Sue Ferguson

Biography

I am a registered psychologist, and a member of the APS College of Health Psychologists, but clinically trained. Geropsychology is my main interest, in particular, the concept of positive ageing and how it can be achieved. I am also interested in adult development more broadly and in adjustment in midlife. Positive psychology is also a key interest of mine, particularly predictors of health and wellbeing. My research interests include: predictors of wellbeing in older adults, particularly applying positive psychology concepts to predicting well-being in midlife and older adults (such as optimism, social support, self-compassion, acceptance, hope and proactive coping). I am also interested in:adjustment of older adults to life regrets and uncontrollable circumstances, chronic disease and chronic pain (such as arthritis pain); adapting therapy for older adults; and health promotion in older adults. I teach undergraduate developmental psychology, particularly adult development and ageing. I also teach health psychology at both second and fourth year levels.

Research Interest

Mental health, psycology, mental disorder