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Social sciences
- Health psychology
- Sociology of health
Liesbet Goubert, Professor of Clinical Health Psychology and chair of the Ghent Health Psychology Lab, applies for BOF Basic Funding 2024-2027 to advance research on psychosocial mechanisms in pediatric and adult chronic pain and cancer care, emphasizing the patient’s social environment. Her interdisciplinary research program currently examines structural and social stigma associated with chronic pain and opioid usage, and explores family dynamics in cancer care. With over 180 peer-reviewed articles, a book on pediatric pain, and 16 book chapters, Liesbet Goubert's work has had a significant impact in the field, recognized by awards such as the British Pain Society Medal (2017). The proposed funding will be used to execute studies designed to deepen insights into stigma in chronic pain and opioid use, and to examine family dynamics within cancer care, each with implications for reducing stigma and enhancing patient and family well-being.