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The Effects Of Parental Alcoholism On Children, Ryan A. Flaherty

Graduate Research Papers

Research has examined the effects of parental alcoholism on children and adolescents. This paper will address the different ways teens are affected by parental alcoholism, identifying medical, emotional, and social dangers, while also trying to link specific aspects of parental alcoholism with each harmful effect. In looking at the negative effects that parental alcoholism has on the parents and children, this paper will also examine whether children become victims and suffer, or become resilient and persevere. This paper will also look at physical, social, emotional, behavioral and family structure concerns as they relate to children with alcoholic parents.

Sex Of Spouse Abuse Offender And Directionality Of Abuse As Predictors Of Personal Distress, Interpersonal Functioning, And Perceptions Of Family Climate, Lisa M. Taylor, Joe F. Pittman

Faculty Research & Creative Activity until 2018 (FCS)

This study examines perceptions of personal distress, interpersonal functioning and family climate reported by men and women involved in unidirectional versus bidirectional spouse abuse. Participants were 7253 offenders treated by the USAF Family Advocacy Program from 1988 to 1996. Over a quarter of the sample is female and included among them were both undirectional and bidirectional offenders. Grouping factors for the analysis are gender, directionality of aggression, history of abuse in childhood, history of recidivism, and severity of aggression. Females and offenders raised in abusive homes reported more negative perceptions across the measured spheres. Unidirectional abusers reported more personal distress, …

Indoor Cats, Scratching, And The Debate Over Declawing: When Normal Pet Behavior Becomes A Problem, Katherine C. (Kasey) Grier, Nancy Peterson

State of the Animals 2005

When pet animals share our living spaces, their needs and natural behaviors sometimes are at odds with the varying standards for household appearance, sanitation, and polite social life that Americans have established over time. How pet owners have resolved these issues provides insight into their changing ideas about the role of animals in their households and suggests how much, or how little, people may actually know about the biological behaviors and psychological needs of the creatures they care for. This essay examines one particular issue associated with the problem of sharing spaces: declawing pet cats as a common solution to …

Effects Of Subtle Heterosexism On Gays, Lesbians, And Bisexuals, Shawn M. Burn, Kelly Kadlec, Ryan Rexer

Psychology and Child Development

This study examined heterosexism that is not specifically targeted at LGB individuals, but may be experienced as antigay harassment, and may contribute to the stigma and stress they experience. LGB participants (N= 175, primarily Euro-American college students), read scenarios of heterosexuals saying or assuming things potentially offensive to gay men or lesbian women. For each scenario, they indicated the extent to which they would be offended and less open about their sexuality, and their perceptions of the behaviors as evidence of antigay prejudice. Not only did respondents find the scenarios to be offensive and indicative of prejudice, but perceived offensiveness …

Spoken Word Recognition: The Challenge Of Variation, Paul A. Luce, Conor T. Mclennan

Psychology Faculty Publications

No abstract provided.

Life Event Perception: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach To The Antecedents Of The Life Stress Response, Christopher Aaron Myers

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

It has been often argued that life events have an impact on our physical and psychological well-being. In general, research supports this connection between life events and general health, though some argue that simply experiencing life events has a measurable and predictable impact our health, while others contend that this effect is mediated by the appraisal process. Further, research has identified a number of different factors (hypothetically stratified into pre-existing beliefs, external resources and demands, and behavioral activation and coping strategies) that may influence appraisal and general health. The current study attempts to integrate these findings by testing structural models …

Assessment And Prediction Of Self-Reported Hiv-Risk Behaviors By Women In Substance Abuse Treatment, Radhika Sehgal

Master's Theses and Doctoral Dissertations

This study compared information obtained from self-administered questionnaires (SAQ) and faceto- face interview (FTFI) versions of the HIV Risk-taking Behavior Scale. This study also compared women intravenous drug users (IVDU’s) and non-IVDU’s on rates of HIV risk behaviors and the extent to which unstable housing, unemployment, single parenthood, barriers to accessing health care, and number of years of drug abuse predicted HIV risk. There were no differences in rates of risk behavior reported between SAQ and FTFI formats. IVDU’s had higher sexual risk behaviors than non-IVDU’s. Unstable housing significantly predicted risk behavior. Relative to those with more education, those with …

The Effects Of Childhood Obesity On Self-Esteem, Heather L. Paxton

Theses, Dissertations and Capstones

Obesity is a growing health problem affecting children in the United States. The prevalence of obesity has increased dramatically over the past 10 years across virtually all populations and age groups. Recent data suggest that 15 percent of U.S. children are severely overweight or obese (National Center for Health Statistics, 2002) . Obese children are at risk for significant health problems, but also face many psychological and social consequences, including low self-esteem. Children who are obese face an increased risk of emotional problems lasting well into adulthood. Factors such as peer rejection, weight-related teasing, and internalized social standards play a …

A Program Evaluation Of Tender Hearts, Kensey R. Sheline

Theses, Dissertations and Capstones

The effectiveness of the Tender Hearts program is examined, based on the perception of participants. Data collection is obtained by a questionnaire developed from the objectives of the program. Frequency analysis and descriptive statistics are utilized to examine the data. Overall, the participants demonstrate satisfaction with Tender Hearts. The study’s limitations are discussed.

Extent Of Exposure To Environmental Tobacco Smoke (Ets) And Its Dose-Response Relation To Respiratory Health Among Adults, Wasim Maziak, Kenneth D. Ward, Samer Rastam, Fawaz Mzayek, Thomas Eissenberg

Psychology Publications

Background

There is a dearth of standardized studies examining exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) and its relationship to respiratory health among adults in developing countries.

Methods

In 2004, the Syrian Center for Tobacco Studies (SCTS) conducted a population-based survey using stratified cluster sampling to look at issues related to environmental health of adults aged 18–65 years in Aleppo (2,500,000 inhabitants). Exposure to ETS was assessed from multiple self-reported indices combined into a composite score (maximum 22), while outcomes included both self-report (symptoms/diagnosis of asthma, bronchitis, and hay fever), and objective indices (spirometric assessment of FEV₁ and FVC). Logistic …

Comparison Of Patterns Of Use, Beliefs, And Attitudes Related To Waterpipe Between Beginning And Established Smokers, Taghrid Asfar, Kenneth D. Ward, Thomas Eissenberg, Wasim Maziak

Psychology Publications

Background

To compare patterns of use, beliefs, and attitudes related to waterpipe smoking between university students (beginning smokers) and café customers (established smokers) in Aleppo Syria, in order to explore the evolution of this smoking method.

Methods

Two cross-sectional surveys were conducted among representative samples of university students (total 587, 48.4% men, mean age 22 years), and waterpipe users among cafe' customers (total 268, 60% men, mean age 30 years) in Aleppo, Syria. We used interviewer-administered questionnaire inquiring about pattern of waterpipe smoking (initiation, frequency), situational characteristics of use (partner, place, sharing), beliefs related to waterpipe smoking (harmful/addictive properties of …

Early Oral-Motor Interventions For Pediatric Feeding Problems: What, When And How, C. J. Manno, C. Fox, P. S. Eicher, Mary Louise Kerwin

College of Science & Mathematics Departmental Research

Children with developmental delays often have feeding difficulties resulting from oral-motor problems. Based on both clinical experience and a review of published studies, oral-motor interventions have been shown to be effective in improving the oral function of preterm infants and children with neuromotor disorders, such as cerebral palsy. However, oral-motor problems may be under identified in other populations of children with developmental difficulties. The purpose of this paper is to provide a conceptual framework for understanding oral-motor skill development and problems that can occur in any infant and young child and to review oral-motor treatment techniques and their empirical support.

Higher Self – Spark Of The Mind – Summit Of The Soul: Early History Of An Important Concept Of Transpersonal Psychology In The West, Harald Walach

International Journal of Transpersonal Studies

The Higher Self is a concept introduced by Roberto Assagioli, the founder of psychosynthesis,

into transpersonal psychology. This notion is explained and linked up with the Western mystical

tradition. Here, coming from antiquity and specifically from the neo-Platonic tradition, a

similiar concept has been developed which became known as the spark of the soul, or summit of

the mind. This history is sketched and the meaning of the term illustrated. During the middle

ages it was developed into a psychology of mysticism by Thomas Gallus, popularized by

Bonaventure, and radicalized by the Carthusian writer Hugh of Balma. Spark of the …

Psychosocial Treatment Of Children In Foster Care: A Review, Robert Racusin, Arthur C. Maerlender, Anjana Sengupta, Peter K. Isquith, Martha B. Straus

Department of Psychology: Faculty Publications

A substantial number of children in foster care exhibit psychiatric difficulties. Recent epidemiologi-cal and historical trends in foster care, clinical findings about the adjustment of children in foster care, and adult outcomes are reviewed, followed by a description of current approaches to treatment and extant empirical support. Available interventions for these children can be categorized as either symptom-focused or systemic, with empirical support for specific methods ranging from scant to substantial. Even with treatment, behavioral and emotional problems often persist into adulthood, resulting in poor functional outcomes. We suggest that self-regulation may be an important mediat-ing factor in the appearance …

Acculturation And Attachment Among Mexicans And Mexican Americans, Simonetta Fosci

Theses Digitization Project

This study explored attachment styles and acculturation among 173 Mexicans and Mexican Americans. It was hypothesized that a secure attachment style would be positively associated with higher levels of biculturalism.

Stress Enhancement Of Craving During Sobriety: A Risk For Relapse, Laura O'Dell

Departmental Papers (Psych)

No abstract provided.

From Here To There: Lessons From An Integrative Patient Safety Project In Rural Health Care Settings, Ann Freeman Cook, Helena Hoas, Katarina Guttmannova

Psychology Faculty Publications

To date, few studies have focused on patient safety issues that occur in rural health care settings. This article presents and discusses the methodology and the key findings obtained from a multi-method research study of patient safety in rural health care settings, funded by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Interdisciplinary teams of health care providers from 30 rural hospitals and Indian Health Service settings in a nine-state area of the West participated in this initiative. Study instruments included surveys, interviews, and textual analysis of responses to case studies. Data indicate that health care providers strongly affirm the importance …

The Impact Of Sexual Abuse On Student Performance, Denelle M. Mcwherter

Graduate Research Papers

Child sexual abuse is a prevalent societal problem. Up to twenty five percent of children have been abused by the age of eighteen. Victims are significantly impacted academically, socially, and behaviorally. School counselors assume counseling, consulting, and coordinating roles as they assist victims, present prevention curriculum, and act as a referral source.

This paper addresses how sexual abuse affects victims and how counselors can assist victims in developing coping skills and increasing self esteem. In addition, how counselors can help foster a sense of belonging and safety for victims in the school setting will be described, with emphasis on how …

Narrative Art Therapy For Families That Have A Child With A Life-Threatening Illness, Andrea A. Seitz

Art Therapy | Master's Theses in Print

Researchers have recognized the importance of meaningful collaboration between family medical and family therapy practitioners. A report published this year (2005) by the American Academy of Pediatrics spells out the need for pediatricians to be cognizant of the entire family’s needs when treating a child. Given the demands on pediatricians it seems almost impossible for them to provide psycho-social support needed by families. Therefore, a partnership between an MFT and a physician is a more realistic alternative. This proposal will offer an intervention model for working with families who have a child with a catastrophic illness. The treatment modality. Narrative …

Care For Pastors: Learning From Clergy And Their Spouses, Mark R. Mcminn, R. Allen Lish, Pamela D. Trice, Alicia M. Root, Nicole B. Gilbert, Adelene Yap

Faculty Publications - Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) Program

Pastors and their spouses face unique challenges because of the nature of pastoral work, and yet most manage these challenges successfully. Five studies are presented which help distinguish between intrapersonal, family, and community forms of care. Pastors rely heavily on intrapersonal forms of coping such as spiritual devotion, hobbies, exercise, and taking time away from work. The marriage relationship is also quite important for most clergy and spouses. Relationships outside the immediate family are not commonly identified as coping resources. Implications are discussed.

The Effects Of Meritocracy Beliefs On Women’S Well-Being After First-Time Gender Discrimination, Mindi D. Foster, E. Micha Tsarfati

Psychology Faculty Publications

This study examined how meritocracy beliefs may buffer women from the negative psychological effects of an acute situation of gender discrimination. Although some research indirectly suggests that believing the meritocracy exists may increase well-being, group consciousness theories (e.g., Bartky, 1977) suggest that disbelieving the meritocracy exists will enhance psychological adjustment to gender discrimination. Women who reported little past experience with discrimination, and either believed or disbelieved the meritocracy exists were exposed to either a laboratory situation of discrimination or a non-discrimination failure (control) condition. Consistent with group consciousness theories, women experiencing discrimination reported greater well-being if they disbelieved the meritocracy …

The Effects Of Divorce On Children And Adolescents, Rachelle A. Haker

Graduate Research Papers

This research paper focuses on the effects of divorce on children and adolescents. Based on a review of literature, there are many short-term and long-term effects including emotional, behavioral, and physical issues. Children and adolescents vary in adjustment to divorce depending on multiple factors such as communication, conflict, and parental adjustment. The stages that children and adolescents of divorce go through depend on one's developmental stage and gender. Counselors can greatly influence how children and adolescents adjust to divorce.

Becoming A Better Me : An Examination Of Character Education At The Elementary Level, Lori D. Dobbin

Graduate Research Papers

The first day of school can be a difficult adjustment for many students. Some . students struggle with new settings and new rules. Each student enters the classroom with personal morals and values. These morals and character traits greatly influence the student's academic and social progress. This paper reviews character building and its unique ability to alter the perception of the student's world. The paper looks at the deficits of character and introduces possible solutions to restoring character in elementary-aged children. A closer look at the history of character education lays the foundation for a better understanding of character.

The Effects Of Ppa And Nicotine Gum On Cessation Rates And Post Cessation Weight Gain In Women., Theodore Cooper, R. Klesges, M. Debon, S. Zbikowski, K. Johnson, L. Clemens

Departmental Papers (Psych)

No abstract provided.

Hash Browns For Breakfast, Baked Potatoes For Dinner: Changes In Food Attitudes As A Function Of Motivation And Context, Stephen Crites, Shelley Aikman

Departmental Papers (Psych)

Two studies investigated whether participants' motivational state and the context in which attitude reports are made influence food attitudes. Specifically, these studies examined whether hunger and the time-typicality of foods (i.e. match or mismatch between the time when a food is typically eaten and the time the attitude is reported) interact to influence reported attitudes. Study 1 suggests that hunger leads to more positive attitudes toward foods that are typically eaten at the time the attitude report is made (e.g. breakfast foods in morning) compared to foods not typically eaten at the time the attitude report is made (e.g. breakfast …

Impact Of Nutrition Knowledge On Food Evaluations, Stephen Crites, Shelley Aikman

Departmental Papers (Psych)

Objective: This study explored whether nutrition knowledge interacted with evaluations of a food’s healthiness to influence food attitudes (ie, global evaluations). Since attitudes guide behavior, understanding factors that impact food attitudes is one way to understand food selection and why factors such as nutrition knowledge have only a modest impact on food selection. We hypothesized that the relation between health evaluations and food attitudes would be stronger for people high in nutrition knowledge. We also explored the macronutrient composition of foods, and how it related to attitudes and health evaluations.

Design: Survey employing multilevel analyses to examine within- and between-subject …

Epipregnanolone And A Novel Synthetic Neuroactive Steroid Reduce Reduce Alcohol Self-Administration In Rats., Laura O'Dell

Departmental Papers (Psych)

No abstract provided.

Children Of Incarcerated Parents And The Role Of The Elementary School Counselor, Megan A. Petersen

Graduate Research Papers

Of the 72 million minor children in the United States, 2 million of those have a parent who is currently incarcerated. The dynamics of a child's life are greatly altered when a parent is incarcerated, and many children struggle as a result. Without some form of support or intervention, they are five times more likely than other children to become incarcerated themselves. Elementary school counselors must be aware of the characteristics of children of incarcerated parents, while working to address their needs across numerous levels and contexts.

Implementing Lexical And Creative Intentionality In Synthetic Personality, Erik Vick

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Creating engaging, interactive, and immersive synthetic characters is a difficult task and evaluating the success of a synthetic character is often even more difficult. The later problem is solved by extending Turing's Imitation Game thusly: computational construct should be evaluated based on the criteria of how well the character can mimic a human. In order to accomplish a successful evaluation of the proposed metric, synthetic characters must be consistently believable and capable of role-appropriate emotional expression. The author believes traditional synthetic characters must be improved to meet this goal. For a synthetic character to be believable, human users must be …

Cognitive Vulnerability In Anxiety, Emotional Dysregulation, And Bulimia Nervosa, Rachael Motley

Inquiry: The University of Arkansas Undergraduate Research Journal

Bulimia Nervosa (BN) is an eating disorder that is characterized by recurrent cycles of binge eating and compensatory behaviors (e.g. purging). Individuals suffering from BN usually report feeling anxious or depressed before the onset of their eating problems, and disordered eating may represent an attempt to cope with negative emotion. The anxiety associated with BN may arise from several pathways including body dissatisfaction, idealized images of thinness, and negative life events (Polivy & Herman, 2002). There are also other factors that contribute to the development of BN including difficulties with emotion regulation (e.g. alexithymia). We propose that certain individuals are …