Micheala McIlvenna
My research looks at the Dark Triad traits in a novel way – that is investigating them as multifaceted and how this relates to individual differences in coping with stress and psychopathology.
A lot of current research has neglected the multidimensional nature of the dark triad personality traits. Research has shown that different facets of these traits have differentially related to outcome measures like coping with stress and psychopathology. However, much of the research is still measuring and interpreting these traits as unidimensional. This project aims to provide a comprehensive investigation of these traits using more valid measurements and interpretations. It is also important that within this project we provide the associations with outcome measures like coping with stress and psychopathology given their relevance to society today. This is even more relevant when we consider the emerging evidence that personality traits develop as a function of the complexity of society. Therefore, at one time or another, these dark traits were needed in our society, could this mean that they have an adaptive functioning during times of stress? Additionally, I am also interested in how using novel and more appropriate methods (experience sampling methods) and analysis (Network Analysis) may lead to more fruitful and insightful interpretations.
What is your ideal Research outcome?
I want to fill the current gap in the literature, providing a contribution to Psychology. This will help us to understand those who are deemed as “socially aversive,” and how they may use these dark traits to cope with and navigate life and psychopathology. Additionally, I want to show how we can progress methodology and be at the forefront of longitudinal network analysis.
Supervisors
Dr Kostas Papageorgiou and Professor Cherie Armour
Why did you choose this PhD and why at Queen's?
I completed my BSc Psychology at QUB in 2020 and then progressed straight into the PhD. This was the right route for me as I had built up strong working rapports with Researchers at
QUB but most importantly, this PhD was very interesting. I was also excited to connect with researchers all over the world, which is something QUB and my supervisors encourage.
How have you been supported at Queen's?
QUB and mainly my supervisors have supported me in many ways. One such example being that my PhD requires competency in RStudio and Network Analysis, so my supervisors helped to organise training from researchers at different universities, moreover this training was available to anyone in the School, so everyone is included!
In what ways have you developed at Queen's?
I have developed academically in many ways at QUB. You get expert knowledge and support from your supervisors, help with technical questions from your peers and the support staff in the School. Then there are many journal clubs writing clubs and more that you can join to develop academically in the way you want to.
Can you describe the postgraduate community in the School and at Queen's?
Your PhD peers are always willing to support you in any way they can, whether this be through academic collaboration or organising a social event to have a well-deserved break from working. There is a strong feeling of fellowship and community among the postgraduate community. You will never be alone during a PhD at QUB!
Where do you hope your PhD will lead?
I enjoy working hard on a project and watching it grow into a fully formed piece of research. Therefore, I would love to stay in the world of research. I have also had some teaching opportunities within the School which has actually made me realise that I enjoy teaching Psychology, so I would be interested in developing this further after my PhD.
Anything else you would like to add or advise to new PGR students?
Try to connect with your fellow PhD researchers as much as you can. It is very likely that whatever question you have, they have had it before. Remember you are not alone and there is always support.
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