David Smailes

David Smailes is a Lecturer in Psychology at Northumbria University, where he has been since 2018. Previously, he held lecturing positions at Leeds Trinity University and the University of Sunderland. He completed his PhD at Durham University in 2013, focusing on the social, emotional, and cognitive correlates of psychotic-like experiences.

Education:

• PhD in Psychology, Durham University, 2013

Research Interests: Dr. Smailes specializes in hallucinations research, particularly auditory and visual hallucinations, cognitive control mechanisms, sleep health, and the relationship between hoarding behaviors and psychosis symptoms. His work also explores the role of aberrant salience, reality discrimination, and the application of novel therapeutic approaches like tailored cognitive behavioral therapy.

Recent Research Trends: His recent articles investigate factors influencing hallucinations, including sleep deprivation, cognitive control, and social media's impact on body image research. Notable studies include examining break-up hallucinations and developing tools for open research practices.

Advising & Grants:

• Supervises postgraduate researchers Mariia Goncharova and Hollie Rivers.
• Focus on interdisciplinary approaches to mental health and cognitive psychology.

Labs/Teams: His work is anchored within Northumbria University’s Department of Psychology, contributing to global collaborations in hallucinations research.