Digital Commons Network^™

The Relationship Between Participation In School Based Mental Health Programs And Absenteeism, Candida Kistemann, Diane Palomares, Jodi Eddington

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This research study focuses on the impact of School-Based Mental Health (SBMH) programs on student absenteeism in a school setting, highlighting the potential of these programs to promote students’ well-being and improve attendance rates. By implementing SBMH programs, schools may address mental health challenges that contribute to chronic absenteeism. Researchers used a quantitative research design, analyzing archival data to assess whether participation in an SBMH program influences school attendance. A one-way ANOVA was conducted to examine absentee rates before, during, and after SBMH participation. Findings revealed no significant overall effect; however, specific groups – elementary school students and Hispanic students …

Access To Mental Health In The Latino Community, Lindsey Corado

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This study aims to explore mental health within the Latino community, highlighting the disparities in mental health service utilization and the contributing factors. The key barriers identified include stigma, economic hardships, language barriers, and lack of culturally relevant services, which have disproportionately affected Latinos' access to mental health. The research examines cause-and-effect relationships between interventions and utilization using an explanatory design. Using mixed methods, quantitative and qualitative data is collected to examine participants' knowledge, experiences, and attitudes toward mental health services and their impact on service utilization. Convenience, purposive, and snowball sampling are utilized to recruit 40 participants meeting specific …

Addressing Transphobia In The Twenty-First Century: A Survey Of Teachers' Awareness And Receptiveness In California, Melissa Rachel Pflug

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Transphobia is a form of discrimination against transgender, non-binary, two-spirit, genderqueer, and intersex individuals based on their gender identity. Transphobia and transphobic rhetoric result in higher rates of bullying and mental health challenges for transgender students. A significant obstacle presented in the education system for transgender students is the lack of education on interventions against transphobic bullying. This study assessed the awareness and receptiveness of K -12 teachers in California regarding the use of school-based interventions against transphobia. Using a purposive sampling method, this cross-sectional study surveyed K -12 teachers across California to determine their awareness and receptiveness levels regarding …

Cultural And Social Factors In Postpartum Depression: A Study Of Latina And White Mothers, Juana Gutierrez-Fuentes

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Postpartum depression is a prevalent mood disorder that impacts 10-20% of women annually in the United States following childbirth. While all pregnant women are at risk of PPD, existing literature suggests that Latina mothers report PPD and seek treatment at lower rates than White mothers. Prior studies have identified risk factors and barriers that impact reporting and treatment among Latinas. The aim of this study is to investigate the interplay of race, depression, marital status, education, poverty level, and social support among White and Latina mothers. Using combined data from the 2017 and 2018 California Health Interview Survey (CHIS), we …

The Effectiveness Of Homelessness Prevention Services In Southern California, Marlon N. Gonzalez

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This research project aimed to determine the effectiveness of available prevention services for individuals and families at risk of experiencing homelessness in a region of Southern California. Homelessness is a prevalent social problem for society and the social problem has been growing significantly. The study adopted an exploratory and qualitative research design by interviewing social services professionals working in the arena of homelessness. The Snowball Sampling method was used to recruit social services professionals after interviewing a select few individuals first. Ten interviews of social services professionals were completed via a Zoom setting.

Data analysis revealed the following ten open …

Investigating Independent And Transitional Living Programs: A Systematic Review, Alexandra Torres, Jordi E. Marquez

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Background: Approximately, 20,000 youths in the United States age out of the foster care system every year. Youths are face with the heightened risks of homelessness, unemployment, and behavioral health challenges. Despite the implementation of Independent Living Programs (ILPs) and Transitional Living Programs (TLPs) created to assist foster youths through this transition, research indicates limitations in their effectiveness to address the emotional, interpersonal, and long-term effects. Present research additionally lacks the intersectional analysis to address the needs of LGBTQ+ and racial minority youths. These fundamental limitations call for more comprehensive, strength-based frameworks to improve the outcomes for transitioning foster youths. …

Beneficial Impacts Of Extended Foster Care On Young Adults Transitioning Into Independence, Latricia A. Reed

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Foster youth transitioning into adulthood face significant challenges, including homelessness, mental health struggles, and difficulty attaining higher education. Extended Foster Care (EFC) programs aim to provide additional support, stability, and resources to help these young adults successfully transition to independent living. This proposed study examines the impact of EFC on housing stability and educational attainment among foster youth aged 18–21 in California. Using secondary data from the California Department of Social Services (CDSS), the proposed research would employ a quantitative approach to analyze key outcomes. If completed, the study would highlight the importance of social support networks, mentorship, and policy …

The Effectiveness Of Combined Approach Intervention And Group Social Skills Intervention For School Aged Children With Asd, Cecilia Ester Subroto

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder which ranges from low to severe functioning levels, communication is one of its deficits coming from the disorder. As many individuals get diagnosed at a young age, they may have difficulties with their social skills. If interventions are personalized to meet the unique needs of everyone, there can be an increase in their social skills level. Objective: This evaluative study will aim to determine combined approach intervention or group social skills intervention is more effective for enhancing the social skills of school-aged children with ASD. Method: This research proposal …

Evaluating School-Based Interventions And Programs In Treating Children Mental Health Disorders, Rozandra Yazmin Sanchez

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Background: The implementation of mental health services such as school-based interventions and programs have been well established within schools. However, it is uncertain how effective school-based interventions and programs are in treating children who are diagnosed with a mental health disorder specifically for children who are younger than 11 years old as it has not been explored. Objective: This proposed quasi-experimental study aims to determine the effectiveness of school-based mental health intervention programs in supporting and treating children (ages 6 to 11) who are diagnosed with a mental health disorder by evaluating their symptoms. Method: The proposed study would collect …

Law Enforcement Perspectives Towards Mental Health Crisis Interventions, Anna P. Silva

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Mental health crisis calls create significant challenges for law enforcement officers, who often serve as the first responders to individuals experiencing psychological distress. Research indicates that 50% of fatal encounters with law enforcement involve individuals with a mental health disorder (Fuller et al., 2015; Kindy & Elliott, 2015). Although the increasing prevalence of mental health- related calls, law enforcement officers frequently lack the specialized training and resources necessary to effectively de-escalate these situations (Cohen & Bagwell, 2023). As a result, interactions between police officers and individuals with mental illness tend to lead to criminalization, unnecessary incarceration, and even fatal outcomes. …

Diversity In Social Work Organizations, Andrea I. Corona

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This research proposal explores social workers’ attitudes toward diversity within organizations. The goal is to measure individual perception, beliefs, and receptiveness to diversity. The ATD scale measures attitudes across different dimensions, including race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, and cultural differences. Bachelor's of social work and Master’s of social work professionals working within an organization will answer the scale and results analyzed.

Diversity is the presence of a wide range of differences among people and groups. These characteristics can be visible or invisible and make individuals unique. Diversity also involves recognizing, valuing, and respecting those individual differences. Diversity fosters inclusive …

Impact Of Childhood Exposure To Parental Substance Misuse On Adults, Jennifer Martinez

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Studies show that children who experienced parental substance misuse are at greater risk of developing symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, behavioral problems, or becoming a substance misuser later in adult life. This quantitative study used an on-line self-administered survey to examine whether adults who experienced parental substance misuse in childhood experienced greater levels of trauma in later life than those who did not experience parental substance misuse in childhood. This study used an independent variable t-test to compare participant scores on self-reported experiences of trauma between two groups: those who experienced parental substance misuse in childhood and those who did …

Safety, Access To Resources, And Inclusion: A Mixed-Methods Study Of The Lgbtqia+ Community In The Inland Empire, Jessica Mary Fanene, Leonardo Serrano Jr.

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

LGBTQIA+ individuals face growing discrimination, exclusion, and systemic inequities that threaten well-being. Rising anti-LGBTQIA+ rhetoric exacerbates these challenges, contributing to anxiety, depression, and heightened suicide risks. This study explores LGBTQIA+ individuals’ sense of well-being by analyzing how external factors impact safety and inclusion. Using an exploratory, mixed-methods approach, this study surveyed members of the LGBTQIA+ community in the Inland Empire to determine perceptions on well-being (n = 219). Based on descriptive statistics, about one third of participants reported a below average to average sense of safety (35.6%), access to resources (32.0%), and inclusion (33.8%). Meanwhile, thematic analysis revealed that the …

Problematic Social Media Use And Its Effects On Adolescents’ Mental Health: A Longitudinal Study, Elaine Moreno

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Background: Problematic Social Media Use (PSMU) has been associated to increased levels of anxiety, depression, and disruptions in identity development among adolescents, who are especially vulnerable to the effects of excessive digital engagement (Keles et al., 2019). Even though there is increasing evidence to support these conclusions, many of the studies that are currently available employ cross-sectional designs, which makes it more difficult to identify the causal links between PSMU and mental health outcomes (Keles et al., 2019). This disparity raises concerns regarding the long-term effects of persistent overuse of social media as well as the directionality of these effects. …

Explaining The Long-Term Mental Health Impacts Of Childhood Exposure To Domestic Violence: A Mixed-Methods Study, Sabrina A. Medel

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Background: Domestic violence (DV) is a social phenomenon that occurs when an individual perpetuates violent and aggressive behavior toward their significant other in the form of financial, emotional, physical, or sexual abuse. Adversely, children may be exposed to DV, which can result in lasting impacts on their mental health. Although scholars have previously explored this social phenomenon, their studies overlooked the experiences of diverse populations.

Objective: This research study aims to bridge this gap of knowledge by explaining the relationship between childhood exposure to DV and the long-term mental health impacts of BIPOC college students. Methods: This …

The Impact Of Adverse And Positive Childhood Experiences On Immigrants And Their Psychological Well-Being, Sofia Martinez

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This study examines the relationship between immigration status, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs), and psychological distress using a representative dataset from California (N=21,463). It investigates two primary research questions: (1) how immigration status influences ACE scores and (2) whether ACE and PCE scores are associated with psychological distress. Chi-square tests, logistic regression, and multiple regression analyses were conducted to assess these relationships. Findings indicate that non-citizens report significantly lower ACE scores, and lower levels of psychological distress compared to U.S.-born, supporting the "immigrant paradox"—where immigrants exhibit better mental health outcomes than their U.S.-born counterparts despite exposure to …

The Multigenerational Impact Of Mass Incarceration On Families In Southern California, Adelle G. Phillips

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Mass incarceration has been a serious social issue in the United States, affecting directly and indirectly millions of individuals and families, particularly those with minority backgrounds. The generational impact of this social issue is significant. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of individuals on the multigenerational impact of mass incarceration on their families. Using convenience and snowball sampling techniques, this mixed-methods study surveyed residents of Southern California who have been affected by incarceration, either personally or through a family member (n = 63). Descriptive statistics demonstrate that the vast majority of the participants (92.1%) reported a moderate to very …

The Outcomes Of School-Based Mental Health Services At A Southern California School District A Proposed Pilot Study, Amanda Smith, Ashley Rodriguez

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

In this proposed project we intend to explore and identify empirical evidence-based research on outcomes of school-based mental health provided by a Southern California school district. This study will highlight evidence-based research on the growing concern for school-based mental health. A relevant extraction tool that can be utilized for further research, and a study design to explore existing literature regarding programs and student participation to gauge outcomes.

School-based mental health supports mental well-being and promotes positive protective factors. These include social and cultural connections, resilience, coping strategies, problem-solving abilities, positive development, and a supportive school environment where students feel safe. …

Skills And Strengths Gained From Being A First-Born Daughter In A Latino Household, Astrid Luque, Leesly Angeles Rosas

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This research proposal aims to analyze the perspective first-born daughters in Latino households experience throughout their lives and looks to fill a gap in the literature about what this population faces due to being in the eldest daughter position in the household. The existing literature revealed that first-born daughters in Latino households experience a significantly higher amount of stress due to the role they take on in their households. Some of the responsibilities placed on them included financial burden, caregiving responsibilities, and a general higher expectation compared to their younger siblings. To obtain more knowledge on this topic, an exploratory, …

Kidney Disease And Its Impact On Caregiver Burden And Marital Satisfaction, Silvia Amaya

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

The purpose of this study is to review and analyze the relevant literature focusing on research studies that examine the impact of kidney disease and chronic illness on caregiver burden and marital satisfaction. Studies show that, as the older population increases and, with it, the rise of chronic illness and caregiver need, the quality of marital and relationship satisfaction between patients and caregiver spouses/partners will have a significant impact on the care that patients receive and on the social and community costs that such care will incur.

A scoping review is proposed to search, analyze, and synthesize the existing body …

Islams’ Influence On Mental Health, Tala Soukieh

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This proposed study explores the intricate relationship between Islam and mental health among Muslims in the United States. The study employs a mixed methods approach to provide a comprehensive understanding of this dynamic. Given the significant role spirituality plays in mental health, this research integrates qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys to capture these perspectives, specifically in the Muslim community. The qualitative portion will consist of in-depth interviews to cover personal experiences and beliefs about Islam and mental well-being. Concurrently, quantitative surveys will be conducted to collect broader data on religious practices and their mental health outcomes. Significant gaps and barriers …

Parental Knowledge Of Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder Medication Side Effects, Vanesa Soto, Monique Alexis Sandoval

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Background: ADHA is the most common neurodevelopmental disorder amongst children. There are many different risk factors that have been found to be associated with the ADHD diagnosis. Overtime medication has become the primary form of treatment for children with ADHD. When a child consumes the medication, there are a wide range of side effects that can be developed. Objective: This proposal aims to explore minority parents’ understanding of ADHD medication side effects when they initially receive a prescription for medication and to identify the sources from which they acquire this knowledge. Methods: We would collect data form participants using a …

Literature As A Tool For The Introduction Of Mental Health To Children, Kira Ott

Undergraduate Honors Theses

In childhood, literature is a quintessential learning tool, so it is imperative it is used in the introduction of mental health. Around the ages of seven to nine children begin to become aware of their own needs and comprehend others' perspectives (Short et al., 2017, p. 13). At this time non-fiction books can be used to present information when it is organized, accessible, and informative (Short et al., 2017, p. 13). This can be effectively paired with fiction which can help contextualize abstract ideas, and develop self-monitoring skills (Gunawardena, 2023; Short et al., 2017). Mental health, which encompasses thoughts, feelings, …

Autism Spectrum Disorder And Its Effects On Parent Relationships, Christopher Berrun, Arturo Alegre Jr.

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

ABSTRACT

This proposed study aims to explore the impact of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) on parental relationships. ASD is defined as a neurological developmental disorder that significantly affects individuals' social communication, behavior, and interests. The study will focus on the Parents of children with (ASD) and the heightened stress due to financial strain, increased caregiving responsibilities, and disagreements over parenting strategies. This can lead to lower marital satisfaction and overall relationship strain, as parents struggle to balance their personal relationship with the challenges of raising a child with complex needs.

Without proper support and resources, these issues may worsen over …

The Characteristics Of Students With Body Image Dissatisfaction In A Southern California School District, Isabelle Rose Labrie, Yaretxy Romo

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Body image dissatisfaction is an increasingly common issue among children and adolescents, often stemming from various factors such as peer influences, family dynamics, media exposure, and extracurricular activities. This dissatisfaction can have significant long-term effects on youths' mental health, including the development of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and eating disorders.

This proposed exploratory study aims to develop a new instrument by synthesizing insights from existing literature. A scoping literature review was chosen as the most appropriate method, as it allows for a comprehensive examination of available research on body image dissatisfaction. This research proposal seeks to fill a gap in …

The Effect Of Childhood Emotional Abuse On The Mental Health Of Latinx Adults, Leslie Castro, Yoceline Valle

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

ABSTRACT

Background: Childhood emotional abuse is a severe form of maltreatment that can be as damaging as more visible kinds of abuse. It is defined as any action or inaction by a caregiver that hinders a child's emotional development. This type of abuse can take the form of humiliation, belittlement, rejection, or neglect, leaving lasting emotional scars. Objective: This study proposes to better understand the long-lasting effects of childhood emotional abuse by investigating the connections between the degree of emotional abuse and ensuing mental health issues. Methods: Using a cross-sectional design, this study proposes to gather quantitative data on the …

Measuring Motive: A Systematic Review Of The Cyber Aggression Typology Questionnaire, Alexandre N. Urben

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Cyber aggression is a widespread social problem with serious psychological impacts on both perpetrators and victims. Eighty-five percent of Americans say they use the Internet daily, and thirty-one percent of Americans report they go online “almost constantly”. Forty-one percent of Americans say they have experienced some form of online harassment. While there is a great deal of research across various disciplines about the frequency of cyber aggression, who perpetrates it, and what traits are associated with it, motivations for cyber aggression are less understood. Understanding the motivations involved is an important factor in preempting and countering cyber aggression. The Cyber …

Breaking The Chains: Challenging Antiblackness In Social Work Education And Practice: A Qualitative Study, Brandon Rothschild

PhD of Social Work

This dissertation critically examines the pervasive effects of anti-Blackness within social work education, focusing on how these experiences influence the development of Black identity among social work faculty. Situated within a historical context of systemic exclusion, marginalization, and racial discrimination, the study investigates the strategies employed by Black social work educators to navigate and construct their professional identities. The central research question explores how anti-Blackness within social work members. The study's findings are organized into five key themes: recognition of systemic racism, challenging dominant narratives, amplifying counter-narratives, intersectionality and complex identities, and advocacy for systemic change. These themes highlight the …

Fostering Positive Bonds: Exploring Key Influences On Foster Youth-Foster Parent Relationships, Maria Baldivid, Karen Cedano

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Each year, thousands of children enter the U.S. foster care system and spend a significant amount of time in out-of-home care. Unfortunately, many of these children face placement instability, exacerbating the stress and trauma they undergo in addition to the inherent challenges of being in foster care. Recognizing the pivotal role of the foster youth-foster parent relationship due to the prolonged time spent in foster homes, this study aimed to explore influential factors in developing positive relationships from the perspective of former foster youth. Employing a qualitative research design, the study conducted individual virtual interviews, and subsequent data analysis identified …

Postpartum Depression: Factors Contributing To Low Ratings And Treatment, Cheyenne Gibbons-Doyle

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Postpartum depression affects many women after having a child and some may not understand that postpartum depression is what they are dealing with. It can change the relationship or connection that a mother builds with her baby if left unacknowledged or untreated. The ratings for postpartum depression are fairly low and this study aims to identify the factors contributing to it. The purpose of this study is to discover any barriers women may face when reporting they are experiencing postpartum depression. It is important to clarify any barriers in order to understand the reasons for underreporting. The study will utilize …