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How People Adapt Through Major Life Transitions

How People Adapt Through Major Life Transitions

Investigating how self-regulation, emotion, flow, and identity shape adjustment during major life transitions.

Why Transition Matters

Major transitions can disrupt routines, identity, belonging, confidence, and direction. They also create opportunities for growth. Keith’s research examines why some people adapt effectively while others experience prolonged difficulty, and which psychological resources support healthier adjustment.

What I Study

Keith’s doctoral work focuses on self-regulation, self-control, emotion regulation, flow, psychological well-being, stress, anxiety, risky behaviour, and adjustment during major educational transitions.

Research Approach

Using longitudinal data collected across multiple time points, the research examines how psychological processes change over time and how they interact to influence adaptation. The work combines rigorous quantitative analysis with an applied focus on real human experiences of change. The longitudinal study follows students across multiple stages of the transition into university, examining how regulation, emotion, behaviour, and well-being develop over time.

Broader Contribution

This research contributes to a wider programme of work on identity, regulation, resilience, and human adaptation. Its aim is to support the development of stronger educational practices, transition programmes, and psychologically informed interventions.

Interested in Research or Collaboration?