The final session of the NSTF Malta Student Psychology Forum (MSPF) took place on 26 February 2025 at the Meeting Place, generously sponsored by the Meeting Place and Aġenzija Sedqa. The final session brought together psychology students, academics, and professionals for an engaging discussion on Forensic Psychology and Behavioural Addiction.
Organised in collaboration with the National Student Travel Foundation (NSTF) Malta, and Betapsi (University of Malta's Psychology Student Organisation), the event aimed to shed light on behavioural addiction – a growing and significant issue that is often overlooked, affecting individuals across various aspects of life.
The session was officially opened by Ms Tricia Portelli, External Relations Officer of Betapsi, followed by Mr Francis Stivala, Secretary-General at NSTF. This was followed by a compelling keynote speech delivered by Dr Maris Catania, an expert in responsible gambling and behavioural addiction. Dr Catania emphasised the importance of recognising behavioural addiction as a serious psychological concern, highlighting its impact on mental health and the need for early intervention.
Throughout the session, student teams presented their insights and engaged in a stimulating Q&A segment, tackling key aspects of behavioural addiction. As a special one-off addition, the discussion was further enriched by a panel featuring experts from local drug rehabilitation centres and other academics such as Dr Chantal Avellino including Mr Noel Xerri from OASI foundation, Mr Ian Diacono from CARITAS and Dr Anna Maria Vella, Dr Gianluca Bezzina and Mr Brian Camilleri from Sedqa. Experts provided valuable perspectives on addiction, rehabilitation challenges, and psychological interventions. Participants had the unique opportunity to engage in this dynamic Q&A gaining valuable insights and perspectives on key topics related to addiction.
The session concluded with closing remarks by Dr Chantal Avellino, Head of the Department of Psychology at the University of Malta and Dr Sandra Scicluna, Dean of the Faculty for Social Wellbeing at the University of Malta who highlighted the importance of student engagement in psychological research and practical applications.
Finally, the much-anticipated announcement of the MSPF winners was made by Head Judge Dr Gottfried Catania. This year’s winners, Lisa Gauci and Samara Muscat were awarded an exclusive trip to the European Congress of Psychology (ECP) which is to be sponsored by the Ministry for Health and Active Ageing; giving students a prestigious opportunity to further their academic and professional development, together with internships at Willingness Clinic. The second place winners also received a shorter internship at Willingness Clinic.
The event served as a unique platform for psychology students to showcase their knowledge, engage in thought-provoking discussions, foster critical thinking, and connect with leading experts in the field. By bringing behavioural addiction to the forefront and giving it the importance it deserves, the MSPF helped foster awareness, challenge misconceptions, and advocate for better support systems for individuals affected by such issues.
The event served as a unique platform for psychology students to showcase their knowledge, engage in thought-provoking discussions, foster critical thinking, and connect with leading experts in the field. By bringing behavioural addiction to the forefront and giving it the importance it deserves, the MSPF helped foster awareness, challenge misconceptions, and advocate for better support systems for individuals affected by such issues.
NSTF and Betapsi would like to thank all those who have supported this event and past sessions. The next MSPF cycle will open in October.
