Digital Commons Network^™

Impact Of Affirmative Care For Lgbtqsia2+ Youth In Foster Care, Jody Brown

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

One of the major challenges within the child welfare system is that LGBTQSIA2+ youth often face discrimination, stigma and have limited access to mental health services. Although previous research has identified LGBTQSIA2+ youth being overrepresented in foster care, they face distinctive vulnerabilities that are inadequately addressed in present policies within child welfare practices. Despite experiencing higher levels of placement instability and being at greater risk of anxiety, depression and psychological distress, there remain gaps in tangible support and evaluating the effectiveness of intersectionality of lived experiences of LGBTQSIA2+ youth in the foster care. The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological research …

Motivational Factors And Developmental Outcomes In Adolescent Marijuana Use: A Mixed-Methods Study, Antonio E. Gonzalez

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Adolescent marijuana use has become increasingly normalized within the United States, particularly as legalization policies expand and social attitudes continue to shift. While many adolescents report using marijuana for relaxation, socialization, or coping, early use has been associated with psychological, cognitive, and social challenges during a critical developmental period. Although prior research has examined either the motivations for marijuana use or its effects, limited studies have explored how adolescents’ motivations relate to psychological, cognitive, and social outcomes. Guided by self-determination theory, this study examines the motivational factors associated with adolescent marijuana use and explores how these motivations relate to psychological, …

Exploring How Acculturation In Childhood Impacts The Adult Identity Of Children Of Hispanic/Latinx Immigrants, Maritza De La Torre, Irene Zapata-Macareno

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

The purpose of this study is to provide perspective of struggles with identity for children of Hispanic immigrants. There is limited existing literature on the impact of acculturation on children of Hispanic/Latinx immigrants in the United States. The intention is to provide insight about common experiences and underlying traumas faced by individuals who grow up in immigrant Hispanic/Latinx families. The objective is to provide adults with some insight into their identity based on their specific family dynamic since there is a gap in society about the topic. This study will use a phenomenological qualitative approach to collect data through semi-structured …

The Impact Of Adverse Childhood Experiences On Mental Health And Substance Use Among Black Foster Youth And Young Adults With Foster Care Experience, Jessica Davis, Leslie Del Pozo, Lorina Ramos-Delgado, Jarren Ho See

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Historically throughout the U.S, Black youth have been overrepresented in the foster care system and are more likely to experience high levels of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), racial discrimination, and frequent placement changes. Over time, these experiences can increase the risk of long-term mental health challenges and substance use. While research shows a strong link between ACEs and negative health outcomes in general, fewer studies focus specifically on ACES affecting Black foster youth or consider the role of culturally grounded resilience. This study examines how high ACE scores affect mental health and substance use among Black adolescents and young adults …

Assessing The Research Integrity At A Public University In California, Michael Lee Gillespie

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

To investigate these issues, this study utilized a quantitative-dominant survey design supplemented by qualitative narratives. The sample included 61 tenured and tenure-track faculty from the College of Natural Sciences and the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. The primary instrument was the Survey on Organizational Research Climate (SOuRCe), which assesses seven subscales of ethical health. Data were analyzed using Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression to determine if specific climate dimensions predict the acceptance of ethically ambiguous practices.

Findings revealed that while interpersonal relations and local norms (such as advisor-advisee relations) were rated highly, departmental socialization was the lowest-rated dimension, indicating …

When A Sum Of Cubes Equals The Square Of The Sum, Jessica M. Aguilar

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This thesis investigates extensions and structural generalizations of the classical identity \[ \sum_{k=1}^{n} k^3 = \left( \sum_{k=1}^{n} k \right)^2, \] traditionally attributed to Nicomachus of Gerasa. Despite its simple look, this cube - square identity reveals connections between combinatorics, multiplicative number theory, and Diophantine equations.

We begin by presenting an expanded combinatorial proof of the identity based on Stein’s rectangle - counting argument, clarifying the geometric structure underlying the formula. We then establish a multiplicative analogue using Euler’s divisor-counting function \( \tau(n) \), proving that \[ \sum_{d \mid n} \tau(d)^3 = \left( \sum_{d \mid n} \tau(d) \right)^2, \] thereby extending …

Mass Incarceration And The Psychological And Social Impacts On Black And Latino Families, Ofelia Godina, Tamara Winegardner, Erika Cabrera

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Mass incarceration will have profound and disproportionate effects on Black and Latino families in the United States, extending beyond the incarcerated individual to impact family functioning, emotional well-being, and access to support systems. Rooted in structural racism and inequitable criminal justice policies, mass incarceration will contribute to long-standing social and economic disparities that will continue to shape the lived experiences of marginalized communities. This study will explore the psychological and social impacts of incarceration on Black and Latino families, with particular attention to emotional distress, family relationships, stigma, and resilience. Using a qualitative research design, the study will employ semi-structured …

The Historical And Systemic Effects On Racial Disparities In Incarceration Rates Among Black Individuals, Vanessa Valentine

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Racial disparities in incarceration rates within the United States have existed for decades. This paper will examine these disparities in order to understand how Black individuals and communities are disproportionately affected by the criminal justice system. By exploring historical and systemic factors that have contributed to these disparities such as structural racism, discriminatory policing, and unequal sentencing policies this research will highlight how these practices have reinforced racial inequality within the criminal justice system. The significance of the presenting issue will be explored by analyzing how these disparities affect the incarcerated individual and their family and community. Using a mixed …

Female Victimization In Intimate Partner Violence, Phileine Phan

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is a widespread issue that disproportionately affects women, causing significant physical, psychological, and economic harm. Although research has explored IPV prevalence and risk factors, fewer studies address how race, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, and disability intersect to shape women’s experiences and access to support. Generalizing survivors’ experiences often leads to overlooked services and policies for marginalized women. This study addresses that gap through a qualitative systematic review of peer-reviewed research on IPV victimization among women in the United States. A thematic analysis will be used to identify patterns related to systematic inequalities, help-seeking barriers, and the …

Assessing The Needs Of Public Health Professionals In The Inland Empire, Esteban Silva-Garcia

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

An effective public health system relies on the need for highly trained professionals with degrees or certifications within the field of public health. As public health continues to evolve, professionals are required to improve and evolve with the pace of technology and knowledge advancements. This project focuses on reviewing literature on the current ongoing needs of public health professionals and providing them with resources that are available at low to no cost. It surveys the needs of public health professionals in the Inland Empire and the solutions created by organizations and federal agencies to support professional development for current and …

Factors Contributing To The Effectiveness Of Reentry Programs For Formerly Incarcerated Adults, William Lopez Jr, Falina Rose Gonzales

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Reentry into society following incarceration represents a critical transition that significantly influences long-term stability and recidivism outcomes. Formerly incarcerated adults frequently encounter structural barriers related to housing, employment, behavioral health access, and social reintegration, highlighting the need for effective reentry programming. The purpose of this qualitative study is to examine factors that contribute to the effectiveness of community-based reentry programs for formerly incarcerated adults and to understand how participants and service providers perceive successful reintegration outcomes. Guided by ecological systems theory and empowerment theory, this study employs a qualitative phenomenological design using semi-structured interviews with approximately 15 formerly incarcerated adults …

The Quantification Of Fluoride Water Quality And Its Significance On Oral Health, Harleen Kaur Maroak

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral and studies have shown that when added to community water supplies, it effectively reduces dental caries. According to the U.S. Public Health Services (PHS), 0.7mg/L is the optimal fluoride level in drinking water to prevent tooth decay. This study focuses on examining the fluoride levels in water in San Bernardino County (SBC) and Riverside County (RC). Data is collected from recently published articles, databases along with assessing the laboratory water sample (n=45) analysis to determine if the fluoride levels are meeting the optimal standards. In SBC, there are total of 154 water systems with …

Serotonin 7 Receptor Modulation On Measures Of Working Memory And Anxiety, Antonio Gutierrez

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Serotonin (5-HT) function is critical in the regulation and homeostasis of several neural systems. Alterations in 5-HT levels can directly impact the presence of neuropsychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia. With a wide range of 5-HT receptors, the potential impact each of these modulators have on behavior is important to better understand. The 5-HT7 receptor is the most recently identified 5-HT receptor. 5-HT7 receptors can be found in the thalamus, hypothalamus, and several areas of the hippocampus. Modulation of these receptors impact circadian rhythms, hormonal regulation and memory function. Previous research has that 5-HT7 antagonist compounds lead to conflicting results, highlighting …

When Health Meets The Classroom: Diabetes, Depression, And Absenteeism, Megan Lindsay Meyer, Victor Sanchez

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This proposed study would examine how diabetes and depressive symptoms influence school attendance among students ages 10 to 17 in one school district. Students with diabetes who experience higher levels of depressive symptoms might be at increased risk for chronic absenteeism, which could negatively affect both academic performance and emotional well-being. Despite growing awareness of pediatric diabetes and school-based mental health needs, gaps would remain in understanding how diabetes self-management relates to depression and attendance outcomes. This proposed quantitative comparative study would include students with and without diabetes. Participants would complete standardized measures assessing diabetes self-management and depressive symptoms, and …

Trauma-Informed School Practices, Mental Health, And Academic Engagement Among High School Foster Youth, Ashley Avila, Vanessa Ramirez, Jaden Simmons

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Exposure to abuse, neglect, family separation, and violence can negatively affect foster youths’ well-being and their ability to succeed in school environments. Studies have shown that punitive disciplinary responses may contribute to retraumatization and school discouragement, while school settings are often one of the few stable environments in the lives of foster youth. Although trauma-informed school practices have been associated with improved school climate and student engagement, limited research has specifically examined how foster youths’ perceptions of these practices are associated with their mental well-being and academic engagement in high school settings. The purpose of this proposed study is to …

Farmworker Mental Health: Identifying Environmental And Occupational Factors, Lizette Alvarez, Lizette De Loera, Melissa Zambrano

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Farmworkers have an extensive history of contributing to the economic development of the United States. However, research has paid limited attention to this population. From the ecological systems theory approach the purpose of this study is to contribute to the limited amount of research literature available on the implications of farmworkers mental health due to the experiences they encounter in regards to their occupational, environmental, psychosocial and community factors they face. This study will use a mixed methods approach, because of the researcher’s interest in detailed information about farmworkers’ environmental and occupational factors that impact their mental health. One hundred …

What Kind Of Foster Care Parent Training Leads To A Reduction In Foster Care Maltreatment?, Itzel K. Alcaras

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This research proposal would identify the gaps in foster parent training and how caregiver maltreatment increases the risk of re-traumatization of foster children. While foster care is designed to promote safety, protection, and stability for children, existing literature continues to show that inadequate trauma-informed and evidence-based training may hinder caregivers' ability to respond to their complex needs, leading foster children to continue experiencing emotional and psychological harm. To further assess this concern, an exploratory qualitative study would be implemented utilizing a semi-structured interview that will include demographic questions then transition to open-ended questions format that will examine caregiver perceptions of …

Gaps In Therapeutic Services For Foster Youth In Short Term Residential Therapeutic Programs, Kaniqua Tainiaja Stewart, Maria Del Rosario Sanchez, Rachelle Hernandez

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This study examines rehabilitation outcomes among foster youth who are currently or were previously placed in Short-Term Residential Therapeutic Programs (STRTPs), also known as group homes. With more than 400,000 children are in foster care in the United States, and approximately 39,000–57,000 residing in group homes, limited research has explored why rehabilitation efforts in these settings often fall short. Existing literature emphasizes policy reforms, compliance, and placement outcomes under California’s Continuum of Care Reform, but gives less attention to youths lived therapeutic experiences and the consistency and quality of mental health services delivered within STRTPs. This study addresses this gap …

Foster Youth Perspectives On The Effectiveness Of School-Based Academic Support, Stephanie Monroy

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This research aims to explore how foster youth perceive the effectiveness of various evidence-based interventions that have previously been used to support their education. Due to the various barriers that foster youth face, they often experience significantly lower academic performance than their non-foster youth peers. Consequently, high school graduation rates among foster youth remain significantly lower than those of their non-foster youth peers. Much of the existing literature is outdated and does not adequately reflect current educational realities for foster youth. Additionally, existing literature primarily focuses on measurable outcomes and program evaluations, with less emphasis on ensuring the lived experiences …

We Are Fundamental (Somos Fundamentales): Examining The Perceptions Of Dei Initiatives Among First- And Second-Generation Latino Migrant Workers, Hector Aguilar

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Regarding organizational literature, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) has been a topic of considerable interest due to an abundance of minority groups in the workforce, who are typically targeted by DEI policies. Within minority groups are migrant populations which make up a great deal of the working population, with Hispanic workers also accounting for a significant portion of that workforce. Organizational literature has had a great underrepresentation of the Hispanic working population who are an imperative group to study to better understand their attitudes, behaviors, perceptions, and outcomes, based on organizational DEI approaches. This can help promote researchers and organizations …

Parental Rejection, Identity Development, And Mental Health Among Lgbtqia+ Youth, Litzy Rodriguez

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Compared to their heterosexual and cisgender peers, LGBTQIA+ youth continue to experience increased rates of anxiety, depression, suicidality, and identity development distress. Parental rejection has been identified as the central impact of these outcomes. However, limited research has examined the influence of parental responses on identity development and the role of micro-level supports, such as counseling and support groups, and macro-level supports, such as inclusive policies and community protections. The purpose of this proposed study is to examine the relationship between early parental rejection or acceptance and LGBTQIA+ youth’s mental health outcomes, identity development, and perceived effectiveness of support systems. …

Impact Of Parental Immigration Status On Latino Adolescents’ Mental Health, Kassandra Gomez, Stephanie Montero, Odalys Garcia

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Latino adolescents in the United States face unique stressors related to family immigration status; however, this issue has not been paid much attention in the literature. Guided by the Ecological Systems theory, this quantitative study seeks to explore and describe how parents’ immigration status impacts adolescents’ mental health (Bronfenbrenner, 1979. Two hundred adolescents, who will be randomly sampled across seven different Colton Joint Unified Schools, will be engaged in a survey. Data will be collected from respondents using a self developed questionnaire, which captures variables including student demographics, parental immigration status, immigration related stressors in relation to depression and anxiety …

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

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

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

The Left Behind: The Impact Of Community Program Cuts On Transition Age Foster Youth Without Family Support., Jessica J. Mcdowell

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This proposed study would examine how cuts to community-based programs affect housing stability among transition age foster youth in California. Youth aging out of foster care face disproportionately high rates of homelessness and housing instability, which are often compounded by reductions in transitional housing, case management, and supportive services. The significance of this study lies in addressing a critical gap between policy intent and lived experience by centering the voices of former foster youth while also documenting measurable patterns of service access and housing outcomes. A mixed-methods research design would be used to capture both quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative …

Cyberbullying Among Adolescents: Causes, Effects, And Prevention Strategies, Darssy Franco, Jovi Lazo

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This proposed study will examine the impact of cyberbullying on adolescents’ mental health, in relation to anxiety, depression, and self-esteem. Cyberbullying is identified as a growing digital phenomenon that threatens adolescents' emotional development. The proposed study would examine cyberbullying, school-based interventions, policy development, and mental health outcomes. The proposed research would utilize a comprehensive literature review of peer-reviewed studies published between 2013 and 2025 to identify trends, gaps, and effective prevention strategies. A structured data extraction tool would be used to collect data related to prevalence rates, sample characteristics, independent variables such as cyberbullying exposure, and dependent variables, including mental …

Secondary Traumatic Stress In Children And Family Services Workforce, Jasmyne Schinhofen, Karina Urena

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This proposed study would examine secondary traumatic stress among employees at Children and Family Services, addressing the growing concern that child welfare professionals experience significant emotional strain from ongoing exposure to client trauma. Although trauma-informed care initiatives often focus on improving outcomes for children and families, less attention is given to workforce well-being, which directly impacts service quality, case management, and organizational stability. This quantitative study would use a cross-sectional correlational design and collect anonymous survey data with the Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale, along with selected workplace and demographic variables, including perceived workplace support, length of employment, weekly work hours, …

Examining The Influence Of Race, Gender Identity, And Sexual Orientation On Homelessness Among Lgbtq+ Youth, Francisco J. Trujillo Jr., Lauren E. Flynn

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

The purpose of this proposed study is to examine how race, gender identity, and sexual orientation influence the experiences of homelessness among LGBTQ+ youth between the ages of 18 and 24. Existing research shows that LGBTQ+ youth experience disproportionately high rates of homelessness compared to their heterosexual and cisgender peers, with even greater disparities among youth of color. While previous studies have identified increased risks related to discrimination, family rejection, and mental health challenges, there is a need to further examine how intersecting identity factors relate to housing instability outcomes.

This proposed study would use a quantitative research design and …

Exploring Mental Health Service Disparities Among First-Generation Latino College Students, Diane Zepeda-Rodriguez, Samantha Ramirez, Desiree Robledo, Merina Leo-Urroz

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

First-generation Latino college students experience barriers to mental health in the form of cultural stigmas and systemic disadvantages, which prevent them from obtaining support and cause disparities within mental health services within their community. Existing research addresses how cultural factors, such as religion, gender roles, and stigma, play a part in their willingness to obtain services. However, despite the limited literature found regarding research addressing barriers to Latinos receiving mental health support, little to no research addresses the specific population of first-generation Latino college students. This study will aim to explore how systemic barriers and cultural stigmas impact help-seeking behaviors …

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

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

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

Improving Patient Satisfaction Through Enhanced Communication Strategies, Kiranjot Kaur

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Patient satisfaction reflects more than the technical quality of healthcare; it represents patients' perceptions of communication, respect, and emotional trust throughout the care experience. Ineffective communication contributes to poor comprehension, reduced treatment adherence, preventable readmissions, and disparities in patient outcomes. Conversely, clear, culturally responsive communication improves patient engagement, safety, and satisfaction. This project proposes a leadership-driven communication improvement initiative for a mid-sized acute-care hospital located in Southern California serving a culturally and linguistically diverse population, including Hispanic, Asian, and limited-English-proficient patients. The initiative is guided by the Patient-Centered Care Model and Hersey and Blanchard's Situational Leadership Theory. These frameworks position …