Education Commons^™

Generation Covid-19: Navigating Life's Transitions, Christine Chasek

Counseling Faculty Publications

Every generation has face significant events and hardships that shape the way they view the world.

A Faith-Driven Protocol On Gratitude, Forgiveness, And Stress For Chin Refugees From Burma: An Exploratory Study, Sally Goh

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The influx of immigrants from a diverse cultural and religious tradition into the United States has renewed counselors’ and researchers' interest in how collectivistic populations from a refugee background experience pre-settlement and post-settlement stress in this country. Refugees who have experienced trauma before their settlement are more likely to experience increasing psychiatric pressure from daily stressors such as language barriers, employment difficulties, familial and generational conflicts, and dwindling psychosocial support. However, some refugee populations, such as the Chin people from Burma, have a low-uptake of help-seeking for their psychological problems, leading to more insufficient adjustment to the host culture. Since …

Forward Together Update [Message From From The Director Of Uni's Counseling Center], September 23, 2020, University Of Northern Iowa

UNI Response to COVID-19

Covers the ways people can cope with the pandemic and the need for human connection with advice from the director of UNI's Counseling Center, Jennifer Schneiderman

The Effects Of Mentoring On Student Outcomes, Leroy Dwan York

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

Historically, African Americans males have scored significantly lower than other subgroups on standardized assessments and in academic grades. In addition, African American males have also acquired more disciplinary infractions than all other subgroups. In general, statistics show that adolescent boys have lower achievement and more deviant behaviors than all other subgroups. Boys often struggle with the lack of motivation to excel in school and display appropriate character. This study compared the academic achievement and discipline of a group of boys participating in a mentoring group to a control group with no mentor over a four-month period. Resulting data was analyzed …

First Responder Mental Health, Kira Swensen, Timothy Keady, Maren Wright Voss

All Current Publications

Communities spend thousands of dollars on first responders to protect them physically: body armor for law enforcement officers, heat resistant gear for firefighters, gloves and reflective clothing for Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel. Supporting and investing in programs related to first responders’ mental health is equally important in keeping their minds safe. First responders train long hours each year to stay prepared for almost any situation. In the past, training has centered around physical safety and job efficiency. In recent years, efforts have been made to include mental health training and reduce the stigma associated with mental health for first …

Staying Serene In A World Of Uncertainty, Christine Chasek

Counseling Faculty Publications

American theologian Reinhold Niebuhr wrote a very powerful prayer in 1932; you may recognize it. "God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, Courage to change the things I can, And the wisdom to know the difference."

The nation was in turmoil when it was written. The Great Depression had a hold on our country, people were out of work, the land turned to dust, and families were starving. Niebuhr was looking for a way to comfort people and give them a sense of direction in a dark time. The Serenity Prayer became that source of …

Promote Healing And Restore Lives: Clinicians’ Reflections On Their Experiences In Working With Survivors Of Trafficking, Brittany Burch

McNair Scholars Research

Humans are shaped by their personal beliefs, values, and individual philosophies of life. Personal ideologies of humanitarian aid can root a deep desire to provide help and assistance to the vulnerable within our community. This desire often manifests itself specifically in clinicians seeking to provide healing, hope, and restoration in the lives of women and men. (Thullesen, 2019). Human trafficking is a prominent human rights and social justice issue that is embedded within our society. This study focused on clinicians’ experiences and perspectives in working with victims of human trafficking.

The data was collected through interviews of clinicians working directly …

Well-Being In Trans And Gender Diverse Individuals: An Investigation Of Chosen Family Support, Kendal Cassidy

College of Education and Human Sciences: Dissertations, Theses, and Student Research

Trans and gender diverse (TGD) individuals experience unique minority stressors that increase their experiences of psychological distress, and prior research has suggested social support may have protective factors for these unique stressors (Başar et al., 2016; Bockting et al., 2013; Clements-Nolle et al., 2006; Hull & Ortyl, 2018; Pflum et al., 2015; Lombardi et al., 2002; Staples et al., 2018; Tebbe & Moradi, 2016); however, little is understood about chosen family for TGD populations, and how chosen family might relate to minority stressors and mental health. It is also understood that mental illness and well-being reside on separate continuum, but …

Why Witnesses Of Bullying Tell: Individual And Interpersonal Factors, Hyungyung Joo, Isak Kim, So Rin Kim, Jolynn V. Carney, Seriashia J. Chatters

Counseling Faculty Publications

The reactions of those who witness bullying are important because they can stop the bullying and prevent further harm. Factors associated with telling behavior were investigated with 477 elementary school students who witnessed bullying. Approximately seventy percent of the students talked to someone about bullying incidents, most often, teachers. Chi-square and logistic regression analyses demonstrated that gender, frequency of witnessing, cognitive empathy, and social skills were found to be associated with telling behavior of witnesses, whereas affective empathy and school connectedness were not significantly related. Findings from this research are important for future practice and studies on bystander intervention.

Supporting Intersex People: Effective Academic And Career Counseling, Jack D. Simons, Jose-Michael Gonzales, Melissa Ramdas

Psychology Faculty Publications

This phenomenological study explored the academic and career experiences of 10 intersex people. Researchers conducted the study to share knowledge with counselors and other helping professionals about the importance of validating intersex personhood during the school-age years and in work settings. Five findings were uncovered: (a) coping as intersex, (b) range of feelings, (c) gender identity development, (d) bullying at school and work, and (e) body problems. This article reports on specific needs and recommendations of this self-identified sample and includes implications for education and counseling practice, along with limitations and recommendations for future research.

Marital Satisfaction During Retirement, Marissa A. Fye, Christine Chasek, Grace A. Mims, Jacob Sandman, Alex Hinrichsen

Counseling Faculty Publications

Marriage/commitment and retirement are two common experiences in an adult’s life. Marital satisfaction and retirement have been researched in multiple disciplines. The relationship between these two constructs has not been as widely researched. The purpose of this study was to determine whether retirement has an impact on marital satisfaction. Quantitative methods and analyses were used. The variables used accounted for 83% of the variance of satisfaction. Limitations and implications are provided to inform marriage and family pedagogy and practice.

The Emdr Integrative Group Treatment Protocol For Ongoing Traumatic Stress With Female Survivors Of Child Marriage, Trafficking, And Exploitation In Dhaka, Bangladesh, Sarah Frances Walsh

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

This study implements a pilot project investigating the effectiveness of providing the EMDR integrative group treatment protocol adapted for ongoing traumatic stress (EMDR- IGTP-OTS) to females in Dhaka, Bangladesh (and the surrounding areas) who have survived early marriage and sexual exploitation. The aim of the study is to reduce the PTSD symptoms of these women as measured by the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scales (HADS-Anxiety & HADS-Depression). This study analyzes archival data gathered by Scaling UP EMDR. Few studies exist testing actual interventions to help the population of women or using EMDR-IGTP-OTS with …

Exploring The Lived Experiences And Coping Strategies Of Parents Of Children With Profound Intellectual And Multiple Disabilities, Anne Glaeser Hubach

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The purpose of this transcendental phenomenological study was to describe the lived experiences and coping strategies of parents of children with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (PIMD) in Central Virginia. Research questions used to frame this study are: How do parents of children with PIMD describe their experiences as parents of children with PIMD? How do the parents of children with PIMD describe the impact of their experiences on their well-being? How do the parents of children with PIMD describe their understanding of and perspectives regarding their children’s disabilities? How do parents of children with PIMD describe the impact of …

What Are The Patterns Of Shared Viewpoints, Attitudes, Beliefs, And Opinions Of Full-Time Grandparent Caregivers About Their Experiences? A Q Methodological Study, Korrin Denee Kim

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

Objective: Millions of grandparents in the United States provide full-time care to grandchildren. Although their actions are largely altruistic, they do not come without sacrifice. Often these sacrifices are associated with major consequences. Little is known about how grandparents prioritize their sacrifices. An improved understanding of how grandparents prioritize their sacrifices could facilitate better awareness, more specialized care, and improved policies for this population. Method: I used Q methodology to investigate grandparents’ perspectives on the sacrifices that they make to raise their grandchildren. Thirteen participants were recruited using snowball and purposive sampling. To create the Q-set, I used 26 statements …

Lonely Zs: Examining The Relationships Among Time Spent On Social Networking Sites, The Fear Of Missing Out (Fomo), And Loneliness Among Undergraduate College Students, Chantelle Elam Bernard

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

Time spent on social networking sites has become an essential part of the Gen Z’s social experience, and the fear of missing out (FoMO), and loneliness have become three well known topics among today’s college students. It is suspected that emerging adults are spending an excessive amount of time on SNSs, which is contributing to the increasing psychological decline and the epidemic of loneliness on college campuses around the world. The research conducted sought to determine if there is a predictive relationship between multiple variables, including time spent on social networking sites, the fear of missing out (FoMO), and loneliness …

Exploring Immigration And Acculturation Stressors Among First Generation Peruvian Adults Residing In Utah, Mery Lipscomb

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

Among the literature, various stressors related to acculturation between immigrants. The goal of this study is to recognize factors that take place when immigrating to the United States. Unfortunately, studies have found most Latinos experience high levels of stress regardless of age and gender. Recognizing those factors that increase stressors can help immigrants from Latin America to cope with stressors and avoid mental health problems during the acculturation process. As the Latino population continues to grow, it is critical for mental health professionals to learn about the Latino culture and the factors that create mental health problems to better diagnose …

Meta-Analysis Of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (Dbt) For Treating Substance Use, Abdulkadir Haktanir, Karisse A. Callender

College of Education Faculty Research and Publications

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based treatment approach used to treat a variety of psychological issues. In this meta-analysis study, we examined six between-groups studies based on DBT for the reduction of substance use symptoms. We aggregated the findings of these studies at the post-treatment assessment as well as follow-up assessment. DBT groups were superior to alternative treatment and waitlist groups in the remission of substance use symptoms or increase in substance use abstinence. When we compared DBT to comparison groups at the follow-up assessment scores, we observed no significant differences. However, when we removed one study conducted outside …

How Communities Heal And Recover After Disaster Strikes, Christine Chasek

Counseling Faculty Publications

Last spring Nebraska residents experienced a historic weather event that continues to affect many communities. The historic bomb cyclone that occurred in March 2019 changed the land and communities in many ways. As we approach the anniversary of this historic event, it’s important to understand the recovery process and how communities heal.

School-Based Support For Families Of Students With Traumatic Brain Injuries, Susan C. Davies

Counselor Education and Human Services Faculty Publications

Families of children with traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) often experience emotional burden related to the sudden onset, intensity, and duration of the recovery process. Family support can improve outcomes; however, parents and siblings of students with TBI often do not receive the help they need, which can impede the injured child’s recovery. This qualitative study involved focus groups with school psychologists who have worked with students with TBIs. Participants were asked about challenges experienced by families of students with TBI and how school psychologists could better support families of children with TBI. Themes included: guilt, change, lack of time and …

Adverse Childhood Experiences And The Associations With Depression And Anxiety In Adolescents, Hye Yeon Lee, Isak Kim, Jeongwoon Jeong

Counseling Faculty Publications

Objectives

There has been increasing attention to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) among adolescents in the U.S because ACEs may result in severe mental health issues. Although associations between ACEs and mental health have been explored, research on how different types or combinations of ACEs render different impacts on adolescents is limited. Therefore, this study aims to (a) examine latent classes of ACEs among adolescents who have experienced at least one ACE and (b) investigate associations of each latent group of ACEs with mental health problems, depression and anxiety.

Method

Questionnaires on ACEs and depression/anxiety from the 2016 National Survey of …

Advocating For Adolescent Substance Use Recovery: An Alternative Model, Christine Chasek, Judith Nelson, Rochelle Cade, Kristen Page, Bryan Stare, George Stoupas

Counseling Faculty Publications

Adolescents at risk for substance use disorders face unique challenges in recovery when compared with adults. Counselors may seek to address developmental considerations with such clients, but often lack diagnostic and community resources necessary to provide holistic care. The Alternative Peer Group model shows promise in addressing adolescent recovery, however, more research is needed. We conclude from the limited research that has been conducted on APGs that there are positive aspects to consider in implementing this model including a positive peer group that offers support in recovery, 12-step meetings that are adapted specifically for adolescents, parent education and support, and …

Brain Injury Is Treatable, Susan C. Davies, Jennifer P. Lundine, Shari L. Wade, Ann E. Glang

Counselor Education and Human Services Faculty Publications

Children with traumatic brain injury (TBI) are under-identified and under-served by healthcare and educational professionals. Factors such as lack of understanding regarding long-term needs following TBI, limited awareness and training in emerging evidence-based practices and inefficient care coordination (Haarbauer-Krupa et al., 2017) impede effective clinical management. Despite these considerable challenges, childhood brain injury is treatable. Families, schools, and healthcare systems are integral to that treatment. Where a child lives and learns can also greatly influence long-term outcomes. Children from home environments with supportive caregivers have more positive outcomes (Wade et al., 2016). Closer proximity to medical care and providers who …

Making Connections Between General Education Information Literacy Classes And Upper Level Writing Courses: An Exploration Of Faculty And Student Perceptions, Lucinda Wittkower, D. E. Wittkower, Narketta Sparkman-Key

Libraries Faculty & Staff Presentations

This presentation will describe a collaborative project between University faculty and a librarian that connected faculty who teach general education information literacy courses to those who teach upper-level writing intensive courses. The project provided an opportunity for these faculty to participate in a focus group discussion to explore how the courses are aligned and how information literacy courses can support and prepare students for upper-level writing courses. Following the focus group discussion the presenters provided an opportunity for writing and information literacy faculty to take action on what they learned from each other by participating in an assignment redesign workshop. …

Supporting Student Mental Health During And After Covid-19, David Bryant Naff, Shenita Williams, Jenna Furman, Melissa Lee

MERC Publications

This report by the Metropolitan Educational Research Consortium (MERC) in the VCU School of Education offers a rapid review of research about supporting student mental health as they return to school during COVID-19. It pulls from literature on natural disasters like hurricane Katrina, the psychological impacts of quarantine, and emergent research on the mental health impacts of the Coronavirus. The report is structured to answer three overarching questions: 1) Why is it important to address the mental health needs of students in schools? 2) How can we expect COVID-19 to impact the mental health of students? 3) What are some …

Adolescent Mental Health Training For Middle School Educators, Sarah Minton

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Projects

Abstract

Background: Adolescent mental health disorders are an increasing concern in the United States. School systems, specifically educators, are in the unique role to aid in early identification of mental health disorders, as well to intervene in mental health distress. However, mental health training for educators is lacking, leaving educators unprepared to manage mental health concerns within their classroom.

Purpose: The purpose was to utilize an evidence-based training, the “Teacher Knowledge Update Guide” from TeenMentalHealth.org to train middle school educators on the signs and symptoms of mental health conditions in the adolescent population with the intent to increase awareness, knowledge, …

Advising The Online Student: A Breakout Of Advising Frequency, Preferences, And Satisfaction Of Online Students, Maeghen Macdonald, Brittani Wyskocil Garcia

University Administration Publications

This breakout study reviews the findings of a 2017 study of Penn State University's World Campus undergraduate online students. The study surveyed students to report demographic, academic, preferences, and satisfaction information and sought to develop relationships between these variables by their levels of academic success. This breakout study focuses on the findings related to three of the study's variables: academic advising frequency, interaction preference, and satisfaction of undergraduate online students.

Assessment Of Dispositions In Program Admissions: The Professional Disposition Competence Assessment—Revised Admission (Pdca-Ra), Curtis Garner, Brenda Freeman, Roger Stewart, Ken Coll

Literacy, Language, and Culture Faculty Publications and Presentations

Tools to assess the dispositions of counselor education applicants at the point of program admission are important as mechanisms to screen entrance into the profession. The authors developed the Professional Disposition Competence Assessment—Revised Admission (PDCA-RA) as a screening tool for dispositional assessment in admissions interviews. In this study, 70 participants engaged in a video-based training protocol designed to increase the interrater reliability of the PDCA-RA. An intraclass correlations coefficient was calculated as an index of interrater reliability. Cronbach’s alpha coefficients were calculated for internal consistency, and Fleiss’ kappa, free-marginal kappa, and percent of agreement were calculated for absolute agreement. Calculations …

Trauma-Informed School Practices In Response To The Impact Of Social-Cultural Trauma (Chapter In How Shall We Then Care? A Christian Educator's Guide To Caring For Self, Learners, Colleagues, And Community), Anna A. Berardi Phd., Brenda Morton

Faculty Publications - Graduate School of Counseling

Excerpt: "In this chapter we present a model for addressing the academic and behavioral challenges of students impacted by unmitigated stress and trauma. Typically, trauma-informed school literature addresses trauma resulting from abusive, or neglectful behaviors that occur in the home (Bailey, 2015; Craig, 2016; Massachusetts Advocates for Children, 2005; Souers & Hall, 2016). Here, the type of trauma we are addressing is threats to the physical and emotional health of students due to social and cultural factors. Perhaps most detrimental and deadly is trauma resulting from war, economic collapse, civil unrest, and social-political attitudes, laws, and customs that exclude, marginalize, …

Advancing Human Services Education: Exploratory Study Of International Service Learning And Digital Pedagogy, Narketta Sparkman-Key, Anthony Vadja, T'Airra Belcher

Counseling & Human Services Faculty Publications

This study focuses on advancing the understanding of human services education in international service learning focused study abroad programs. There is a gap in the literature pertaining to service-learning education for human services students. This study explores the integration of service-learning, reflection, and technology in human services education. Case study methodology and document review analysis are used to examine the use of ePortfolio as a reflective tool in addition to the skill development of upper-level undergraduate human services students through service learning. Seven themes arose from the findings, which suggest that international service-learning assists students in human services skill development …

Building Empathy And Developing Instructional Design Experience And Skills: A Case Study Of Using Personas To Design Open Education Resources, John Baaki, Jennifer Maddrell

STEMPS Faculty Publications

This single case study involves the authors’ participation and observation of a massive open online course. To help instructional designers (IDs) develop open education resources for adults attempting to pass a United States high school equivalency exam, we constructed six personas that helped IDs put themselves in the users’ shoes. We begin by providing an overview of the scholarship that connects empathy, empathic design, persona construction, and meaning-making. After presenting our case study methodology and how we constructed six authentic personas, we present eight themes that demonstrate how IDs used the personas to build empathy for users and to develop …