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Research Volunteers - Bipolar Disorder

Subject: Research volunteers - Cognitive Style & Mood in Bipolar Disorder 

I am a 2nd year PhD student at the University of Manchester, under the supervision of Dr. Warren Mansell and Prof. Tony Morrison. I am currently undertaking a research study entitled 'Cognitive Style and Bipolar Symptoms'. This project has received NHS REC approval (08/H1009/10) and R&D Trust approval.

For this study, I am recruiting individuals with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder who are not currently in an episode and are 18 years of age or older. The study involves a screening interview and a series of questionnaires regarding cognitive style, mood, behaviour, coping and life events. The clinical interview will be conducted either over the telephone or during a face-to-face meeting in the School of Psychological Sciences at the University of Manchester, at the participant's preference. Questionnaires will be completed at home twice weekly for the duration of 4 weeks.

Principally, I will be exploring the relationship between baseline measures of cognitive style with prospective symptoms and behaviour. This study does not intend to provide a direct benefit to those who take part, nor will it interfere with the current treatment. However, it is hoped that investigating the psychological factors that contribute to the development of hypomania, mania and depression can aid the continuing development and improvement of psychological therapies (e.g. cognitive-behavioural therapy) for bipolar disorder.

Participants will be free to withdraw from the study at any point and without giving a reason. All data will be strictly confidential; however, where information is brought to the attention of the investigator that suggests the participant is at imminent risk to their self or to others, confidentiality of this specific information may be broken in order to access the relevant services for help and support.

When the study is completed, participants will be fully debriefed, given the opportunity to ask questions, and awarded £10 for their time.

If you have any queries or are interested please contact me. I can be contacted by telephone on 0161 275 2562 or by email at alyson.dodd@postgrad.manchester.ac.uk.

Alyson Dodd
PhD Student
School of Psychological Sciences
Coupland I
University of Manchester
Oxford Road M13 9PL

Date: 03/12/2008

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