Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Who Cares For The Caregivers: How Being A Caregiver Impacts Cancer Survivorship, Cristy Romero

Sociology Student Scholarship

Cristy Romero ’23
Majors: Sociology and Biology
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Brandon C. Martinez, Sociology and Anthropology

With an aging population, informal caregiving is rising and is the predominant way for people with chronic illnesses to receive care. Providing care for someone with a chronic illness can take a toll on the caregiver. Caregivers often develop their own chronic illnesses such as cancer. Compared to Whites, Latinx cancer survivors and their families experience disproportionate adverse effects of cancer and cancer therapy as a result of physical, emotional, and financial challenges. This highlights racial/ethnic disparity in cancer survivorship. Due to the interwoven …

Lgbtq+ In The Cowl: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly - Tracing Coverage Of Lgbtq+ Topics From 1935 To 2022, Nicole Patano

Sociology Student Scholarship

In their very first issue published on November 16, 1935, The Cowl staff explained the purpose of the novel student newspaper: “Primarily, the COWL exists to serve the student body, not simply as a news organ, but more fundamentally as a means to foster and intensify an enthusiatic Providence College spirit and loyalty.” Since its founding, The Cowl has attempted to be just that, reporting news and welcoming discussion and debate from members of its staff and members of the larger Providence College community.

Unfortunately, however, the mission of the College can, and often has, run contrary to the mission …

How Autism Spectrum Disorder And Food Security Are Correlated With Childhood Affection And Mental Health In The United States: Results From The 2019 National Survey Of Children’S Health, Nicola Calabrese

Sociology Student Scholarship

Nicola Calabrese ’22
Major: Elementary and Special Education
Minor: Sociology
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Brandon Martinez, Sociology

This study examines the relationship between autism and mental health as well as affection rates amongst children. I analyze data from the 2019 National Survey of Children’s Health, a nationally representative sample of children aged 0 to 17, which was collected by the US Census Bureau. Multivariate binary logistic models reveal that children with autism are significantly less likely to be affectionate toward others. I also find that children diagnosed with autism are significantly more likely to be diagnosed with anxiety and depression, even …

Examination Of Factors That Influence Adherence To Public Health Guidelines During Coronavirus Pandemic, Kathryn Mcloughlin

Sociology Student Scholarship

Kathryn McLoughlin ’22
Majors: Health Policy and Management, Sociology, and Women and Gender Studies
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Brandon Martinez, Sociology

My research examines factors that influence adherence to public health guidelines during the ongoing pandemic. I apply quantitative methodology to investigate how positions of social privilege, select news sources, and beliefs in political conspiracy theories impact adherence to public health instructions and vaccine trust. I used the Sixth Wave of the Baylor Religion Survey, a national random sample, and analyzed data using multivariate regressions. The findings of the research reveal that higher positions of social privilege and subscription to conspiracy …

The Impact Of Socioeconomic Status, Race, And Food Security On Mental And Physical Health, Andrea Delgado

Sociology Student Scholarship

Andrea Delgado ’22
Major: Sociology
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Brandon Martinez, Sociology

The purpose of this study is to examine how an individual‚ race, socioeconomic status, and their household food security are correlated with physical and mental health outcomes. We propose that those with lower socioeconomic status and food security, as well as Non-Whites, are negatively correlated with better physical and mental health outcomes.

The Effects Of The Trump Administration On Immigrant Serving Organizations In The Greater Providence Area, Odalis Flores

Sociology Student Scholarship

Odalis Flores ’23
Majors: Sociology and Global Studies
Minors: Business Innovation and Latin American Studies
Faculty Mentor: Dr.Kara Cebulko, Sociology and Anthropology

Project Overview: I researched Trump-era policies and how the president’s anti-immigrant agenda has impacted the immigrant experience in Providence and the surrounding areas (Central Falls & Pawtucket), as well as how it has affected immigrant-serving organizations’ ability to fulfill their missions to these communities. I also focused on the pandemic, as these communities, which have the densest immigrant population in Rhode Island, were hit the hardest. Specifically, from the point of view of the organizations as they were …

Examining The Effects Of The “Strong Black Woman” Stereotype On Black Women’S Experience With Domestic Violence, Taylor Tristine

Sociology Student Scholarship

Major: Psychology
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Maureen Outlaw, Sociology and Anthropology

Through a thorough analysis of published articles and books, this analysis of the effects of the “Strong Black Woman” on Black women’s experience with domestic violence shows major disparities with the experience of White women. While many Black women take pride in being “strong,” this label can have surprisingly complex and simultaneously positive and negative effects on a Black woman’s psyche. Additionally, many effects of the application of this stereotype may seem positive to Black women at the time, but after constant application of the stereotype these women are consistently …

A Study Of The Affects Of Religiosity On Mental Health At Providence College, Santanna Rocha

Sociology Student Scholarship

Major: Sociology and Philosophy

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Brandon Martinez, Sociology

This research project aims to understand the connection, if any, between religiousness and mental health outcomes in college students. On a campus where many students and faculty engage in religious practices, either on campus or off, studying the affects of religion as a spiritual and psychological outlet proves to be a relevant concept for the Providence College community.

Social And Media Influences On Vaping, Emily D'Arcy

Social Work Student Scholarship

Major: Social Work

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Katie Kranz, Social Work

Vaping in the United States is becoming an epidemic especially among young adults and adolescents. As the attention and perception of vaping increases, very little is known about treatment plans and recovery strategies. Based on the current literature and qualitative research from a social work research class, most information on vaping is received through peer to peer communication or social media platforms. Both peer and social media influence have impacted and influenced vaping behaviors, especially the use of a Juul. Vaping is prevalent because of how quickly it’s gained popularity …

Representations Of Alcoholism In Pop Culture: The Mom Project, Alexandra Rose

Social Work Student Scholarship

Major: Social Work

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Katherine Kranz, Social Work

The Mom television series is the perfect medium to call attention to the idea of women in addiction recovery in pop culture today. As it simultaneously calls upon known stereotypes and misconceptions about addiction, it also subconsciously educates the viewer on facts about what addiction recovery may really look like. To a viewer with no knowledge of addiction and recovery, it hints at what recovery life may look like while using humor. Humor in itself can serve to be a beneficial coping mechanism, as it is the physical release of …

2016 Cleary Lecture Promo Flyer

2016 Cleary Lecture: Breaking State Impunity by Guillermo Trejo

Promotional flyer for the 2016 Cleary Lecture at Providence College. The 2016 speaker was Guillermo Trejo of the Kellogg Institute for International Studies at the University of Notre Dame.

Neocolonialism, Liberation Theology And The Nicaraguan Revolution, John Hindley

Undergraduate Craft of Research Prize Papers

This paper will attempt to answer an important question regarding the study of revolutions in developing countries: how does Liberation Theology address the problems of neocolonialism that plagues the Latin American continent? The analysis will use the Central American nation, Nicaragua, and its Sandinista revolution as a country case. This question is important to the study because it helps to understand the extent or the kind of an impact religion has on revolutions. In Latin America, the population is majority Roman Catholic. Due to this, the hierarchy of the Church and the laity has had a certain influence on the …

The Challenges Of Minority, Non-Affluent Students: Perceptions Of The Transitions To College, Justin Gilliam

Social Work Theses

This study explored whether low income minority students at a predominantly White institution felt socially, financially, and academically prepared for college. A review of the literature revealed that the supports necessary for low income minority students to ensure a positive transition to college are their family members, staff members at their high school, mentors, and college preparation programs. A qualitative descriptive study was conducted through interviewing eight participants who fit this study’s definition of a low income minority. The findings from this study revealed that family members, mentors, staff members at their high school, and college preparation programs were supports …

Prevalence Of Bullying At The Elementary School Level: A Descriptive Analysis, Katherine M. D’Ascenzo

Social Work Theses

A quantitative, descriptive study on the prevalence of bullying at the elementary school level was conducted in Providence, Rhode Island. A review of the literature outlined the definition of what aggressive behavior constitutes as bullying, details the aggressor and target roles and confirms the potentially harmful consequences of bullying. Factors such as the aggressor and target’s grade level, gender and race were documented to explore whether these factors held an influential role in the bullying incidents. Findings suggested that elementary aged children bully students within their same grade and of similar gender. Another finding revealed that race is not a …

Female Students’ Perceptions Of Sexual Victimization In The College Environment, Nicole Sadoski

Social Work Theses

Research indicates that sexual victimization is a significant problem on college campuses in the United States. Ranging from unwanted sexual contact to rape, sexual victimization of female students is not only a pervasive issue in the college environment, but it also may lead to devastating short- and long-term consequences for survivors, including physical, psychological, and emotional implications. In an effort to better understand the scope of this issue, the researcher attempted to conduct a comprehensive study about female students’ perceptions of sexual victimization at a mid-size, Northeastern, Catholic, liberal arts college. Participants’ recommendations for ways in which colleges can educate …

Best Practices Regarding Homelessness And Mental Illness, Brittany Kowaleski

Social Work Theses

Preliminary research indicates that homelessness is a growing problem in the United States, especially in Rhode Island. It is very common for those who are homeless to also be impacted by a mental illness, which creates an additional barrier for them to overcome. This qualitative research collected stories from homeless individuals in Rhode Island regarding their perceptions of services that work best to overcome homelessness as well as related problems, including mental illness and substance abuse. This is a local and national problem, and understanding the stories from those who “live” the experience of homelessness is valuable for practice and …

Obstacles In Human Service Work With Teen Mothers, Chloe Casale

Social Work Theses

Research has shown that it is extremely beneficial for teen mothers to have support during their pregnancy and during their new experience of motherhood. Teen mothers can be extremely vulnerable because of the many obstacles they may face including unhealthy relationships, lack of education attainment, mental health concerns, and isolation. One source of support can come from human service workers. In an effort to better understand the obstacles faced by teen mothers, and thus the obstacles faced by home visitors, this study focused on the stories, opinions, and experiences of those who are working with teen mothers in a home …

The Effects Of Advertising And The Media’S Portrayal Of The “Thin Ideal” On College Women’S Self-Image, Mary Sheehan

Social Work Theses

This study explores the relationship between media images’ portrayal of the “thin ideal” and college women’s self-image and self-esteem. A review of the literature validated the researcher’s hypothesis that women are negatively affected by the media’s portrayal of “ideal” body types. However, the review of literature also presented a contrasting theme that media images can positively affect women through motivation and determination to maintain healthy lifestyles. A mixed methods study using Rosenberg’s Self Esteem Scale and media images portraying different body types was used to examine this relationship. Findings indicated that the level of the women’s self-esteem prior to completing …

Should A Program Of Sex Education Be Mandatory In Public Schools From 4th-12th Grade?, Tara St. Onge

Sociology Student Scholarship

For a position paper and presentation in her Changing Family course last fall, Tara explored the debate surrounding sexual education in the public school system. After completing extensive research regarding the policies which are already in place and evaluating their success, Tara formed the position that a program of sexual education should be mandatory in public schools form 4^th to 12^th grade. During an era where popular reality television shows include “Sixteen and Pregnant” as well as “Teen Mom” depict what a large issue teenage pregnancy is and how mainstream it has become in society. Tara does an …

Correlations Between Language, Identity, And Discrimination Among Spanish Speakers In Providence, Katherine Rennie

Global Studies Student Scholarship

This study examines how discrimination based on language hinges on the importance of language to one’s personal identity. In order to understand the connections between discrimination and language, the literature on discrimination and its various components is investigated. Scholars’ findings concerning the connection between language and identity are then examined. A discussion will follow of the neuropsychology of language and of the scientific argument that human language came about in response to an evolutionary need for symbolic communication. These themes create a framework for the following study. In order to understand the experience of discrimination as a result of language …

Discovering Resilience In Children Who Witnessed Their Caregivers With Cancer: A Retrospective Study, Cassandra N. Menz

Social Work Theses

Cancer is a powerful disease and has been shown to affect both the individual battling the disease as well as the friends and families. Research has shown that children and/or adolescents who have witnessed their caregivers with cancer have emerged as resilient from this experience. Through interviews, this study investigated college students at a small liberal arts school in Southern New England, who have or have had primary caregivers with cancer to see if they have gained resilience. This study revealed the effects that cancer can have not only on the individual who is battling the disease, but also on …

Facebook: The Newest Weight Loss Supplement?, Jaclyn Longo

Social Work Theses

This study sought to find a correlation between Facebook usage and exercise and diet habits among college-age females. A review of literature has shown the prevalence of eating disorders on college campuses and the pressures directly associated with these statistics. Eighty surveys were collected in order to measure both qualitative and quantitative data concerning the participants Facebook, eating, and dieting habits. Results revealed a strong drive among these females to stay thin through the use of diet and exercise habits, along with a correlation between viewing Facebook photos and the urge to workout. Further research on this subject should focus …

Effects Of A Witnessing History On The Female Ability To Negotiate Romantic Relationships: A Retrospective Analysis, Kimberly Rodrigues

Social Work Theses

Research suggests that witnessing domestic violence (DV) in childhood may have long-term negative effects as a person enters adulthood. This exposure may hinder the ability for adults to build healthy romantic relationships. In an effort to better understand how a witnessing history affects adult romantic relationships, this study focused on the retrospective stories of women who were in recent domestically violent relationships and who also reveal witnessing DV as children. Participant’s narratives were analyzed for themes relating to their witnessing history, such as type of violence witnessed, frequency of violence witnessed, and whether or not participants felt their witnessing history …

Why Do College Students Stay In Unhealthy Relationships And Why Are Peers Hesitant To Intervene?, Melissa Devito

Social Work Theses

This study focused on why college students remain in unhealthy relationships and why they may not intervene. Additionally, the study sought to determine student’s perception of themselves and others using scales that measured their self-esteem, comfortability, and vulnerability. Sixty five students at a Catholic southern New England private college participated in this mixed method study. Results revealed that the definitions of relationships were gender based and students were aware of sexual abuse but remain neutral about reporting it and intervening. Implications from this study include the need for future research on reporting sexual abuse on college campuses and to gather …

Effectiveness Of Anti-Bullying Policies In High Schools, Angela Ju

Social Work Theses

This study focused on the effectiveness of anti-bullying policies in high schools from the perspectives of college students. Literature suggests that anti-bullying policies are in place nationally in high schools but implementation of these policies have been questionable. Several studies have indicated a need for more enforcement of bullying prevention efforts in high schools. This quantitative study gathered data from surveys distributed to and completed by college freshmen students, almost all of whom have had a bullying experience at least once in high school. Findings imply that participants were split in their perspective of how effective and beneficial their high …

Is Mental Illness An Access Barrier To Seeking And Receiving Abortion Services?, Miranda Cummings

Social Work Theses

This study examines the relationship between one’s mental health status and access to abortion services. A review of the literature confirms that no prior research has been completed to determine whether or not mental health status is a barrier to seeking and/or receiving abortion services. A qualitative study using professionals from the mental health and abortion service fields was conducted to explore this relationship. Findings suggest that there are implications for some individuals experiencing mental illness. Another finding concludes that mental illness may be a secondary access barrier if one’s health insurance is provided by governmental funds. An implication for …

Caught In Cultural Limbo?: A College Student’S Perspective On Growing Up With Immigrant Parents, Melissa Weiss

Social Work Theses

Much recent scholarship of immigrants, has found a second-generation disadvantage, or an “immigrant paradox” instead of a “second generation advantage”. In contrast to past studies, this study employed qualitative methods to explore mental health and risky behavior variables of the immigrant paradox among college-aged children of immigrants who attend a private, liberal arts institution to gain a more meaningful understanding of this “paradox”. No strong evidence suggesting an “immigrant paradox” in terms of these variables was found, but instead participants expressed cultural pride. It was also found that these individuals valued their present support systems and those they had while …

Part-Time Faculty In Higher Education: A Selected Annotated Bibliography, Robert Pankin, Carla Weiss

Sociology Department Faculty Publications

At this writing (Fall 2011), two-thirds of the faculty in higher education are contingent part-time or full-time. Only one-third of the faculty is tenured or on the tenure-track. This selected, annotated bibliography is organized by year of publication, from 1977 to 2010. (An earlier version was published in 2008.) It is the purpose of this publication to facilitate understanding of the meaning and implications of this major change in the structure of higher education. The annotations in the bibliography were written from the perspective of a part-time faculty member, unlike most of the literature, which is written from a management …

Book Review: Coping With The Effects Of Deprivation: Development And Upbringing Of Romanian Adoptees In The Netherlands, By Catharina Rijk, Josephine A. Ruggiero

Sociology Department Faculty Publications

No abstract provided.

The Effects Of Permanency On Youth In Foster Care: The Successes They Achieve After Exiting The System, Megan Foster

Social Work Theses

This study reported on the connection between the permanency a youth in the foster care system experienced and the success they achieved as they transitioned out of the system. Housing, education, and employment were factors addressed. Data was gathered through four interviews with youth who had recently transitioned out of the foster care system and 435 surveys were collected in the months of April and October 2010. Results revealed that youth often use state programs to supplement their needs during the treatment process. Youth that attained success created and maintained relationships with workers who become adult supporters for them. Implications …