Digital Commons Network^™

Aiding Foster Youth Toward High School Graduation, Desiree A. Amaya

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Research has displayed the differences between the number of students who are non-foster youth graduating high schools and the number of students who are foster youth graduating high schools. The foster youths’ numbers are low in comparison to those who are non-foster youth. Why? The research paper has gathered articles and references to determine common factors that prevent these students from graduating with their classmates and from being successful for the outside world. Through this research, it will go over the common factors that can impact a youth’s life, the supports that can aid towards the youths’ struggles, the sources …

The Outcomes Of School-Based Mental Health Services At A Southern California School District A Proposed Pilot Study, Amanda Smith, Ashley Rodriguez

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

In this proposed project we intend to explore and identify empirical evidence-based research on outcomes of school-based mental health provided by a Southern California school district. This study will highlight evidence-based research on the growing concern for school-based mental health. A relevant extraction tool that can be utilized for further research, and a study design to explore existing literature regarding programs and student participation to gauge outcomes.

School-based mental health supports mental well-being and promotes positive protective factors. These include social and cultural connections, resilience, coping strategies, problem-solving abilities, positive development, and a supportive school environment where students feel safe. …

Skills And Strengths Gained From Being A First-Born Daughter In A Latino Household, Astrid Luque, Leesly Angeles Rosas

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This research proposal aims to analyze the perspective first-born daughters in Latino households experience throughout their lives and looks to fill a gap in the literature about what this population faces due to being in the eldest daughter position in the household. The existing literature revealed that first-born daughters in Latino households experience a significantly higher amount of stress due to the role they take on in their households. Some of the responsibilities placed on them included financial burden, caregiving responsibilities, and a general higher expectation compared to their younger siblings. To obtain more knowledge on this topic, an exploratory, …

Kidney Disease And Its Impact On Caregiver Burden And Marital Satisfaction, Silvia Amaya

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

The purpose of this study is to review and analyze the relevant literature focusing on research studies that examine the impact of kidney disease and chronic illness on caregiver burden and marital satisfaction. Studies show that, as the older population increases and, with it, the rise of chronic illness and caregiver need, the quality of marital and relationship satisfaction between patients and caregiver spouses/partners will have a significant impact on the care that patients receive and on the social and community costs that such care will incur.

A scoping review is proposed to search, analyze, and synthesize the existing body …

Islams’ Influence On Mental Health, Tala Soukieh

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This proposed study explores the intricate relationship between Islam and mental health among Muslims in the United States. The study employs a mixed methods approach to provide a comprehensive understanding of this dynamic. Given the significant role spirituality plays in mental health, this research integrates qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys to capture these perspectives, specifically in the Muslim community. The qualitative portion will consist of in-depth interviews to cover personal experiences and beliefs about Islam and mental well-being. Concurrently, quantitative surveys will be conducted to collect broader data on religious practices and their mental health outcomes. Significant gaps and barriers …

Parental Knowledge Of Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder Medication Side Effects, Vanesa Soto, Monique Alexis Sandoval

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Background: ADHA is the most common neurodevelopmental disorder amongst children. There are many different risk factors that have been found to be associated with the ADHD diagnosis. Overtime medication has become the primary form of treatment for children with ADHD. When a child consumes the medication, there are a wide range of side effects that can be developed. Objective: This proposal aims to explore minority parents’ understanding of ADHD medication side effects when they initially receive a prescription for medication and to identify the sources from which they acquire this knowledge. Methods: We would collect data form participants using a …

The Moderating Role Of Social Support For Lgbtq People In South Central Appalachia: Present Yet Unimpactful?, Paige Henry

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) minority stress theory states that LGBTQ people experience stressors specific to their identity that result in negative mental health outcomes. Social support has been shown to protect against these negative outcomes, but South Central Appalachia is known to be high stigma and low resource for this population. The present study examined the potential moderating impact of four sources of social support (family, friends, partners, and pets) on the relationship between minority stress experiences and psychological distress for LGBTQ people living in South Central Appalachia. Participants included 116 LGBTQ adults living in South Central …

Does Moving From One-Story Building To Multi-Building Affect The Health Status Of The Elderly: Evidence From China’S Par Program, Lu Cao

Dissertations and Theses Collection (Open Access)

This study investigates the causal impact of relocating from single-story to multistory buildings on the health outcomes of elderly residents in China. Using China’s Poverty Alleviation Relocation (PAR) program as an exogenous policy shock, we employ instrumental variable and difference-in-differences approaches to establish causality. Our analysis of data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (2011-2018) reveals a nuanced relationship between vertical living and elderly health. While relocation to multi-story buildings is associated with deterioration in self-reported physical health status, it significantly improves mental health conditions and life satisfaction among elderly movers. We identify two key mechanisms driving these …

Adolescent Identity And Belongingness: Using Arts-Based Participatory Action Research, Vivian Boyer, Kam Brooks, Emily Camp, Hannah Checkwicz-Grosberg, Jenna Newman, Renee O’Connor, Jacqueline Tardie

LMU Theses and Dissertations

This study explores the concepts of empathy and belonging through the collaborative creative arts process among high school-aged girls at an all-girls Catholic school in Los Angeles County, California. Employing a Participatory Action Research (PAR) framework, researchers and participants collaborated as co-researchers, founded on the principles of cross-cultural art therapy and in the hope of fostering youth advocacy. In partnership with the school community and institution, as well as supported by an Anti-Hate grant from The Jenesse Center, this study examines the intersectional identities of participants and how empathy and belonging can be affected through the art-making process. The project …

Literature As A Tool For The Introduction Of Mental Health To Children, Kira Ott

Undergraduate Honors Theses

In childhood, literature is a quintessential learning tool, so it is imperative it is used in the introduction of mental health. Around the ages of seven to nine children begin to become aware of their own needs and comprehend others' perspectives (Short et al., 2017, p. 13). At this time non-fiction books can be used to present information when it is organized, accessible, and informative (Short et al., 2017, p. 13). This can be effectively paired with fiction which can help contextualize abstract ideas, and develop self-monitoring skills (Gunawardena, 2023; Short et al., 2017). Mental health, which encompasses thoughts, feelings, …

Autism Spectrum Disorder And Its Effects On Parent Relationships, Christopher Berrun, Arturo Alegre Jr.

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

ABSTRACT

This proposed study aims to explore the impact of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) on parental relationships. ASD is defined as a neurological developmental disorder that significantly affects individuals' social communication, behavior, and interests. The study will focus on the Parents of children with (ASD) and the heightened stress due to financial strain, increased caregiving responsibilities, and disagreements over parenting strategies. This can lead to lower marital satisfaction and overall relationship strain, as parents struggle to balance their personal relationship with the challenges of raising a child with complex needs.

Without proper support and resources, these issues may worsen over …

The Characteristics Of Students With Body Image Dissatisfaction In A Southern California School District, Isabelle Rose Labrie, Yaretxy Romo

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Body image dissatisfaction is an increasingly common issue among children and adolescents, often stemming from various factors such as peer influences, family dynamics, media exposure, and extracurricular activities. This dissatisfaction can have significant long-term effects on youths' mental health, including the development of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and eating disorders.

This proposed exploratory study aims to develop a new instrument by synthesizing insights from existing literature. A scoping literature review was chosen as the most appropriate method, as it allows for a comprehensive examination of available research on body image dissatisfaction. This research proposal seeks to fill a gap in …

Digital Technology Impact On Adolescence Emotions And Cognition, Juliana Casillas

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This research proposal aims to identify evidence-based research that explores the impact of technology on adolescents’ social emotional regulation (SER). This study will explore the components associated with social emotional learning and regulation such as self-esteem, social relationships, and decision-making and the way they are impacted by technology usage in adolescence. This study will also identify the implications of its finding at the micro, macro, and mezzo level of social work and provide treatment suggestions regarding the impact of technology on each component of SER.

SER is defined as skills that are utilized to control one’s emotions, thoughts, and physiological …

The Effect Of Childhood Emotional Abuse On The Mental Health Of Latinx Adults, Leslie Castro, Yoceline Valle

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

ABSTRACT

Background: Childhood emotional abuse is a severe form of maltreatment that can be as damaging as more visible kinds of abuse. It is defined as any action or inaction by a caregiver that hinders a child's emotional development. This type of abuse can take the form of humiliation, belittlement, rejection, or neglect, leaving lasting emotional scars. Objective: This study proposes to better understand the long-lasting effects of childhood emotional abuse by investigating the connections between the degree of emotional abuse and ensuing mental health issues. Methods: Using a cross-sectional design, this study proposes to gather quantitative data on the …

Measuring Motive: A Systematic Review Of The Cyber Aggression Typology Questionnaire, Alexandre N. Urben

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Cyber aggression is a widespread social problem with serious psychological impacts on both perpetrators and victims. Eighty-five percent of Americans say they use the Internet daily, and thirty-one percent of Americans report they go online “almost constantly”. Forty-one percent of Americans say they have experienced some form of online harassment. While there is a great deal of research across various disciplines about the frequency of cyber aggression, who perpetrates it, and what traits are associated with it, motivations for cyber aggression are less understood. Understanding the motivations involved is an important factor in preempting and countering cyber aggression. The Cyber …

Exploring Factors That Contribute To Poverty Among Singleparent Households Headed By Latinas: A Qualitative Study, Jeffrey M. Balencia

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Background: Despite the new strategies and programs being developed and implemented, poverty still finds itself at a continuous increase yearly (Banovcinova et al., 2014). Families have been found to be the most susceptible group compared to everyone else due to the many factors they face that can affect them. By using the information provided by other articles, gaps identified is there are lack of studies on the factors that contribute to poverty among singleparent households headed by Latinas. Objective: This exploratory study aims to identify contributing factors to poverty among single-parent households headed by Latinas. Method: Qualitative data will be …

Exploring The Relationship Between Suicidal Behavior And Obesity Among Young Hispanic Adults In The United States, Nadeen Salhadar

Theses and Dissertations

The rates of obesity and suicidal behavior have continued to increase over the years among young adults in the United States. Previous research has indicated a relationship between obesity and suicidal behavior, primarily among women, yet minimal research has been done to examine factors that explain this relationship (i.e., mediators). This study investigated the role of depression, body dissatisfaction, body shame and guilt, insomnia, physical health, and social anxiety on obesity and suicidal ideation among 209 college-aged Latina women. The researcher hypothesized that there would be an indirect relationship between obesity and suicidal behavior through multiple variables. Mediation analyses via …

Breaking The Chains: Challenging Antiblackness In Social Work Education And Practice: A Qualitative Study, Brandon Rothschild

PhD of Social Work

This dissertation critically examines the pervasive effects of anti-Blackness within social work education, focusing on how these experiences influence the development of Black identity among social work faculty. Situated within a historical context of systemic exclusion, marginalization, and racial discrimination, the study investigates the strategies employed by Black social work educators to navigate and construct their professional identities. The central research question explores how anti-Blackness within social work members. The study's findings are organized into five key themes: recognition of systemic racism, challenging dominant narratives, amplifying counter-narratives, intersectionality and complex identities, and advocacy for systemic change. These themes highlight the …

The Critical Ecosocial Framework: A Constructivist Grounded Theory Integrating Ant-Racist, Anti- Oppressive, And Ecosocial Work Practice, Georgianna Dolan-Reilly

PhD of Social Work

The social work profession has an ethical obligation to address racism, oppression, and environmental injustices. However, multilevel resistance and challenges to acknowledging and confronting these interconnected issues persist both within the profession and throughout broader society. By neglecting to integrate environmental justice and Anti-Racism and Anti-Oppression (ARAO) into practice, the social work profession remains complicit in the very cycles of oppression (white supremacy, colonialism, ableism, sexism etc.) that we seek to dismantle. Presently, no research broadly examines the use of ARAO by social workers engaged in environmental, climate change, environmental disasters, or other place and nature-based topics (ecosocial workers). Further, …

Building Educator Sel Capacity To Support Disruptive Student Behavior, Kendall Eshenfelder Fenton

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

This improvement science dissertation addressed disruptive student behavior by building educators’ SEL capacity and knowledge. Specifically, the study provided classroom teachers with Tier I SEL instructional lessons and training to support managing disruptive student behaviors within the classroom. This intervention at a suburban elementary school consisted of a six-week intervention that included weekly professional learning sessions and SEL lessons to be implemented in the classroom. This action research, using a mixed methods convergent preexperimental design, included quantitative data assessing classroom teachers’ SEL knowledge and capacity. The researcher also gathered qualitative data through semi-structured interviews with participants following the completion of …

Evaluating Triage To Genetic Counseling Using An Online Reproductive Genetics Module, Grace Ra

Dissertations and Theses (Open Access)

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends genetic screening for all pregnant women. As clinical recommendations broaden and demand for prenatal screening increases, obstetric practitioners report time constraints and lack of genetics knowledge as challenges to providing sufficient pretest education. These challenges in offering routine screening are further compounded by the inequities in access to genetic counseling and testing. Thus, alternative education and service delivery models have emerged to meet the demands for prenatal genetics education and help mitigate challenges surrounding access. At UTHealth Houston, an online triage and education module, the Prenatal Genetics Education Program (PGEP), was created …

Navigating Challenges In Palliative Care: A Survey On Asco Guideline Adherence Among Health Care Providers In Low- And Middle-Income Countries., Cristiane Decat Bergerot, Enrique Soto-Perez-De-Celis, Chadane Thompson, Rushil Patel, Jafar Al-Mondhiry, Tingting Zhang, Nathasha Dhawan, Darcy Burbage, Joseph Mccollom Do, Mazie Tsang, Ramy Sedhom, William E Rosa

PCI Publications and Projects

PURPOSE: Integrating palliative care into oncology is essential, yet disparities in access and quality persist, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The ASCO guidelines advocate for early, routine, interdisciplinary palliative care for patients with advanced cancer. Barriers to implementing these recommendations include resource limitations, inadequate training, and cultural perceptions. Recognizing these challenges is essential for improving equitable access to palliative care worldwide.

METHODS: This prospective survey assessed adherence to ASCO recommendations for palliative care integration among LMIC health care providers (HCPs). Participants were recruited via e-mail, social media, and a list of members involved in the ASCO Palliative Care …

Organizational Care: The Formation And Reproduction Of Social Support Structures In Nonprofit Organizations, Ella Stanley

Communication Undergraduate Honors Theses

Through past literature it has been established that nonprofit employees are prone to experience increased levels of stress and burnout due to the emotionally taxing nature of their jobs. Social support is a communicative transaction between individuals that has been proven to mitigate the negative impacts that both stress and burnout can cause employees to face. Previous studies on social support have focused on healthcare workers and nonprofit volunteers, while this study aims to understand the specific social support structures that are prominent within nonprofit organizations to provide support for employees. This study utilizes structuration theory to explore the structures …

Fostering Positive Bonds: Exploring Key Influences On Foster Youth-Foster Parent Relationships, Maria Baldivid, Karen Cedano

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Each year, thousands of children enter the U.S. foster care system and spend a significant amount of time in out-of-home care. Unfortunately, many of these children face placement instability, exacerbating the stress and trauma they undergo in addition to the inherent challenges of being in foster care. Recognizing the pivotal role of the foster youth-foster parent relationship due to the prolonged time spent in foster homes, this study aimed to explore influential factors in developing positive relationships from the perspective of former foster youth. Employing a qualitative research design, the study conducted individual virtual interviews, and subsequent data analysis identified …

Postpartum Depression: Factors Contributing To Low Ratings And Treatment, Cheyenne Gibbons-Doyle

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Postpartum depression affects many women after having a child and some may not understand that postpartum depression is what they are dealing with. It can change the relationship or connection that a mother builds with her baby if left unacknowledged or untreated. The ratings for postpartum depression are fairly low and this study aims to identify the factors contributing to it. The purpose of this study is to discover any barriers women may face when reporting they are experiencing postpartum depression. It is important to clarify any barriers in order to understand the reasons for underreporting. The study will utilize …

The Effectiveness Of School-Based Mental Health Services On School-Aged Children's Mental Health, Melanie Speer, Carolina Martinez

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

The presented study intended to determine the impact a local School- Based Mental Health (SBMH) program had on the Mental Health (MH) symptoms of school-aged children receiving services. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the SBMH program by comparing the intensity of students’ mental health symptoms pre and post treatment services. Conducting the study was significant, as the results highlighted the need for SBMH services by emphasizing on the impact on the mental and behavioral health symptoms of school-age children. Researcher’s utilized data analysis which consisted of thirty random samples of secondary/archival data. This study …

Evaluation Of The Implementation Of Foster Youth Independent Living Programs In The State Of California, Ingrid Flores

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Foster youth transitioning into adulthood often confront a myriad of challenges stemming from limited social capital and unstable support systems. The transition out of foster care, particularly for Transitional Age Youth (TAY), is fraught with barriers including disconnection from familial ties, inadequate knowledge regarding higher education, financial instability, unemployment, and housing insecurity. In 2021, approximately 4,920 foster children aged out of the system, facing the option to participate in extended care programs designed to facilitate their transition into independent living. Despite these programs, many youths struggle to achieve self-sufficiency. Key legislation, including the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act, and …

Sources Of Foster Parents’ Confusion In The Child Welfare System, Wyatt Marlboro Earp

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Background: Foster parents are a critical part of the child welfare system responsible for half the children in the child welfare. Despite this a literature gap exists when it comes to understanding foster parent experiences with the child welfare system that serves them. Objective: The aim of this proposal is to create a study that attempts to understand what areas of the child welfare system are confusing to foster parents. For the purposes of the study the child welfare system will be broken down into three parts: Foster family agencies, the dependency court system, and county child welfare agencies. …

Domestic Violence Among African American Women, Tamika Palmer

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

This study explored how well social service providers understood barriers and racial differences in domestic violence among African American women. This study raised the need to examine further social service providers' knowledge of cultural competency and systemic challenges. This study consisted of a qualitative study that gathered seven social service provider's perspective through an interview guide. Thematic analysis data gathered during interviews was used in this study to identify the adverse effects within this population. The findings of this research study contribute to social work practice by providing insight into racial challenges within the support systems that may affect African …

A Comparison Of Depression And Anxiety Severity Within Neurotypical And Neurodivergent Lgbtq+ Individuals, Madison Nicole Napoli

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Knowledge on the mental health struggles experienced by the LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent (ND) communities has been slowly growing. However, research on the mental health of ND LGBTQ+ individuals is incredibly underrepresented in academic literature. This study sought to answer whether ND LGBTQ+ individuals with autism, ADHD, and/or dyslexia score higher on the PHQ-9 depression and GAD-7 anxiety scales compared to LGBTQ+ individuals that do not have a neurological condition. This study employed quantitative design and utilized a Qualtrics survey to obtain data, which was then analyzed using IBM SPSS version 29. The data found that LGBTQ+ participants with a neurological …