Digital Commons Network^™

The Effects Of Jurisdictional Variances On Rates Of Rape Offenses: How Differing Jurisdictional Definitions Contribute To America’S Rape Culture, David Lopez-Herrera

Theses and Dissertations

This study examines the relationship between jurisdictional definitions of rape and rape offense rates across various states in the U.S., with the goal of proposing a standardized federal definition to enhance consistency in data collection and improve the efficacy of legal responses. Despite extensive research on rape, no prior studies have explored the impact of jurisdictional definition variances on state rape offense rates. This seminal study aimed to fill this gap by analyzing the correlation between state-specific rape definitions and reported rape offenses, utilizing a theoretical breakdown of definitions into eight components and a rubric for evaluation.

The analysis revealed …

Exploring The Role Of The Teacher In Motivating Students To Learn Mathematics At Alternative High Schools, Anne-Marie Johanne Mohammed

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this applied dissertation was to provide an in-depth understanding of the teacher’s role in motivating students to learn mathematics at alternative high schools because motivation impacts academic achievement in mathematics. Students in South Florida must pass an end-of-course exam in algebra as a requirement to receive a high school diploma. Therefore, it is essential that students are motivated to learn the mathematics concepts that are necessary to pass the end-of-course exam. This research study was guided by the following research questions:

1. How and in what ways do mathematics teachers adjust and integrate instructional strategies to support …

Female Offenders: Exploring Risk Factors For Adulthood Violence, Lauren N. Fowler

Theses and Dissertations

The number of females under correctional supervision has been increasing in the last four decades. For adult women, these offenses are generally drug offenses; however, there have also been increases in the number of women committing violent crimes. Unfortunately, violent females are an understudied population, which limits the data available to inform programs and policies that could address the problem. This study explored potential factors related to violent behavior among adult females by analyzing public-use data from the Bureau of Justice Statistics’ Survey of Prison Inmates, 2016. More specifically, violent and nonviolent state and federal female inmates were assessed regarding …

A Systematic Review Of Preferred Practices To Reintegrate Male Opiate Addicts Into Family Relations While In An Evidence-Based Recovery Program, Arkaya Williams-Abbott

Theses and Dissertations

Active addiction strains family relationships. The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review to determine preferred practices to help reintegrate male opiate addicts into family relations while in an evidence-based recovery program. Twenty-three articles of various methodologies were reviewed. Findings indicated three themes: stigma and men with opioid disorder, how men seek help, and family relationships and role in substance abuse treatment. Findings showed evidence-based programming should ensure training for treatment providers on men’s socialization and how it affects their approach to treatment and lack of willingness to seek help. Effective communication and de-stigmatized language is another …

Utilizing Social Media As An Assistive Technology Tool For Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder, Meaghan Donahue

Theses and Dissertations

The number of children diagnosed with autism has continued to rise since 2000 at startling rates, leading to an increased need for schools to discover innovative ways to meet the unique learning needs of these students. Technology has proven to be adaptable and successful in teaching social skills to children with autism. Assistive technology and the continuing development of online platforms offer unique opportunities for children with special needs to access the general education curriculum. This combined with the increased usage of social media among school-aged children, make it a potential tool for learning. Understanding how social media can be …

Sustainable Tourism Development In Greece: A Phenomenological Study Of Municipal Leaders, Panagiote G. Tsolis

Theses and Dissertations

The Hellenic Republic relies heavily on the summer tourism industry for economic growth (Kouri, 2012). The objective has been to increase demand for lesser-known destinations and encourage visitation outside the peak summer period. However, expanding the tourism offering is complex, as tourism destination networks are some of the most complex systems (da Fontoura Costa & Baggio, 2009). There are no official national framework for sustainable tourism in the Hellenic Republic. However, multiple national frameworks for sustainable tourism within the Hellenic Republic have been designed, focusing on tourism or regions and natural preserves. The problem is that municipal leaders' perspectives are …

Putting The “Proof” In The Pudding: Ingredients To Consider In Executing An Effective And Sustainable Diversity Management Strategy Within Esg Conscious Organizations, Diamond D. Dubose

Theses and Dissertations

ESG exchange-trade fund inflows increased to a total of 22 billion dollars in 2020; three times their amount as compared to 2019, reflecting increasing capital market prominence (Wagner & Ballentine, 2020). Many organizations have since engaged in DEI practices because of the appeal Environment, Social, and Governance (also known as ESG) investment ratings provide (Henisz et al., 2019). However, companies must go beyond publishing organizational commitments to diversity to ‘check the box’ if they want to remain in the good graces of their internal and external stakeholders, ultimately validating their financial performance (S. J. Singh, 2021). An obstacle also emerged …

Family Rejection And Affirmation Experiences Among Racially And Ethnically Marginalized Youth Who Identify As Transgender And/Or Gender Diverse, Angela Matijczak

Theses and Dissertations

Relationships with family members can be a vital source of support, and significant stressor, that contributes to mental health outcomes among transgender and gender diverse young adults who are racially and ethnically marginalized (TGD REMY). Guided by a life history narrative approach, this qualitative study explored family affirmation and rejection among TGD REMY across three aims: (a) how TGD REMY define their experiences of family rejection and/or affirmation, (b) whether and how experiences of rejection/affirmation change throughout the lifetime, and (c) whether and how experiences of rejection/affirmation differ by each family member. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 TGD REMY …

Identifying Mechanistic Pathways To Rigidity Associated With Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder Traits Using A Novel Decision-Making Paradigm, Hannah L. Heintz

Theses and Dissertations

Cognitive and behavioral rigidity is observed across several mental disorders and is a defining characteristic of Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD), a highly prevalent and debilitating, yet understudied, disorder. In particular, treatments for OCPD are underdeveloped due to our poor understanding of the mechanisms leading to the disorder’s key feature of rigidity. Two related disorders, anorexia nervosa (AN) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), have shown distinct mechanistic pathways leading to symptoms of rigidity, indicating that this trait can arise as a result of a number of differentially impaired cognitive processes, each requiring unique interventions. To examine the relationship between symptoms of OCPD …

Acculturative Stress, Depression, & Anxiety Among Arab Americans, Sally Kafelghazal M.S.

Theses and Dissertations

Arab Americans, those who themselves or their ancestors have immigrated fromthe Middle East or North Africa to the United States, experience a lot of stress as a result of balancing varying cultures, known as acculturative stress. Due to the underrepresentation and misrepresentation of Arabs in Americans, as well as the taboo that exists in the Arab culture regarding poor mental health and seeking mental health services, the mental health impacts of acculturation stress among this population are scarcely studied. This dissertation aims to further understand ways in which acculturative stress impacts early generational Arab American adults, including immigrants and refugees, …

Viewers' Attitudes Towards Analytical And Traditional Commentary Styles In Baseball Broadcasts: A Quasi-Experimental Study, Michael Menhart

Theses and Dissertations

This study investigates the attitudes of college and non-college athletes on analytical and traditional commentary styles during baseball broadcasts. The attitudes tested were satisfaction and likelihood to watch again (retention). The experiment had two data collection sessions for the athletes and non-athletes where they were exposed to either analytical or traditional commentary. The exposure came through the reading of a fictional scrip based on each style and then the participants were asked to answer questions to test their satisfaction and retention. Through a comprehensive analysis, including independent sample t-tests and two-way ANOVA, the findings revealed a significant main effect for …

The Parasocial Experiences Of Twitch Streamers, Ashley Adamian

Theses and Dissertations

The literature surrounding parasocial relationships (PSRs) has been expansive but lacks the perspective of how parasocial relationships can impact the media figure in certain contexts, specifically in regard to Twitch livestreamers and their communities. Previous research has examined how PSRs fulfill certain roles in the individual’s life, as well as some aspects that affect the relationship, such as the strength and development of the relationship. Previous research has concluded that stronger PSRs can develop from livestreaming platforms such as Twitch. This study investigates the relationship between Twitch livestreamers and PSRs. Through semi-structured interviews with seven participants, this study finds the …

Reducing Mortality Among African American Mothers Related To Postpartum Hemorrhage By Implementing Early Education And Risk Assessments, Don'ya Truesdale

Theses and Dissertations

African American women are at the highest risk for hemorrhaging during childbirth (Okunlola, 2022). A hemorrhage can occur among postpartum mothers for many reasons, with the main causes being uterine atony, tissue trauma, and clotting issues. However, risks for Black mothers differ. The comorbid and social factors within the Black community greatly influence the likelihood of Black mothers experiencing postpartum hemorrhage. Additionally, the lack of assessment and attention catered towards those risk factors lead to an increased mortality among African American (AA) mothers compared to Caucasian mothers and all other ethnicities. Nonetheless, as maternal risk assessments and education increase, mortality …

The Courage To Perform: Stand-Up Comedy And Personal Growth, Grayson Turner

Theses and Dissertations

Stand-up comedy, traditionally perceived as a means of entertainment and laughter, holds the power to showcase personal struggle, resilience, and transformative potential. This project delves into how stand-up comedy can be a tool for individuals to confront and conquer their fears by creating a documentary following individuals rehearsing and performing stand-up comedy for the first time. The analysis is grounded in the perspective that comedy and mental health are intricately linked.

Elementary Teachers’ Perceptions Regarding The Inclusion Of English Learners In Mainstream Classrooms, Geraki Marie Kossonou

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this qualitative study was to investigate how mainstream elementary teachers perceive the inclusion of English learners (ELs) in their classrooms and what strategies they use to enhance the learning of ELs. Utilization of Bandura’s self-efficacy occurred in the research. The two research questions that guided the study include, “What are the perceptions of elementary teachers regarding the inclusion of ELs in their classrooms?” and “How do elementary teachers demonstrate their knowledge and application of effective strategies for supporting and enhancing the learning of ELs?” The two research questions helped to explore the phenomenon of mainstream teachers’ perceptions …

Individual And Contextual Factors Attributing To Teacher Stress Based On Academic Setting And Years Of Experience, Lisa Lashley Freeman

Theses and Dissertations

The current study sought to determine the relationship between individual and contextual factors and teacher stress. Through analysis of the individual factors of self-efficacy and personality combined with organizational justice, perceived supervisory support, and work-family conflict, one can evaluate how to effectively support teachers to negate the surmounting pressures of teachers. The mixed methods study utilized Bandura’s (1986) Social Cognitive Theory and the JD-R model. The study specifically looked at the interplay between the individual and contextual factors addressing all teacher experience levels and school settings to uncover possible sources of stress perceived as factors preventing attrition. Current research has …

A Qualitative Descriptive Study On Secondary School Administrators’ Perception Of Restorative Practices And The Impact Of Restorative Practice Program, Antron Murray

Theses and Dissertations

Zero tolerance behavior management policies in secondary schools contribute to high student suspension and dropout rates. Zero tolerance policies do not provide an alternative solution to correct undesired behaviors and do virtually nothing to target a solution to reduce suspensions and student dropout. The purpose of this qualitative research was to gain insight into secondary school administrators’ perceptions of restorative practices and the impact of restorative practice programs. The researcher analyzed participating administrators’ perspectives regarding their behavioral management beliefs towards restorative practices and practices through interviews and open-ended questionnaires. Five school administrators with some familiarity with the concept of restorative …

Social Engagement Gaps Between Science, Technology, Engineering, And Mathematics (Stem) F-1 Visa International Students And American Students In Us Universities, Sairagul Matikeeva-Kinney

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this qualitative exploratory descriptive study was to explore the perceptions of F1 visa STEM international students at a four-year private university about their social engagement experiences with their American peers, and how the absence of such engagement practices frames the international students’ sense of mattering and marginality and overall college experience. The study focused only on F-1 visa international students’ perceptions and utilized the marginality and mattering theory (MMT) (Schlossberg, 1989) as a theoretical framework. The social constructivism paradigm was utilized to explain how international students construct their knowledge and perceptions of social engagement with American peers, …

Exploring The Impact Of Digital And Social Media On Recruiting Georgia High School Football Players By Ncaa Division 1 Universities In Georgia, Justin Phillips

Theses and Dissertations

Social and digital media integration has revolutionized the landscape of college football recruiting, offering innovative tools and strategies to enhance recruitment. Modern technology, including platforms such as X and Hudl, facilitates direct communication between high school athletes and college coaches. At the same time, companies like Route and RosterSpot employ data science and machine learning to optimize player-college matches. These technologies enable coaches to discover talent more efficiently and foster a personalized athlete recruiting experience (Booton, 2020). Additionally, social networking sites like Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat have become essential tools in the NCAA recruiting process, allowing for real-time updates, extensive …

A Scoping Review Of Perceptions And Fears Experienced By Families With Children With Developmental Disabilities In Sub-Saharan Africa., Isaac Twum Boamah

Theses and Dissertations

The prevalence of perception and fear surrounding families with children with developmental disabilities in Sub-Saharan Africa reveal a complex interplay of cultural, social, economic, and healthcare factors. This interplay of factors results in stigma, which often leads to societal misconceptions and discrimination, exacerbating the challenges faced by affected families. This study seeks to identify the individual and family perception of developmental disabilities, document the stigma experienced by the individual and their families, and document the resources available to help alleviate the plight faced by the individuals and their families. It further seeks to find gaps in the literature on developmental …

A Quantitative Study Of Teachers’ Experiences With And Preferences Toward Technology-Facilitated Professional Development, Michael Lee

Theses and Dissertations

This descriptive qualitative study was designed to understand better California K-12 teachers' experiences with and preferences toward technology-facilitated professional development. The issue is that there have been some changes in professional development since COVID-19 and are these changes with technology-facilitated professional developments effective? The conceptual framework for this study uses professional development as it explains organized learning and structure with the help of the TPACK model to help teachers in their practice and instructional strategies. Four primary research questions guide this study: 1) What types of professional development have California K-12 teachers participated in since 2020? 2) How do California …

Investigating Ammonium Toxicity In The Performance Of Recirculating Periphytic Algal Wastewater Treatment Systems, Oluchuku Richie Ochonogor

Theses and Dissertations

Freshwater nutrient enrichment from wastewater facilities and other sources can lead to freshwater eutrophication, a threat to global aquatic ecosystems. Mechanical and chemical ways to curb this threat are either too expensive or not sustainable, and thus, not feasible. Compared to mechanical and other methods, sustainable, inexpensive biological methods (for example, algal treatment systems) have therefore been developed for the removal of excess nutrients from wastewater. By design, secondary waste treatment facilities (WWTF) remove organics and solids and lower oxygen demanding substances; however, they may not remove enough nutrients to protect freshwater ecosystems in all cases. While algae-based biological methods …

Teacher Perceptions Of Social-Emotional Learning Program Implementation In Rural Georgia Middle Schools, John Kraig Howell

Theses and Dissertations

Social emotional learning (SEL) refers to a set of skills and competencies that allow students to effectively establish, develop and maintain interpersonal relationships with others, as well as to manage their intrapersonal feelings, emotions and responses to social situations. Students who receive SEL instruction have shown higher academic achievement levels and improved behavioral and social competence. Though an increasing demand is being placed on schools and teachers to address the social emotional needs of students, little guidance exists regarding implementation. Research indicates that teacher perceptions of SEL have a direct impact on the implementation of and outcomes associated with SEL. …

School-Based Educators’ Perceptions Of Professional Development And Its Impact On Their Ability To Improve Literacy Instruction For Underperforming K-2 Students, Monica Mcdaniel

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this qualitative exploratory case study was to examine school-based educators’ perceptions of professional learning and its impact on their ability to improve literacy instruction. The perceived role of the principal in the implementation, monitoring, and sustaining professional learning was also explored. A total of eight teachers, two media specialists, two instructional coaches, and five school leaders at two elementary schools in the Southeast United States participated in the study. Findings include the importance of quality, ongoing professional development, the leader’s role in planning, participation in, and supporting teachers through the professional development process, and everyone’s role in …

Branding & Marketing Strategies For Silver Linings Personal Care Home Llc., Kalicia R. Thomas

Theses and Dissertations

No abstract provided.

The Effect Of Transformational Leadership On Teacher Burnout: A Sequential Explanatory Mixed Methods Study, Jessica Grace Watson

Theses and Dissertations

The teaching field is a depleting workforce and more teachers are experiencing burnout, which is causing them to leave the profession (Marken & Agrawal, 2022; Nguyen et al., 2022). However, transformational leadership can improve job satisfaction, which can potentially reduce teacher burnout (Barnett et al., 2001; Erkutlu, 2008; Tian et al., 2021). The purpose of this study, grounded in Bass’ (1985) transformational leadership framework, was to examine the effect of transformational leadership on teacher burnout and to analyze the teachers’ perceptions of transformational leadership support. The study answered the following research questions: What is the relationship between transformational leadership and …

Teacher Perceptions Of A Literacy Intervention Implementation In Middle School: A Case Study, James E. Maye Jr.

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this qualitative case study was to explore the perspectives of teachers at Oakridge Middle School regarding the implementation of a literacy intervention and evaluate its impact on students’ literacy achievement. The study was guided by the social learning theory, which posits that a literacy intervention program would enhance students’ literacy skills. The study findings indicated that the program improved students’ reading and writing confidence and comprehension abilities. The successful implementation of the literacy intervention was facilitated by teachers’ collaboration and the use of data trackers, despite challenges, such as student buy-in and motivation issues. Technology-based programs, such …

Barriers Secondary Special Education Teachers Face When Developing Transition Plans For Students With Disabilities, Charles Joseph Baima

Theses and Dissertations

The process of transitioning from high school to adulthood is an intimidating one for disabled students. It is also cumbersome for the individuals that work with these students. Transition planning and services for students with disabilities differ across schools across the United States. By the time they turn sixteen, students with disabilities must have a transition plan created within their individualized education program in accordance with federal and state laws. These mandates present challenges to educators as they develop plans for a disabled student’s postsecondary life. Success for disabled students should focus on their interests and strengths while considering their …

Illustrating The Fantastic: Cross-Writing Illustrations In British Children’S Literature Of The Golden Age, Stephanie Montalti

Theses and Dissertations

This dissertation argues that British children’s literature of the Golden Age addresses children and adults through their illustrations. It considers why the nineteenth century experienced a proliferation in fantasy and illustration, as well as why Golden Age children’s texts appeal to mixed-age audiences. Through an application of the term “cross-writing,” I argue that the Golden Age of children’s literature did not think of audiences in a binary manner, as some children’s literature scholars tend to assert. Instead, they used the dual mode of textual and visual narration to complicate the boundaries between childhood and adulthood. I also offer an original …

Effects Of Mindfulness Training On Prosocial Responses In Intergroup Relations: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial, Denise Yiran Zheng

Theses and Dissertations

Based on social identity theory and intergroup emotions theory, individuals feel for and act toward others based on their group-based social identities. Recent research shows that mindfulness can enhance prosocial responses toward others across group divides. The current research examined the effects of mindfulness training on prosocial behavior in intergroup relations where such behavior is difficult (e.g., with marginalized or devalued social groups). The study also examined potential mechanisms, namely state empathic concern and appraisal, that may explain how mindfulness increases prosocial behavior toward outgroups. This study compared the effects of a 2-week mindfulness training to a matched coping training …