Participate in a Psychology Research Study and Enter to Win a £20 Amazon Gift Card
Are you interested in advancing psychological research and exploring how pain impacts social interactions? The University of Reading’s Department of Psychology is currently recruiting volunteers for a fascinating in-person study, offering participants a chance to contribute to important scientific understanding—and a shot at winning a £20 Amazon voucher.
About the Study
Led by MSc Clinical Psychology student Katie at the University of Reading, this research delves into the question: “How does pain influence social behavior?” The study involves approximately one hour of engaging activities conducted in the Harry Pitt Building on the university campus. Participants will undertake a series of tasks designed to mimic social interaction scenarios, with some involving mild, safe discomfort.
What to Expect
Participants will be asked to complete:
- A computer-based game similar to ‘Where’s Wally?’ that incorporates mildly painful, but completely safe, electrical shocks to simulate pain.
- Viewing short video clips displaying various facial expressions, without any shocks.
- A few questionnaires assessing emotion regulation strategies and personality traits.
Participant Requirements
The study welcomes volunteers who meet the following criteria:
- Aged between 18 and 55 years
- Have normal or corrected-to-normal vision
- Are fluent in English
- Do not experience chronic pain conditions
Location and Commitment
- Location: University of Reading, Harry Pitt Building
- Scheduling: Flexible appointment times available — simply get in touch via email to arrange a suitable slot.
How to Participate
If you’re interested in contributing to psychological science and have some free time, please contact Katie at Reading.ac.uk">k.massey@student.reading.ac.uk for more details or to sign up.
Privacy and Ethics
Participants’ data will be kept anonymous, with options to withdraw at any point during the study. The project has received ethical approval (UREC 25/14), valid until December 31, 2028.
Join us in advancing understanding of social behaviors under pain conditions and get a chance to win a £20 Amazon voucher. We look forward to hearing from you!
Note: All activities are designed to prioritize participant safety and comfort.