Digital Commons Network^™

Intent Vs. Impact: Instructor Preceptions And Experiences In Faculty Learning Communities With A Focus On Antiracism, Diversity, Equity, And Inclusion, Quianna Daniels-Smart

PhD of Social Work

This study examines the perceptions and experiences of faculty members who participated in faculty learning communities (FLCs) centered on antiracism, diversity, equity, and inclusion (ADEI) pedagogy. Employing a hermeneutic phenomenological research design, the study identified recurring themes related to faculty perspectives, perceived changes in teaching practices, attitude shifts, and course content influenced by their involvement in these communities. The sample consisted of faculty from a range of disciplines at various traditionally white institutions (TWIs) across the United States. This research centers faculty insights from both professional and personal standpoints, shedding light on the role of FLCs as a form of …

Psychological Interventions For Addressing Suicidal Behaviours Among Lgbtq+ Adolescents Who Experienced Cyberbullying: A Systematic Review, Catherine Galvan

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Background: Suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States, and cyberbullying is often a major reason behind it. Understanding how these two are connected is important for finding ways to help. This chapter will look at how cyberbullying leads to suicide, who is most at risk, and what can be done to prevent it. Objective: The main objective of this research is to synthesize the evidence on the effectiveness of intervention programs for reducing suicidal thoughts and behaviors in adolescents, especially LGBTQ+ adolescents, who have experienced cyberbullying. Method: In this systematic review, we plan to extract information …

Can Bringing Older And Younger People Together Renew Religious Communities?, Eddie Gonzalez, Stefanie Weiss, Eunice Lin Nichols, Cal Halvorsen

Brown School Faculty Publications

In fall 2024, CoGenerate, in collaboration with Dr. Cal Halvorsen of Washington University in St. Louis, worked with YouGov to conduct a national survey of 1,500 adults (ages 18 and older) in the U.S. about their religious / spiritual communities, their interaction with older and younger people, and their views on building connections across different age groups. The survey was nationally representative by gender, age, race, education and political affiliation. Our findings reveal considerable age segregation in people’s lives and a strong appetite for intergenerational connection and collaboration – or “cogeneration” – to counter it. They also identify challenges and …

The Relationship Between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder And Problematic Internet Usage In Lgbtq+ Adults, Kayli Nicole Heigelmann

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

This thesis explores how LGBTQ+ adults who experience attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptomology perceive and navigate potential problematic Internet usage (PIU). Utilizing a qualitative, phenomenological approach, twelve participants were interviewed to gain insight on how neurodivergence, queer identity, and Internet engagement intersect. Findings revealed two overarching themes: 1) the interplay between PIU, ADHD, and sexual/gender diversity, and 2) the meaning of the Internet for individuals with intersecting minority identities. Participants widely endorsed the Internet as an important space for identity negotiation, community, and affirmation for their multiple minority statuses, but acknowledged their vulnerability to the Internet’s attention-capturing mechanisms, reporting …

Art Of Returning: Supporting Students After Psychiatric Hospitalization, Kaly Mariano

Capstone Projects and Master's Theses

Reintegrating into campus life after a psychiatric hospitalization can be deeply challenging for college students. Research shows that in the two weeks following discharge from inpatient care, individuals are 200 times more likely to die by suicide than the general population—making this a critical period of vulnerability (Chung et al., 2017). Suicide remains the second leading cause of death among college-aged adults (Centers for Disease Control, 2023). In response to these risks, this capstone project utilized a mixed-methods approach, through community-based participatory research to explore how CSUMB’s CARE Team and Dean of Students’ Office can best support students before, during, …

Exploring 2slgbtqia+ Parenting In Northwest Arkansas, Bailey Mason

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Since the U.S. Census Bureau first published data on “same-sex” households in 2011, research has repeatedly indicated the majority of 2SLGBTQIA+ parents (here on referred to as “queer parents”) reside outside of major cities in heavily populated regions of the country. However, due to widespread metronormative narratives about the queer experience, the experiences of queer parents in less-populated regions are rarely studied. This qualitative study explores the lived experiences of queer parents in Northwest Arkansas, a region of the politically and religiously conservative Southern U.S. with areas both urban and rural. Applying grounded theory and drawing from queer theory to …

Community Perceptions Of A Crisis Response Collaboration: A Community Survey Of Attitudes Towards Police And The Crisis Intervention Response Team., Meghan Anspach

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

This thesis examined community perceptions of the Fayetteville Police Department (FPD) and its Crisis Intervention Response Team (CIRT), focusing on how racial minorities and individuals from lower socioeconomic status (SES) backgrounds view these professionals and their roles in crisis situations. The research also aimed to determine whether perceptions of the collaborative effort through CIRT influenced views of the FPD. Previous research has explored perceptions of police, social workers, and co-response teams individually, but a gap remains in understanding how community members feel about the collaboration between police and social workers and whether these perceptions influence their views of the police. …

Creating Resilient Social Workers: A Pilot Study On Implementing Resilience-Building Skills With Social Work Students, Andrea Sparrow

Doctor of Social Work Capstone Projects

Social work students in Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited programs are expected to develop competencies in working with individuals, groups, and communities. However, limited research exists on their preparedness with resilience-building skills to navigate occupational challenges. This mixed-methods exploratory study examined the relationship between completing online resilience-building modules and students’ knowledge of resilience strategies. A pre-and post-assessment measured knowledge uptake among undergraduate and graduate students at the University of Louisville’s Raymond A. Kent School of Social Work and Family Science. The study explored two key questions: (1) What is the relationship between completing resilience-building modules and students’ knowledge …

Examining The Perceptions Of Restorative Practices In A Non-Profit Organization: A Comparative Analysis Of Staff And Youth Attitudes, Autumn N. Alicea, Anne Hobbs Dr

Theses/Capstones/Creative Projects

This study examines the attitudes toward restorative justice (RJ) among staff and youth at a non-profit residential organization. Using the Restorative Justice Attitude Scale, data was collected from 14 staff members and 14 youth participants (N=28). Results indicated that staff members reported significantly higher mean scores (M = 84.50, SD = 8.38) on the Total Restorative Justice Attitude Scale than youth participants (M = 67.93, SD = 15.81). ANOVA results revealed statistically significant differences between the two groups on attitudes toward restorative justice, F (1, 26) = 12.007, p = .002. Effect size analysis (η² = .316) indicates that approximately …

Human Trafficking Prevention Methods In Nebraska, Allison E. Munderloh

Theses/Capstones/Creative Projects

Human Trafficking has been a concern in Nebraska for a long period of time, but there is a lack of publicly available information regarding the prevention methods being employed and their effectiveness. This study aimed to identify the human trafficking prevention methods in use in Nebraska and their effectiveness based on the opinions of human trafficking professionals in the state. The human trafficking professionals were interviewed, and the information gathered was organized into seven different themes. The themes that arose from the information gathered included educational efforts, victim intervention and resources, addressing demand, labor trafficking, measuring success, resources and funding, …

Predicting Resilience Among Treatment-Referred Youth With A History Of Trauma Exposure: An Exploration Of Risk And Protective Factors., Prabathi Mandara Gunathilake

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

While many children and adolescents experience negative outcomes following exposure to traumatic events, some demonstrate remarkable resilience. Understanding the factors that contribute to this positive adaptation is essential for developing effective interventions. Using secondary data from 199 treatment-referred youth (ages 5 to 18) with histories of maltreatment, refugee experiences, or military-related trauma, collected between 2016 and 2021 by the Metro Louisville’s Center for Promotion of Recovery and Resilience (CPRR) program, this study examined predictors of resilience in trauma-exposed youth and how resilience is conceptualized across different informant perspectives. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses revealed distinct predictive patterns: for youth, personal strengths …

Unbridled Healing: Identifying The Barriers Of Equine-Assisted Therapy, Sally A. Hamm

Human Development and Family Sciences Undergraduate Honors Theses

Despite the documented benefits of equine-assisted therapy (EAT) for mental health conditions, this complementary approach remains underutilized. This qualitative study investigated barriers preventing wider EAT implementation by examining challenges faced by clients, facilities, and volunteers. Data collected through open-ended surveys from 33 participants and the researcher's autoethnographic observations revealed eight common barriers: Accessibility (48 mentions), Money (43), Time (30), Awareness (23), Physical Factors (13), Relationships (13), Risk (13), and Weather (7). Clients identified financial constraints as their primary barrier, particularly insurance limitations. Facilitators struggled most with accessibility challenges, including lack of resources, trained staff, suitable horses, and appropriate facilities. Volunteers …

Redefining Children’S Experience In Social Services Offices, Julia K. Bryant

Human Development and Family Sciences Undergraduate Honors Theses

The effects of childhood trauma are far-reaching and diverse, influencing physical, emotional, and mental health across a child’s entire lifetime. Research indicates that children who experience adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) such as abuse or neglect are at an increased risk for various consequences and that the environments they encounter post-trauma play a significant role in shaping their experiences. Social services offices, where many traumatized children are taken for interviews or assessments after being removed from their homes, can often become places of additional distress. This project seeks to address this issue by proposing redesigns for social services offices to create …

The Effectiveness Of Services In California For Youth Who Have Experienced Commercial Sexual Exploitation Of Children (Csec), Rebecca A. Mcgill

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC) remains a pervasive issue with profound consequences for affected youth, yet research on effective service interventions remains limited. This study examines the perceived effectiveness of existing services in California for youth who have experienced CSEC, providing critical insights to inform best practices. Seventeen professional service providers participated in one-hour, semi-structured interviews, sharing their expertise on service strengths, challenges, and areas for improvement. Using thematic analysis, ten key themes emerged as central to effective service provision, including individualized interventions, the therapeutic value of relationships, trauma-informed providers, opportunities for healing experiences, multi-agency collaboration, and access to …

The Importance Of Voice: American Indian Experiences With Their Healthcare, James Zimmer

Doctor of Social Work Capstone Projects

American Indians and Alaskan Natives (AIAN) have faced inequity and discrimination since colonization. Specifically, within the healthcare system, AIAN individuals have experienced maltreatment, poor quality services, and the dismissal of cultural and personal practices. Health disparities among this population have led to the highest prevalence in many chronic disease categories nationwide (Laffey et al., 2021). A qualitative study with nine respondents was conducted using virtual interviews. Respondents were recruited through healthcare agencies and snowball sampling. Interviews focused on the experiences of American Indians in the Midwest United States with their primary care provider or in a hospital within the last …

Exploring Organizational Responses To Secondary Traumatic Stress In Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Agencies In North Carolina., Kristin Cline

Doctor of Social Work Capstone Projects

Secondary traumatic stress (STS) is an ongoing concern for advocates working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. This study examines the prevalence of STS among domestic violence and sexual assault advocates in North Carolina and explores organizational strategies for lessening its effects. Using a mixed-methods design, data was collected from three agencies through a survey, resulting in a sample of 25 advocates. The study measured levels of STS and allowed advocates to voice their needs and perspectives on the support they require from their agencies. Results indicate that STS is a significant concern for advocates and that organizational …

Comparison On Family-Based Rehabilitation And Individual Based: Effect On Children And Families, Ashleigh Thatcher

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This proposed research aims to discover the success of sobriety with rehabilitation programs, specifically those that are family based as compared to individual based. This research will also investigate the measures taken within these rehabilitation programs to prevent generational substance abuse problems. Social workers will benefit from this research by discovering how these programs are successful and if any changes could be made to increase the success rates for those struggling with substance abuse. This research will also allow social workers to develop new strategies to assist in preventing generational substance abuse within families. This study will include interviewing individuals …

Perception Of Mental Health Among Students In Higher Education, Kasibah Baig, Leia Aguilar

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Mental health in higher education environments is a topic that has the need for exploration and discussion. Students with poor mental health face additional stressors and challenges in their academic and personal areas of life. It is critical for colleges and universities to address the topic of mental health and understand how it can affect students, as well as to be able to provide the proper support and services. By having more conversations about mental health on campus and providing easily accessible and inclusive resources for students, it can create a comfortable environment on campus for students to be able …

Bridging The Gap For Parents Seeking Mental Health Services For Children, Emmary Yolanda Taylor

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

The rising statistics of adolescents suffering from concerns of mental health in all its various diagnosis, is an increasing problem for the community. The understanding of mental health in adolescents is now continuously being explored due to the rise of concerns. Although professionals continue to research and address the rise of mental health, parental literacy regarding addressing mental health concerns constitutes as one of the number one factors in prevention. The research presented in this paper uses a qualitative approach to study parental literacy and culture regarding mental health in adolescents within the San Bernardino County community. The qualitative research …

Student Mental Health Challenges Vs. The Role Of School Counselors: Addressing The Gap In Mental Health Treatment, Victoria Sic Ms, Cynthia Lizaola Ms

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This study examines the role of academic counselors in providing mental health support for K-12 students. Using a post-positivist approach, the research explores how counselors navigate their dual responsibilities of academic guidance and mental health intervention within school settings. A literature review highlights the evolving role of school counselors, the growing mental health needs of students, and the impact of external factors—such as the COVID-19 pandemic—on their work.

The study was conducted in two Southern California counties and involved 17 experienced, primarily bilingual academic counselors recruited through snowball sampling. Data collection included in-depth interviews to investigate counselors’ roles, training, and …

Do Lgbtq+ Latinos Experience Higher Levels Of Depression Compared To Heterosexual Latinos?, Oscar Moreno-Castro

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This study examines depression levels in both LGBTQ+ and Heterosexual Latinos. Quantitative data was collected using Qualtrics, an online survey data collector. The data collected from Qualitics will provide an insight regarding mental health among participants and examine depression levels amongst both groups. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS, a software program tool that helps analyze and manage data. To measure the severity of depression, the researcher will utilize the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, a 17-questionnaire instrument for assessing symptoms of depression and compare the level of depression amongst both groups. Key findings from the research revealed slight differences in …

Cultural Risk Factors For Teen Pregnancy In Hispanic/Latina Women: A Qualitative Study, Nia Saldana

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

ABSTRACT

Teen pregnancy remains a significant social issue in the United States, disproportionately affecting Hispanic/Latina adolescents. Research is highly needed to understand the factors contributing to high rates of teen pregnancy among Hispanics/Latinas. In 2020, Latina teen birth rates (25.3 per 1,000 females) exceeded that of White teens (11.4 per 1,000 teens) by a large margin (CDC, 2020). The purpose of this study is to explore the cultural factors, particularly religion and familial influences, on the high rates of teen pregnancy among Hispanics/Latinas. Qualitative data was collected using in-depth interviews with seven adult Hispanic/Latina women who have experienced teen pregnancy. …

Poverty In Ethnic Minority Children: Social Workers/Social Work Students’ Perceptions Of Effective Interventions, Danielle Nicole Davis

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Racial and ethnic minorities experience poverty at rates significantly higher than the rest of the United States population, especially when considering children. This disparity leads to decreased positive outcomes for children growing up in impoverished ethnic minority households. By examining the interventions utilized to address childhood poverty and how social workers and social work students create targeted interventions for this population, the current study provides insight into effective methods for addressing childhood poverty in ethnic minority populations. The current research expands on information gathered regarding effective interventions for minority children in poverty. This is an exploratory study that used a …

Practices And Policies Within The Child Welfare System To Reduce The Risk Of Child Sexual Exploitation, Areli Vega, Guadalupe Ibañez De Molleti

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This research project examined current child welfare system policies and practices that may be indirectly contributing to the risk of commercial sexual exploitation of children. This qualitative study gathered data using interviews of past and current child welfare case workers who have experience with CSEC cases. Key findings highlighted several themes within the participants’ answers, and using this data we propose feasible recommendations, such as increased CSEC training for case workers, provide proactive education, and strengthening existing collaborations.

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 …

Sexually Exploited Foster Youth And Social Worker’S Perspective On Effective Strategies For Permanency, Safety, And Well-Being., Gerald Laurice Williams Ii

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Foster youth deal with many complicating factors due to being victims of abuse being removed from their families, unstable placement, and family support. Foster youth are also at an increased risk of being targeted by traffickers due to vulnerabilities including substance use, unresolved mental health issues, and a history of frequent running away behavior. This study aims to speak to social workers about effective strategies to prevent or keep foster youth safe from being exploited. This seeks to determine which strategies are best in promoting safety, permanency, and well-being for foster youth from the professionals that have or have had …

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 …

Exploring Foster Parent Readiness And Willingness To Foster Children In San Bernardino County, Brianna P. Rivera

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

In the U.S., there is a shortage of foster parents, which limits the number of children placed in homes that are appropriate to their needs. Many states across the U.S. are experiencing an increase in the number of children in foster care as well as high foster parent turnover rates and low retention rates. This proposed research study will examine the readiness and willingness of foster parents in San Bernardino County, California to care for children who have multiple placement moves, behavioral issues, trauma, and insecure attachments. Based on their experiences, participants will be asked to evaluate and discuss fostering …

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 …