Digital Commons Network^™

Effects Of Western Beauty Ideals In Social Media On Latina Women's Body Image, Angel S. Espinosa, Lizette Casillas-Rodriguez, Dalia Osorio

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

The proposed study would utilize a quantitative design to examine the relationship between social media use and body dissatisfaction among Latina college students from ages 18-25. The purpose is to investigate the correlation between social media engagement and body dissatisfaction with particular attention to the impact of Westernized beauty standards on Latina women.

Data will be collected through an online Qualtrics survey utilizing standardized measures of appearance-related social media behaviors. On a micro level, results may inform culturally responsive clinical interventions. At a mezzo level, findings may support the development of community-based support groups and prevention programs for Latina communities. …

Self-Care At The Organizational Level, Rosa Gallegos-Valades, Viviana Hummel

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Self-care in the social work profession is commonly framed as an individual responsibility; however, organizational environments play a critical role in shaping workers’ ability to engage in sustainable self-care practices. This study will focus on understanding how workplace environments influence professional self-care among social workers. Much of the existing literature emphasizes personal coping strategies while overlooking structural and organizational supports that enable or constrain self-care. Previous research has largely failed to address the importance of professional self-care at the organizational level, which can unintentionally place responsibility solely on individuals and contribute to feelings of inadequacy when self-care is difficult to …

Face Representations In The Fusiform Face Area, Krisha Orgo

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Faces are among the most socially significant stimuli humans encounter, requiring recognition not just at the category level but at the level of individual identity. While the fusiform face area has been established as a dedicated region for face processing, whether it encodes distinct representations for different individuals or simply detects the presence of a face remains an open question. Evidence for identity-specific coding in the brain has come primarily from invasive single-neuron recordings in epilepsy patients, leaving open whether the same principles govern face processing in healthy populations. The present study addressed this gap using scalp electroencephalography to examine …

Access, Equity, And Achievement: The Impact Of Student Support Programs On First-Generation College Students Through Their Lived Experiences, Veronica Carrero

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

First-generation college students often enter higher education while confronting significant systemic inequalities that limit their academic preparedness, confidence, and sense of belonging. These challenges deeply intertwined and often overlooked intensify gaps, the complexity of their college process, and underscore the urgent need for support structures that nurture both cognitive development and socio-emotional well-being. This qualitative, exploratory, phenomenological study examines the lived experiences of ten first-generation college students enrolled across California State Universities (CSU), focusing on how access and equity initiatives shape their academic journeys.  Student Support Programs such as the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP), TRIO Student Support Services (SSS), and …

Game On! Level Up Your Teaching: A Digital Game-Based Learning Guide For Preschool Teachers, Scarlett Flores Marin

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Although digital game-based learning (DGBL) has emerged as a

promising technological advancement in early childhood education by offering

many developmental benefits for children, its effective implementation remains a

challenge. The integration of digital technologies in early childhood education has

led to the growing use of DGBL as an effective instructional approach with

research indicating that well-designed educational apps and games can enhance

young children’s cognitive, literacy, and social development by promoting active,

meaningful, and interactive learning experiences. DGBL encourages problem-

solving, critical thinking, and collaboration, aligning with how children naturally

learn through exploration and engagement. When used intentionally, technology

and …

Social Media’S Impact On School-Aged Children's Mental Symptoms, Tiffany Espinoza

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

With the increased usage of social media among individuals, this has raised concerns about its impact on the mental health symptoms of the younger population. Previous research has shown the impact of social media on adolescents' depression and anxiety; however, there is limited research showing the impact on younger school-aged children. The purpose of this study will be to examine the relationship between social media use and mental health symptoms among school-aged children from kindergarten through twelfth grade. The proposed research study will seek to address gaps in previous research by analyzing a wider age range and more diverse subgroups …

Centering Lgbtqia2s+ Voices: A Proposed Needs Assessment Of Unhoused Adults In California’S Inland Empire, Karina L. Martinez, Sade D. De La Espriella

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

LGBTQIA2S+ homelessness remains a critical yet underexamined issue within California’s Inland Empire. While existing research has documented elevated rates of homelessness among LGBTQ+ populations in major urban centers, particularly among transition-age youth (TAY), there is limited understanding of the specific service needs of unhoused LGBTQIA2S+ adults, including older adults, within this region. This research proposal outlines a community-based needs assessment designed to address this gap. The proposed study will utilize trauma-informed, fully structured interviews with standardized, closed-ended questions administered to LGBTQIA2S+ adults who are currently experiencing or have recently experienced homelessness across the Inland Empire. The instrument will assess barriers …

Tips For Health Care Practitioners: A Guide For Adolescent Obesity, Regina Santana

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Adolescent obesity continues to be a significant public health concern that is associated with long term physical consequences. The purpose of this project was to develop an evidence based, user friendly guidebook that supports healthcare professionals in the education of adolescents with obesity and their families. A structured literature review development process was used to inform the current development of the guidebook. The guidebook includes components of obesity management such as nutrition and physical activity recommendations. The validity of the content was established through the evaluation of five healthcare professionals that include registered dietitians and licensed therapists. The guidebook was …

Investigating Fentanyl-Xylazine Interactions: Implications For Opioid-Induced Hyperalgesia And Affective Dysregulation In Rats, Alejandra R. Lujan

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

The growing prevalence of fentanyl adulterated with xylazine presents a major public health concern, yet the behavioral and physiological effects of this combination remain poorly characterized. This study examined the effects of acute fentanyl administration, alone and in combination with xylazine, on opioid-induced hyperalgesia, affective behavior, and mortality in male and female Sprague-Dawley rats (n=80). Rats received four fentanyl injections (60 µg/kg) administered at 15-minute intervals, with or without xylazine (0, 0.1, 0.333, or 1.0 mg/kg), as well as a saline control condition. Pain sensitivity was assessed using a hot plate assay at 6.5, 12, 24, and 48 hours post-injection. …

Understanding The Impact Of Childhood Trauma On Recidivism Among Justice-Involved Youth, Jasmine Valencia, Karina V. Garcia, Genaro Fabela

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are especially common among youth involved in the juvenile justice system, and research has consistently linked these early traumatic experiences to a variety of negative behavioral and developmental outcomes. Still, we do not fully understand how strongly cumulative ACE exposure predicts whether detained youth will reoffend, or whether trauma-informed rehabilitation programs can help reduce that risk. This proposed quantitative study explores the relationship between ACE scores and recidivism among youth ages 11–18 detained at the San Bernardino County Juvenile Detention Center. Grounded in trauma theory and ecological systems theory, the study focuses on two primary questions: …

Juvenile Custody Severity And Adult Mental Health Outcomes Among Black Men: The Role Of Trauma Informed And Culturally Responsive Care, Leslie Moreno, Tammy Monique Borunda

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Black young men are overrepresented in the juvenile justice system, yet limited research has examined how severe custody experiences are related to mental health in adulthood. This study will examine how the severity of juvenile custody experiences is related to adult mental health outcomes among Black men who have been released from custody for at least two years. Being able to understand these long-term outcomes is important for addressing disparities in mental health and access to care. This research will utilize the principles of trauma theory and will use a quantitative cross-sectional design. The study will use a purposive snowball …

The Effects Of Administration Policies On Patient Care Quality And Healthcare Service Costs, Rajveer Kaur

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This study examines how administrative policies in U.S. healthcare systems affect patient care quality and service costs. It addresses a gap by analyzing the combined effects of policy, leadership, and technology on both clinical outcomes and financial performance. Using a qualitative descriptive approach guided by the PRISMA protocol, the study systematically identified and analyzed eighteen peer-reviewed articles. The findings show that value-based purchasing policies relate to improved patient safety indicators. Standardized clinical protocols and workforce competency initiatives strengthen care consistency and reduce hospital readmissions. The use of digital health technologies, such as telehealth and predictive analytics, helps optimize resources and …

Encounters Of Third Space: A Case Study On Salvadoran Political Art And Identity Interplay, Breanna Delgado

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Third space is an in-between thought space designated for marginalized collectives, allowing multiple recontextualizations of identity interplay. However, Third Space is colonized due to western ideological influences such as criminalization of political art, stunting collective growth. This project serves to question and challenge Salvadoran political art and collective identities through questions such as why political art? Can political art be considered “safe spaces”? and dissecting the process of political art, third space meaning making, and identity interplay. Preserving the collective’s political art serves as a grassroots method of justice, accountability, and collective reparation.

I applying three conceptual frameworks: Bhabha’s (1994) …

Easy Travel-Friendly Snack Recipes For College Students To Support Mental Well-Being, Lidia Vides

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

College is a pivotal period in life of a young adult, marked by newfound independence, increased responsibilities, heightened academic pressure, and significant changes in daily routine. While this transition can often be exciting for a young adult, it also presents many different challenges. As a result, many students experience increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Nutrition plays a powerful yet often overlooked role in supporting mental and physical health. Current research studies show that a balanced diet rich in whole food ingredients can help regulate mood and promote emotional well-being through multiple biological pathways. However, despite this knowledge, convenient, …

Lgtbq+ Foster Youth Aging Out Of The Child Welfare System, Anna M. Gutierrez Chavez

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

ABSTRACT

On the average time frame, former foster youth were reported homeless between 2012 and 2017. Equally important, is that nearly 39% of homeless youth identify as LGTBQ+.  This research will discuss disproportionality and disparities among youth who struggle with homelessness in the LGTBQ+ population. Research suggests that youth aging out of foster care are more likely to become homeless. Studies found that LGBTQ+ youth being discharged from care did not receive adequate support and guidance from the child welfare system to help them transition into adulthood, which may have led to homelessness.  This study will examine what services and …

Utilizing Self-Determination Theory In Therapy For Veterans With Substance Use And Mental Health Disorders, Carlos A. Tinoc

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Substance use disorder (SUD) has increasingly affected U.S. veterans, with rising misuse of alcohol and opioids. Many veterans also confront mental health issues, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). To explore this issue further, the researcher will investigate the effectiveness of Self-Determination Theory (SDT) in addressing substance use and mental health disorders (dual diagnosis) among veterans. Previous research on the implementation of SDT for dual-diagnosis patients has not sufficiently addressed the veteran population. The researcher will review existing systematic literature reviews on the topic of SDT implementation in the treatment of SUDs and mental health disorders among both civilian and veteran …

Healing Beyond Bars: Integrated And Sustainable Recovery Models For Post-Incarcerated Women, Patricia A. Nunez, Jonathan Solomon

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) significantly impact the re-entry process for formerly incarcerated individuals, particularly Latina/x women, who face unique cultural, social, and economic challenges in accessing effective treatment. The purpose of this study is to explore the effectiveness of substance use disorder treatment programs in support of successful reentry outcomes for Latina/x women post-incarceration. Previous research on SUD treatment for this population remains limited despite growing awareness of the need for gender-responsive and culturally informed interventions. Qualitative research with an exploratory design within an interpretive research paradigm will be utilized to investigate the lived experiences of Latina/x women who have …

Disproportionate Use Of Behavioral Restraint In Schools A Descriptive Study Of The K-12 System In California, Samuel F. Deck

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Behavioral restraint is widely used in California schools with the stated purpose of ensuring safety, despite being an unsafe intervention that can exacerbate unsafe behaviors. Certain student demographics and school district policies are associated with disproportionate behavioral restraint risk; however, these disproportionalities have not been systematically examined at the district level within California in a way that directly benefits affected students. This study aims to examine which student identifying factors were associated with the disproportionate use of behavioral restraints in California school districts during the 2023-2024 school year. Using the Positive Behavioral Intervention Supports (PBIS) framework, this research will calculate …

The Effects Of Excessive Smartphone Use On Interpersonal Relationships, Lisa M. Whitesell

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Smartphones are integral to daily life, generating a propensity for overuse that raises concerns about the potentially adverse effects on social connections and communication. Previous research is primarily quantitative, focused on male subjects outside the United States, and has not explored the impact of smartphone use on relationships from the perspective of close friends and family. This study addresses the gap by applying qualitative methodologies using a more balanced gender sample in the United States. Semi-structured interviews will capture participants’ experiences and perceptions of how excessive smartphone use affects their interpersonal relationships. Open-ended questions will explore smartphone use patterns, the …

Exploring Resilience Factors And Interventions Among Transition-Age Youth Facing Homelessness, Sandy Flores

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This study will explore the resilience factors and interventions that promote positive outcomes among transition-age youth (18–24 years old) experiencing homelessness in Southern California. Youth homelessness is a critical issue linked to systemic barriers and limited resources. This research will address the gap in understanding how resilience mechanisms enable youth to overcome challenges and navigate support systems. Using a qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews will be conducted with 20 participants located in San Diego County to examine their coping strategies, social networks, and experiences with interventions. Thematic analysis will be used to identify key resilience factors, barriers, and facilitators, providing insights …

Barriers To Healthcare In Lgbtq+ Baby Boomers, Kellie Jones, Alexandra Lomeli, Bryant Vargas

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

LGBTQ+ Baby Boomers have experienced decades of discrimination, societal suppression, and exclusion from equitable healthcare. Despite advancement in recent years, healthcare disparities persist, and past experiences of discrimination may contribute to present-day barriers in accessing quality care. Existing research often neglects the intersectionality of aging, sexual orientation, and identity, leaving a gap in understanding the long-term effects of historical trauma on healthcare access for this population.

This quantitative study seeks to answer the question: How does the historical trauma experienced by the LGBTQ+ Baby Boomer population impact the healthcare barriers they face? This study proposes to examine the relationship of …

The Hidden Cost Of Students With Dependents In The California State University System, Sandra Serrano, Christina Gonzales

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This study explores the hidden costs faced by students with dependents in the California State University (CSU) System. Although students with dependents make up a significant population within the California student population, data on student with dependents is limited, their needs and struggles remain underreported making efforts to address their needs effectively harder. Despite the passage of California’s Assembly Bill 2881, which mandates that all community colleges and Cal State systems do more for this population, compliance remains low, citing a lack of reliable data. This study takes on a mixed-methods approach to investigate the hidden costs associated with being …

Success Rate Of Batterers Intervention Programs, Brittney Perez, Manuel Mercado

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

The success rate of men completing the Batterer’s Intervention Program (BIPs) using the Duluth Model remains a significant concern in domestic violence prevention. The Duluth Model, designed to challenge patriarchal beliefs and promote nonviolent behavior, has shown mixed results. Factors such as program length, financial barriers, and prior offense influence completion rates. While some research suggests reduced recidivism among program completers, high drop out rates undermine overall effectiveness. This study aims to assess the success rates of men completing BIPs using the Duluth Model, focusing on factors influencing program completion, recidivism, dropout rates, and long-term behavioral change over two to …

Examining Distrust Marginalized Populations Experience Within Healthcare In The Us, Mikela Jennings, Marco Ramos, Estrella Garcia

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Background: In the United States (US), Black and Brown individuals experience a significant amount of distrust towards medical professionals in the healthcare field. This distrust often results in an ongoing underutilization of medical care due to fears surrounding the quality of treatment Black and Brown individuals receive within the healthcare system. Previous research on this issue has identified many factors that contribute to the severity of medical distrust. Objective: This proposed quantitative study seeks to describe and examine the commonalities Black and Brown individuals have in association with medical distrust towards the healthcare system in the US. Methods: …

Overcoming Obstacles: Exploring Mental Health Service Barriers For Immigrants And The Impact Of Acculturation, Mallory Manahan, Joyce Guevara

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Immigrants are faced with various challenges as they adjust to a new life in a foreign country and undergo acculturation. The acculturative stressors experienced by immigrants increase the risk of mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Yet, mental health services are underutilized by the immigrant population despite a high need for mental health support. The underutilization of mental health services can be attributed to barriers like stigma, language barriers, and a lack of culturally competent care. This study explores the acculturation impacts on immigrant mental health and identifies the barriers to accessing mental health services to gain a deeper …

Mental Health Stigma And Barriers Among The Latino Community, Noemi Toraya

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Being faced with a lack of awareness of mental health in the Latino community has brought much attention to the reasons why Latinos lack treatment or choose not to get treated. In Latino culture, mental health is a construct of society, a label applied to justify not being able to function, work, or be present. For many Latinos who experience mental health problems, getting treatment is critical. However, there are several obstacles to overcome, one of which is the stigma associated with mental health and how it is viewed in the Latino community. In Latino communities, stigma sometimes involves associating …

Examining Physical Activity Behaviors And Associated Health Indicators In College Students, Elizabeth A. Reyes

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Background: Physical activity (PA) is a critical determinant of both physical and mental health, yet many individuals fail to meet recommended guidelines. College students face increasing challenges related to physical inactivity, elevated stress levels, and poor sleep quality, all of which negatively impact their overall health and academic success. College students who fail to meet recommended PA guidelines are at an increased risk of chronic diseases. This study aimed to examine patterns of PA among college students and explore associations with sleep quality and perceived stress.

Methods: A cross-sectional design was employed using a self-administered questionnaire that included items on …

Racial Disparities In Sentencing Across The United States: A Regression Analysis, Katlyn Moreno

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Background: Mass incarceration has been a serious social problem in the United States with millions of people under the supervision of the criminal justice system. This problem is even more challenging for minority populations with African-Americans, Hispanics, and other minority racial groups experiencing harsher punishment than their non-minority counterparts. Previous research on this topic is limited in scope and methodology. Purpose: This study will fill a gap in the literature by comparing sentencing lengths among racial groups in the United States. It was hypothesized that racial minorities (African-American and Hispanic offenders will receive lengthier sentencing as compared to their counterparts …

Structural Erasure And Suicide Risk: The Impact Of Gender Misrecognition And Institutional Nonsupport On Incarcerated Transgender Adults In California, Julliana Lex Alcala, Allyza Rae Roxas

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Incarcerated transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) individuals experience disproportionately high rates of suicide risk, and correctional environments may intensify minority stress through institutional misrecognition, discrimination, victimization, and restricted access to gender-affirming care. Despite protective policy reforms such as Senate Bill 132, limited research have examined how structural practices shape suicidal ideation among incarcerated TGD populations. This study will investigate how denial of gender-affirming recognition and staff support contributes to suicidal ideation among incarcerated TGD adults in California state prisons. From the perspective of the Gender Minority Stress framework, this study will use a convergent mixed-methods design to examine both statistical relationships …

Impact Of Social Worker Bias On African American Fathers With Open Children Family Services Cases, Jenna Espinosa, Cecil Perry, Jasmine Alvarado, Jennifer Garcia, Lacrietia Grate-Dixson

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Systemic barriers and biases within institutions and policies affect how African American fathers engage with Children and Family Services (CFS). According to research, social worker bias, whether overt or covert, can influence case decision-making, affecting fathers' access to resources and overall involvement in their children’s lives. This study aims to quantitatively assess the impact of social worker bias on African American fathers' engagement by evaluating service completion rates at the .21e hearing. A quantitative research design will be utilized by implementing a validated survey to measure social worker bias and case file reviews to assess service completion. Statistical analyses, including …