Digital Commons Network^™

College Student Attitudes Toward Student-Athlete's Ability To Profit From Name, Image, And Likeness (Nil), Daniel G. Panzano

Honors Theses

Since the recent passing of legislation allowing student-athletes to profit from their own personal brands and sponsorships (Name, Image, and Likeness; NIL), there has been very little research. The purpose of this study was to measure the attitudes and support students have towards the financial compensation of their student-athlete counterparts. The researchers surveyed 67 Coastal Carolina University students. Using a quantitative study, data was gathered pertaining to the opinions toward NIL, feelings of team affiliation, and demographic information. Statistically significant differences were found toward some elements of NIL and gender, major, and academic year. A statistically significant correlation was also …

The Religious Landscape Of Uruguay In The Third Millennium: Present Piety As A Product Of The Past?, Brandon Kriplean

Honors Theses

Of all Latin American countries, Uruguay enjoys both the lowest percentage of Catholics and the highest percentage of religiously unaffiliated. The central aim of this thesis is to explore the extent to which historical secularization processes and laicidad are responsible for the low number of Catholics and the large number of religiously unaffiliated. With regards to the former, the historical evidence suggests that the small Catholic population is not a result of laicidad but is instead a product of internal issues within the Uruguayan Catholic Church. Part 1 of this thesis will explore the factors that have weakened the Uruguayan …

Cannabis-Induced Psychotic Disorder And Schizophrenia Diagnostic Comparison, Tyanna Brodhagen

Honors Theses

Recent changes in cannabis legalization will have broad societal impacts for decades to come, not the least of which are the unknown consequences to neuropsychiatric health, particularly for adolescents and young adults. Cannabis-induced psychotic disorder (CIPD) is a controversial and poorly understood neuropsychiatric condition characterized by a psychotic experience brought on by excessive cannabis intoxication and/or withdrawal. Although CIPD is currently an uncommon diagnosis, the overlapping symptomology and comorbidity with schizophrenia indicates CIPD may be underdiagnosed. Some authors suggest the under diagnosis of CIPD may be correlated to physician diagnostic practices. This honors thesis constitutes a scholarly literature review and …

Exploring The Effect Of Resilience Training On The Effectiveness Of Psychological Body Armor Among College Students, Devaney Ross

Honors Theses

Using Everly’s proposal of a unique form of human resilience known as Psychological Body ArmorTM (PBA), this study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of Psychological Body Armor training in improving the resilience capacity amongst college students. In this study, data was collected from 194 (N = 108 for the 2022 Fall Semester and N = 86 for the 2023 Spring Semester) participants enrolled in a Wellness class at Andrews University. Participants were asked to complete a 20-item PBA questionnaire developed by Tan et al. (2022) to measure resilience based on two previous PBA studies (Burnett et al., 2019; Burnett et …

Developing A Positive Self-Talk Toolbox, Megan Wagner

Honors Theses

The following thesis demonstrates how individuals can overcome high-pressure situations in both the business and athletic environments. Individuals are asked to perform in many different aspects of their lives. Oftentimes, individuals feel pressure when asked to perform at their optimal level. While there are many tactical skills to help individuals improve their skillset for a particular performance area, this thesis argues that a positive mindset can increase individual’s performance levels during the act of performing. Primary research has been conducted between two different research groups (business professionals and athletes) to determine that pressure exists in each respective environment based on …

Violence Against Healthcare Workers, Nichole Osgood

Honors Theses

Workplace violence is any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other threatening disruptive behavior that occurs at work (US Department of Labor, 2023). There are a handful of different types of workplace violence that include but are not limited to physical violence, verbal abuse and threats, sexual harassment, and psychological trauma (US Department of Labor, 2023). Workplace violence, a multifaceted phenomenon, is not a new concern, but its pervasiveness and intensity in healthcare settings have reached alarming proportions in recent years. In a meta-analysis, it was noted that workplace violence against healthcare workers of any kind was …

We Are The Reason We Stand Still In The Face Of Climate Change., Sydney Hemp

Honors Theses

Many different factors can impact the way any information is received but it is especially important to see how scientific information is received because it is often backed up by a great deal of evidence, especially in the case of global climate change. Many of these factors have nothing to do with science and everything to do with social influences, political parties, and other demographic measures. Discussion of these relationships is important when discussing communication in a broad sense, but it can be even more important when bringing up things like global climate change, which has become a political topic …

Associations Between Internalization Of The Model Minority Myth And Burnout Among Asian College Students, Tu Truong

Honors Theses

Background. Burnout has become increasingly prevalent among college students in recent years. A potential risk factor for burnout among Asian and Asian American college students is internalization of the Model Minority Myth, for it may cause psychological distress within Asians. This study has two aims: 1) to examine the association between internalization of the Model Minority Myth (i.e., achievement orientation, unrestricted mobility) and burnout (i.e., exhaustion, cynicism, and efficacy) among Asian college students; and 2) to assess whether the association between internalization of the Model Minority Myth and burnout among Asian college students differs by international student status.

Methods. A …

The Influence Of Aviation Technology On Human Complacency, Aurora Burton

Honors Theses

The thesis covers automation complacency in the aviation industry. The purpose being to provide a foundation of complacency-related accidents to support or dismiss the Federal Aviation Administration’s claim to automation-induced inattention. Complacency factors are outlined in a multitude of fields, creating a background for aviation discussion. To outline the parameters of literature review, behaviors associated with complacency are addressed. Next, a compilation of accident reports is examined and categorized. Specific, impactful accidents relating to complacency are detailed and explained. Summarily, three solutions to human-driven complacency are proposed, evaluated, and analyzed. Including the following: proficiency advancement, technology improvement, and change in …

The Open Web Versus Dark Web: Examining User Engagement In Online Illicit Opioid Markets, Ciara Wildes

Honors Theses

The state of the modern-day opioid epidemic produces the need to understand how people choose to engage in opioid markets on the web. Specifically, it is important to understand why people choose to use the open web rather than the dark web to engage in online opioid markets. Applying the theoretical frameworks of Cohen and Felson’s (1979) Routine Activity Theory and Clarke’s (1999) CRAVED principles, the decision making processes of individuals was examined using three separate Experimental Vignette Methodology surveys (EVM) administered through Connect CloudResearch. The decision-making processes of individuals engaging in online illicit opioid markets was measured using a …

Impact Of Body Image Ideals On Form And Frequency Of Exercise In College Students, Isabella Dipippo

Honors Theses

Objective: Body image issues are very prevalent among college students and can cause a variety of physical and mental health problems as determined by previous research. The SUNY Cortland student population, which tends to have a higher active student population than other campuses, may have a unique correlation between exercise and body image. This study aims to examine the impact of body image ideals in SUNY Cortland students in relation to exercise habits.

Methods: This study was conducted through survey-based methodology and distributed to various classes and organizations of undergraduate SUNY Cortland students through Google Forms. A total sample of …

Portraits Of Happiness (The Performance Of Happiness: A Cultural Critique), Meaghan Hibbs

Honors Theses

While happiness may be something seemingly everyone, or most, people wish for, what happiness consists of, how to obtain it, and how to determine if/when one is truly happy remains elusive. One may view happiness as a simple wish, but then arises the question: what exactly does one wish for in wishing for happiness? Or, moreover, what may a society wish for or wish to ensure through the imperative to be happy? My thesis will primarily involve an interpretation of philosopher Sara Ahmed’s book The Promise of Happiness, in which she offers a critique of “happiness,” or, moreover, the cultural …

Tales Of The Keyworld: An Examination Of The Study And Application Of Craft Theory For Writers, Lauren Bruce

Honors Theses

The following consists of a craft essay focused on character and close third-person narration and a novel excerpt. The craft essay begins with a discussion of what craft theory is and how it is useful to writers when used together with reading analysis. It then synthesizes the conversation around close third-person narration and character and applies it to a close reading analysis of Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas. The novel excerpt comes from the middle of a work in progress and concerns members of the Keyworld, a fantastical sub-layer of the modern world unknown to most humans.

An Exploration Into Health Equity Discourse In Mississippi: Organizational Commitments And Practitioner Perspectives, Thuy-Vy Lillian Pham

Honors Theses

This thesis takes a sociological approach to examine healthcare workers' beliefs and medical organizations’ solidarity statements related to diversity and equity and how these discourses aligned and/or diverged. Through interviews with healthcare providers in Mississippi and content analysis of solidarity statements, the study finds that discussions on health disparities more frequently addressed socioeconomic inequality rather than systemic racism, diverging from organizational statements. This emphasis may partly stem from the demographics of the study participants, who were predominantly White—which also reflected the staff where they worked. Additionally, while healthcare workers recognized structural issues related to health disparities, they often showed hesitancy …

Diver Perceived Value And Satisfaction On The Mississippi Gulf Coast, Ka'lon Duncanson

Honors Theses

The Mississippi Gulf Coast is known for its coastal beauty and the tourism that comes from the recreational activities associated with the water. However, there appears to be an underserved segment of the tourism industry. The coast provides opportunities for local scuba divers to take part in a range of diving activities, but there is minimal support for this tourism activity in Mississippi. There is a need for greater understanding about what local divers value in their diving experiences and how this might lead to greater satisfaction with this activity. Along with overall perceived value, the argument is made that …

Investigating The Relationship Between Consistent Workout Regimen On Quality Of Life Among Crossfitters In South Mississippi, Christian Glass

Honors Theses

Robust literature exists to support the utility of CrossFit in improving metabolic and cardiovascular well-being. However, a metaphorical chasm exists not in the study of the physiological effects of CrossFit but in the psychological effects, namely quality of life (QOL). This thesis aimed to offer an installment into this gap by investigating trends among a population of 81 CrossFitters in south Mississippi. To best fulfill this task, a quantitative study was conducted using a 32-item survey composed of a mixture of questions from the World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Version (WHOQOL- BREF) to assess reported quality of life …

Barriers In Immigrant Mental Healthcare: Women, Children And Fathers, Alisa Pickett

Honors Theses

The American Psychological Association has identified immigrant families as a vulnerable population, whose access to mental healthcare is impacted by numerous barriers (DeAngelis, 2023). Within these communities there is a need for mental health resources, but due to the many barriers these communities face they are often left without care. In this literature review, I will identify the mental health needs, and the barriers that each member of the family (e.g., mothers, children, and fathers) uniquely faces. The discussion will review how these barriers are currently being addressed, specifically looking at changes within practices, use of logotherapy, and changing the …

The Death And Life Of Major League Baseball, Abraham H. Mikels

Honors Theses

Major League Baseball has long been considered America’s pastime, but recently, it has faced significant challenges to its popularity. This thesis examines the complex trajectory of Major League Baseball over the last few years, tracking the factors contributing to its decline and the new bold strategies that have fueled and can fuel its comeback. The decline in popularity can be attributed to several factors, including but not limited to the perceived slow pace of the game, different entertainment preferences, and a new focus on analytics and statistics. These factors have all played roles in diminishing its appeal, especially among the …

The Bookworm's Brain: An Analysis On Emotion-Evoking Literature, Savannah Hoffman

Honors Theses

This thesis draws on several literary studies to create and propose the idea that fiction can cause genuine attachment for audiences as well as produce strong, emotional reactions. This attachment can be achieved through the use of universal literary elements found in writing. Through the use of literary elements, authors are able to convey stories that allow audiences to grow true attachment towards their worlds, characters, and ideas. In addition, the acknowledgement of these elements is helpful in understanding why readers often feel emotional connections to the fictional stories they consume. Being able to understand these elements is important for …

Exploring The Ethics Of Human Space Travel: Navigating The Challenges And Implications Of Missions Past, Present, And Future, Emily A. Brettschneider

Honors Theses

This comprehensive exploration delves into the multifaceted landscape of human space travel, spanning physiological challenges, astronaut training, spacecraft manufacturing, ethical considerations, societal influences, and technological frontiers. The study elucidates the physiological impacts of microgravity on astronauts, emphasizing the necessity of personalized interventions and rigorous exercise protocols. Psychological dimensions, including isolation, interpersonal dynamics, and support systems, emerge as critical considerations. Astronaut training is dissected, encompassing physical conditioning, systems proficiency, and cultural competence. The paper delves into spacecraft manufacturing, emphasizing adherence to stringent standards, quality control measures, and the integration of additive manufacturing. Space governance challenges, the role of the private sector, …

Loneliness Among College Students, Jaime Benson

Honors Theses

This study investigated the level of loneliness among health-focused scholars in the College of Health and Human Services (CHHS), Western Michigan University to improve student life experience, social opportunities, and support networks. We recruited participants from various CHHS programs using a convenience sampling method, requiring informed consent and program enrollment. The UCLA Loneliness Scale served as our measurement tool, allowing us to compare scores across program backgrounds using independent samples t-tests or non-parametric alternatives. Among 59 participants, 22.0% reported low loneliness levels, 49.1% moderate levels, 25.4% moderately high levels, and 3.4% high levels. Notably, the highest scores emerged in questions …

Notions Of Liberty- Traditional And Modern, Zachary D. Weston

Honors Theses

This essay examines, primarily, how notions of liberty have evolved over time in America. Starting from the point of establishing America’s foundation in Thomistic natural law, the essay then seeks to identify, define, and analyze different segments of American political thought that have sprung off from this staring point. Three segments are identified, Conservatism, Liberalism, and Progressivism, and then defined on how they view the self. The conservatives from God, the liberals from reason, and the progressives from how the individual interacts with society. After this, these different segments of American political thought are contrasted by viewing how they offer …

Integrating Mindfulness- Based Practice Into University Curriculum: Building Resilience Among Undergraduate Health Science Students, Avery M. Carpenter

Honors Theses

Health science majors are both physically and emotionally demanding educational pathways with high expectations. These difficult fields of study place students at risk for stress-related illness, such as anxiety and depression. Many health science students are expected to succeed in their educational programs and provide care for others, despite the mental challenges they face daily. These psychological factors are continuously pushing this population of students to seek treatment for their mental well-being. A large body of assessment literature suggests that mindfulness can be used as a practice to relieve stress and enhance the mental well-being of undergraduate college students. Studies …

Interprofessional Collaboration Between Occupational Therapy And Applied Behavior Analysis, Elizabeth Fairchild

Honors Theses

The fields of Occupational Therapy and Applied Behavior Analysis are currently two of the most common treatment approaches for children with autism spectrum disorder. Unfortunately, a lack of understanding and mutual respect between the fields has led to poor interprofessional collaboration among professionals in each practice area, negatively impacting client outcomes. While both fields differ greatly in treatment approaches, collaboration is crucial between practitioners as they address similar skills in a child with autism spectrum disorder. Interprofessional collaboration can allow practitioners to share their individualized background and lens with another field in order to mutually address client goals. This project …

How To Improve The Kentucky Workplace For The Sake Of Workers' Mental And Physical Health, Hailey Simonds

Honors Theses

Given the current state of the economy and Americans’ “workaholic” culture, it is not unreasonable for Kentuckians to be stressed in the workplace. Is it true that Kentuckians are stressed and dissatisfied with their jobs, or are workers simply pessimistic? The purpose of this study is to determine the satisfaction of Kentuckians with their current jobs, characteristics of their job which may impact satisfaction, and explore solutions to create healthier relationships between workers and their jobs. An online survey was distributed to Kentuckian workers aged 18 and older via social media and flyers posted on Eastern Kentucky University’s campus. Results …

The Complexities Of Communicating With Children About Mental Health Issues, Maggie L. Camp

Honors Theses

Communicating with children about any difficult topic is complex, but especially when the topic is about mental health. Piaget’s stages of cognitive development and Vygotsky’s Zone of Proximal Development sets the stage for understanding how age appropriate conversations can aid in children’s understanding of mental health issues. Then, by conducting a thorough literature review, three common areas where these conversations take place were identified; at home, at school, and at a medical setting. All of these settings have strengths and weaknesses in their ability to facilitate quality mental health conversations with children. After examining these settings, this paper explores some …

Risks Of Being A Female Athlete: Prevalence Of The Female Athlete Triad And Awareness Of It By The Athletic And Student Population, Mary M. Wilson

Honors Theses

The Female Athlete Triad is an interrelationship between energy availability, menstrual dysfunction, and bone health. It effects many female athletes, specifically those that participate in lean physique sports. This condition can cause many issues with one of the most common being time loss injuries from bone stress issues. Athletes and athletic support staff have limited knowledge over the Triad, partially because of limited policies and procedures in place to treat and educate for it. This thesis will conduct a literature review to better understand prevalence and general knowledge of the Female Athlete Triad in athletic populations and to assess the …

When They Came Home: Common Reintegration Issues And Interventions Of Female Iraq And Afghanistan Veterans, Taryn Ritchie

Honors Theses

With the increasing support of women entering traditionally male occupations, more females are becoming part of the veteran population. Because of the increasing population of women veterans, it is important to investigate the problems and support services exclusive to women. Previous research is limited when looking at the female veteran population and their experiences. This study strives to uncover through a qualitative descriptive research design the common issues that the population from Iraq and Afghanistan face in their process of reintegration into society. Some of these problems include finding community, finding identity, toxic male dominance. This study also evaluates the …

Sports Gambling Is Legal: Now What? A Quantitative Analysis Of How Kentucky Can Use The Revenue Generated From Sports Gambling To Help Our Poorest Communities, Brandon J. Weston

Honors Theses

On March 31, 2023, sports gambling was made legal in Kentucky. This is in large part due to the Supreme Court overturning the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 (PASPA) in 2018. The legalization of sports gambling is bringing new, excess revenue into Kentucky, raising questions on what to do with the revenue? Through linear regression analysis, Kentucky is expected to earn approximately $23 million dollars in excess revenue. Currently, lawmakers are planning to use the revenue to partially fund state pension plans while saving a small portion (2.5%) to fight problem gambling. Most current research suggests that …

Examination Of The Impact Of The Opioid Epidemic In Appalachian Kentucky, Noah A. Stewart

Honors Theses

Rural crime and the Appalachian region have both been victims of bias. Rural crime is often a piece of studying criminology that is left lacking because of the preferred method of collecting data, drawing up theories, and more with more urban environments. The Appalachian region has long faced an infamous reputation for many things such as ignorance in its people, poverty rates, drug addiction, its backwardness in its culture, and many more long-established reasons. This research, however, is to hopefully shine a bright light on both the study of rural crime and the Appalachian region. With this study I have …