Uk-Based Nigerian Scholar Introduces Groundbreaking Research on Stress and Emotional Resilience

Dr. Kennedy Oberhiri Obohwemu, a Nigerian academic based in the UK, has introduced a groundbreaking psychological framework centered on stress management and emotional resilience. His latest work presents the Self-Comforting Attitude Theory (SCAT) and the Self-Comforting Attitude Scale (SCAS), innovative tools designed to understand individuals' perceptions and responses to emotional distress.

As a lecturer at Oxford Brookes University and the Global Banking School in Birmingham, Dr. Obohwemu's model has garnered international attention for its relevance in mental health and behavioral science. Published in Mental Health & Prevention, a peer-reviewed journal under Elsevier, the research delves into how mindset and belief systems influence coping behaviors, moving beyond traditional views of resilience.

SCAT and SCAS complement his earlier contributions: the Self-Comforting and Coping Theory (SCCT) and the Self-Comforting and Coping Scale (SCCS). Together, these form the Self-Comforting Framework—a dual-theory, dual-scale model that examines both actions and attitudes in managing psychological strain.

Inspiration from Personal Experience

Dr. Obohwemu's motivation for this research stemmed from personal challenges. Relocating to the UK just before the COVID-19 lockdowns, he faced isolation, financial strain, and a lack of support networks.

“During that period, I had to rely heavily on internal coping strategies—what I now describe as ‘self-comforting’—to survive mentally and emotionally,” he shared.

He added, “We often ask how people cope, but rarely explore how they feel or think about their coping behaviors. Some see self-soothing as weakness, others as a form of strength. That mindset can deeply affect mental health outcomes and willingness to seek help.”

Global Impact and Practical Applications

Mental health experts have praised the Self-Comforting Framework for its innovation and applicability across clinical, educational, occupational, and public health settings, especially in culturally diverse and underserved communities.

Dr. Obohwemu's unique blend of lived experience and rigorous research is shifting the narrative around emotional resilience. His work provides valuable tools for professionals aiming to foster healthier, more self-aware coping strategies worldwide.

As conversations around mental health continue to evolve, Dr. Obohwemu’s contributions mark a significant step forward—bridging the gap between behavior, belief, and emotional well-being.