Digital Commons Network^™

From Fascination To Fear: Perceptions Of Transness In Postwar America, Rey Griffin

Research Days Posters 2025

A common piece of American transphobic rhetoric holds the belief that transness is a “new” concept, or merely a trend of the 21st century. Yet publicly out trans figures, such as Christine Jorgensen, have been advocating for transgender rights since the 1950s––and, indeed, were treated shockingly well by the media. This discrepancy reveals how perceptions of transness have changed with time: as transness has become more public and common, it has become a convenient scapegoat within American political campaigns. Drawing on understudied trans print culture such as the magazine Transvestia and the FtM newsletter (from the 1960s and 1980s, respectively), …

The Consumption Of Women And Animals: A More Effective Way To Combat Fragile Masculinity When We Protest, Ling Fei Liu

Research Days Posters 2025

The normalized sexualization of meat by corporate advertisements has led to the dehumanization of women, mental interchangeability of women and meat, and the solidification of traditional (and toxic) ideas of masculinity and femininity. Examining this connection may help create breakthroughs in effective communication strategies to achieve women’s and animal rights, and help men realize climate change isn’t only a “feminine” problem. In this study, the effectiveness of language and methods of protest used by women’s rights activists will be analyzed by looking at social responses to protests from each movement. Since these movements challenge ideals of toxic masculinity, understanding what …

Looking Beyond The Borders: Portrayals Of Borderline Personality Disorder In Memoirs And Film, Ashley Sanchez-Frias

Research Days Posters 2025

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a mental illness that is often demonized or misrepresented in the books and films that portray it. By contrast, self-representations of BPD, such as memoirs, offer a more holistic depiction that can provide greater information and opportunities for empathetic response. This research explores key differences between self-representations of BPD and portrayals by those without the diagnosis, and asks why harmful stereotypes persist despite critiques from mental health advocates. The project takes as its central case study the memoir "Girl, Interrupted" and compares it with its 1999 film adaptation, arguing that the film inaccurately portrays symptoms …

Qualitative Analysis Of Instagram Engagement, Kenneth Saito

Research Days Posters 2025

The Binghamton University Libraries utilizes its Instagram platform to engage its audience and to share information regarding its resources and services. Current research suggests elements such as color grading, scenic backgrounds, and maintaining a proper online social media presence affect how Instagram users engage with content. However, additional elements such as audience type and how they engage with content may factor into the Libraries’ reach on their platform. This project seeks to identify how the Libraries Instagram platform can maximize engagement based on their audience needs and identified interaction behavior. A literature review determined that a qualitative survey is the …

Locus Of Control And Diet Quality, Stress Levels And Resilience, Lauren Tarpey, Justin Chong, Lina Ahmed, Kristin Ngo, Aiden Fong, Chloe Mah

Research Days Posters 2025

The study examines how locus of control affects diet quality, stress levels, and resilience. It was hypothesized that individuals with an external locus of control would have poorer diet quality, higher stress, and lack resilience compared to an internal locus of control. Data was collected via an anonymous online survey and analyzed using Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient. Results showed that those who feel unable to control their health consume fewer leafy greens (p< 0.01). People who feel they lack control in their lives were positively correlated with consuming fast and sugary foods (p< 0.01). Those who believe they have a harder time controlling their lives feel that stress is debilitating (p< 0.01). Those who lack confidence in their ability to solve life problems have a harder time rebounding from stressful events (p< 0.01). These results highlight the relationship an external locus of control has on well-being.

Expanding The Bibliographic Palette: Diversifying The Binghamton University Libraries Fine Arts Collection, Ari Hoffman

Research Days Posters 2025

The classical music canon, often emphasizing Western Art Music, remains the primary focus of academic music curricula. As a result, academic library collections may omit materials presenting diverse global musical traditions and cultures. In light of the emphasis on inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility in 21st century academic libraries, it is crucial to decolonize fine arts collections to allow exposure to underrepresented composers and marginalized musical communities. This research project explores strategies for diversifying the Fine Arts Collection at Bartle Library, aiming to reflect a broader range of cultural, historical, and artistic perspectives. Providing access to materials relating to African …

Affirming Trans Rights: Oppression And Resiliency In Lgbtq Digital Activism, Samantha Boragine

Research Days Posters 2025

Social media can build community and empower individuals to speak freely, but does it continue to do so when those in power disagree with the message? The current U.S. administration, led by President Trump, aimed executive orders at transgender people (ex. only recognizing two sexes fixed at birth, defunding programs promoting “gender ideology”, defunding gender-affirming care) in order to delegitimize and demonize their existence. Following this trend, corporately owned social media platforms such as Facebook changed their content moderation policies. Despite this, LGBTQ activists continue to promote and affirm their right to existence, often utilizing open source platforms such as …

Beyond Victimhood: Sentimentalism In Contemporary Immigrations Novels, Faiqa Ali

Research Days Posters 2025

Immigrants have gone from being underrepresented to misrepresented within literature, with many contemporary US novels perpetuating narratives that either victimize or vilify immigrants. Taking inspiration from James Baldwin’s critique of “the wet eyes of the sentimentalist” author, this research turns to the contemporary immigration novels American Dirt and Esperanza Rising to assess the ways in which immigrant stories are depicted and to analyze the ways that this reductive representation can result in many harmful, real world, implications. Counterintuitively, one of the largest consequences of such sentimental literature is a lack of empathy for American immigrants. Painting immigrants in a manner …

Is Death A Right Or A Risk?: Examining Ableist Biases In Maid Debate, Ava Polakoff

Research Days Posters 2025

Medical Aid in Dying (MAiD) has gained recent attention as more policies are implemented allowing individuals to end their lives. For disabled individuals, this legislation raises concerns about ableist biases’ influence on decision-making. Some scholars view MAiD as a compassionate response to suffering, while critics argue it devalues disabled individuals’ lives and oversimplifies complex ethical dilemmas, perpetuating harmful attitudes. Although ableist biases in the MAiD debate have been examined, a gap remains in understanding how these biases impact perspectives of disabilities that influence legislation and medical decisions. By analyzing personal narratives such as "First Person: Living with Disabilities in the …

Politics In Printing: Protestantism, Catholicism, Capitalism, And Censorship, Fiona Mcmurray

Research Days Posters 2025

Imagine a world in which every piece of media ever written must be approved by the government before being publicly distributed. Despite sounding like part of a dystopian novel, this is instead a process known in Latin as “Imprimatur”- or in English, “let it be printed”. This process was first used by the Catholic Church in the mid-1500s but was later adopted by others. A set of books that were Imprimatured in England in the 1700s is a collection of Latin poems held by Binghamton University’s Special collection entitled Musarum Anglicanarum Analecta. The research process into these books studied the …

Nature's Defense Against Hurricanes, Kiara M. Alvarez

Research Days Posters 2025

Before urban industrialism led to the widespread drainage and destruction of wetlands, many early cultures recognized their value in sustaining ecological balance rather than viewing them as “wastelands.” Wetlands provide natural flood control, absorb storm surges, and support biodiversity. Florida, the state with the most wetlands in the contiguous United States, contains approximately 11 million acres, with the Everglades—the largest tropical wetland in North America—located in the central region of the state. These wetlands play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of hurricanes and tropical storms by absorbing excess water and reducing flooding. This project examines how the presence …

The Effects Of Diversity Within Diet On Productivity, Marissa Pagnutti, Kyle Magro, Elizabeth Ward, Ela Shriqui, Yasmine Fendoune, Sophia Karmazin

Research Days Posters 2025

This study focused on diversity within diet and its impact on productivity. Food variety ensures that the proper balance of nutrients is achieved. Different nutrients have various impacts on the body, influencing motivation and energy levels, the extent of which is currently unknown. A total of 304 participants completed an anonymous online survey administered through Google Forms. The survey inquired about demographics and the connection between diet, mental distress, and neurobehaviors. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 28.0. Consuming green leafy vegetables was negatively correlated with both feeling depressed (p< .01) and that everything is an effort (p< .01), which can lead to decreased productivity. Intake of fish was positively associated with setting and completing goals (p< .01). Results indicate that a diverse diet is positively associated with improved mental well-being, highlighting the role of dietary habits in enhancing daily performance and reducing stress.

Hong Kong And Xinjiang: Oppression Adapted, Christopher Gardner

Research Days Posters 2025

China's repression of human rights has been quite notable in recent years, with examples such as the widely publicized Hong Kong protests and the crackdown on Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang. The repression of democratic freedoms is similar in many ways, but also has key differences, which demonstrate China's ability of adaptation to resistance. In Hong Kong, there was a greater legal approach to repression of democratic rights via the application of the National Security Law (NSL), which annulled the previous standing legal distinction of "one country two systems." Xinjiang, on the other hand, has had a much more brutal approach …

The Relationship Between Social Media, Nutrition, And Coping Mechanisms In College Students, Vivian Rodriguez, Emma Hobel, Antonietta Raymond, Julia Lin, Lina Begdache

Research Days Posters 2025

Social media influences the health of young adults in various ways, including its effects on nutritional choices and coping mechanisms during stressful situations. This study aimed to explore the relationship between social media use and negative eating behaviors, including disordered eating and unhealthy food consumption. Using an anonymous survey distributed throughout the Binghamton University campus, 805 total responses were gathered from participants aged 18 years or older. The survey included basic demographic questions and questions on social media use and nutrition. The Pearson Correlation Coefficient was used to analyze data in SPSS version 28.0. The results show a positive statistical …

From Fear To Fondness: How Empathy For Flawed Foes On Screen Falters In The Real World For Teens And Young Adults, Selina Chen

Research Days Posters 2025

Damon Salvatore, Chuck Bass, Loki. Across much of today’s favorite teen and young adult television, viewers seem to favor villains or anti-heroes over typical protagonists. Paradoxically, unsavory characters offer a depth, inviting a great human curiosity and thereby empathy. Viewers often identify with villains in their darkness, whether intentionally or not. This research contextualizes this phenomenon within broader discussions of social media due to the encouragement of digital over face-to-face interactions. Over time, society has become desensitized to crises ranging from personal relationships to global matters with the rise of social media usage, which disconnects individuals from tangible consequences. Therefore, …

Effect Of Diet Quality On Emotional Intelligence And Pathological Eating Habits In Minority And White Populations, Maha Naeem, Vaishnavi Saravanakumar

Research Days Posters 2025

This study examines how diet, exercise, emotional intelligence (EI), and disordered eating patterns interact across racial groups. An anonymous online survey of adults aged 18 and older assessed EI traits, eating behaviors, and demographics. Pearson’s Correlation Analysis analyzed associations between diet, exercise, and EI, with an emphasis on racial differences. Among minority participants, exercise and nutrient-dense diets were positively correlated with EI traits such as motivation and stress management (p < 0.01). White participants showed similar correlations but displayed stronger associations between exercise and restrictive eating behaviors (p < 0.01). Additionally, fast food and caffeine intake were linked to disordered eating and body image concerns among White individuals (p < 0.01), while fast food consumption alone was associated with body dissatisfaction in minorities (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that diet and exercise affect emotional well-being and disordered eating in racially distinct ways, highlighting the need for culturally informed interventions.

Alcohol, Diet, Mental Distress, And Resilience, Isabella Schneider, Alyssa Pierro, Chloe Martinetti, Hailey Roberts, Zachary Inman

Research Days Posters 2025

The purpose of the study was to determine the relationship between habits surrounding alcohol use, diet quality, mental distress and resilience. An anonymous online survey was administered through Google Forms and was disseminated through text messages and social media. The survey was conducted on primarily young adults and other adults in the New York area, and data was analyzed using Pearson’s Correlation Analysis in SPSS version 28.0. Our research found a strong positive correlation between high alcohol consumption and feelings of hopelessness (p < 0.01), as well as a positive correlation between a healthy diet and mental resilience (eg: fruit consumption [p < 0.05], beans [p < 0.05], and fish [p < 0.01]). Through this study, the hope is to identify connections between dietary practices and mental health, ultimately giving people the tools they need to promote an overall positive mental state.

The Cost Of Political Polarization: Authoritarianism In The United States, Gabrielle Graff

Research Days Posters 2025

Does congressional polarization contribute to authoritarian tendencies within the United States? The growing political divide in the government and the general public raises concern regarding possible long-term changes to the institution, including the threat of democratic backsliding - the gradual movement of an institution away from democratic values toward authoritarian values. Although diverse political ideas promote healthy democratic function, complete polarization erodes democratic institutions while supporting authoritarian behavior. Authoritarianism thrives on the exclusion of out-groups and division among the populace. Under the current American institution, a polarized Congress is ineffective in producing policy. This project explores how the political system …

Lessons In Dissident Design: The Study Of Visual Rhetoric Applied To Counter-Authoritarianism, Jennings Terrell

Research Days Posters 2025

Visual Rhetoric, the study of argument through images, is a field that has as of yet barely been applied to the study of Counter-Authoritarianism. The purpose of this research, then, is to develop this inter-disciplinary relationship by examining aspects of visual rhetorical design as they relate to counter-authoritarian movements. Through an analysis of how movements’ visual media sparks emotions and induces critical thought regarding the system it opposes, this study will develop actionable recommendations that can be used by activists to create strong rhetoric. This research hypothesizes that the most important aspects of dissident Visual Rhetoric are an ability to …

The Power Of Social Media In Political Movements: How Teens Are Shaping Democracy Online, Adina Mogul

Research Days Posters 2025

The use of social media by teens in political movements is reshaping how democracy functions. By utilizing these platforms, young people are holding politicians and institutions accountable in real-time. Social media provides a direct channel for them to question authority and influence public opinion. Politicians are increasingly paying attention to these digital conversations, recognizing the power of youth-driven movements to sway elections and policy decisions. This research addresses the following questions: How do teenagers use social media platforms for political activism? What are the unique characteristics of teen-led movements online? How do they compare to traditional forms of activism? The …

Nixon’S Family Assistance Plan: Its Shortcomings And Impact On Social Policy, Simon Doff

Research Days Posters 2025

Richard Nixon’s Family Assistance Plan (FAP) was a welfare reform proposal that aimed to completely replace the New Deal-era Aid to Families with Dependent Children with a guaranteed income for low-income families. While pre-existing research primarily focuses on legislative battles and economic implications, less attention has been given to race, sex, and media framing in influencing opposition to the plan. This research is primarily drawn from congressional records, newspaper archives, and policy analyses to explore how each of these factors contributed to the FAP’s downfall, as well as how the FAP’s failure influenced further dialogue on social policy. This research …

The Link Between Diet Quality, Emotional Intelligence, And Pathological Eating Behaviors: Insights Across Young And Mature Adults, Sarah Al-Aubaidy, Marissa Pagnutti, Lina Begdache

Research Days Posters 2025

This study explores links between emotional intelligence (EI), diet quality, and pathological eating behaviors (PEB), across age groups. A total of 1,209 young adults (18-29) and 172 mature adults (30+), completed an anonymous survey comprising demographics, Trait EI, Eating, and Food-Mood Questionnaires. Data was analyzed using Principal Component Analysis and Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient. Results showed both age groups had negative correlations between a desire for an empty stomach, breakfast intake (p< 0.01), and high-glycemic food intake (p< 0.01). The desire to have an empty stomach was negatively associated with fruits (p< 0.01) for mature adults, yet had no significant correlation with young adults. However, emotional control and self-belief negatively correlated with difficulty concentrating due to food and shape/weight concerns (p< 0.01) for both groups. Both groups also demonstrated greater PEB with poor diet quality and emotional distress, highlighting EI as a significant factor.

The additional file for this poster includes an accessible word document.

Investigating The Correlation Between Diet Quality And Psychological Resilience, Bo Schooley, Sean Morrissey, Jasmina Abdurasulova, Margaret Giordano, Morgan Andersen

Research Days Posters 2025

Psychological resilience is associated with numerous positive mental health outcomes. This study examines the correlation between diet quality and psychological resilience. An anonymous survey was administered digitally and was shared by group members through social media platforms and flyers posted throughout the Binghamton University campus. The survey included questions regarding demographic and lifestyle information, nutrition habits, psychological resilience and flexibility, and recent experiences with emotions. A healthy balance of whole grains (p<0.01), vegetables (p<0.05), meat (p<0.05), and carbohydrates (p<0.05) is associated with increased psychological resilience. Comparatively, legumes (p<0.05) and caffeine (p<0.05) consumption are associated with lower reported psychological resilience. These findings emphasize the importance of improving diet quality for the overall psychological health of people as a simple and non-pharmaceutical way for all people to improve their psychological health, making it an accessible route for multiple populations.

Class Imitation And Mobility, Jordan Novak

Research Days Posters 2025

This study examines how American workers, particularly Generation Z, navigate and perform social class through appearance, behavior, and communication, with a focus on the fashion industry. Drawing on ethnographic interviews with 20 employees across industries and age groups, including 3 Gen Z fashion workers, it explores class performance as both a survival strategy in an unequal labor market and a form of self-expression in the digital age. Key findings reveal diverse strategies for class signaling, from "dressing for success" to leveraging social media and tech literacy as modern forms of cultural capital. The study highlights a phenomenon of "class cosplay," …

Ethical Considerations Of True-Crime Entertainment On Victims’ Loved Ones, Jordan Ori

Research Days Posters 2025

True-crime has become one of contemporary American media's most popular entertainment genres. This paper examines the reasons behind our public fascination with true-crime and its implications, specifically regarding how it impacts victims’ loved ones. Through a critical analysis of three key forms of true-crime entertainment—dark tourism, film, and podcasts—this research will explore the ethical concerns surrounding the portrayal of crime-related tragedies as entertainment. While existing scholarship often dismisses the genre as inherently problematic, this mindset is unrealistic and unproductive. Instead, this paper advocates reforming its current structure and fostering a more socially responsible and ethical approach. Moreover, to reduce harm …

Upstate Socialism: A Story Of Homegrown Movements, Zachary Dean, Antonio Melian, Jack Manning

Research Days Posters 2025

In 1912 a Socialist was elected mayor of Schenectady. George R. Lunn, a local pastor and reformist leader, rallied the city’s growing working class and rose to power by arguing that the city government could be used to help its citizens. Lunn’s success displayed the rising trend of Socialists being elected to municipal and state governments across the country. However, many Socialist movements in New York, including those in Binghamton and Utica, faced internal pressures and criticism from their local communities, resulting in electoral losses. Drawing on local newspapers from the 1910s alongside census records and archives, this project explores …

The Effect Of Diet And Exercise On Mental Distress And Self-Motivation, Gavin Tuosto, Nicole Wong, Tessa Blasio, Allison Falvo, Madison Byun

Research Days Posters 2025

Mood and self-motivation are critical components of mental well-being and daily function. Diet and exercise have been shown to influence mood, stress tolerance, and cognitive function. This study analyzes the relationship between diet and exercise on mental distress and self-motivation. An anonymous online survey was administered through Google Forms. A total of 182 individuals completed the survey, which included questions on the frequency and quality of exercise, consumption of specific food groups, mood, and self-motivation. The survey was sent out using social media platforms. Data was analyzed using Pearson’s Correlation Analysis SPSS version 28.0. Results showed a positive correlation between …

One Education, Under God: A Study Of White Christian Nationalism Its Authoritarian Impact On The United States K-12 Public Education, Katherine Hochberg

Research Days Posters 2025

In recent years, White Christian Nationalism (WCN) has been identified by scholars as a driving force behind the spread of authoritarian thought in U.S. institutions– including public education. This study draws on existing scholarship to define WCN, discern authoritarian ideology within WCN, and identify key intersections between WCN and U.S. public education. Legislation including the “Stop WOKE Act” and Florida House Bill 1557 are examined to highlight active WCN authoritarian policies. Findings indicate that WCN undermines U.S. public education by campaigning for the elimination of minorities’ stories in curricula (particularly Black Americans and LGBTQ+) under the guise of maintaining America’s …

Effects Of Caffeine And Marijuana Consumption On Academic Performance, Sean Dowd, Domenick Romano, Eva Liu, Gianna Gallo, Lisa Paulli

Research Days Posters 2025

College students often rely on stimulants to stay focused, while others use marijuana for stress relief. This study explores commonly used substances that influence academic performance, exposing potential drawbacks. A total of 238 young adults (18-29) and 11 mature adults (30+) completed an anonymous online survey administered through Google Forms and distributed via multiple social media platforms. The survey included basic questions about demographics, academic standing, and caffeine and marijuana consumption. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 28.0 and Pearson's Correlation Coefficient. Results showed a negative correlation between individuals who consumed caffeine frequently and GPA (p<0.05) and individuals who consumed cannabis more frequently and GPA (p<0.05). Substance use impacts academic performance potentially through the modulation of neurochemistry.

The Influence Of Food Insecurity On Neurobehaviors, Eylul Koc, Alana Mosher, Ariana Hogan, Justin Handyside, Marlene Rodriguez

Research Days Posters 2025

The influence of demographic factors such as gender, income, location, academic level, and age on food insecurity is underexplored. Additionally, food insecurity may be associated with negative neurobehaviors which are detrimental health factors. This study includes demographic questions, questions on food insecurity, resilience, academic motivation, stress, and mental distress. An anonymous online survey was administered through iMessage, Instagram, and Snapchat. Data was analyzed using Pearson’s Correlation Analysis in SPSS version 28.0. Food insecurity is affected by demographic aspects and lower neurobehaviors impacting mental well-being. Results show that there is a negative correlation between the region you live in and the …