity. The high SA group reported comparing themselves to others and being more anxious on Instagram than the low and medium SA groups. Four 3 (SA groups) x 2 (gender) ANOVAs revealed support for the first three hypotheses and that there was no interaction effect between SA and gender for all outcomes. Results expand our understanding of how specific social media platforms may be aversive for individuals with high SA, which has important implications for conceptualising the role of safety behaviours in online interactions. KEY POINTS What is already known on this topic: Individuals with high social anxiety may prefer online social interactions. Clark and Wells' cognitive model of social anxiety can be extended to the online social media platforms. Social anxiety may be underpinned by body image concerns. What this paper adds: Instagram users with social anxiety experienced more negative social media cognitions and reported more safety behaviours. Instagram users with social anxiety also experienced more body image concerns. Despite gender differences in photo manipulation, an associated relationship with social anxiety was not supported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From March 2020, clinical psychology postgraduate programmes began rapidly adopting telepsychology within their training clinics to support public health and reduce the spread of COVID-19. However, implementing this rapidly, safely, and effectively posed challenges to programmes, educators, supervisors, and trainees who at the time predominantly utilised in-person psychology and had limited experience with telepsychology. This paper outlines the collaboration of Australian psychology postgraduate programmes; the development of the Australian Telepsychology Collaboration's role in supporting rapid adoption; empirical evidence for the use of telepsychology in training clinics; and reflects on how clinics overcame initial technological, security, clinical, practical and competency barriers to adoption. Implications and recommendations for clinical psychology postgraduate programmes are discussed, and an emphasis is placed on the unique opportunity that psychology programmes have to contribute meaningfully to clinical and empirical telepsychology knowledge. Key Points What is already known about this topic: Telepsychology has been rapidly adopted and is increasingly used in psychology and psychology training programs since the pandemic. Telepsychology is a way to maintain training standards and learning opportunities for post-graduate psychology trainees during times of increased social and movement restrictions. There is emerging literature to support telepsychology for the types of presentations common to training clinics. What this topic adds: A reflection on the security, technological, and clinical knowledge learned by postgraduate psychology training programs transitioning to telepsychology that has relevance for training providers and clinicians undertaking parallel transitions. Overcoming barriers to large-scale telepsychology implementation. Implications and recommendations for psychology postgraduate programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gap between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and non-Indigenous health, education, mental health, and social and emotional wellbeing remains a major concern. Bridging these gaps and working in culturally safe and responsive ways with people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent presents considerable challenges, including for the discipline and profession of psychology. At the Australian Psychological Society's ( APS) inaugural congress in September 2016, the APS issued an Apology to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The apology was a formal acknowledgment of the role of the discipline and profession of psychology in failing to listen and show respect to Indigenous Australians. The apology was also a commitment to change. This paper provides the background and context to, and motivation for, the apology. The APS received highly positive reactions to the apology across Australia and internationally. However, further change and work needs to be undertaken as the challenge for the discipline and profession now is to demonstrate a commitment to the apology by supporting and engaging in culturally safe practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the well-being of mental healthcare providers working in a specialist clinic for personality disorder during the first wave of COVID-19 social restrictions. Clinical (n = 31) and nonclinical (n = 11) staff in a public outpatient specialist personality disorder clinic were invited to participate. Data were collected via an online survey which incorporated the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS) together with a range of open-ended questions exploring mental health, physical health, sleep quality, management of relationships, alcohol consumption, eating patterns, and use of media. Inductive content analysis was used to review the responses to the open-ended questions. Data from CAS was reported descriptively. In total, 39 surveys were completed (92.8% response rate). According to the CAS, two participants (5.1%) experienced coronaphobia during the initial pandemic restrictions. Participants reported a diversity of experiences affecting their health status during this time. While loss of social interactions with family and friends was reported as the most challenging aspect of lockdown, participants reported that conducting their work using telehealth and the absence of the work commute provided opportunities for more time with family and for self-reflection. The self-reported physical and mental health of participants demonstrated resilience. This suggests that the capacity to conduct therapeutic work via telehealth, and having the option of working from home helped to mitigate many of the adverse aspects of social restrictions due to the global pandemic. This study was conducted during the first wave of social restrictions; subsequent studies will reveal longer-term effects of this policy. Key Points What is already known about this topic: Australian adults reported a slight increase in psychological distress in the general community during the COVID-19 pandemic. Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS) is a validated and reliable mental health questionnaire assessing COVID-19 related fear and anxiety (coronaphobia). CAS measures sleep disturbance, appetite loss, dizziness, tonic immobility, and abdominal distress. Living under lockdown conditions is an unnatural experience. Experience of mental health workers who provide care for people with personality disorder is not yet studied during this condition. What this paper adds: Only two participants (5.1%) experienced coronaphobia during the initial pandemic restrictions. While challenges were endorsed, the self-reported physical and mental health of participants demonstrated resilience. A range of well-being challenges were reported in this study that informs health policy makers for future interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates, in an Australian university student sample, the score equivalence of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-IV (WAIS-IV) norms for which are based on the US standardization sample versus the Woodcock Johnson III (WJ III) cognitive test battery, normed for the Australian population based on a standardisation sample aged between four and twenty-one. Mean IQ scores in the two instruments were compared in sample scores of all and those restricted to 21 years or younger. Additionally, corresponding broad ability scores were compared. Tests were assigned in blocked random order to 164 (141 aged 21 years or younger) participants (M = 20.38, Mdn = 19, SD = 5.19). Thirty-eight (32 aged 21 years or younger) undertook both tests. Scores from all, and the subset aged 21 years or less were analysed. The mean WAIS-IV FSIQ were significantly higher than mean WJ III GIA in both independent and repeated measures analyses. Effect sizes, measured with population SD of 15, were d = 0.34 and d = 0.53 in the independent and repeated measures study. Considering the potential impact of the observed effect sizes in high-stakes decision for the Australian population, we appeal for further research on local norming. KEY POINTS What is already known on this topic: When used in Australia, the WAIS-IV scores are based on the US standardization data, while the WJ III has been normed for the Australian population. Local and current norming of tests is essential for valid and fair use of a cognitive abilities test. WAIS-IV scores are routinely used to make high-stakes decisions in Australia. What this paper adds: Empirical evidence that the current WAIS-IV scores and WJ III scores in Australia are not equivalent in a sample of university students. If the observed effect sizes were to hold in the critical cut-off regions used for making high-stakes decision, a substantial number of eligible beneficiaries will be affected. Though the samples in this study are restricted, the partial random sampling, consistency, and effect size warrant more comprehensive study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phase-based approaches are a recommended treatment option for individuals with complex trauma histories; however, this is based on a limited body of empirical evidence. Phase-based approaches often involve two stages of treatment, with one focusing on safety and stabilisation and phase two on trauma memory processing. Historically, the Australian Better Access Scheme offered a government rebate for up to 10 group and 10 individual psychological sessions annually. In response to the coronavirus pandemic, the number of rebated individual sessions has been increased to 20 through June 2022. Combining individual and group session rebates, phase-based approaches that include both treatment modalities represent a feasible and accessible treatment option for complex trauma. Delivering phase one in a group milieu and providing individual treatment during phase two may be cost effective and optimise outcomes by leveraging the benefits of group and individual treatment for complex trauma. This article aims to provide an overview of the psychological impact of complex trauma, to highlight barriers to seeking mental healthcare, and to critically evaluate phase-based approaches for treating complex trauma. We highlight gaps in the research, followed by a discussion regarding the benefits and limitations of using this approach in the Australian mental health care system. Key points What is already known about this topic: (1) Individuals with complex trauma face barriers when seeking psychological treatment in Australia, including the affordability of specialised mental health care. (2) The number of Medicare-rebated sessions provided by the Better Access Scheme to treat mental health problems is at times inadequate, and clients bear the burden of cost for extra treatment. (3) Despite garnering support from trauma experts, phase-based treatments for trauma related disorders have promising but limited empirical support. What this topic adds: (1) Updating prior reviews, a rapid review of the literature identified 15 peer-reviewed papers that examined the delivery of a phase-based treatment for individuals with histories of complex trauma, demonstrating the ongoing implementation of this treatment approach. (2) A phase-based treatment approach for complex trauma is a feasible, accessible and cost-effective option under the current Better Access Scheme, which offers rebates for up to 10 individual sessions (increased to 20 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic through June 2022) and 10 group sessions annually. (3) A phase-based approach that combines group and individual therapy may enable clients to benefit from both group and individual interventions and facilitate continuity of care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]