Digital Commons Network^™

Assessing The Relationship Between Combat Exposure, Wartime Service, And Barriers To Substance Use Disorder Treatment In Post 9/11 Veterans., Robert Near

Dissertations

Substance use disorders (SUDs) represent a critical public health concern, particularly within military and veteran populations. The complex interplay of mental health challenges, combat exposure, and the unique stressors associated with military service contribute to a heightened vulnerability among veterans. Research from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (USDVA) underscores the prevalence of these issues, indicating that approximately 1 in 10 veterans from the Iraq or Afghanistan wars treated by the VA are diagnosed with a SUD (Veterans Affairs, 2023). Additionally, veterans from all eras show a higher propensity for binge drinking when compared to the general population, further …

The Rose That Grew From Concrete: Exploring The Romantic Experiences Of Black Men With Histories Of Childhood Sexual Abuse, Tatyana Nichelle Smith

Dissertations

Contemporary research typically characterizes Black heterosexual relationships by dismal marriage and divorce rates, largely ignoring the reality of how Black men develop attachments with their romantic partners and therefore continuing to perpetuate deficit perspectives of Black men (e.g., the cause of conflictual romantic relationships and “broken” Black families). What may be less understood about these relationships is the influence of childhood trauma, such as childhood sexual abuse, and Black men’s experiences of gender role conflict. Research shows that Black men’s experiences of childhood sexual abuse and socialization about masculinity have important implications for how they come to view themselves and …

Developing Machine Learning Models And Graphene-Based Flexible Humidity And Temperature Sensors For Machine-Learning-Assisted Sensing, Seth Hajian

Dissertations

Flexible sensor technology has recently gained tremendous momentum in both academic research and industrial applications, transitioning from conceptual frameworks to practical implementations across diverse fields. This remarkable advancement can be attributed to several converging factors, including the maturation of nanomaterial science, the advancements of machine learning algorithms, and the critical demand for intelligent sensing solutions in healthcare, environmental monitoring, and industrial automation. The growing emphasis on personalized medicine and real-time health monitoring, accelerated by global health challenges, has further highlighted the necessity for accurate, cost-effective, and adaptable sensing platforms. This dissertation presents the fulfillment of three interconnected research projects focused …

Diagnosis By Algorithm: The Transformative Impact Of Social Media–Driven Adhd Self-Diagnosis For Women Over 30 And The Proposal Of Neurotype Strain Theory, Rebecca Lynn Sevin

Dissertations

This dissertation explores the phenomenon of adult women who self-diagnosed Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) through content encountered on social media platforms. Drawing on interpretive phenomenological analysis of ten in-depth interviews, the study investigates the emotional, cognitive, and institutional dimensions of this self-diagnosis process. Participants, all over the age of 30, reported that social media played a transformative role in helping them recognize ADHD traits in themselves. Rather than being misinformed or seeking shortcuts, participants engaged thoughtfully with ADHD-related content, valuing lived experience itself as a meaningful source of recognition and reflection. Their engagement was not primarily with educational materials …

Pension Participation Among Different Migrant Groups In China: Job Type, Regional Disparities, And Cross-Provincial Mobility, Boxia Xu

Dissertations

As China undergoes rapid economic transformation and urbanization, the migrant population has grown significantly. Although migrants play essential roles in the labor market, they face persistent structural barriers to pension access. Regional disparities, occupational segmentation, and cross-provincial mobility constraints affect the probability of their pension participation. While policy efforts aim to expand coverage, the fragmented nature of China’s pension system continues to hinder equitable access for migrants. As a result, ensuring pension participation among migrant groups remains a pressing challenge.

Using data from the 2014 China Migrants Dynamic Survey (CMDS), this dissertation employs logistic regression models to investigate how job …

The Fault Line: Understanding Tension Between Industry And Higher Education Institutions In Sustained Partnerships, David Lawrence

Dissertations

This study investigates the dynamics that influence tensions in industry–higher education partnerships and identifies effective navigation factors in sustainable partnerships. Despite the increasing prevalence, such partnerships face high failure rates due to inherent tensions. This research explores how partners from industry and higher education institutions successfully navigate these tensions using a qualitative case study approach.

This investigation employed a case study design with a multi-case two-by-two holistic matrix and an interpretive, constructivist framework. Data collection involved 16 semi-structured interviews with key individuals from nine higher education institutions and five industry organizations spanning healthcare, technology, consulting, real estate development, and accounting …

Complete Issue, Patrick J. O'Connor Phd, Diana Camilo, Moya Malcolm, Laura Owen, Christopher W. Tremblay

Journal of College Access

No abstract provided.

College Access Literacy With A Focus On Key Transition Knowledge For Historically Underrepresented Students And Their Educators, Molly S. Dunn, Stephanie L. Savick, Rachel E. Durham

Journal of College Access

In this article, we present a programmatic model to develop College Access Literacy (CAL) among both students and educators. University faculty developed a six-module curriculum delivered through existing Professional Development School partnerships in afterschool seminars for high school juniors and separate class periods for other high school students. Professional development sessions were also delivered by content experts to high school educators and faculty who were paired to co-teach the curriculum. The program was implemented in three high schools that primarily serve historically underrepresented students. CAL topics, intended to provide students with knowledge and strategies for college access success, included college …

Book Review: Fundamentals Of College Admission Counseling: A Textbook For Graduate Students And Practicing Counselors, Brenda Gerhardt

Journal of College Access

No abstract provided.

Introductory Pages, Christopher W. Tremblay, Patrick J. O'Connor Phd, Laura Owen, Moya Malcolm, Diana Camilo

Journal of College Access

No abstract provided.

Marching To College: Exploring Military-Connected Students’ Access Experiences Navigating College Choice, Latosha R. Henderson, Jennifer Johnson, Shannon Martin

Journal of College Access

This study analyzed how pre-college advising and transition experiences impact the postsecondary success of military-connected students (MCS). Each year, approximately 200,000 military veterans transition to civilian life, with around 40% seeking higher education. Despite the financial support of the Post-9/11 GI Bill, MCS face unique challenges in accessing and succeeding in higher education, including restrictive admissions policies, unclear credit transfer processes, and insufficient pre-college advising.

Through a case study approach, this study explores the college transition experiences of MCS and the role of pre-college advising in supporting these transitions. Data were collected via surveys and interviews, focusing on the participants' …

Investigating The Effects Of Brief Video Interventions On White Undergraduate Students’ Racial Attitudes, Alyssa Powers

Dissertations

In this experimental study, a pretest posttest between-groups design was utilized to investigate the efficacy of two brief multicultural educational video interventions in improving the colorblind and affective racial attitudes of White undergraduate students. Ninety-eight self-identified White undergraduate students from a large, Midwestern university were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: (a) viewing a video on the pervasiveness of individual racism and White privilege in the United States (True Colors); (b) viewing a video on institutional racism in the United States (Segregated by Design); (c) viewing a study tips video as the neutral control condition. Participants’ colorblind and affective …

A Climatological Analysis Of Drought And Flood In California, Kristen Faith Coston

Masters Theses

This research is investigating the climate states that produce droughts and floods and seeks to explain how a sudden shift from persistent drought to drought-alleviating flood is possible. Objectives include investigating how drought and flood in California are influenced by temperature and climate patterns, whether there are any correlation between climate/ocean indices and the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI), and whether Atmospheric Rivers (ARS) are influenced by certain atmospheric/oceanic states.

All data is collected for 41 years, between 1983 and 2024. The SPI dataset is obtained by coding to filter for the mean value of all pixels in Sacramento County. Monthly …

Representation Of Autism Spectrum Disorders In Realistic Fiction For Children And Young Adults Over The Past 20 Years, Jane E. Kelley, Yun-Ju Hsiao, Brenda L. Barrio, Teresa A. Cardon, Madeline G. Joyce

Reading Horizons: A Journal of Literacy and Language Arts

In our study, we analyzed 147 contemporary realistic fiction children’s and young adult books that feature characters with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We compared these representations with current statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For each book, we examined the character demographics, the main character, the author’s background, and representation prevalence. Our findings revealed a significant increase in the portrayal of characters with ASD over the past decade. There has also been a rise in the number of characters with ASD serving as the main protagonists in stories. We delved into the implications of gender, race, and …

Caregivers’ Satisfaction With And Perceived Cultural Sensitivity Of A Modification Of A Child Injury Prevention Program For Spanish-Speaking Families, Karen Padilla

Honors Theses

Unintentional injuries are a leading cause of death among children in the United States. Caregivers play a critical role in reducing children’s risk of injury by adopting appropriate supervision behaviors and engaging in safety-proofing practices. The Supervising for Home Safety (SHS) program is a video-based intervention developed to increase caregiver supervision for children ages 2–5 by targeting beliefs about injury vulnerability, injury preventability, and self-efficacy for implementing safety precautions. While SHS has demonstrated effectiveness in English-speaking populations, no research has examined its adaptation and impact among Spanish-speaking caregivers. This study aimed to examine caregivers perceived cultural sensitivity and satisfaction with …

Daca’S Impact On Recipients: Interviews With Three Daca Recipients From Michigan, Jazmin Moron

Honors Theses

This thesis explores the lived experiences of three Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients residing in Michigan. It examines how DACA has impacted their lives across three distinct phases: pre-DACA, while applying for DACA, and post-DACA. Through qualitative, semi-structured interviews, this research uncovers key themes: normal childhood, proof of presence, skeptical DACA future, and restricted immigration pathways. While DACA offered recipients increased opportunities in education, employment, and stability, it also imposed systemic challenges such as costly renewals, limited career growth, and continued legal uncertainty. By focusing on Michigan—a state with a relatively small Hispanic/Latino population—this study highlights the unique …

Impact Of Humor Vs. Seriousness In Advertising: The Role Of Product Type In Consumer Recall And Purchase Behavior, Cian Ortega

Honors Theses

This study examines the effectiveness of humorous versus serious advertising tones across three different product categories, which are beverage, hygiene, and health/medicine. This is done by measuring their impact on a consumer’s brand/product recall, enjoyment, and purchase intent. Historically, humor has been related to positive emotional responses while seriousness has been associated with building trust and credibility. By using a within-subjects experimental-survey design, data were collected from seventy survey respondents who viewed humorous and serious advertisements across the three product categories (hygiene, beverage, and health/medicine and then evaluated each ad based on their agreement to statements relating to brand/product recall, …

Supporting Doctoral Research In Aging: From Exercise Barriers To Geropsychology Competencies, Alexandra Crites

Honors Theses

This thesis explored hands-on experiences supporting ongoing research in behavioral gerontology, addressing the growing need for individualized interventions, and improving professional training to meet the complex needs of aging populations. Through involvement in two primary studies—one examining exercise nonadherence in people with osteoarthritis (OA) and another developing competency standards for professionals entering geropsychology. I contributed to data analysis, research design, and the analysis of qualitative and quantitative literature. My work with Haley Hughes’ study included developing a comprehensive data table that mapped participant responses from focus groups and identifying nuanced themes related to barriers and facilitators for physical activity. For …

The Interaction Between Parenting Styles, College Adjustment, And Decision Making In Undergraduate Freshman And Sophomores, Taylor Phillips

Honors Theses

Although considerable research has investigated how parenting styles impact child development, little is known about how parenting styles correlate with young adults’ adjustment to college. Parenting styles children are raised with may impact the development of skills such as resilience, problem-solving, and emotional regulation that influence how they react to difficult life transitions. Parenting styles may also impact a person’s decision making, including in situations involving self-control. Thus, the goal of this study was to investigate the relationship between parenting style, college adjustment, and self-control. This study used the Parenting Style and Dimension Questionnaire- Short Version, the Student Adaption to …

The Relationship Between Yoga Practice And Sports Performance Of High-Level Athletes, Molly Freeman

Honors Theses

The purpose of this study is to review existing literature to determine if there is a relationship between yoga practice and the sports performance of high-level athletes. As awareness of mental health in sports continues to grow, athletes and coaches are searching for therapeutic methods to promote well-being and boost sports performance Yoga is a practice combining breath, meditation, and movement that has many physical and mental benefits. This literature review explores the impact of these benefits on athletic performance. Findings that yoga can boost physical and mental fitness, two very important attributes of successful athletes, point to the practice …

Western Student Association Structure And Governing Processes: Evaluating Success For Student Government Associations, Samuel Longlet

Honors Theses

The Western Student Association underwent several reforms between March of 2020 and April of 2025. These reforms included expanding its legislative branch both in terms of pure size and internal responsibility and restructuring its executive branch to focus more on building relationships with the administration of Western Michigan University.

The Western Student Association between 2020 and 2025 has become more successful in advocating, allocating, and being a shared governance partner, representing the three executive functions of a Student Government Association.

While the Western Student Association is more successful in 2025 than it was in 2020, the institutional weaknesses of an …

The Impact Of Marijuana Edibles On Fetal Development In Pregnant Adolescents And Young Mothers, Rachel Doyle

Honors Theses

With the growing prevalence of marijuana use for both recreational and medicinal purposes, this study explores the impact of edible cannabis consumption on fetal development in pregnant adolescents and young mothers. While most existing research focuses on smoked cannabis in adult populations, this review highlights a significant gap regarding the unique risks of edibles among younger, vulnerable users who may perceive them as safer. Through a comprehensive literature review, the study examines the physiological effects of THC in edible form, as well as the social, economic, and healthcare factors influencing its use. Key areas of focus include maternal health, placental …

Prevalence Of Imposter Syndrome Among Undergraduate Students At Western Michigan University, Thomas Leasure

Honors Theses

Imposter syndrome (IS) is a psychological phenomenon that many people can experience throughout their life, especially for students pursuing higher education. It can be described as feeling unworthy of one's accomplishments, or being “found out” as a fraud. Certain demographics may suffer from imposter syndrome more than others, like students in STEM or first generational students. Thus, it is important to better understand the prevalence of imposter syndrome here at Western Michigan University. This issue was studied by conducting a survey among undergraduate students looking at demographic information and severity of imposter syndrome. The data was then coded and analyzed …

Police & Civilian Interaction: Developing A Survey Of Social Attitudes Toward Law Enforcement For Public Administrators, Austin Mendez

Honors Theses

This thesis presents an informational overview of a wide variety of controversial topics related to modern police and civilian interaction. Additionally, it presents specific survey development theory meant to aid in the creation of a highly accessible survey instrument for use by public administrators. Public administrators may find particular value in the development and continuous improvement of public policy and community education programs based on feedback from constituents. This writing focuses on survey development theory, a historical overview of relevant legal cases establishing police discretion, issues facing people in custody, legal protections specific to police, militarization, federal partnerships, police training, …

Balancing Parental Rights And Child Welfare In Custody Decisions Involving Mental Health, Colette Methling

Honors Theses

This thesis examines the evolving intersection of parental rights, child welfare, and mental health within the context of termination of parental rights proceedings. Historically, mental illness was often viewed as a categorical disqualifier for parenting, with courts relying on stigmatized assumptions rather than individualized evaluations. These early judicial approaches, influenced by eugenics and social biases, as exemplified by Buck v. Bell (1927), led to systemic injustices and overly broad state interventions into family life.

Through a doctrinal and historical legal analysis, this thesis traces how U.S. courts have gradually moved from rigid, diagnosis-based determinations toward more nuanced, evidence-based standards. It …

How Discriminatory Housing Policies Segregated Kalamazoo, Jacob Walsh

Honors Theses

This thesis investigates the historical and contemporary legacy of racially discriminatory housing policies in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Using primary documents, census data, and secondary literature, it examines how government-sanctioned practices like redlining, racially restrictive covenants, urban renewal projects, and exclusionary zoning contributed to the segregation of Kalamazoo’s Black residents. Contrary to the narrative that residential segregation in northern cities was merely “de facto”, the thesis emphasizes the deliberate nature of these policies, carried out by federal, state, and local institutions in collaboration with real estate and banking industries.

The research focuses on the lasting economic impacts of redlining, especially in neighborhoods …

From First Draft To Final Frame: Exploring Storytelling Across Mediums, Lydia Cowan

Honors Theses

This thesis explores the creative adaptation of an original young adult novel into a two-part television screenplay. The story follows Bobbi, a sixteen-year-old girl who is institutionalized after a mental health crisis, as she navigates grief, trauma, and recovery through a voice that is sharp, self-aware, and darkly humorous.

The project consists of eight chapters of prose, totaling 36 pages, and two screenplay episodes comprising 87 pages. The work focuses on how character, tone, and internal voice shift between novel and screen formats. Key themes include mental health, loss, identity, and the use of humor as a survival mechanism. The …

Impact Of Witnessing Intimate Partner Violence For Elementary Age Children: Counseling Recommendations, Makayla Essington

Honors Theses

This literature review explores the significant impacts that witnessing intimate partner violence (IPV) has on elementary-aged children and presents evidence-based counseling interventions to support their healing. Children are not always direct victims of intimate partner violence (IPV). However, simply witnessing intimate partner violence (IPV) in the home has significant impacts on children, such as emotionally, physically, cognitively, and behaviorally. This literature review highlights the significant impacts of intimate partner violence (IPV) on children’s mental health, including risk of anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and PTSD symptoms. Witnessing intimate partner violence also impacts the physical health of children, including risk for sleep disturbances …

Voting Rights Expansion To Achieve Voting Equity: Comparing Michigan's 2020 And 2024 Elections, Quinn Murphy

Honors Theses

Socioeconomic disparities often correlate with lower voter participation, potentially leading to underrepresentation of disadvantaged communities in policy decisions. Lower voter participation has been partly attributed to restrictive voting laws. In 2023, Michigan enacted legislation to expand voting rights, driven by a citizen-initiated ballot proposal that was overwhelmingly supported by Michiganders. The law expanded absentee voting, required statewide early in-person voting, protected voting rights of military members, and expanded options for providing photo ID to vote. To examine whether these voting rights expansions improved voting participation, particularly in low-income counties, this study examined the relationship between county-level poverty and voter turnout …

Analyzing The Drivers Of Airline Profitability, Brady Noble

Honors Theses

The commercial aviation industry, despite its transformative impact on global connection and economy, has historically struggled with consistent profitability. This thesis investigates the drivers of financial success within the airline industry, with a particular focus on the relationship between passenger load factors and profitability. Passenger load factors, defined as the percentage of available seats occupied by paying customers, have emerged as a key performance indicator, offering important insights into operational efficiency and revenue generation.

The study utilizes comprehensive data from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, encompassing quarterly metrics on revenue, load factors, operating costs, and fuel prices from 2002 to …