A University of Chichester psychology lecturer has received recognition for scholarly work examining the consequences of public spending cuts.
Dr Bruno De Oliveira secured the Academic Monograph prize at the 2026 British Psychological Society Book Awards.
His winning publication, released in 2025, addressed the subject of austerity.
Expressing his reaction to the recognition, Dr De Oliveira noted that the award came as a humbling acknowledgment of work addressing a subject warranting careful yet engaged discussion.
He emphasised that numerous lives and livelihoods experienced substantial transformation as a consequence of the policies under examination.
Gratitude was extended to colleagues and peers who engaged with the manuscript and contributed constructive observations.
The publication provides readers with a focused and approachable critical perspective on austerity, positioning it beyond mere fiscal approach and considering its dimensions as a political and ideological undertaking.
The analysis investigates how spending reduction measures have transformed economic landscapes, eroded social protection systems and intensified structural inequities globally.
Additionally, the work investigates alternative frameworks prioritising social investment and economic fairness.
Dr De Oliveira articulated that the book investigates how policy decisions affect mental wellbeing and encourages contemplation regarding whether governmental action and individual welfare might represent interconnected considerations.
His academic interests span psychology, public health and social policy, with particular attention devoted to deprivation, housing insecurity and societal imbalance.
A proponent of participatory action research, Dr De Oliveira incorporates those directly affected by social conditions as collaborators within investigative frameworks.
This methodology seeks to influence broader public discourse, guide policy development and assist communities by bridging scholarly inquiry with practical societal concerns.