Digital Commons Network^™

Intentional Action, Impactful Risk-Taking, Jill Lombardi

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

No abstract provided.

Msw Portfolio: My Journey Of Understanding Social Work Through Mind, Body, Emotion, & Spirit, Olivia Kern

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

No abstract provided.

Who Do You Want To Become?, Taylor Greene

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

No abstract provided.

Msw Portfolio, Katharine Ann Turpen

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

This portfolio paper showcases my development as a Master of Social Work student, highlighting personal and professional growth across the CSWE competencies and the four dimensions of practice: Knowledge, Skills, Values, and Cognitive & Affective Processes. The portfolio reflects my evolving identity as a social worker and outlines my ongoing commitment to ethical, reflective, and client-centered practice.

Master’S In Social Work: Professional Portfolio, Josephine Star Lange

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

No abstract provided.

Holistic Competence In Social Work: A Professional Portfolio, Hannah Zuraff

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

An overview of social work competencies and a portfolio relating to work in the clinical, domestic violence, family services, and humanitarian aid spaces.

Learning Through Relationship, Eileen L. Lamble

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

A brief compilation of growth and learning through the 10 core competencies of social work.

May 2025 News Releases, University Of Montana--Missoula. Office Of University Relations

University of Montana News Releases, 1928, 1956-present

No abstract provided.

Montana Kaimin, May 1, 2025, Students Of The University Of Montana, Missoula

Montana Kaimin, 1898-present

Student newspaper of the University of Montana, Missoula.

Trap Music And Overdose, Adam M. Zahn

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

Over one hundred thousand lives were lost in the United States during 2022 from drug overdoses (CDC, 2023). While previous studies examine socioeconomic and macroeconomic relationships, I have not found extensions to estimate a relationship between media influence and overdoses. I investigated the potential relationship by including a Google search trend index (a measure of relative state-level popularity of web searches) for trap music as a proxy for media influence of trap music. Trap music is a new mainstream subgenre of hip-hop which portrays a romanticized view of illicit substance sale and abuse. My logic is younger demographics are more …

Confidence And Domain: Children’S Trust In People For Factual Information And Moral Decisions, Anastasia L. Wood

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

Confidence is a salient factor when determining an individual’s depth and breadth of knowledge. However, confidence alone can be an unreliable predictor of someone’s knowledge, and does not always indicate accuracy. For my project, I will analyze a study investigating whether children prefer to learn from a confident or hesitant individual, and if their preference differs when the information is factual or moral in nature. Participants (N=128) aged 5-8 were recruited through the UM Living Lab, with half assigned to a moral condition and the other half to a factual condition. Participants were presented with stimuli videos portraying …

Mapping Behavior To Lesion Location In Neurolinguistics: History And The Illusive Methodology, Shea Highfill

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

At first glance it seems as though the history of aphasia, a neurological deficit in language, is teaming with thorough, well characterized research using lesions to determine the language centers of the brain. A brain lesion is classified as tissue in the brain that is damaged due to disease or injury. The location of these lesions is a fundamental part of understanding how the structures of the brain affect the way humans think and behave; lesion mapping is the process used by researchers to identify this relationship. Exploring the history of this process reveals an epidemic of poorly described methodologies. …

Life In The Pow, Hope Marie Ensminger

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

This ethnography examines the deeper cultural and environmental aspects of skiing, focusing on the dynamic between experienced and new skiers at Lookout Pass, a ski resort found on the border of Idaho and Montana. My core focus that was explored is how skiing fosters a sense of community and environmental stewardship, which transcends material aspects such as equipment and gear. My guiding question for this study is “How do interactions between experienced and newer skiers at Lookout Pass shape their relationship with themselves and their environment?” To carry out this project, I employed participant observation and detailed field notes in …

Perceived Loneliness Among Older Adults, Max D. Olson

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

Older adults experience unique isolation, such as living alone and losing loved ones, which correlates with worse mental health. Few studies have examined how the number of close relationships impacts perceived isolation in older adults. I hypothesize the number of close relationships in an older adult’s life may predict perceived isolation; further, I will assess if depression moderates this relationship. This secondary analysis is based on a study of 153 older adults in the northeastern part of the United States (average age = 67.51, SD = 8.3180). The participants completed a measure of perceived isolation (UCLA Loneliness Scale, ULS-3), a …

Nature, Community And Suicidality: A Cross-Cultural Study Between Frankfurt, Germany And Missoula, Usa, Cyrus Hanan Gertz

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

The ideas, thoughts, and plans around suicide are often treated with hospitalization and psychotherapy. However, connection is often glossed over in the conversation on treatment. Research suggests having a sense of belonging within our human and natural communities is crucial for human health. Globally, young men are the most likely to report high degrees of loneliness and are more likely to live alone, strong risk factors for suicidal ideation and suicide attempt and men in both Frankfurt and Missoula show higher suicide risk than women. In contrast, according to research by ecopsychologists, Integration of Nature into Self (one's perceived relationship …

Social Engagement And Minority Stress In Lgbt+ Elders, Eyza Y. Abbas Carrasco

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

Social engagement is crucial to elders' well-being. Prior research suggests that social interaction, community engagement, and support networks improve quality of life for older LGBTQ adults (Reyes et al., 2024). Additionally, social connectedness, particularly diverse networks and strong support systems, has been linked to better health outcomes in this population (Kim et al., 2024). However, gaps remain in understanding how minority stress relates to social engagement in older LGBTQ adults. This study examines these connections through a secondary analysis of data from a parent study on support networks and mental health in elders. Participants (N = 153, aged 55+) completed …

Queer In & Out Of Montana: Oral Histories Of The Lgbtq+ Exodus From Montana, Erin Heaton

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

This presentation will summarize findings from six oral histories of LGBTQ+ people who lived in Montana, but have left or are leaving in the near future. This presentation will explore the questions: Why are queer and transgender people leaving Montana? What are common experiences for LGBTQ+ people living in Montana? The answer to these questions will be derived from the stories of the Narrators who provided their oral histories. The questions utilized in the oral histories covered topics of identity, “coming out,” living history, cultural observations, community experiences and perceptions, well-being, healthcare, laws, and reasons for leaving. Thematic Analysis was …

The Ethics Of Animal Rights And Zoos, Jamie L. Tucker Crockett

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

In my essay, I will be diving into the controversial issue of Animal containment, focusing on zoos in the United States. I will be taking this opportunity to establish a new way of thinking about the argument which states the pros of zoos outweigh the negative effects they have on the animals who live there. Neither side of the argument has a malicious intention towards harming animals. Instead, each side shows a different approach to what it is to properly care, and respect for animal rights. Those arguing in support of zoos commonly reference arguments dating back to Aristotle. However, …

Balanced On My Tiptoes: Why Do People Toe-Walk And How Can Professionals Learn From Them?, Kamara Wilbur

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

This journalistic and personal essay is about idiopathic toe-walking (ITW) and makes a case for more thoughtful communication between the scientific world and individual toe-walkers. ITW is the medical term describing when a person lands on the ball of the foot instead of the heel, usually occurring when learning to walk. While there have been many studies on effective ways to treat ITW, they tend to emphasize observational methods and behavioral and structural changes, neglecting to focus on the individual’s personal experiences and understandings of why they toe-walk. In fact, after treatment for tendon structure or foot gait, many toe-walkers …

A Geospatial Analysis Of Simple Assaults In Missoula: Temporal And Land Use Category Trends, Madison A. Headrick

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

This study observes and analyzes the specific geographic locations where simple assault was seen to occur most frequently inside Missoula city limits from 2015 to 2023. Secondary data was sourced and collected from the Missoula City Police Department using their local records system, LERMS (Law Enforcement Records Management System). The data was broken down into eight land use categories that exhibited a high frequency of assault: homeless/mission shelters, schools, retail establishments, alcohol serving venues, medical centers, government/public buildings, residential, and hospitality. Results found distinct temporal patterns between land use categories with specific hour blocks seen to have more assaults occurring …

Assessments For Aphasia Outside Of English: A Systematic Review, Shea A. Kasenga, Danielle Fahey

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

I am writing a systematic review paper on Assessments for Aphasia Outside of English. This research examines the availability of aphasia assessments in languages other than English, focusing on identifying bilingual assessments and evaluating their norming status. Aphasia is a speech and language disorder resulting from stroke, traumatic brain injury, or other neurological conditions, impacting individuals across diverse linguistic backgrounds. With over 7,000 languages spoken worldwide, many Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) require access to aphasia assessments beyond English to evaluate and treat their clients effectively. This systematic review compiles a comprehensive list of aphasia assessments available in languages other than English, …

Perpetrator Induced Distress: Prevalence, Event Characteristics And Outcomes In Civilian Samples, Chris Dums, Olathe Antonio

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

Limited research exists on the prevalence, characteristics, and outcomes of perpetration induced potentially traumatic events (PTEs) in the general population. In the present study, participants from two samples (N=735) described a distressing event that was caused by their own actions, and completed outcomes measuring perpetration induced distress (PID), anxiety, depression, existential concerns, and symptoms of PTSD and complex PTSD. 56.6% of participants identified a distressing event that they perceived to be caused by their own actions. Deductive coding categorized responses by 4 previously identified themes: physical harm (25.2%), interpersonal conflict/betrayal (52.4%), violation of internal standards (20.0%), and violation of external …

Bridging The Gap: The Effects Of Intergroup Contact On Emotions And Lgbtiq+ History Knowledge Among Cisgender Heterosexual Individuals, Lauren N. Schulte

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

Research has shown that intergroup contact between cisgender, heterosexual and LGBTIQ+ individuals is associated with a deeper understanding of struggles around LGBTIQ+ experiences. Individuals with LGBTIQ+ identifying friends are more likely to report higher levels of allyship, engage in LGBTIQ+-affirming behaviors, hold positive attitudes toward LGBTIQ+ individuals, and have increased sensitivity to LGBTIQ+ perspectives. These data come from a survey examining LGBTIQ+ historical trauma, including students of all sexual and gender identities at the University of Montana and University of Nevada-Reno (n=462). These analyses examine factors related to one’s understanding of LGBTIQ+ experiences, hypothesizing that greater numbers of LGBTIQ+ individuals …

The Impact Of Thc On People In Recovery, April Jackson-Andal

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

In Montana, on January 1, 2022, cannabis became legal for recreational use. This policy has been adopted in several other states as well. The impact of THC on recovery has not been widely researched and, therefore, not fully understood. Addiction clinics are responsible for supporting individuals through their recovery journey, and probation offices are meant to uphold those on probation to their regulations. Therefore, professionals working in these agencies may have insight into how THC impacts recovery. In 2024, I quantitatively surveyed professionals (n=13) working in addiction clinics or probation and parole offices in Helena, MT, on their perspectives of …

Sleep Characterization In Betta Splendens: An Observational Study, Lorelei S. Krebs

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

Pharmaceuticals are becoming a large pollutant due to inefficient filtration methods from wastewater treatment plants. Some of the most common pharmaceutical pollutants are antidepressants, specifically selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs are a type of psychoactive drug that alters an organism’s cognition by blocking the reuptake of the neurotransmitter serotonin. The blocking floods the synapse and increases postsynaptic binding potential. Currently, the most common SSRI, fluoxetine (FLX), has been seen in every water matrix type, ranging from fresh water to glaciers, indicating an ever present pollutant problem. However, what is unknown are the literal downstream effects: how does this affect …

Embodied Self-Remembering; Toward A Personal Movement Philosophy, Nicholas Greenlund

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

The possibility examined in this project is the expansion of human consciousness through Inner work. This “Inner work” integrates the insights of Buddhist psychology, Integral psychology, Enneagram philosophy, and Somatic practices for the expansion of conscious potential in and through the cultivation of compassionate understanding. By observing and identifying the conditions that reinforce a reactive state of being, a choice emerges to remain or grow a capacity of responsiveness. This process is through the body’s sensory presence, the heart’s courage to love, and the mind’s construction of Self. The subjective exploration of the interconnected body-mind integrates the complex study of …

Exploring The Impact Of Menstrual Cycle Length On Negative Affect And Anxiety, Gracie Jane Hietala

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

Menstrual cycle length is a biological factor that may influence psychological well-being, yet its relationship remains under-researched. The study “Emotion Recognition and Mood Along the Menstrual Cycle,” by Pletzer and Noachtar recruited 230 naturally-cycling women to examine how menstrual cycle phases impact the ability to recognize emotions from facial expressions. Participants were surveyed during their menses, peri-ovulatory, and mid-luteal phases, with assessments covering psychological factors and hormone levels. Using the open-source data collected from the previous study, the current study investigates the relationship between menstrual cycle, negative mood and anxiety. Results indicate that there is a significant correlation between these …

Individual Accounts Of Interactions With First Responders: A Pilot Study, Addison P. O'Neill, Sophia L. Boughey, Taylor C. Sadewic

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

Autistic Individuals Interactions with First Responders: A Pilot Study

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 36 people experience autism, which accounts for over 30,000 Montanans (CDC, 2023). Autism is characterized by differences in social communication and restrictive and repetitive behaviors. With these deficits come differences in communication styles and reactions in high stress situations. The literature shows minimal research on effective training practices for teaching first responders and emergency front-line medical staff how to interact with individuals with autism, especially those with complex communication needs (McGonigle et al, 2014, Cheung, et al, 2019). The research …

Investigating The Impact Of Shame Resilience And Internalized Weight Stigma On Body Image In Men, Julia Kathryn Brink

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

Internalized weight stigma occurs when individuals apply negative weight-related stereotypes to themselves, which can lead to adverse outcomes, such as psychological distress, shame, eating disorders, and body image dissatisfaction. Societal pressures emphasizing muscularity and leanness exacerbate the negative psychological effects of weight stigma among male populations. Despite growing research on weight stigma and body image, male populations remain understudied, leaving gaps in understanding their unique experiences. Amongst both female and male identifying populations, existing research displays that resilience acts as a potential protective factor against the negative impacts of shame thus mitigating psychological distress. Shame Resilience Theory (SRT) measures factors …

Exploring The Relation Between Children’S Theory Of Mind And Social Understanding, Kylin Spangler, Sarah Sweezy

University of Montana Conference on Undergraduate Research (UMCUR)

Theory of mind and social understanding are both components of children’s social-cognitive development and rapidly develop in preschool age children. Related to the ability to understand the mental states of others, theory of mind is the ability to recognize other people’s thoughts, beliefs, desires, and knowledge, and is commonly assessed through false belief understanding. As a child interacts with caregivers and friends, they are able to infer more about what another person may be thinking or feeling, increasing their overall social understanding.

The current study tested children’s (N = 39; 3-5 years) false belief understanding using the unexpected contents …