Staff Profile
Dr Rhys
Rhys is a positive psychologist with a particular interest in nature connectedness – specifically how urban greenspaces such as allotments can benefit the wellbeing of individuals living in low-income areas. Additionally, his other research interests include conservation behaviours, social and environmental justice, spirituality, mindfulness-based interventions and compassion. Rhys is primarily a qualitative researcher with expertise in experiential approaches such as ethnography Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis and Experiential Reflexive Thematic Analysis.
Modules currently and previously taught:
- PSY3055: Applying Positive Psychology (Module Coordinator)
- PSY1011: Positive Psychology
- PSY1012: Psychology for Life
- PSYM085: Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods.
- PSY2007: Psychology of Wellbeing
Rhys’ research interests include:
- Positive Psychology
- Nature Connectedness
- Ecopsychology
- Social and environmental Justice
- Low-income communities
- Spirituality
- Mindfulness
- Compassion
Furlong, R., Harvey, C., Holland, F., & Hallam, J. (2025). “I came here and it flows”: An interpretative phenomenological analysis of low-income residents’ experiences with allotment gardening. Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, 104, 128646.
Furlong, R., Hallam, J., & Barnes, C. (2024). Conservation volunteers’ experiences of connecting with nature during the COVID-19 pandemic: an interpretative phenomenological analysis. Discover Psychology, 4(1), 30.
Holland, F., Harvey, C., Ferris, E., Furlong, R., & Gibson, S. (2024). ‘It was a whole other world’: the impact of residential outdoor trips on nature connectedness and wellbeing in young people. Journal of Adventure Education and Outdoor Learning, 1-19.