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Full-Text Articles in Medicine and Health Sciences
Evaluating A Short Duration Relationship And Marriage Education (Rme) Event Across Time And Format: 8 Years Of Learning, Pamela B. Payne, Naomi Brower
Evaluating A Short Duration Relationship And Marriage Education (Rme) Event Across Time And Format: 8 Years Of Learning, Pamela B. Payne, Naomi Brower
Journal of Human Sciences and Extension
The COVID-19 pandemic changed how short-term relationship and marriage education (RME) reached participants for events such as the Utah Marriage Celebration Conference. This article examines participant-perceived relationship knowledge from an annual marriage conference that began prior to the pandemic and has continued through the disruption (from 2015 through 2022). Results indicate this short-duration marriage conference does improve participant-perceived knowledge across years [t(2381) = 59.84, p = .001]. Further, results indicate that online participants rate their perceived relationship knowledge as higher than in-person participants at both pre [F(1, 2752) = 153.0, p = .001] and post [F(7, 2594) = 25.14, p …
Exploring The Use Of Trauma-Informed Care Practices In Extension, Caitlin O'Brien, Martie Gillen
Exploring The Use Of Trauma-Informed Care Practices In Extension, Caitlin O'Brien, Martie Gillen
Journal of Human Sciences and Extension
A content analysis of 63 land-grant Extension university websites was conducted to examine the promotion of trauma-informed care (TIC) through the sharing of resources, providing instructive webinars and/or in-person events, and offering comprehensive programs. While many Extension universities are sharing resources, only nine universities (14%) featured robust TIC Extension programs, and 40% shared no TIC information. Additionally, we found no indication of internal education programs across the universities on adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and TIC practices for Extension faculty and staff. These findings highlight opportunities to increase efforts with the public as well as internally within Extension.
Determining The Health Literacy Skills Of Extension Audiences In Maryland, Beverly Jackey, Heejung Song, Lisa Mccoy, Virginia Brown
Determining The Health Literacy Skills Of Extension Audiences In Maryland, Beverly Jackey, Heejung Song, Lisa Mccoy, Virginia Brown
Journal of Human Sciences and Extension
Strong health literacy skills empower people to make informed health decisions, especially those with chronic health conditions striving for positive health outcomes. Half of all people living in Maryland report having at least one chronic disease. Research examining the health literacy of Marylanders is limited. This paper reports how establishing a baseline for health literacy levels of Marylanders can identify major factors affecting the health literacy skills of Extension audiences and lays the important groundwork to develop Extension programs and explore the best delivery methods tailored to the needs of subpopulations. Using the Newest Vital Sign, a …
Examining College Students’ Attitudes Toward Poverty During The Adult Role Of The Community Action Poverty Simulation, Jessica M. Parks, Portia Johnson, Diann C. Moorman Dr., Sheri Worthy, Leigh Anne Aaron
Examining College Students’ Attitudes Toward Poverty During The Adult Role Of The Community Action Poverty Simulation, Jessica M. Parks, Portia Johnson, Diann C. Moorman Dr., Sheri Worthy, Leigh Anne Aaron
Journal of Human Sciences and Extension
Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) and Extension professionals need to understand the lived experience of poverty because it affects every aspect of an individual’s life. Poverty is related to inadequate nutrition and food insecurity, lack of access to health care, insufficient child care, unsafe neighborhoods, lack of affordable housing, under-resourced schools, and a lower quality of life. Attitudes toward poverty vary widely among Americans and can be categorized as either internal/individual attributions (e.g., laziness, welfare dependency, etc.) or systemic/structural attributions (e.g., unemployment, inflation, etc.). Individuals holding internal attributions toward poverty are more likely to have negative feelings toward impoverished individuals. …
Lessons Learned Adapting And Implementing Another Organization’S Program To Promote Healthy Aging, Erin Jewell, Theresa Serio, Karen Basinger, Jennifer Dixon Cravens, Lisa Mccoy, Mona Habibi, Shauna C. Henley
Lessons Learned Adapting And Implementing Another Organization’S Program To Promote Healthy Aging, Erin Jewell, Theresa Serio, Karen Basinger, Jennifer Dixon Cravens, Lisa Mccoy, Mona Habibi, Shauna C. Henley
Journal of Human Sciences and Extension
Programming which promotes healthy aging may be lacking in states where nutrition and health interventions are directed earlier in life. Due to Maryland’s increasing aging population, a team of 10 University of Maryland Extension Family and Consumer Sciences educators received permission to adapt and implement the Iowa Department of Public Health’s, in partnership with the Iowa Department of Human Services and Department on Aging, Fresh Conversations program to fit the needs of Maryland’s older adults. The purpose of this manuscript is not to discuss research findings but rather to share our challenges, successes, and recommendations for adapting and implementing another …
Rewarding Relationships: A Quasi-Experimental Design Evaluating The Impact Of An Extension Public Relations Seminar, Ashley Mcleod-Morin, Lauri M. Baker, Cheryl Boyer, Anissa M. Zagonel, Angela B. Lindsey
Rewarding Relationships: A Quasi-Experimental Design Evaluating The Impact Of An Extension Public Relations Seminar, Ashley Mcleod-Morin, Lauri M. Baker, Cheryl Boyer, Anissa M. Zagonel, Angela B. Lindsey
Journal of Human Sciences and Extension
While Extension communication units have seen success in implementing brand strategies to raise awareness of Extension, the public value and need for Extension programming continue to be misunderstood. College students have the potential to ensure the future of Extension is viable. To expose undergraduate students to the brand and value of Extension, a public relations seminar was developed and delivered by a state Extension specialist to 95 students enrolled in an agricultural technical writing course at a land-grant university. The seminar served as a treatment in the quasi-experimental design, which included information about the land-grant mission, Extension resources, and potential …
Traditional And Virtual Hypertension Self-Management Health Education Program Delivered Through Cooperative Extension, Michelle Parisi, Ellie Lane, Cheryl J. Dye Dr., Rhonda Matthews, Danielle Mcfall, Ethan Bain, Windsor W. Sherrill
Traditional And Virtual Hypertension Self-Management Health Education Program Delivered Through Cooperative Extension, Michelle Parisi, Ellie Lane, Cheryl J. Dye Dr., Rhonda Matthews, Danielle Mcfall, Ethan Bain, Windsor W. Sherrill
Journal of Human Sciences and Extension
Fewer than 25% of individuals in the United States with hypertension have controlled blood pressure (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021). Hypertension Management Program (HMP) adopted the Health Coaches for Hypertension Control© (HCHC©) curriculum and adapted it for delivery by Extension agents. Eight lessons with intermittent health coaching calls were delivered. Pre/post-participation surveys determined changes in knowledge and self-reported weight, systolic (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). The pandemic forced a shift in methodology from in-person to virtual delivery, and results were compared. In both traditional and virtual programs, significant differences were found in weight, knowledge …
Documentary Review – Two Roles In Urban Community Revitalization: Julian Price The Philanthropist And Cooperative Extension, Susan A. Kelly
Documentary Review – Two Roles In Urban Community Revitalization: Julian Price The Philanthropist And Cooperative Extension, Susan A. Kelly
Journal of Human Sciences and Extension
Julian Price used his inherited wealth to revitalize downtown Asheville, North Carolina. This documentary review reflects on his passion for community, and the concepts he believed would bring the city back from decay. Some of those same community development practices are successfully used across the country by Extension professionals to assist urban communities in revitalization. Examples of Extension programs and techniques are provided throughout this review about an inspiring documentary about a man looking for purpose and finding it by transforming a troubled downtown with his generosity.
“I’M Going To Live My Life Freely”: Authenticity As An Indicator Of Belonging Among Urban Latinx Lgbtq+ Youth, Maru Gonzalez, Bianka M. Reese, Tania Connaughton-Espino
“I’M Going To Live My Life Freely”: Authenticity As An Indicator Of Belonging Among Urban Latinx Lgbtq+ Youth, Maru Gonzalez, Bianka M. Reese, Tania Connaughton-Espino
Journal of Human Sciences and Extension
While there is a growing body of scholarship on the experiences of LGBTQ+ youth in school and community settings, less is known about Latinx LGBTQ+ youth specifically. In response, this phenomenological study examined the experiences of eight Latinx LGBTQ+ youth relative to school and community belonging, with a specific focus on urban environments, using intersectionality and minority stress frameworks, and Lee and Robbins’ operational definition of belongingness. Three overarching themes emerged from the data: (a) navigating challenges, (b) the importance of an inclusive climate, and (c) thriving through adversity. Further, authenticity was identified as an additional indicator of belonging among …
Fostering A Sense Of Belonging In Urban Extension For Internal And External Stakeholders, Ramona Madhosingh-Hector, Linda M. Seals
Fostering A Sense Of Belonging In Urban Extension For Internal And External Stakeholders, Ramona Madhosingh-Hector, Linda M. Seals
Journal of Human Sciences and Extension
In urban areas, the communities are as diverse as the issues, and different educational and engagement strategies must be deployed to support urban Extension clientele. Urban communities must connect with and feel a sense of “belonging” with Extension–this connection can strengthen Extension’s presence and value proposition to urban constituents. This study found that although Extension was engaged in efforts to support belonging, its efforts were hampered by a lack of collaboration and commitment to supporting a system-wide effort to change the culture. Intentionality, emotional intelligence, and dialogue were presented as strategies to foster a sense of belonging for Extension personnel …
Book Review – The Art Of Being Indispensable At Work: Win Influence, Beat Overcommitment, And Get The Right Things Done, Eric Killian
Book Review – The Art Of Being Indispensable At Work: Win Influence, Beat Overcommitment, And Get The Right Things Done, Eric Killian
Journal of Human Sciences and Extension
With new technology, constant change, uncertainty, and virtual teams, getting things done at work is tougher and more complex than ever. Finding your place amid the collaboration revolution working with everyone across silos and various platforms can feel like we are in a no-win cycle in urban Extension environments. However, there is always the indispensable go-to person, or in our case organization—urban Extension, that thrives on many working relationships, maintains a positive attitude of service, demonstrates creativity and tenacity, and strives to get the right things done. This review will share information on how urban Extension professionals can continue to …
Examining The Perspectives And Experiences Of Nutrition Educators Working With Clients In Substance Use Recovery Settings, Cora Teets, Paula Plonski, Omolola A. Adedokun, Heather Norman-Burgdolf
Examining The Perspectives And Experiences Of Nutrition Educators Working With Clients In Substance Use Recovery Settings, Cora Teets, Paula Plonski, Omolola A. Adedokun, Heather Norman-Burgdolf
Journal of Human Sciences and Extension
Substance use disorder (SUD) is one of the most detrimental health, social, and economic problems in the United States. Limited studies suggest providing tailored nutrition education during SUD treatment correlates with positive recovery outcomes. The University of Kentucky Nutrition Education Program conducted two focus group sessions to explore and determine educators’ instructional and programmatic needs who deliver nutrition education to clients in substance use recovery throughout Kentucky. The study team identified four emerging themes and several subthemes related to Nutrition Education Program educators working with clientele in recovery. The four emerging themes included: (1) current experiences working with the audience, …
The Food Factor: Relating Brand Viewership To Behavior And Behavioral Intention, Mckayla Brubaker Nichols, Quisto Settle, Alisha Hardman, Laura Downey
The Food Factor: Relating Brand Viewership To Behavior And Behavioral Intention, Mckayla Brubaker Nichols, Quisto Settle, Alisha Hardman, Laura Downey
Journal of Human Sciences and Extension
Mississippi residents (n = 404) were surveyed to determine how The Food Factor brand viewership impacted their behavior and behavioral intention. The Food Factor is a weekly Extension mass media program that communicates research-based information about food, nutrition, and healthy lifestyles. A researcher-developed instrument was used to collect information about behavior and behavioral intent, as well as perceptions of The Food Factor using Qualtrics from a representative sample. Respondents were split into viewer and non-viewer categories. Viewers were asked about their viewing frequency and their nutrition-related behaviors and behavioral intention to create a behavioral score. Non-viewers were also asked about …
First Things First: Assessing Needs, Comfort, And Role Clarity For Physical Activity Promotion, Laura E. Balis, Thomas E. Strayer Iii, Samantha M. Harden
First Things First: Assessing Needs, Comfort, And Role Clarity For Physical Activity Promotion, Laura E. Balis, Thomas E. Strayer Iii, Samantha M. Harden
Journal of Human Sciences and Extension
Extension has recently begun delivering physical activity programs, but delivering evidence-based interventions is a challenge. To increase adoption of evidence-based interventions, a better understanding of agents’ perceptions and needs is necessary. The purpose of this research was to conduct a readiness assessment to identify organizational factors and agent perceptions that speed or impede uptake of evidence-based physical activity programs. Data were gathered from agents through a sequential mixed-methods design informed by the RE-AIM (reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, maintenance) framework. A survey assessed current work status, demographic variables, physical activity levels, and time spent on programming tasks. Semi-structured focus group questions …
Health And Wellness: Leading Cooperative Extension From Concept To Action, Bonnie Braun, Michelle Rodgers
Health And Wellness: Leading Cooperative Extension From Concept To Action, Bonnie Braun, Michelle Rodgers
Journal of Human Sciences and Extension
This article describes the health and wellness journey of Cooperative Extension from a task force to action teams. It provides background on (a) Extension health and wellness programming, (b) establishment of the Extension Committee on Organization and Policy (ECOP) Health and Wellness Task Force, (c) acceptance of the Task Force Report, and (d) appointment of the ECOP Action Teams. The article explains the opportunity to align an Extension system around a health framework, as well as actions and vision for the new Culture of Health partnership with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The article draws on articles published in the …
Health In All Policies: Working Across Sectors In Cooperative Extension To Promote Health For All, Michele Walsh, Deborah John, Nicole Peritore, Andrea Morris, Carolyn Bird, Marion Ceraso, Sarah Eichberger, Rachel Novotny, Laura Stephenson, Suzanne Stluka, Roberta Riportella
Health In All Policies: Working Across Sectors In Cooperative Extension To Promote Health For All, Michele Walsh, Deborah John, Nicole Peritore, Andrea Morris, Carolyn Bird, Marion Ceraso, Sarah Eichberger, Rachel Novotny, Laura Stephenson, Suzanne Stluka, Roberta Riportella
Journal of Human Sciences and Extension
A Health in All Policies approach engages cross-sector stakeholders to collaboratively improve systems that drive population health. We, the members of the Extension Committee on Organization and Policy (ECOP)’s Health in All Policies Action Team, propose that adopting a Health in All Policies approach within the national Cooperative Extension System will better prepare us to contribute meaningfully to improving the nation’s health. We first explain the Health in All Policies approach and argue for why and how it is relevant for Extension. We then present insights gathered from Extension Family and Consumer Sciences program leaders and state specialists to assess …
The Role Of Cooperative Extension In Chronic Disease Prevention And Management: Perspectives From Professionals In The Field, Daniel Remley, David Buys, Linda Cronk, Valerie Duffy, Julie Garden-Robinson, Marcel Horowitz, Bernestine Mcgee, Cindy Nelson, Suzanne M. Prevedel, Marla Reicks, Tamara Warren
The Role Of Cooperative Extension In Chronic Disease Prevention And Management: Perspectives From Professionals In The Field, Daniel Remley, David Buys, Linda Cronk, Valerie Duffy, Julie Garden-Robinson, Marcel Horowitz, Bernestine Mcgee, Cindy Nelson, Suzanne M. Prevedel, Marla Reicks, Tamara Warren
Journal of Human Sciences and Extension
Chronic diseases are strongly associated with premature death and increased health care costs. Nearly half of American adults report they have one or more chronic health conditions. Cooperative Extension is calling for refocus to refine and align with broader efforts to promote public health by supporting the prevention and management of chronic disease. The success of this refocus is dependent on a shared vision between funding agencies, stakeholders, and Extension. As part of developing this shared vision, the Chronic Disease Health Implementation Team surveyed 152 Extension administrators, faculty, and Extension Agents/Educators to determine their perception of the role of Extension …
The National Framework For Health And Wellness: (Re)Framing The Work Of Cooperative Extension For The Next Century, David Buys, Sonja Koukel
The National Framework For Health And Wellness: (Re)Framing The Work Of Cooperative Extension For The Next Century, David Buys, Sonja Koukel
Journal of Human Sciences and Extension
Cooperative Extension is at a crossroads and has increasing opportunities to articulate its existing role and future growth in impacting the health and wellness of the individuals and communities it serves. This is important because the health outcomes in the U.S. are poorer than any other developed nation, health expenditures are high, challenges with navigating the health system are immense, and opportunities to intervene and remove barriers to improving the nation’s health and wellness abound. This article provides suggestions as a follow-up to the reports featured in this special issue of the Journal of Human Sciences and Extension from the …
Cooperative Extension And Health Literacy: A National Focus, Sonja Koukel, Cathy Newkirk, Sarah Bercaw, Belinda Letto, Fatemeh Malekian
Cooperative Extension And Health Literacy: A National Focus, Sonja Koukel, Cathy Newkirk, Sarah Bercaw, Belinda Letto, Fatemeh Malekian
Journal of Human Sciences and Extension
Health literacy is often defined as the degree to which an individual has the capacity to obtain, communicate, process and understand basic health information and services to make appropriate health decisions. Research shows that 30 million Americans have Below Basic health literacy skills. People with low health literacy skills contribute to higher utilization of health care services. This equates to an excess of $230 billion a year in health care costs linked to low literacy in the United States. The primary responsibility for improving health literacy lies with public health professionals and the health care and public health systems. However, …
Successfully Changing The Landscape Of Information Distribution: Extension Food Website Reaches People Locally And Globally, Alice Henneman, Lisa Franzen-Castle, Kayla Colgrove, Vishal Singh
Successfully Changing The Landscape Of Information Distribution: Extension Food Website Reaches People Locally And Globally, Alice Henneman, Lisa Franzen-Castle, Kayla Colgrove, Vishal Singh
Journal of Human Sciences and Extension
The goal of the Food website was to develop Internet-based content that was relevant and reached the general public and multiplier groups, such as educators, health professionals, and media outlets. The purpose of this paper was to examine whether a multi-modal approach to information delivery through increases in and changes to content, electronic mailing list creation, and social media posting impacted user access, traffic channels, and referrals from 2010 to 2014. When comparing 2010-2011 versus 2013-2014, there was a 150% increase in total pageviews, 197% increase in unique pageviews, and a 39% increase in average time spent on a page. …
The Impact Of Extension Gardening Programs On Healthy Attitudes And Behaviors, Erica Odera, Alexa J. Lamm, Courtney Owens, Sandra Thompson, Lawrence Carter
The Impact Of Extension Gardening Programs On Healthy Attitudes And Behaviors, Erica Odera, Alexa J. Lamm, Courtney Owens, Sandra Thompson, Lawrence Carter
Journal of Human Sciences and Extension
Gardening programs have been increasing in popularity since 1995 when California enacted legislation with the goal of putting a garden in every school. Research has shown positive benefits of gardening programs include increasing a child’s academic skills, environmental awareness, and social skills, but little is known about their impact on healthy attitudes and behaviors. Considering childhood obesity rates are rapidly increasing, understanding how educational programs, such as gardening, can impact health has become important. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact Extension gardening programs had on participants’ healthy attitudes and behaviors. Using a pretest/posttest research design with …