Research Fields

Guarantor: Mgr. Aleš Neusar, Ph.D.
Co-organisers: Dr. Wander van der Vaart (University of Humanistic Studies); Prof. Jaap Murre (University of Amsterdam)

Description: The memories of personal events appear to be incomplete without at least a partial idea of when the events actually occurred. In some cases, the time aspect and its accuracy is crucial – such as when a doctor asks us when we last took our antibiotics, or how long a specific problem has been going on. Autobiographical memory is, however, susceptible to many distortions, as well as the time aspect. The research focuses on predictors of accuracy of dating: the part of the respondent (what factors influence who remembers better); side events (which types of events we remember precisely), and appropriate ways to query temporal aspects of autobiographical events.
Grant support: (April-July 2013: Research mobility FF UP)

Guarantor: prof. PhDr. Alena Plháková, CSc.
Co-organisers: PhDr. Daniel Dostál, Ph.D., Mgr. Tereza Záškodná (DSP student)

Abstract: The research in the field of intelligence and creativity will focus on new types of intelligence, especially emotional and social, in relation to the traditional dimensions of personalities. We will investigate the determinants of domain-specific creativity, in the sphere of motivation, ability (IQ, social and emotional intelligence) and personality traits. Experiments focused on comparing individual and group creativity in different areas (writing, drawing or solving cognitive problems) will be carried out.
Grant support: SGS-IGA – FF_2013_022, ESF-POST UP

Guarantor: prof. PhDr. Alena Plháková, CSc.
Co-organisers: PhDr. Daniel Dostál, Ph.D., PhDr. Denisa Janečková (DSP student) , Lucie Kráčmarová (DSP student)

The research in the field of sleep and dreaming will build on existing studies. The most important areas are related to circadian preference in relation to sleep disturbance, harmful or beneficial health habits (smoking, drinking alcohol, coffee, regular exercise, time spent at the computer, etc.), school benefits, life satisfaction, and creativity. The research about dreaming will focus on the frequency of dream remembrance in relation to specific, but in the Czech Republic not widely known, dimensions of the personality, such as permissive internal borders or absorption capacity. In the future, we will focus on research of repetitive nightmares and dreams that are part of post-traumatic stress disorder.

Guarantor: PhDr. Olga Pechová, Ph.D.
Co-organisers: PhDr. Daniel Dostál, Ph.D., Mgr. Klára Machů  (DSP student), Mgr. et Bc. Barbora Pospíšilová (Masters student)

Abstract: This project uses multidimensional methods to measure spirituality (Expression of Spirituality Inventory and research attitudes to death via the Death Attitude Profile – Revised). Religious beliefs and spirituality are the strongest factors influencing attitudes to death. The research is conducted among the Czech and Slovak populations, and besides exploring the relationship between spirituality and attitudes to death also seeks possible correlations between these attitudes and the five factor model of personality.
Grant support: SGS IGA – FF_2013_034 (Spiritualita a postoje ke smrti)

Guarantor: doc. PhDr. Irena Sobotková, CSc.
Co-organisers: PhDr. Šárka Mošťková, PhDr. Veronika Šmahajová, Ph.D.

Abstract: These studies build on numerous studies on foster care carried out to date. One of the most extensive studies recently has been the research of adults who have grown in long-term foster care, published as a monograph (Sobotková, Očenášková, 2013). Although it is a narrow field of social and professional experience, foster care deserves more attention because it fundamentally affects the lives of many children and adult people. Our studies are focused on the psychological aspects of various forms of foster care (short-term foster care, early foster care, long-term foster care) and topics that have been little explored so far (such as kinship foster care, biological children in foster care). The aim of the research is to describe and evaluate the current foster care system, especially with regard to the satisfaction of the psychological needs of children. We cooperate with the Section for Substitute Family Care at the Czech-Moravian Psychological Society and with the organs of social and legal protection of children. Publication output: an edited monograph is planned.
Grant support: previously IGA FF_2012_003 and IRP_FF_2013 – the Institutional Development Programme for the support of publication activities at the Philosophical Faculty. It is planned again.

Guarantor: doc. PhDr. Irena Sobotková, CSc.
Co-organisers: PhDr. Veronika Šmahajová, Ph.D.

Abstract: Our research in this area is aimed at family processes (such as family functionality, family resilience, and coping with family stress). The studies are carried out in various types of families and at different stages of family development (families of working parents with young children, families with more than four children, families with twins, religious families, families with adult children etc.) and in families experiencing increased demands and stress (chronic physical or mental illness, developmental disorder, disability). The main publication outputs are e.g. the monograph Children’s Autism in the Context of Family Resilience (Sládečková, Sobotková, 2014) and the chapter Family Resilience: Positive Psychology Approach to Healthy Family Functioning (Slezáčková, Sobotková, 2017), published in The Routledge International Handbook of Psychosocial Resilience.
Grant support: previously IGA FF_2010_029 and IGA FF_2013_021; the Institutional Development Programme for the support of publication activities at the Philosophical Faculty – IRP_FF_2014, IRP_FF_2015.

Guarantor: PhDr. Veronika Šmahajová, Ph.D. (Očenášková)
Co-organisers: doc. PhDr. Irena Sobotková, CSc.

Abstract: The aim of this research project is to survey the experience of womanhood and to describe the coping strategies of the female role both in personal life (partnership, parenthood) and in working life. A qualitative research design is applied to a basic population of university students. We are expecting the most important impact of the current social changes in the female role there. Besides that, we concentrate on the transformation of marriage and its importance, value, and function in time, on extramarital relationships, and on divorce from the perspective of adult children. Our further research interest is related to aspects which affect long-term marital satisfaction. The most important publication is the monograph about partner satisfaction of women in academic professions (Očenášková, 2015).
Grant support: the Institutional Development Programme for the support of publication activities at the Philosophical Faculty – IRP_FF_2015. It is planned again.

Guarantor: doc. Mgr. Radmila Švaříčková Slabáková Ph.D. (Department of History)
Co-organisers: doc. PhDr. Irena Sobotková, CSc. (and doc. Mgr. Marek Petrů, Ph.D., Mgr. Jitka Kohoutová, doc. PaedDr. Alena Zachová, CSc., dr. hab. Marcin Lukasz Filipowicz, Dr. from other workplaces).

Abstract: The interdisciplinary research project was focused on family memory. This area was previously unexplored in psychology. The main aim of the psychological part of research was to describe the content, functions and meaning of family memory. The ways in which family memory is modified and transmitted to next generations were explored too. Our particular interest was given to possible connections between family memory, functionality of the family and family resilience. We used the qualitative methodology. The data collection was conducted through deep, semi-structured interviews with three generations of thirteen families. The project is innovative not only in its topic, but also in its interdisciplinarity (psychology of family, history, literary theory, cognitive philosophy). Currently, we are finalizing the main publication outputs (two monographs).
Grant support: The Czech Science Foundation 2015-2017

Guarantor: PhDr. Šárka Mošťková (PhD student)
Co-organisers: doc. PhDr. Irena Sobotková, CSc.

Abstract: The main aim of this research project is to understand the experience of grandparents who take care of their grandchildren in the place of their parents. Partial goals are concern the study of the subjective perceptions of the causes of foster care, their family circumstances, the conflict of their dual role, their relationships with their grandchildren and difficulties with their upbringing, grandparents’ life satisfaction, important values and goals in their lives, and the ways in which they cope with stress and resilience. The research group includes 20 grandmothers and grandfathers who have cared for one or more grandchildren for at least two years. Methods: semi-structured interview, SEIQoL, F-COPES. Partial research results show that children are given to foster care of their grandparents for various reasons, which we have organized into three categories: the pathological way of life of biological parents, the personality characteristics of parents and the impact of life events. Further data analysis continues. Due to the growing number of foster grandparents, the results can be useful especially in psychological counseling and for professionals working with foster families.
Grant support: IGA_FF_2015_022

Guarantor: PhDr. et Mgr. Gabriela Ďurašková (PhD student)
Co-organisers: doc. PhDr. Irena Sobotková, CSc.

Abstract: Infertility is a life-changing experience for most couples and often carries unexpected stressors. Experiencing involuntary childlessness in our country is explored primarily by using a qualitative methodology. Therefore, we find it beneficial to employ studies using appropriate quantitative tools (for example, the Fertility Problem Inventory) which are often used worldwide. Our research project combines both quantitative and qualitative methods. It focuses on stress, coping, the meaning of life, and life changes in the context of a challenging situation (infertility). The results will be useful for psychologists, gynaecologists, fertility centre staff, etc.

Guarantor: Mgr. Erika Lipková (PhD student)
Co-organisator: doc. PhDr. Irena Sobotková, CSc.

Abstract: The concept of forgiveness is currently a subject of increased interest in psychology, but there is still no consensus on defining this concept. The research project focuses on linking two areas – the process of forgiveness and domestic violence against women. The main aim of the research is to answer the question of how woman, victims of domestic violence, feel forgiveness and what experience they have with it. The intention is to gain a deeper and, if possible, comprehensive insight into this unexplored issue. A qualitative approach to research will be used (deep semi-structured interviews for data collection, interpretative phenomenological analysis following).

Guarantor: prof. PhDr. Alena Plháková, CSc.
Co-organisers: PhDr. Olga Pechová,  Ph.D., PhDr. Daniel Dostál, Ph.D., Mgr.  Tereza Záškodná  (DSP student), Mgr. Klára Machů (DSP student)

Abstract: The problems with the five factor model of personality when measuring and predicting certain aspects of personality associated with ethically tinged behavior led to the creation of two parallel concepts to fill this gap. These are the six factor model (HEXACO), which describes a sixth factor, which is honesty-humility (honor-humility), and the earlier concept of the dark triad, which describes the influence of three subclinical personality traits, which are narcissism, machiavellism, and psychopathy. The analysis of both concepts is a major issue in contemporary psychology.
Grant support: FPVČ (Narcissism as a personality trait, SPP: 452100351)

Guarantor of topic: doc. PhDr. Panajotis Cakirpaloglu, Dr.Sc.
Co-researchers: PhDr. Jan Šmahaj, Ph.D.; PhDr. Simona Dobešová-Cakirpaloglu, Ph.D.; PhDr. Soňa Lemrová, Ph.D.

Annotation: Mobbing is a serious social problem in economically developed countries. Researches in all countries agree that mobbing exists in almost all surveyed work teams, and as such constitutes a serious problem. Reasons for mobbing are different and it affects both men and women. The seriousness of mobbing lies in its long-lasting and as well at the diverse health, social and employment consequences. Our country is missing a research in that field, so our research has to be of a exploratory nature. The aim of the proposed research is to describe and analyze the psychological occurrence, modes of expression and the most common psychological effects of mobbing in employment in the Czech Republic. An extensive research data of the interviewed employees is planned so that according to the goals will achieve optimum coverage of the relevant socio-demographic characteristics of the target population. The research will be conducted anonymously using questionnaire methods NAQ, SUPOS and socio-demographic questionnaire.
Financed by: GRANT AGENCY CZECH REPUBLIC (GAČR)
Project number: 15-18469S
The duration of the project: 1/2015 – 12/2016

Guarantor: PhDr. Radko Obereignerů, Ph.D
Co-organisers: Mgr. Irena Cakirpaloglu, Ph.D., PhDr. Daniel Dostál, Ph.D.

Abstract: This project focuses on the development and standardization of projective assessment methods focused on the social maturation of the personality. This means creating entirely new projective test material. The analysed features are the individual’s relationship to authority, relations with other people, emotional experience, and focus on the behavior of the individual.
Grant support: IGA FF UP, MŠMT

Guarantor: PhDr. Martin Dolejš, Ph.D. and Mgr. Miroslav Charvát, Ph.D.
Co-organisers: Mgr. Ondřej Skopal, Lucie Vavrysová, PhDr. Eva Maierová

Abstract: The project is focused on the possibility of early diagnosis of risk factors for various addictions and a tendency to risky behavior. The main objective is to analyze the existing psycho-screening tools aimed at adolescent risk behavior and related variables. On the basis of this analysis,  the research will focus on creating new diagnostic methods, which will cover most features and variables that influence the emergence of risk behavior. Further, we will focus on the development of new methodologies for selective and indicated prevention (primarily for education and residential care), implementation, and possibly subsequent quasi-experimental verification of the efficiency.
Grant support: FF UP within SGS/IGA (FF_2013_012)

Guarantor: PhDr. Eleonora Smékalová, Ph.D.
Co-organisers: Mgr. Kateřina Palová, Mgr. Lucie Viktorová

Abstract: The Second Step Program was created by Committee for Children, Seattle. The goal of the program is to promote five basic social and emotional skills: self-awareness, self-regulation, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision making. Prof. Eva Gajdošová spread the program in Slovakia and helped us to spread it in the Czech Republic, too. At the end of 2016, approximately 60 Czech teachers and school psychologists were trained to work with this program.
Our project team also realizes several researches to validate the program in the Czech Republic. The topics that have been already covered are social and emotional skills, responsible decision making, self-concept, school climate and creativity. The main validation of the Second Step Program for primary schools starts in September 2017 and it is supposed to last 3 years. Also a smaller research to validate the program in kindergarten has been started.

Guarantor: PhDr. et MUDr. Miroslav Orel , PhDr. Radko Obereignerů, Ph.D.
Co-organisers: RNDr. Eva Reiterová, Ph.D.

Abstract: The project aims to introduce, standardise, and adapt new diagnostic tools in the schools of the Czech Republic. It is a Czech version of the five-factor personality questionnaire for children (FFI – C) and methods of self-evaluation of school success (PHCSCS -2). The outcomes will be compared and evaluated with the results of the d2 test of attention, other psychodiagnostic methods, and outcomes of the assessment of the current level of knowledge and relative increase in skills in students over two years. The aim is to give a comprehensive picture of the selected psychological characteristics and knowledge level of pupils in primary and secondary schools and formulate measures to optimize the educational process in schools. Part of the project is to strengthen and develop cooperation with the Department of Psychology and KPPP ZDVPP Zlin, Ostrava University and other entities to obtain the largest possible research sample. The project counts on the psychodiagnostic examination and evaluation of at least 10,000 pupils.
Grant support: ESF Development and support of education quality

Guarantor: PhDr. Eleonora Smékalová, Ph.D.
Co-organisers: PhDr.Soňa Lemrová, Ph.D.

Abstract: Teachers are undoubtedly the main actors involved in education, not only because of their expertise, but also due to their personality traits, beliefs and attitudes. Among the factors that have seldom been studied previously are certain social phenomena and their impact on student performance.  The aim of the project is to update the current knowledge about the personalities of teachers in primary schools, secondary schools, and universities in the Czech Republic, their attitudes towards children and parents, and to put this into the context of their working conditions and other variables (age, levels of approval, length of experience, type of school, etc.). The knowledge gained by the research will be able to serve those working with teachers and teachers themselves.
Grant support: IGA

Guarantor: Mgr. Miroslav Charvát, Ph.D.
Co-organisers: Mgr. Lucie Viktorová, Mgr. Aleš Neusar, Ph.D.

Abstract: The aim of the project is to find out what makes good guidelines when creating tests for study skills, knowledge tests and other psycho-diagnostic tools, i.e. which sections of tests and items exhibit a good ability to differentiate and which are ineffective or less appropriate. The project focuses on the psychometric properties of tests and questionnaires using CTT and IRT, especially for reliability (parallel version, and internal consistency) and validity (content and criterion). Further, the project tests the possibility of using computer adaptive testing in the field of study skills and consequently also in other areas such as the prevention of risky behavior, or generally in psychodiagnostics.
Grant support: SGS IGA FF_2013_011

Guarantor: PhDr. Martin Dolejš, Ph.D. and Mgr. Miroslav Charvát, Ph.D.Co-organisers: Mgr. Ondřej Skopal, Lucie Vavrysová, PhDr. Eva Maierova

Abstract: The project is focused on the possibility of early diagnosis of risk factors for various addictions and a tendency to risky behavior. The main objective is to analyze the existing psycho-screening tools aimed at adolescent risk behavior and related variables. On the basis of this analysis,  the research will focus on creating new diagnostic methods, which will cover most features and variables that influence the emergence of risk behavior. Further, we will focus on the development of new methodologies for selective and indicated prevention (primarily for education and residential care), implementation, and possibly subsequent quasi-experimental verification of the efficiency.
Grant support: FF UP within SGS/IGA (FF_2013_012)

Guarantor: 

PhDr. Leona Jochmannová, Ph.D.

Co-organisers:

PhDr. Zia Petra Sluková Ph.D., Mgr. Kateřina Palová, Ph.D., Mgr. Miroslav Charvát, Ph.D., Mgr. Lucie Viktorová, Ph.D., doc. PhDr. Matúš Šucha, Ph.D., doc. PhDr. Radko Obereignerů, Ph.D., Mgr. Miriam Kotrusová, Ph.D., Mgr. Ondrej Gergely, Mgr. Tereza Rumlerová, Bc. Eva Petrová

Anotation:

The project aims to address the absence of systematic distance care standards for psychodiagnostics, psychotherapy and counselling in cases of crisis, which restricts professional outpatient care.The fields of research include clinical psychology, socio-psychological counselling and pedagogical psychology. Mapping the experience gained during the COVID-19 pandemic using social sciences research techniques will serve as the primary data source. Furthermore, interdepartmental panels composed of experts from professional organizations and cooperating application guarantors will be essential. Methodological guidelines for distance psychosocial services will be later used not only in the case of other crises but in broader situational contexts indicating limited direct contact with clients.

Grant affiliation:

Projekt TAČR TL04000033 Program ÉTA – COVID-19

Guarantor: PhDr. Mgr. Roman Procházka, Ph.D

Abstract: As a topical issue in state-of-the art psychophysiology and psychosomatic medicine, the relationship between temperament and the actual responses to stress as measured at the level of biological signals attracts much debate and research interest. This topic is often considered in terms of the so-called ANS-specific psychosomatic variability. The effects of stress cues and innate structural dispositions, in which temperament is strongly reflected, play an important role in this respect. Based on the general physiological principles of the action of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems during stress cues, our research seeks to identify the basic relationships between the study parameters in a healthy control sample and thus create a much-needed theoretical basis for comparing them with those measured among clinical samples. This research could be beneficial in contributing to the current knowledge in the field, which is still lacking a robust evidence base.
Grant support: Research Support Fund

Guarantor: PhDr. Marek Kolařík, Ph.D.
Co-organisers: PhDr. Martin Lečbych, Ph.D.

Abstract: Sexual attraction in psychotherapy tends to be taboo in current research into the field. It is only recently that some publications have attempted to provide a comprehensive account of the phenomenon, going beyond the traditional transference/countertransference paradigm in psychotherapy. Our research addresses multiple questions pertaining to this phenomenon and its impact on the process and outcome of psychotherapy. We are currently investigating how this issue is supervised and what experienced therapists think of the role of the phenomenon of sexual attraction in psychotherapy.
Grant support: Excellence Project, Philosophical Faculty, Palacky University

Guarantor: PhDr. Mgr. Roman Procházka, Ph.D.
Co-organisers: Mgr. Gabriela Mahrová, Bc. Marek Laštovica (Psychiatric ward Marianna Oranžská)

Abstract: The research focuses on the content analysis of people addicted to psychoactive substances. We want to follow the content categories and their emotional valence. The research group will be divided according to time of abstinence. The objective is to form a simple tool for rapid analysis of a situation where a subject is engaged both in terms of frequency and in terms of emotional evaluation. The resulting tool for analyzing content data will be able to simply illustrate the biographical axle including specific detection of possible psychological defenses of the self. Because of this we will also focus on the detection of potential maladaptive schemas within the Ego-analysis. In our research, we see benefits in creating a content analysis tool that is portable for therapeutic practice when working with clients addicted to psychoactive substances.
Grant support: Project PAPSAV

Guarantor: Mgr. Martin Kupka, Ph.D.
Co-organisers: Mgr. Marek Malůš, Ph.D.

Abstract: Research methods for limited external stimulation (Restricted environmental stimulation technique – REST). Implementation of this method of work to care for people who are recovering from addiction to psychoactive substances at the psychiatric asylum PL Bílá Voda. At present we are mainly interested in the identification of potential therapeutic agents with regard to awareness, experiencing life as meaningful, and changes in self-concepts. The research has a mixed design, and we focus on measuring quantitative and qualitative changes. The following questionnaire methods are used: five aspects of mindfulness, Existential range, and Rosenberg self-esteem scale. The qualitative data is evaluated through an interpretative phenomenological analysis. We try to analyze the motivation of the volunteers, and to map out the potential benefits of the procedure. This part is based on a description of participants which was gained through an interview in an environment limited by external stimulation. This interview was carried out before entering this environment, in the course of its preparation and immediately afterwards. Currently, we are mapping the permanence of change by monitoring probands 6 months after completion of the experience.

Guarantor: PhDr. Radko Obereignerů, Ph.D

Abstract: The project is aimed at refining the classification of aphasia research by Čecháčková (formerly known as The Olomouc classification of aphasia), in line with contemporary scientific knowledge. The aim is to verify the classification of diagnostic possibilities and the development of a diagnostic algorithm.
Grant support: the project is under development.

Guarantor: Mgr. Zuzana Sedláčková (DSP student)
Co-organisers: prof. MUDr. Ján Pavlov Praško, Csc.

Abstract: Our goal is to identify specific personality characteristics that occur in depressed individuals in remission, and to investigate the possible presence of comorbid personality disorders. We are interested specifically in the link between personality traits and comorbid personality disorders with sociodemographic characteristics, and with the development of depressive disorder and its course of treatment (based on the following criteria: duration of depressive disorders, length and number of previous depressive phases and remissions, etc.). The necessary data is collected through, for example, the Cloninger Temperament and Character inventory (TCI) and structured interviews according to the IPDE-ICD-10 (International Personality Disorder Examination). We expect to find specific personality traits in depressed subjects in remission and a high incidence of comorbid personality disorders. Furthermore, we expect a significant association of specific personality traits and personality disorders with the development of depressive disorders and with treatment.
Grant support: IGA FF UP, MŠMT

Guarantor: PhDr. Eva Maierová, Ph.D.
Co-organisers: Mgr. Miroslav Charvát, PhD.

Abstract: The aim of this research is to describe the relation between personality disorders, relational bonds and pathological gambling, to identify possible subtypes of players according to the reported psychopathology, and to determine whether the monitored psychopathological comorbidity in pathological gamblers is related to the success of their treatment. The target groups are recovering clients in residential treatment at specialized departments. The research is also expected to extend to the hidden population of players who are not in contact with medical institutions, including those who play online. Targeted extensions are, for example, the behavioral patterns of players, cognitive errors and so on. The results will, among other things, be used to develop short intervention programs for outpatient addiction treatment or prevention of gambling.

Guarantor: PhDr. Mgr. Roman Procházka, Ph.D.
Co-organisers: PhDr. Jan Šmahaj, Ph.D.

Abstract: Research on the influence of virtual reality and exposure to anxiety disorders in virtual reality in the context of cognitive behavioral therapy. The research is focused on the evaluation of the differences between the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral strategies in the treatment of anxiety disorders.

Guarantor: PhDr. Radko Obereignerů, Ph.D.
Co-organisers: PhDr. Klára Seitlová, Ph.D., PhDr. Martin Seitl, Ph.D.

Abstract: The Tower of Hanoi test focuses on learning executive abilities. The aim of the research is to develop standards for the Tower of Hanoi test, refine the methodology for application, and develop diagnostic test options for selecting staff. The project will also verify different application possibilities of the test and assess its psychometric properties.
Grant support: Project PAPSAV

Guarantor: PhDr. Martin Lečbych, Ph.D.
Co-organisers: PhDr. Pavel Kolda, Mgr. Martin Vaverka (PL Šternberk)

Abstract: The figural fluency test allows the explanation of executive functions. It extends the existing repertoire of specific fluency tests (verbal, categorical). The essence of the research is to create suitable stimulus material, norms for the figural fluency test, refine the methodology for the application of the test, and create a test manual.
Grant support: Project PAPSAV