Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Screen Time Effects On Children And Adolescents In Both The United States And Australia, Marrisa Cox

Honors Projects

Technology and screen time have become an essential part of everyday life in many countries across the world. Children in Australia and the United States are exposed to increasing hours of technology exceeding recommendations by pediatricians in both countries. Pediatricians suggest limiting screen time due to the research indicating possible impact on social development, and unhealthy emotional and physical outcomes in children. The objective of this paper was to review the mental and physical impacts of screen time on young and adolescent children and to compare and contrast policies regulating screen time in the United States and Australia. The information …

Increasing Utilization Of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy To Reduce Morbid Obesity In A Primary Care Setting, Erin J. Mccue

Doctoral Projects

Background: Obesity among adults is characterized by a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. The impairment and disability resulting from obesity indicates a significant health problem that is often seen in primary care settings. Research indicates that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an underutilized, but extremely beneficial intervention that may support individuals in achieving weight loss. Adults suffering from obesity with or without comorbid conditions such as psychiatric disorders (e.g. anxiety and depression) have benefitted from CBT.

Purpose: To implement the increased utilization of CBT in the adult population with obesity and depression or anxiety in a primary …

A Need For A Culturally Congruent Obesity Intervention At A Community Safety-Net Clinic, Claudia D. Rivera-Salas

Doctoral Projects

Background: Obesity is an epidemic in the United States which causes numerous chronic conditions and disproportionally impacts underserved populations. The removal of barriers that prevent active lifestyles such as unaffordable facilities and inaccessibility are of primary importance in promoting a healthy lifestyle.

Objectives: Collaboration with community organizations to increase access to culturally congruent nutrition and exercise classes for underserved Latino/Hispanic patients of a Midwestern safety-net clinic to reduce obesity, increase physical activity, and improve dietary habits.

Methods: Assessment of current practices revealed the need for project development. Six-week nutrition education class and exercise classes were held for eligible patients which …

The Effectiveness Of A Psychoeducational Intervention On Health Promoting Behaviors And Physical Health Of Adult Patients (18 And Over) On Antipsychotic Medications, Alice O. Mwanda

Doctoral Dissertations

Individuals on antipsychotic medications have been found to be disproportionately affected by overweight and obesity which increases their cardiometabolic risk. Psychoeducation has been found to be an effective strategy for risk reduction of cardiometabolic risks. This intervention examined the effectiveness of a psychoeducational intervention in adults (aged 18 and above) with severe mental illness. The four session, 8 week intervention encouraged an increase in fruit and vegetable intake and engagement in physical activity. The conceptual frameworks included the Health Promotion Model and Chronic Care Model. Outcome measures included nutrition, physical activity and health promoting behaviors. Biological outcomes included weight, BMI, …

The Nature Of Social Support: Self-Efficacy In Overweight And Obese Adolescents, Jenna Bastianello, Matt Epkey, Katy Mcmullin

Mental Health

The purpose of this mixed methods study was to describe the relationship between self-efficacy and social support among overweight and obese adolescents at a weight-management camp. Twenty-three participants completed a pre- and post-camp questionnaire based on modified versions of the GSE Scale and the SSQSR. Additionally, seven females and six males engaged in focus group discussion at the beginning and at the end of camp. Statistical analysis of the modified GSE Scale and SSQSR surveys was completed. Dialogue and field notes from focus group discussions were transcribed and analyzed by the researchers to develop themes. Throughout discussion, participants identified the …