Research Profile

Zelda Di Blasi

Biography


I obtained a B.A. in Applied Psychology (1H) at University College Cork, a Masters in Health Psychology at University College Galway, and was awarded a PhD/DPhil in Health Sciences at the University of York. My PhD was on the placebo effect and health care interactions and was funded by the Fetzer Institute and the Medical Research Council. I was fortunate to work with leaders in my field including Professors Jos Kleijnen (University of York), John Weinman (University College London), Colin Bradley (Dept of General Practice, UCC) and Ted Kaptchuk from Harvard Medical School. My PhD resulted in eight peer reviewed publications including the Lancet and the British Medical Journal. While studying for my PhD I taught modules in Health Psychology to post-graduates in Health Sciences, and trained in Counselling Skills. 

My area of interest in Positive Psychology evolved during my Post-Doctorate in Integrative Medicine and Health Psychology funded by the National Institute for Health.  I worked with Professor Susan Folkman at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) where I learned about mindfulness and the role of positive affect in health. During that time I was awarded a Teaching Fellowship from UCSF and San Francisco State University at the Institute of Holistic Health Studies. I began training in Coaching Skills at the Heartmath Institute, while lecturing in Health Psychology at the California Institute of Integral Studies.

In 2006 I took up an appointment as lecturer in the School of Applied Psychology in UCC, and in 2013 I co-founded and co-direct a Masters in Positive & Coaching Psychology. I am a member of the Association for Coaching, I have an Advanced Diploma in Executive, Leadership and Life Coaching with Kingstown College, and am a Strenghts Coach with Cappfinity.

I am passionate about happiness and wellbeing, and integrative medicine, having trained as a yoga teacher, dancer, massage therapist, and I combine my coaching, research and teaching to find ways to tap into our potential and our strengths to become our best self and overcome challenges. 


Research Interests

Zelda's research interest lies at the intersection of health, coaching, positive psychology, and integrative medicine. Current research areas can be generally organised under positive psychology and placebo effect research. Preferred research methodologies include systematic reviews, randomised controlled trials, surveys and qualitative studies.

Positive Psychology 
  • Effects of walking & coaching on wellbeing in educational and organisational settings.
  • Impact of mindfulness, gratitude, power posing and positive psychology in educational, organisational and health settings.
  • The nature and influence of positive psychology in elite sports.
  • The psychology of time awareness.
  • Positive psychology interventions and measures in non WEIRD populations.

Health Psychology - Placebo Effect
  • The effects of open-label placebo. 
  • The influence of treatment debriefing in placebo controlled studies.
  • Comparison of communication styles in randomised controlled studies.
  • The impact of mindset on wellbeing.




Research Grants

 ProjectFunding
Body
Start DateEnd DateAward
Going Green: The implications of ecopsychology for human and environmental health.Irish Research Council01-SEP-2331-AUG-25€56,000.00
Pathways to NatureERASMUS€400,000.00

Publications

Peer Reviewed Journals

 YearPublication
(2024)'Gratitude in the Time of the Coronavirus: A Thematic Analysis of the Three Good Things in Young Adults'
Di Blasi, Z., O'Doherty, M., van Zyl, L. (2024) 'Gratitude in the Time of the Coronavirus: A Thematic Analysis of the Three Good Things in Young Adults'. International Journal of Applied Positive Psychology, [DOI] [Details]
(2024)'Effects of time management interventions on mental health and wellbeing factors: A protocol for a systematic review'
Young, A., Bourke, A., Foley, S., Di Blasi, Z. (2024) 'Effects of time management interventions on mental health and wellbeing factors: A protocol for a systematic review'. Plos One, [DOI] [Details]
(2024)'The Effectiveness of Savouring Interventions on Well-being in Adult Clinical Populations: A Protocol for a Systematic Review'
Cullen, K., Murphy, M., Di Blasi, Z., Bryant, F. (2024) 'The Effectiveness of Savouring Interventions on Well-being in Adult Clinical Populations: A Protocol for a Systematic Review'. Plos One, [Details]
(2023)'“Claim back time for the things that really matter”: A qualitative examination of tracking leisure time and technology use in a reflective time journal'
Young, A., Foley, S., Di Blasi, Z. (2023) '“Claim back time for the things that really matter”: A qualitative examination of tracking leisure time and technology use in a reflective time journal'. European Journal of Applied Positive Psychology, 6 (18)   [Details]
(2023)'Positive Organisational Psychology 2.0: Embracing the Technological Revolution'
van Zyl, L.E., Dik, B.J. Donaldson, S.I, Klibert, J. Di Blasi, Z., van Wingerden, J., & Salanova, M. (2023) 'Positive Organisational Psychology 2.0: Embracing the Technological Revolution'. The Journal Of Positive Psychology, [Details]
(2023)'Factors influencing the effectiveness of nature-based interventions (NBIs) aimed at improving mental health and wellbeing: Protocol of an umbrella review'
Shrestha T;Chi CVY;Cassarino M;Foley S;Di Blasi Z; (2023) 'Factors influencing the effectiveness of nature-based interventions (NBIs) aimed at improving mental health and wellbeing: Protocol of an umbrella review'. Plos One, 18 (7) [DOI] [Details]
(2022)'The effects of positive psychology interventions in Arab countries: A systematic review'
Basurrah AA;Di Blasi Z;Lambert L;Murphy M;Warren MA;Setti A;Al-Haj Baddar M;Shrestha T; (2022) 'The effects of positive psychology interventions in Arab countries: A systematic review'. Applied Psychology: Health And Well-Being, [DOI] [Full Text] [Details]
(2022)'A report on the translation into Kiswahili, and subsequent validation, of three positive psychology scales'
Murphy, M.; Wango, G.; Kinanda, J.J.; O'Sullivan, D.; Di Blasi, Z.; Moret-Tatay, C. (2022) 'A report on the translation into Kiswahili, and subsequent validation, of three positive psychology scales'. EAS Journal of Psychology and Behavioural Sciences, 4 (5):124-133 [DOI] [Full Text] [Details]
(2022)'Perceived Social Support, Self-Discrepancy, and Subjective Well-Being'
O'Riordan, R., Murphy, M., Di Blasi, Z., & Moret-Tatay, C. (2022) 'Perceived Social Support, Self-Discrepancy, and Subjective Well-Being'. European Journal of Applied Positive Psychology, 6 (7)   [Details]
(2022)'Positive Psychology Interventions as an Opportunity in Arab Countries to Promoting Well-being'
Basurrah, A., Al-HajBaddar, M., & Di Blasi, Z. (2022) 'Positive Psychology Interventions as an Opportunity in Arab Countries to Promoting Well-being'. Frontiers in psychology, 12 (793608)   [DOI] [Details]
(2021)'Pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional: A cross-sectional study of positive psychology variables in chronic back pain'
Dillane, M., Murphy, M., O'Sullivan, D., Di Blasi, Z. (2021) 'Pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional: A cross-sectional study of positive psychology variables in chronic back pain'. European Journal of Applied Positive Psychology, 5 (16)   [Details]
(2021)'Telephone-coaching while walking during COVID-19: A pilot study'
Di Blasi, Z., Palmer, S. & McCall, J. (2021) 'Telephone-coaching while walking during COVID-19: A pilot study'. Journal of Ecopsychology, 1 (4):1-13   [Details]
(2021)'In Memory of Edward Diener: Reflections on His Career, Contributions and the Science of Happiness'
Ng, W.Tov, W. Veenhoven, R. Rothmann, S.n Chambel, M.. J. Chen,Sufen Cole, M. L. Consiglio, Chiara Costantini, Arianna Datu, Jesus Alfonso Daep; Di Blasi, Zelda; Gumbau,Susana Llorens Huber; Alexandra Kelders,Saskia M. Klibert, Jeff Knoop, H. H. Mayer, CH. Nel, M. Salanova, M.; Schotanus-Dijkstra,M. Shankland, R. Shimazu; A. ten Klooster; P. M. Vera, Maria Zondervan-Zwijnenburg, Maria A. J., van Zyl L. E. (2021) 'In Memory of Edward Diener: Reflections on His Career, Contributions and the Science of Happiness'. Frontiers in psychology, 12   [DOI] [Details]
(2021)'تدخلات علم النفس الإيجابي كفرصة في البلاد'
Basurrah, A., Al-HajBaddar, M., & Di Blasi, Z. (2021) 'تدخلات علم النفس الإيجابي كفرصة في البلاد'. Middle East Journal of Positive Psychology, 7 :30-40   [Details]
(2021)'Natural or Urban Campus Walks and Vitality in University Students: Exploratory Qualitative Findings from a Pilot Randomised Controlled Study'
Shrestha T;Di Blasi Z;Cassarino M; (2021) 'Natural or Urban Campus Walks and Vitality in University Students: Exploratory Qualitative Findings from a Pilot Randomised Controlled Study'. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18 (4) [DOI] [Details]
(2021)'Effects of positive psychology interventions in Arab countries: a protocol for a systematic review'
Asma Basurrah, Louise Lambert, Annalisa Setti, Mike Murphy, Meg Warren, Topaz Shrestha, Zelda Di Blasi (2021) 'Effects of positive psychology interventions in Arab countries: a protocol for a systematic review'. Bmj Open, 11 (e052477) [DOI] [Details]
(2021)'Dental patient reported outcome and oral health-related quality of life measures: protocol for a systematic evidence map of reviews'
Beecher, Darragh; James, Patrice; Browne, John; Di Blasi, Zelda; Harding, Máiréad; Whelton, Helen (2021) 'Dental patient reported outcome and oral health-related quality of life measures: protocol for a systematic evidence map of reviews'. BDJ Open, 7 (1) [DOI] [Full Text] [Details]
(2019)'Reflections on walking for enhancing creativity and wellbeing: a way forward for coaching and coaching psychology practice'
Palmer, S. & Di Blasi, Z. (2019) 'Reflections on walking for enhancing creativity and wellbeing: a way forward for coaching and coaching psychology practice'. Coaching Psychology International, 12 (1):19-24   [Details]
(2017)'Re: Making Mindset Matter'
Di Blasi, Z. (2017) 'Re: Making Mindset Matter'. Bmj-British Medical Journal, 356 (j674) [DOI] [Details]
(2016)'The effect of patient-practitioner communication on pain: a systematic review'
Mistiaen, P., van Osch, M., van Vliet, L., Howick, J., Bishop, F., Di Blasi, Z., Bensing, J. (2016) 'The effect of patient-practitioner communication on pain: a systematic review'. European Journal of Pain,   [DOI] [Details]
(2014)'Risk factors for repetition of self-harm: a systematic review of prospective hospital-based studies'
Larkin C, Di Blasi Z;Arensman E (2014) 'Risk factors for repetition of self-harm: a systematic review of prospective hospital-based studies'. Plos One, 9 (1) [DOI] [Details]
(2014)'Perceived social support and neuroticism interact in predicting depression level among depressed university students'
Dwyer, A., Murphy, M., Di Blasi, Z. (2014) 'Perceived social support and neuroticism interact in predicting depression level among depressed university students'. Irish Journal of Psychology (Special Issue), [Details]
(2013)'Self-cutting versus intentional overdose: Psychological risk factors'
Larkin, C;Di Blasi, Z;Arensman, E (2013) 'Self-cutting versus intentional overdose: Psychological risk factors'. Medical Hypotheses, 81 :347-354 [DOI] [Details]
(2013)'Combined flow in musical jam sessions: A pilot qualitative study'
Hart, E. and Di Blasi, Z. (2013) 'Combined flow in musical jam sessions: A pilot qualitative study'. Psychology of Music, [Details]
(2011)'Sharing and borrowing prescription medication: a survey of Irish college students'
Goulding, E;Murphy, M;Di Blasi, Z (2011) 'Sharing and borrowing prescription medication: a survey of Irish college students'. Irish Journal of Medicine, 180 :687-690 [DOI] [Details]
(2011)'Experiences of sleep paralysis in a sample of Irish university students'
O'Hanlon, J,Murphy, M,Di Blasi, Z (2011) 'Experiences of sleep paralysis in a sample of Irish university students'. Irish journal of medical science, 180 :917-919 [DOI] [Details]
(2010)'The effect of varying practitioner communication on patients' health status and treatment outcomes'
Verheul, W., Mistiaen, P., Di Blasi, Z., Kok, L., van Dulmen, Bensing, S.J.; (2010) 'The effect of varying practitioner communication on patients' health status and treatment outcomes'. Cochrane Library,   [Full Text] [Details]
(2005)'Reactions to treatment debriefing in the participants of a placebo controlled RCT'
Di Blasi Z, Crawford F, Bradley C, Kleijnen J.; (2005) 'Reactions to treatment debriefing in the participants of a placebo controlled RCT'. BioMed Central Health Service Research, 5 (1):30-38   [Full Text] [Details]
(2005)'Placebos in medicine: medical paradoxes need disentangling'
Di Blasi, Z., Reilly, D.; (2005) 'Placebos in medicine: medical paradoxes need disentangling'. British Medical Journal, 330 (7481):45-*   [Full Text] [Details]
(2005)'Bias control in bodywork therapies: a review of methodological issues'
Mehling, W., Di Blasi, Z., Hecht R.; (2005) 'Bias control in bodywork therapies: a review of methodological issues'. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 11 (2):333-342   [Full Text] [Details]
(2003)'Context effects: Powerful therapies or methodological bias?'
Di Blasi, Z., & Kleijnen, J. ; (2003) 'Context effects: Powerful therapies or methodological bias?'. Evaluation and the Health Professions, 26 (2):79-166   [Details]
(2001)'Influence of context effects on health outcomes: a systematic review'
Di Blasi, Z., Harkness E., Ernst E., Georgiou, A., & Kleijnen J.; (2001) 'Influence of context effects on health outcomes: a systematic review'. Lancet, 10 (357):757-762   [Details]

Book Chapters

 YearPublication
(2019)'The Effectiveness, Feasibility and Acceptability of a Mindfulness-Based Intervention in Two Irish Primary Schools'
Di Blasi, Z. & Rice, A. (2019) 'The Effectiveness, Feasibility and Acceptability of a Mindfulness-Based Intervention in Two Irish Primary Schools' In: Van Zyl L., Rothmann Sr. S (eds). Evidence-Based Positive Psychological Interventions in Multi-Cultural Contexts. Cham: Springer. [DOI] [Details]
(2019)'The effects of using socio-culturally targeted communications on the uptake and adherence to Positive Psychology Interventions'
Moran, J., Di Blasi, Z., Setti, A. (2019) 'The effects of using socio-culturally targeted communications on the uptake and adherence to Positive Psychology Interventions' In: Positive Psychological Interventions: Evidence-based practices for multi-cultural contexts (vol. 3). Dordrecht, The Netherlands: Springer International. [Details]
(2019)'Evidence-Based Positive Psychological Interventions in Multi-Cultural Contexts'
Moran J., Di Blasi Z., Setti A. (2019) 'Evidence-Based Positive Psychological Interventions in Multi-Cultural Contexts' In: Van Zyl L., Rothmann Sr. S (eds). The Effects of Using Socio-culturally Targeted Communications on the Uptake and Adherence to Positive Psychology Interventions. Cham: Springer. [DOI] [Details]
(2013)'Breaking Points and Turning Points: The Lived Experience of Emergency Department Self- Harm Patients'
Larkin, C., Di Blasi, Z., Arensman, E. (2013) 'Breaking Points and Turning Points: The Lived Experience of Emergency Department Self- Harm Patients' In: Self-cutting and Prospective Repetition of Self-Harm: Studies of Emergency Department Presentations in Ireland. University College Cork: PhD Dissertation. [Details]
(2019)'The crack in the biomedical box: The placebo effect'
Di Blasi, Zelda (2019) 'The crack in the biomedical box: The placebo effect' In: Geraldine Lee-Treweek, Tom Heller, Susan Spurr, Hilary MacQueen, Jeanne Katz (eds). Perspectives on complementary and alternative medicine:. London: Taylor and Francis. [DOI] [Details]
(1998)'Systematic reviews and meta-analyses: Opportunities and Threats'
Russell, I., Di Blasi, Z., Lambert, M., & Russell, D; (1998) 'Systematic reviews and meta-analyses: Opportunities and Threats' In: Evidence-based fertility treatment. London: Royal College of General Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. [Details]

Other Journals

 YearPublication
(2004)'Remarkable recoveries: individual potential for healing'
Di Blasi, Z; (2004) 'Remarkable recoveries: individual potential for healing' Positive Health, 103 :13-24.   [Details]
(2004)'The Placebo effect: bridging the gap between conventional and alternative medicine. Guide to Integrative Medicine'
Di Blasi, Z; (2004) 'The Placebo effect: bridging the gap between conventional and alternative medicine. Guide to Integrative Medicine' Integrative Medicine Network at UCSF, :60-68. [Details]
(2003)'The crack in the biomedical box'
Di Blasi, Z. (2003) 'The crack in the biomedical box' Psychologist, 16 (2) :72-75. [Details]
(2002)'Creative Consulting: More about placebos?'
Reilly, D. & Di Blasi, Z.; (2002) 'Creative Consulting: More about placebos?' Student British Medical Journal, 10 (*) :61-63. [Full Text] [Details]
(2002)'CREATE--A Postgraduate Student Initiative to Promote Further Training and Support for Early Career Health Psychologists'
Hevey, D., Di Blasi Zelda, Hall, S., Absetz, P.; (2002) 'CREATE--A Postgraduate Student Initiative to Promote Further Training and Support for Early Career Health Psychologists' European Psychologist, 5 (2) :169-170. [Details]
(1995)'The great outburst of dance ecstasy'
Di Blasi Z; (1995) 'The great outburst of dance ecstasy' The Irish Psychologist, 21 (1) :78-79. [Details]

Conference Publications

 YearPublication
(2021)Psychological Society of Ireland Annual Conference 2021
Cassarino M. & Setti A (Symposium Co-Chairs), O'Brien J., Mason A., Chan J., Shrestha T., Di Blasi Z., O'Meara A., Hearn C., Bolger A., Atkins R. (2021) [Symposium] Advancing Psychological research to foster people's wellbeing through interactions with outdoor spaces: Evidence on the role of nature, vulnerability, and technology Psychological Society of Ireland Annual Conference 2021 Online, , 11-NOV-21 - 12-NOV-21 [Details]
(2010)PSYCHOGENIC CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE CONFERENCE
Murphy, M; O'Sullivan , D; Gallagher,J; DI Blasi,Z; Hammond, S and O'Rourke, M; (2010) Cardiac Misconceptions, Type D Personality and Physical Activity in a sample of young adults PSYCHOGENIC CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE CONFERENCE [Details]
(2009)39th Annual Psychological Society of Ireland Conference
Beecher, D., Whelton, H., Di Blasi, Z., O'Mullane, D., Browne, D. & Flannery E. (2009) What do Health-Related Quality of Life Measures Really Measure? 39th Annual Psychological Society of Ireland Conference Wexford, Ireland, [Details]
(2006)36th Psychological Society of Ireland Annual Conference
Crowley, D, Browne, D., Whelton, H., Flannery, E., Di Blasi, Z., Porteous, P. & O'Mullane, D. (2006) Investigation of the Relationship Between Oral Health and Health-Related Quality of Life 36th Psychological Society of Ireland Annual Conference Galway, Ireland, [Details]
(2010)EHPS (European Health Psychology Society) 23rd Annual Conference 2009
Di Blasi, Z., O'Reilly Trace A., & Bourgoyne L.; (2010) The role of mindfulness in first year psychology lectures on attention, wellbeing and academic performance . In: Psychology and Health, Vol. 24, Supplement 1 eds. EHPS (European Health Psychology Society) 23rd Annual Conference 2009 Pisa, Italy, , 23-SEP-09 - 27-SEP-09 [Details]
(2009)EHPS (European Health Psychology Society) 23rd Annual Conference 2009
Larkin, C. & Di Blasi, Z.; (2009) Optimism, biofeedback and nocebo responding . In: Psychology and Health, Vol. 24, Supplement 1 eds. EHPS (European Health Psychology Society) 23rd Annual Conference 2009 Pisa, Italy, , 23-SEP-09 - 27-SEP-09 , pp.242-243 [Details]

Published Reports

 YearPublication
(2003)Exploring context effects: from the science of the placebo to the art of human care.
Di Blasi Z; (2003) Exploring context effects: from the science of the placebo to the art of human care. . [Details]
(2001)Scoping review of the effectiveness of mental health services.
Jepson, R., Di Blasi, Z., & Ter Riet, G; (2001) Scoping review of the effectiveness of mental health services. NHS Center for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, UK.   [Details]
(2000)Consultations at Glasgow Homeopathic Hospital.
Di Blasi, Z., & Kleijnen, J; (2000) Consultations at Glasgow Homeopathic Hospital. Report to the Fetzer Institute, USA. [Details]
(2000)Health and patient-practitioner interactions.
Di Blasi, Z., Harkness, E., Ernst, E., Georgiou, A., & Kleijnen, J; (2000) Health and patient-practitioner interactions. Report to the Fetzer Institute, USA. [Details]
(1998)The rise in emergency admissions.
Crossen-White, H., Moss, P., Di Blasi, Z., Lambert, M.L., & Russell, I; (1998) The rise in emergency admissions. Report to the West Midlands NHS Executive, Report to the West Midlands NHS Executive. [Details]

Abstract

 YearPublication
(2010)Constructing health: Doctors, alternative therapists and patients.
Morrisroe, R,Di Blasi, Z,Evans, D (2010) Constructing health: Doctors, alternative therapists and patients. Abstract [Details]
(2010)Health, optimism and mindfulness: Exploring relationships using self-report measures.
Morrisroe, R,Di Blasi, Z,Evans, D (2010) Health, optimism and mindfulness: Exploring relationships using self-report measures. Abstract [Details]
(2009)Optimism, biofeedback and nocebo responding.
Larkin, C,Di Blasi, Z (2009) Optimism, biofeedback and nocebo responding. Abstract [Details]

Book Reviews

 YearPublication
(1998)Lifestyle management for patients with coronary heart disease. Psychology and Health.
Di Blasi, Z; (1998) Lifestyle management for patients with coronary heart disease. Psychology and Health. Book Reviews [Details]

Reviews

 YearPublication
(2014)Risk Factors for Repetition of Self-Harm: A Systematic Review of Prospective Hospital-Based Studies.
Larkin, C,Di Blasi, Z,Arensman, E (2014) Risk Factors for Repetition of Self-Harm: A Systematic Review of Prospective Hospital-Based Studies. Reviews [DOI] [Details]

Professional Activities

Honours and Awards

 YearTitleAwarding Body
2007President's Award for Research on Innovative forms of Teaching and Learning UCC
2013President's Award for Research on Innovative Forms of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education University College Cork
2004Post-doctoral Fellowship National Institutes of Health
2000PhD Studentship Medical Research Council

Professional Associations

 AssociationFunctionFrom / To
Psychological Society of Ireland member01-FEB-12 /
International Society for Coaching Psychology (ISCP) International Centre for Coaching Psychology Research. International Advisory Board01-MAR-18 /
British Psychological Society Chartered Member18-MAY-15 /

Conference Contributions

 YearPublication
(2020)10th International Congress of Coaching Psychology,
Di Blasi, Z., Palmer, S., McCall, J. (2020) Telephone walking while talking during the pandemic. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], 10th International Congress of Coaching Psychology, London , 06-OCT-20 - 09-OCT-20. [Details]
(2019)9th International Congress for Coaching Psychology,
Di Blasi, Z., Palmer, S. (2019) Ecopsychology Executive Coaching: A one year follow-up study examining the influence of “walk-and-talk” vs “Sit and talk” coaching sessions. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], 9th International Congress for Coaching Psychology, London , 10-OCT-19 - 10-NOV-19. [Details]
(2018)8th International Congress for Coaching Psychology,
Di Blasi, Z., Palmer, S. & McCall, J. (2018) Executive Ecopsychology: A pilot study. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], 8th International Congress for Coaching Psychology, London , 11-OCT-18 - 12-OCT-18. [Details]
(2017)Society for Interdisciplinary Placebo Studies conference,
Logan-Lane, S., Di Blasi, Z., Murphy, M. (2017) The effect of Lucozade Sport on performance enhancement and endurance: a double-blind placebo-controlled trial. [Poster Presentation], Society for Interdisciplinary Placebo Studies conference, Leiden, the Netherlands , 02-APR-17 - 04-APR-17. [Details]
(2017)Society for Interdisciplinary Placebo Studies conference,
Di Blasi, Z., Twohig, A., Clifford, S. (2017) Best Possible Self: A Randomised Placebo-Controlled Trial. [Poster Presentation], Society for Interdisciplinary Placebo Studies conference, Leiden, the Netherlands , 02-APR-17 - 04-APR-17. [Details]
(2017)Society for Interdisciplinary Placebo Studies conference,
O’Donnell, T., Di Blasi, Z. & Murphy, M. (2017) The Effects of oral Bach flower remedy versus a Placebo, enhanced interaction, and Cognitive reappraisal on Physiological Stress Response. [Poster Presentation], Society for Interdisciplinary Placebo Studies conference, Leiden, the Netherlands , 02-APR-17 - 04-APR-17. [Details]
(2017)Psychology, Health and Medicine Conference,
O’Donnell, T., Di Blasi, Z. & Murphy, M. (2017) The Effects of oral Bach flower remedy versus a Placebo, enhanced interaction, and Cognitive reappraisal on Physiological Stress Response. [Poster Presentation], Psychology, Health and Medicine Conference, Royal College of Surgeons, Dublin , 03-MAR-17 - 03-MAR-17. [Details]
(2017)Psychology, Health and Medicine Conference,
Logan-Lane, S., Di Blasi, Z., Murphy, M. (2017) The effect of Lucozade Sport on performance enhancement and endurance: a double-blind placebo-controlled trial. [Poster Presentation], Psychology, Health and Medicine Conference, Royal College of Surgeons, Dublin , 03-MAR-17 - 03-MAR-17. [Details]
(2017)Psychology, Health and Medicine Conference,
Clarke, N., Di Blasi, Z., Murphy, M. (2017) Instagram use, body-esteem and eating disorders. [Poster Presentation], Psychology, Health and Medicine Conference, Royal College of Surgeons, Dublin , 03-MAR-17 - 03-MAR-17. [Details]
(2017)Psychology, Health and Medicine Conference,
Anderson, J., Di Blasi, Z., Murphy, M. (2017) Investigating the possible placebo effect of consuming pre-workout and the effect on powerlifting performance. [Poster Presentation], Psychology, Health and Medicine Conference, Royal College of Surgeons, Dublin , 03-MAR-17 - 03-MAR-17. [Details]
(2017)Society for Interdisciplinary Placebo Studies conference,
Di Blasi, Z., Murphy, M., Forde, S., Logan Lane, J., (2017) The Effects of Intranasal Oxytocin on Cardiovascular and Psychological Stress Response: A double blind placebo-controlled RCT. [Oral Presentation], Society for Interdisciplinary Placebo Studies conference, Leiden, the Netherlands , 02-APR-17 - 04-APR-17. [Details]
(2017)Society for Interdisciplinary Placebo Studies Conference,
Anderson, J., Di Blasi, Z., Murphy, M. (2017) Investigating the possible placebo effect of consuming pre-workout and the effect on powerlifting performance. [Poster Presentation], Society for Interdisciplinary Placebo Studies Conference, Leiden, the Netherlands , 02-APR-17 - 04-APR-17. [Details]
(2017)Society for Interdisciplinary Placebo Studies conference,
Di Blasi, Z., Teahan, A., Bruton, L., Hammond, S., Murphy, M.  (2017) The influence of the practitioner-patient relationship on pain perception: a placebo-controlled RCT. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], Society for Interdisciplinary Placebo Studies conference, Leiden, the Netherlands , 02-APR-17 - 04-APR-17. [Details]
(2015)Innovations in Health Psychology,
Zelda Di Blasi, Sinéad Forde, Janelle Logan Lane, Michael Murphy (2015) The Effects of Intranasal Oxytocin on Cardiovascular and Psychological Stress Response: A double blind placebo-controlled RCT. [Poster Presentation], Innovations in Health Psychology, NUI Galway , 08-JUN-15 - 08-JUN-15. [Details]
(2015)Innovations in Health Psychology:
 Celebrating 21 years of Health Psychology at NUI Galway,
Blasi, Z., Teahan, A., Bruton, L., Murphy, M. (2015) The influence of the practitioner-patient relationship on pain perception: a placebo-controlled RCT. [Poster Presentation], Innovations in Health Psychology:
 Celebrating 21 years of Health Psychology at NUI Galway, Galway , 08-JUN-15 - 08-JUN-15. [Details]
(2013)The XXVI World Congress of the International Association for Suicide Prevention,
Larkin, C., Di Blasi, Z., Arensman, E. (2013) Risk factors for repetition of self-harm: A systematic review of hospital based studies. [Oral Presentation], The XXVI World Congress of the International Association for Suicide Prevention, Oslo, Norway , 24-SEP-13 - 28-SEP-13. [Details]
(2012)Psychological Society of Ireland Annual Conference,
Murphy, M., Hennessy, E., O'Sullivan, D. & Di Blasi, Z. (2012) Direct and Stress-Buffering Effects of Social Support: Real and Virtual?. [Oral Presentation], Psychological Society of Ireland Annual Conference, Cork, Ireland , 08-NOV-12 - 11-NOV-12. [Details]
(2011)International Association for Suicide Prevention, 26th World Conference,
Larkin, C., Di Blasi, Z., Aresnman, E. (2011) Risk factors for repetition of self-harm: a systematic review of prospective hospital-based studies. [Oral Presentation], International Association for Suicide Prevention, 26th World Conference, Beijing, China , 13-SEP-11 - 17-SEP-11. [Details]
(2012)14th European Symposium of Suicide and Suicidal Behaviour,
Larkin, C., Di Blasi, Z., Arensman, E. (2012) How do self-harm repeaters make sense of their experience? An interpretative phenomenological analysis of emergency department patients' accounts. [Oral Presentation], 14th European Symposium of Suicide and Suicidal Behaviour, Tel Aviv, Israel , 03-SEP-12 - 06-SEP-12. [Details]
(2012)14th European Symposium of Suicide and Suicidal Bhaviour,
Larkin, C., Di Blasi, Z., Arensman, E. (2012) Risk factors for repetition of self-harm: a systematic review of prospective hospital based studies. [Poster Presentation], 14th European Symposium of Suicide and Suicidal Bhaviour, Tel Aviv, Israel , 03-SEP-12 - 06-SEP-12. [Details]
(2012)NHS Health Service Research Network Symposium,
Larkin, C., Di Blasi, Z., Arensman, E. (2012) Hospital emergency department presentations of self-harm: An interpretative phenomenological analysis of patient experience. [Oral Presentation], NHS Health Service Research Network Symposium, Manchester, UK , 19-JUN-12 - 20-JUN-12. [Details]
(2012)Psychological Society of Ireland, 42nd Annual Conference,
Di Blasi, Z., Dockray, S., O'Leary, K. (2012) The Heart and Science of Positive Psychology. [Invited Lectures (Workshops)], Psychological Society of Ireland, 42nd Annual Conference, Cork, Ireland , 22-NOV-12 - 25-NOV-12. [Details]
(2012)Psychological Society of Ireland, 42nd Annual Conference,
Murphy, M., Hennessy, E., O'Sullivan, D., Di Blasi, Z. (2012) Direct and stress buffering effects of social support: real or virtual?. [Oral Presentation], Psychological Society of Ireland, 42nd Annual Conference, Rochestown Hotel, Cork, Ireland , 22-NOV-12 - 25-NOV-12. [Details]
(2012)Psychological Society of Ireland, 42nd Annual Conference,
O'Leary, K., Di Blasi, Z., O'Sullivan, D. (2012) Grateful during pregnancy. [Poster Presentation], Psychological Society of Ireland, 42nd Annual Conference, Rochestown Hotel, Cork, Ireland , 22-NOV-12 - 25-NOV-12. [Details]
(2012)Psychological Society of Ireland, 42nd Annual Conference,
O'Leary, K., Dockray, S., Di Blasi, Z. (2012) The effect of gratitude and mindful interventions on levels of gratitude and mindfulness. [Oral Presentation], Psychological Society of Ireland, 42nd Annual Conference, Rochestown Hotel, Cork, Ireland , 22-NOV-12 - 25-NOV-12. [Details]
(2011)International Association for Suicide Prevention 26th World Congress,
Larkin, C., Di Blasi, Z., Arensman, E. (2011) Risk factors for repetition of self-harm: A systematic review of prospective hospital-based studies. [Oral Presentation], International Association for Suicide Prevention 26th World Congress, Beijing, China , 13-SEP-12 - 17-SEP-12. [Details]
(2011)Irish Association of Suicidology 15th Annual Conference,
Larkin, C., Di Blasi, Z., Aresnman, E. (2011) Risk factors for repetition of self-harm: A systematic review of prospective hospital-based studies. [Oral Presentation], Irish Association of Suicidology 15th Annual Conference, Sligo, Ireland , 05-OCT-11 - 06-OCT-11. [Details]
(2011)International Society for the Study of Self-Injury 6th Annual Meeting,
Larkin, C., Di Blasi, Z., Arensman, E. (2011) Risk factors for repetition of self-harm: A systematic review of prospective hospital-based studies. [Oral Presentation], International Society for the Study of Self-Injury 6th Annual Meeting, Fordham University, New York City, USA , 24-JUN-12 - 26-JUN-12. [Details]
(2011)Psychological Society of Ireland, 41st Annual Conference,
Dwyer, A., Murphy, M., Di Blasi, Z., O'Sullivan, D. (2011) Social Support and Personality: Additive or Interactive in Predicting Happiness?. [Oral Presentation], Psychological Society of Ireland, 41st Annual Conference, Galway, Ireland , 10-NOV-11 - 13-NOV-11. [Details]
(2011)Psychological Society of Ireland, 41st Annual Conference,
Goulding, E., Murphy, M., Di Blasi, Z. (2011) Prescription medication borrowing and sharing among Irish college students. [Oral Presentation], Psychological Society of Ireland, 41st Annual Conference, Galway, Ireland , 10-NOV-11 - 13-NOV-11. [Details]
(2010)Psychogenic Cardiovascular Disease Conference,
Murphy, M., O'Sullivan, D., Gallagher, J., Di Blasi, Z., Hammond, S. & O'Rourke, M.; (2010) Cardiac misconceptions, Type D personality and physical activity in a sample of young adults. [Poster Presentation], Psychogenic Cardiovascular Disease Conference, Prato, Italy , 01-SEP-10 - 04-SEP-10. [Details]
(2010)31st World Conference on Stress and Anxiety Research,
Kearney, G., Di Blasi, Z., Murphy, M. & O'Sullivan, D.; (2010) What Makes the Heart Sing? The Effects of a Gratitude Intervention on Happiness Levels among Irish University Students. [Oral Presentation], 31st World Conference on Stress and Anxiety Research, Galway, Ireland , 04-AUG-10 - 06-AUG-10. [Details]
(2010)7th Annual Conference of the Psychological Society of Ireland Division of Health Psychology in association with the Division of Health Psychology of the British Psychological Society, Northern Ireland Branch,
Larkin, C., Di Blasi , Z. & Arensman, E.; (2010) Risk factors for repeated deliberate self-harm: a prospective study of emergency department presentations. [Poster Presentation], 7th Annual Conference of the Psychological Society of Ireland Division of Health Psychology in association with the Division of Health Psychology of the British Psychological Society, Northern Ireland Branch, Royal College of Surgeons, Dublin, Ireland , 31-MAR-10 - 31-MAR-10. [Details]
(2010)24th European Health Psychology Society Conference (EHPS) Annual Conference: Health in context,
Morrisroe, R., Di Blasi, Z., & Evans, D.; (2010) Health, optimism and mindfulness: Exploring relationships using self-report measures. [Oral Presentation], 24th European Health Psychology Society Conference (EHPS) Annual Conference: Health in context, Cluj-Napoca, Romania , 01-SEP-10 - 04-SEP-10. [Details]
(2010)7th Annual Conference of the Psychological Society of Ireland Division of Health Psychology in association with the Division of Health Psychology of the British Psychological Society, Northern Ireland Branch,
Morrisroe, R., Di Blasi, Z., Evans, D.; (2010) Health, optimism and mindfulness: exploring relationships using self-report measures. [Poster Presentation], 7th Annual Conference of the Psychological Society of Ireland Division of Health Psychology in association with the Division of Health Psychology of the British Psychological Society, Northern Ireland Branch, Royal College of Surgeons, Dublin, Ireland , 31-MAR-10 - 31-MAR-10. [Details]
(2009)23rd European Health Psychology Society (EHPS) Annual Conference 2009,
DiBlasi, Z., O'Reilly-Trace, A., & Bourgoyne, L; (2009) The Role of Mindfulness in First Year Psychology lectures on attention, well-being and academic performance. [Poster Presentation], 23rd European Health Psychology Society (EHPS) Annual Conference 2009, Italy , 01-OCT-09 - 31-OCT-09. [Details]
(2008)NAIRTL (National Academy for Integration of Research & Teaching & Learning) Conference 2008: Challenging Assumptions,
Di Blasi, Z., O'Reilly, A. & Burgoyne, L. ; (2008) The Role of Mindfulness in First Year Psychology Lectures. [Peer Reviewed Published Proceedings], NAIRTL (National Academy for Integration of Research & Teaching & Learning) Conference 2008: Challenging Assumptions, Waterford Institute of Technology, Ireland , 13-NOV-07 - 14-MAR-08. [Details]
(2008)National Academy for Integration of Research & Teaching & Learning (NAIRTL). Teaching and Learning in Higher Education: Challenging Assumptions,
Di Blasi, Z., Reilly, A. Burgoyne, L.; (2008) The Role of Mindfulness in First year Psychology Lectures. [Oral Presentation], National Academy for Integration of Research & Teaching & Learning (NAIRTL). Teaching and Learning in Higher Education: Challenging Assumptions, Waterford Institute of Technology, Ireland , 13-NOV-08 - 14-NOV-08. [Details]
(2008)The role of mindfulness in first year Psychology lectures,
DiBlasi, Z., Trace, A., & Borgoyne, L. ; (2008) The role of mindfulness in first year Psychology lectures. [Oral Presentation], The role of mindfulness in first year Psychology lectures, National Academy for the Integration of Research, Teaching and Learning Conference , 01-JAN-08 - 31-DEC-08. [Details]
(2008)UCC/Cork University Hospital Teaching Day,
Goulding, E. & Di Blasi, Z; (2008) Another Man's Poison: Students Sharing Prescription Medicines. [Oral Presentation], UCC/Cork University Hospital Teaching Day, Cork, Ireland , 03-JAN-08 - 03-JAN-08. [Details]
(2007)37th Psychological Society of Ireland Annual Conference,
Beecher, T., Whelton, H., Di Blasi, Z; (2007) Investigation of the relationship between oral health and health-related quality of life. [Oral Presentation], 37th Psychological Society of Ireland Annual Conference, Galway, Ireland , 01-JAN-07 - 01-JAN-07. [Details]
(2007)Health Day, Cork University Hospital conference,
Lenane, G. & Di Blasi, Z; (2007) The Irish Adonis: Male Body Dissatisfaction and its Association with Media, Fitness and Happiness. [Oral Presentation], Health Day, Cork University Hospital conference, Cork, Ireland , 01-JAN-07 - 01-JAN-07. [Details]
(2007)Group Health,
Di Blasi, Z; (2007) When Irish Eyes are Smiling: a short course in happiness. [Invited Seminars/Guest Lectures], Group Health, Seattle , 05-JAN-07 - 05-JAN-07. [Details]
(2006)36th Psychological Society of Ireland Annual Conference 2006,
Crowley, T.; Browne, D., Whelton, H., Flannery, E., Di Blasi, Z., Porteous, M., & O¿Mollane, D.; (2006) Investigation of the Relationship between Oral Health and Health-Related Quality of Life. [Conference Organising Committee Chairperson], 36th Psychological Society of Ireland Annual Conference 2006, Galway, Ireland , 09-NOV-06 - 10-NOV-06. [Details]
(2006)36th Psychological Society of Ireland Annual Conference 2006,
Crowley, T., Browne, D., Whelton, H., Flannery, E., Di Blasi, Z., Porteous, M., & O'Mollane, D.; (2006) The Impact of Tooth Enamel Defects (Fluorosis) on Irish Children's Quality of Life: A New Measure. [Conference Organising Committee Chairperson], 36th Psychological Society of Ireland Annual Conference 2006, Galway, Ireland , 09-NOV-06 - 12-NOV-06. [Details]
(2005)63rd Annual Scientific Conference of the American Psychosomatic Society,
Di Blasi, Z; (2005) Placebo effects in health care interactions: A systematic review. [Poster Presentation], 63rd Annual Scientific Conference of the American Psychosomatic Society, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada , 01-JAN-05 - 01-JAN-05. [Details]
(2004)Group Health,
Di Blasi, Z; (2004) From the Science of the Placebo to the Art of Human Care. [Invited Oral Presentation], Group Health, Seattle , 01-JAN-04 - 01-JAN-04. [Details]
(2004)Holistic Healing,
Di Blasi, Z; (2004) The Science and Art of the Placebo Effect. [Invited Lectures (Workshops)], Holistic Healing, San Francisco State University, CA , 03-JAN-04 - 03-JAN-04. [Details]
(2004)California Institute of Integral Studies,
Di Blasi, Z; (2004) The Powerless Placebo. [Invited Seminars/Guest Lectures], California Institute of Integral Studies, San Francisco, CA , 01-JAN-04 - 01-JAN-04. [Details]
(2003)17th European Health Psychology Conference,
Di Blasi, Z; (2003) Placebo effects and patient-practitioner interactions: A systematic review of randomised controlled trials. [Oral Presentation], 17th European Health Psychology Conference, Kos, Greece , 01-JAN-03 - 01-JAN-03. [Details]
(2003)Women Health Resource Center,
Di Blasi, Z; (2003) The Placebo Effect: The crack in the biomedical box. [Invited Lectures (Workshops)], Women Health Resource Center, UCSF , 03-JAN-03 - 03-JAN-03. [Details]
(2003)Brown Bag Lecture Series. Osher Center for Integrative Medicine,
Di Blasi, Z; (2003) The Placebo Effect: The crack in the biomedical box. [Invited Oral Presentation], Brown Bag Lecture Series. Osher Center for Integrative Medicine, UCSF , 01-JAN-03 - 01-JAN-03. [Details]
(2003)1st Bay Area Biomedical Symposium,
Di Blasi, Z; (2003) Placebo unmasking: Are trial participants told what they got at study closure?. [Oral Presentation], 1st Bay Area Biomedical Symposium, San Francisco, CA , 04-JAN-03 - 04-JAN-03. [Details]
(2002)Annual General Practitioners of Ireland Conference,
Di Blasi, Z.; (2002) Influence of context effects on health outcomes: A systematic review. [Oral Presentation], Annual General Practitioners of Ireland Conference, Cork, Ireland , 08-JAN-02 - 08-JAN-02. [Details]
(2002)Annual General Practice Conference,
Di Blasi, Z; (2002) Placebo unmasking: Are trial participants told what they got?. [Oral Presentation], Annual General Practice Conference, University College Cork, Ireland , 01-JAN-02 - 01-JAN-02. [Details]
(2002)Department of General Practice,
Di Blasi, Z; (2002) The Science and. Art of the Placebo Effect. [Invited Oral Presentation], Department of General Practice, University College Cork, Ireland , 04-JAN-02 - 04-JAN-02. [Details]
(2002)Complementary and Alternative Medicine Association,
Di Blasi, Z; (2002) The placebo effect: The discredited sister of scientific medicine. [Invited Oral Presentation], Complementary and Alternative Medicine Association, Liverpool, UK , 02-JAN-02 - 02-JAN-02. [Details]
(2000)14th Annual European Health Psychology Conference,
Di Blasi, Z; (2000) The rise in emergency hospital admissions: A systematic review on the nature, causes and consequences. [Oral Presentation], 14th Annual European Health Psychology Conference, Florence, Italy , 01-JAN-00 - 01-JAN-00. [Details]
(2000)30th Annual Psychological Society of Ireland,
Di Blasi, Z; (2000) Emergency admissions: nature, causes, consequences. [Oral Presentation], 30th Annual Psychological Society of Ireland, Kilkenny, Ireland , 05-MAY-00 - 05-MAY-00. [Details]
(1996)10th Annual European Health Psychology Conference,
Di Blasi, Z; (1996) Skin cancer in Irish outdoor workers: knowledge and risk perceptions. [Oral Presentation], 10th Annual European Health Psychology Conference, Dublin, Ireland , 05-JAN-96 - 05-JAN-96. [Details]

Employment

 EmployerPositionFrom / To
University College Cork Lecturer06-JAN-06 /
University of York, UK. Research Fellow01-JAN-97 / 01-JAN-99
University of York,Uk Research Fellow01-JAN-99 / 01-JAN-00
University of California San Francisco, USA Post-doctoral Research Fellow in Integrative Medicine and Health Psychology22-JUL-02 / 01-JAN-05

Education

 YearInstitutionQualificationSubject
1996University College Galway MScHealth Psychology
2008University College Cork Postgraduate Diploma Teaching & Learning in Higher EducationEducation
1992University College Cork BA HONSApplied Psychology
2003University of York, UK. PhDHealth Sciences

Languages

 LanguageReadingWritingSpeaking
Italian FluentFluentFluent

Journal Activities

 JournalRoleTo / From
Frontiers In Psychology Associate Board member25-JAN-21 - 11-AUG-22
Transportation Research: Traffic Psychology & Behaviour Referee-
Cambridge University Press & Cork University Press Referee-
Irish Journal Of Psychology Referee01-JAN-07 - 01-JAN-09
British Medical Journal Referee01-JAN-03 - 01-JAN-08
Journal Of Health Service Research And Policy Referee01-JAN-01 - 01-JAN-04

Consultancy

 ClientDescription
RTE Radio interviews in Mooney Goes Wild
Consultant to the Centre for Integrative Medicine, Glasgow Homeopathic Hospital, Glasgow, Scotland
Consultant to the `Optimizing Healing Encounters study, Group Health, Seattle
Consultant to the Placebo Effect Research Group, Harvard Medical School

Teaching Activities

Teaching Interests

I am passionate about teaching Positive, Coaching and Health Psychology including theoretical, methodological and practical issues in health and wellbeing; the effectiveness of mindfulness and other positive psychology interventions in education and health; the role of positive affect in wellbeing; the placebo effect and how this can be harnessed in health care.

Currently module co-ordinator of the following courses:
AP6164 Positive Psychology in Group Settings
AP6160 Private Practice
AP6159 Positive Organisational Psychology
AP6181 Evidence Based Coaching Psychology
AP6182 Positive Psychology and Human Flourishing

Recent Postgraduates

 Graduation YearStudent NameInstitutionDegree TypeThesis Title
2015Richard Morrisroe University College CorkPHDThe Placebo Effect: Measurement By Multiple Methods
2015Karen O'Leary University College CorkPhDThe effect of positive psychological interventions on psychological and physical well-being during pregnancy
2014Mark Barry University College CorkPhDResearch into the potential of short interventions in promoting well-being among adolescents
2013Celine Larkin University College CorkPHDSelf-cutting and prospective repetition of self-harm: Studies of emergency department presentations in Ireland

Current Postgraduate Students

 StudentDegree Type
Young Anna Navin Doctoral Degree
Cullen Katie Practitioner Doctorates
Shrestha Topaz Lily Doctoral Degree

Research Information

Internal Collaborators

 NameInstituteCountry
Colin Bradley Department of General Practice, University College CorkIRELAND
Briony Supple School of Education, UCCIRELAND
Mike Murphy School of Applied Psychology, UCCIRELAND

External Collaborators

 NameOrganisation / InstituteCountry
Ted Kaptchuk Harvard Medical School
Silvana Dini European University of RomeITALY
Fred B. Bryant Department of Psychology, Loyola University of Chicago, United States of America.U.S.A.
Tom Kent South East Technological UniversityIRELAND
Professor Stephen Palmer Wales Academy for Professional Practice & Applied Research, UWTSDUNITED KINGDOM
Llewellyn Van Zyl Eindhoven University of TechnologyHOLLAND
Felicity Bishop University of SouthamptonUNITED KINGDOM

Contact details

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University College Cork

Coláiste na hOllscoile Corcaigh

College Road, Cork T12 K8AF

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