Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Cultivating Health, Not Wealth In The United States' Healthcare System: Comprehensive Revisions For The Orphan Drug Act Of 1983, Kayla Smith

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

This thesis explores the way in which the Orphan Drug Act of 1983, originally instituted in response to a lack of treatments for rare diseases in the United States of America, has failed to achieve its initial objectives in the 40 years since its implementation. In evaluating various successful examples of government subsidization programs designed to intervene in private industry, this thesis composes the criterion required for funding-based legislation which maximize market outcomes while minimizing tax-payer burden. An analysis of the synthetic organic chemistry industry – and a case study into the production of a particular orphan treatment for a …

Implementing Educational Courses On Social Media Within Prisons To Decrease Unemployment Rates Among Ex-Prisoners And Reduce Recidivism In The United States, Shannon Hernandez

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

This paper focuses on whether or not it would be beneficial to implement educational courses on social media within prisons in order to prepare prisoners for release, improve post-release unemployment rates, and improve recidivism rates in the United States. Since the early 1990s, technology has grown to a point where it has become a part of everyone’s daily life, which includes social media platforms (Greenstein, 2012). While society has adapted to these advancements, prisoners who have been removed from society for many years are unable to achieve the same levels of social media comprehension, which can cause disparity between their …

Exploring The Effect Of Gender Roles On Female Drug Users In Appalachia, Lauren Fowler

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

Drug abuse is an ever-growing problem in the United States and in other parts of the world. The Appalachian region is one of the areas hit hardest by this epidemic. Since 2000, the number of overdose deaths in Appalachia has steadily risen while state and city governments analyze the potential causes for such a widespread issue. Many economic and medical explanations have been suggested, but it is also imperative to examine the cultural belief systems that might play a role in the persistent drug use. This study looks at the influence traditional Appalachian gender roles have on female drug users. …

Biosocial Criminology Versus The Constitution, Karen E. Balter

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

The continually emerging field of biosocial criminology provides a basis for productively merging biology with sociological reasonings for criminal behavior. Mainstream research in criminology focuses on environmental factors as the sole reason individuals exhibit antisocial behavior patterns and may ultimately commit crimes. Criminological research has travelled in this direction for decades. The current climate within this community subscribes heavily to the notion that biology has very little to do with why people behave the way they do, and if it did, government control would be the norm. The nature of biocriminology opens a door through which constitutional issues may enter. …

Criminality Of Women, Danielle Orr

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

Criminological theories construct the basis of criminology, as these theories are used to develop preventative and rehabilitative measures. These criminological theories are developed based on standardized testing and empirical research conducted by theorists within the field. At a glance, the theories developed should cover all forms of crimes conducted by a range of individuals. However, a review of the literature determined further analysis of criminological theories must be conducted. This study looks at theories that are most common within criminology and determine whether or not women are equally represented and depicted. By analyzing strain, labeling, biological, and social control theories, …

A Current And Increasing Problem Of Anti-Social Behavior Via Anonymity Using Electronic Mediums Demanding Recognition As A Biophsychosocial Disorder That Perpetuates Criminal Behavior Online, Hannah Wood Despres

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

Most people who commit crime fall into a classification of criminological, sociological or psychological disorders called biopsychosocial disorders. Cyber-crime is unique in the fact that, cyber criminals can commit crimes behind completely closed doors and they are virtually anonymous. This makes for a varied environment of theory on the causation of cyber-crimes. The proposed disorder theory, computer mediated anonymity asocial disordered theory, is based on the notion that the anonymous nature of electronic mediums in communication has significantly changed people’s interpersonal skills. The change in interpersonal development is therefore affecting social engagement behavior online and has allowed a lack of …

A Qualitative Study Of Recent And Existing Research Into The Problem Of Prostitution To Determine Whether Sufficient Research Has Been Done To Analyze Steps That Can Be Developed To Successfully Reduce The Demand Of Prostitution Among Men In The 25 To 40 Age Range., Amber Avery

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

This research examines the existing data in order to determine if there is sufficient criminological, sociological, and academic research done that can develop way

to reduce the demand of prostitution. Seeking to use different ways to reduce the demand for prostitution, it is found that legalization, strict enforcement of legal norms, and a number of public shaming ideas could very well be useful. Men between the ages of 25 to 40 are the highest solicitation age group, these men make up a majority of the statistics. Survey information from StatisticBrain (2016) and Roeben (2015) are utilized to demonstrate the attitudes …

Child Sex Tourism And The Lack Of Deterrence That Drives The Problem, Ian Voelkel

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

Child sex tourism is a transnational issue that has grown over the past 30-years. The international community has taken numerous steps in the prevention of child sex tourism; however, there is a severe lack of statistics, research, and empirically driven data that could help deter the problem. This exploratory study will use random probability selection in an online survey to explore whether a certain level of deterrence can affect an individual’s rational choice in practicing child sex tourism. By utilizing a quantitative methodology this study will identify whether an individual’s knowledge of the legality of child sex tourism affects their …

Excited Delirium Syndrome And Conducted Electrical Weapons, Adam A. Nielsen

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

Excited delirium syndrome (ExDS) is defined as delirium coupled with extreme agitation (Vilke et al., 2012). ExDS is a bona fide medical condition that requires immediate medical attention, as 8% of patients will die from it. Some research only classifies ExDS as "true ExDS" if the subject dies; most research does not and this research does not wish to exclude the 92% of ExDS cases where the subject does not die. ExDS is well known because it oftentimes comes into play during and after a violent encounter with law enforcement. Because over 7,000 U.S. law enforcement agencies use TASER© brand …

The Day Of The Cyber Wolf, Ryan K. Buch

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

Terrorism has become a concern for public safety and security and can take on many appearances. However, in recent years the dilemma that presents the most substantial endangerment to public security comes from the threat of leaderless terrorists, also known as "lone wolves." Due to the rapid advancement in technology over the past few decades, societies, specifically the United States, have become dependent upon it economically and socially. Terrorist organizations, as well as the lone wolf terrorist, understand that their enemies rely on technology in order to function and have recently redirected their efforts towards cyberspace. As a result, cyber-terrorism …

Private Police In The Public Safety Domain: Purpose And Practice, Carl Dwain Terry

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

Abstract: The study presents a qualitative exploration and description, through content analysis, of the shift to the combined (private and public) police forces approach in the pursuit of public peace and security. The aim of which is to reveal private police alternatives and viewpoints to maintaining peace and security not yet practiced by unapprised jurisdictions. The effort contextualizes the topic in a framework which explores and attempts to resolve the issue of the veracity of the shift by examining the current state and conditions prompting the shift and future trends relative to its continuance. Formations of private police operations in …

A Crime Hidden In Plain Sight: A Review Of Programs That Address Human Trafficking In Colorado, Janecke Hausken

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

The focus of this project is looking at current programs in the Denver area that work in some capacity to combat human trafficking. Research suggests that Denver is a huge drop off point for victims due to a major international airport and two major cross-country highways intersecting in the middle of downtown Denver. While the project does not provide any conclusive evidence, the numbers presented do show that perhaps there is a correlation between the establishment of these programs and an increase in arrest rates for certain charges. While one program focuses more on services and aiding the victims of …

The World Of Sex Trafficking, Angienieka S. West-Wek

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

There is a concern that people think that human trafficking only takes place outside of the United States. However, this crime happens right in the United States. Some people may be unaware of what human trafficking really is and all the other crimes that are generally associated with human trafficking. There also may be victims that want to seek help but really do not know :from whom to seek help from. Everyone needs to be able to identify a victim that may be involved in human trafficking. The victim may not be willing to step forward at that time but …

An Evaluation Of Sexually Aggressive Behavior In Serial-Sexual Homicide, Lauren Aunkst

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

Serial killers are a cultural phenomenon. Their grisly crimes have marred magazines, news, books and even films. While the social scientific community is slowly coming to understand these individuals, much remains unknown about them. A common theme in the majority of serial killings is a very strong sexual component. This study analyzed data to develop a scale in which to measure the amount of sexual aggression used by serial killers in three different populations. These populations included male serial killers, male/male serial killer dyads and male/female serial killer dyads. Due to time constraints this study was performed as an unobtrusive …

Cyber Bullying Evolved: Bullying In The Military Workcenter, Dayna M. Friend

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

The purpose of this project was to inform readers about the progression of cyber bullying into the military work center. This research has been compiled to aid the thesis topic for the capstone project in the Regis University Criminology program. The proposal relates the involvement of adults (any person over the age of 18) in the epidemic that is cyber bullying. A comprehensive literature review analysis was created on the current research available on cyber bullying in adolescents and the issues that exist within it. It was found that the majority of the research is still in the understanding of …

Classified Information: A Review Of Implemented Offender Classification Models In Colorado, Andrielle Holmes

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

The focus of this project centers around the large amount of material in regards to objective offender classification models. Research suggests that objective classification models are the most effective means of evaluating the risk and needs of inmates while in custody. Since it is the responsibility of all correctional facilities to keep their inmate population and staff safe, implementing a successful classification tool is crucial. Documentation reviewed for this project suggests most correction facilities across the United States have implemented objective systems into their classification policies and procedures. This project attempted to evaluate classification models implemented in the county jail's …

Hot-Spot Policing And The Use Of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design, Heather L. Merigan

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

An existing gap found in current literature is whether or not prevention-oriented methods have been implemented within crime hot-spots and if these methods have been implemented, it is unknown how effective have they been. The following paper is an evaluative study conducted to examine the use and effectiveness of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) methods when implemented by police departments within crime hot-spots. This was done by distributing an on-line survey to 56 Police Chiefs and researching the websites of 136 police departments located within ten counties of the western United States. The results indicated that the use of …

Dna Testing Is The Most Effective Procedure To Solve Crimes, Son Nguyen

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

There are several different techniques to solve crimes. Fingerprinting has been used as an investigative tool to help law enforcement find suspects. By using the fingerprints obtained at a crime scene, investigators can try to find a match within the fingerprint database. Since fingerprints are truly unique, there are better technological advances that will aid law enforcements and forensic scientists confirm a suspect was at the crime scene. By using DNA, deoxyribonucleic acid, technology, established in 1985 but was first used in 1987 in law enforcement, as the main investigative tool, several different crimes can be solve by analyzing the …

Exploring The Causes Of Islamic Radicalization And Recruitment And The General Strain Theory In Identified Terrorists, Julian A. Torres

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

Little research has been done exploring the relation between the General Strain Theory and Islamist radicalization and recruitment. This author will explore a possible relationship between collective social strain and its impact on one's decision to engage in radical Islamist extremism. This author based the research on the General Strain Theory which states that when individuals experience strain or pressure, under certain circumstances, that strain can lead to offending or delinquent behavior. Muslims living in the United States and abroad, regardless of generation or nationality, can find themselves subject to discrimination, poverty, inequality and other real or perceived injustices. This …

Examining Barriers To Reentry Faced By Offenders In A Metropolitan County Jail And Community Setting, Kelly J. Russell

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

This study uses a strain theory approach to examine the barriers to community reentry faced by individuals being released from county detention facilities. Individuals who are reentering the community from jail face a variety of challenges, particularly when trying to access community resources. In almost every community, barriers to offender reentry include, but are not limited to, housing, benefit acquisition, healthcare, access to medications, identification, transportation, mental health treatment, substance abuse treatment and employment. While there has certainly been an increase in the amount of programs and services available for former offenders, research analysis presented here will identify what these …

A Unique Approach Against Child Sex Offenders: Jefferson County "Cheezo" Unit The Model For Success?, Sonia R. Chavez

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

Online crimes against children are a daunting problem facing law enforcement today. The Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force reported 76,961 complaints in 2010-2011. The purpose of this study was to describe the unique approach of the Jefferson County Child Sex Offender Internet Investigations (CSOII, nicknamed "Cheezo") Unit, analyze the arrest data of Cheezo, and determine if Cheezo could be used as a best methods approach against this problem. A demographic study was conducted on the Cheezo arrest data, as well as comparison analysis of arrest totals, prosecution rates, and educational presentations provided to the community. Comparisons were conducted …

Teen Dating Violence: Adolescent Development And Its Role In The Success Of Prevention Programs, Lisa Dougherty

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

This study was conducted to explore adolescent development and adolescent dating violence in order to determine if prevention programs need to be written to reflect the different stages of development. Research was gathered from four areas: adolescent development, adolescent romantic relationships, teen dating violence, and teen dating violence prevention programs. Using an inductive approach, a content analysis of the literature was used to answer the following questions: 1) After reviewing research on adolescent development and adolescent romantic relationships; are there stages in adolescent romantic relationships where conflict appears most often? 2) In the teen dating violence studies, what stage(s) of …

The Effects Of Illegal Migration From Mexico To The U.S., Eric Dent

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

The purpose of this author's thesis is to explore the arguments and data found on both sides of the debatable issue of illegal immigration in America. This author made use of the plethora of data surrounding this topic that has been generated from various secondary sources. The use of this secondary data allowed for a re-analysis of the original author's findings which aided in the formulation of new questions while providing a different interpretation from the original assessment. The purpose of re-analysis sought to provide readers with a more-in-depth view concerning the influx of undocumented aliens, Mexican nationals in particular, …

Corporal Punishment And Aggression In Adulthood: A Product Of Social Learning, Derek R. Schneider

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

The focus of my study will be on the relationship between child abuse and aggression in adulthood. Individuals who support corporal punishment are more likely to support using violence against other adults, as compared to those that do not support corporal punishment. In other words, adults that are likely to use violence to resolve conflict with children are more inclined to use violence to resolve conflicts with other adults. Bandura (1977) explained that human behavior is learned observationally through modeling. The idea of modeling involves observing others and beginning to form an idea of how new behaviors are performed; on …

Fetal Attraction: A Descriptive Study Of Patterns In Fetal Abductions, Kerry E. Arquette

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

Fetal abduction is a crime in which a perpetrator forcibly takes an unborn baby from the womb of another woman. The act is always done without the permission of the pregnant woman, is always violent, and is often deadly for the mother or baby, or both. Based upon available data, the crime of fetal abduction is rare and relatively new, but publicized incidences in the United States of America are growing, which raises the question, "Why?" In order to answer that and other questions surrounding fetal abduction it is necessary to know more about the crime and the criminals. This …

The Use Of Familial Dna Searches: A Policy Analysis, Caroline O. Moorman

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

Many cases go unsolved every day in the United States; some due to a lack of technological advancement in forensic science. When a person is killed, raped, or in danger of physical harm, it is the responsibility of law enforcement and their collaborative agencies to find and apprehend the responsible parties. The use of familial DNA searches in the United States is a relatively new investigative technique. Traditionally, DNA samples found at a crime scene are run through a national Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) to look for possible matches. When a sample does not return a positive hit, investigators …

Jeffrey Dahmer: Psychopathy And Neglect, Tamara Higgs

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

It is the intent of this paper to examine the relationship between Jeffrey Dahmer's Childhood neglect, his fascination with death, and its later influence on his adult psychopathic behavior. After defining the nature of serial killers and the impact of childhood abuse combined with a fascination with death, the focus of this case study will shift to the long term impact of the abuse and neglect suffered by American serial killer, Jeffrey Dahmer. Using the social learning theory, the author will examine how this neglect and abuse tie into his later life as a sexual serial killer. Additionally, the theories …

Navajo Peacemaking And Māori Restorative Justice: A Comparison Of Process And Procedure, Alethia Z. Fenney

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

Due to the failure of some crime control approaches in law enforcement alternatives are being examined to determine their applicability in today's society. One of the approaches gaining criminological attention is "Navajo Peacemaking". another similar style of crime control is the Māori restorative justice process used in New Zealand. The purposed of this research study is to examine and compare these processes to determine their applicability as crime prevention tools in U.S. towns and cities. Walter Miller's Focal Concerns Theory was used to address the difference in motivation between mainstream culture and its subcultures. The results from this study demonstrated …

Cold Case Homicides: An Examination Of Clearance Factors, Matthew M. Lunn

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

The killing of one individual by another is something in our culture that garners a lot of attention from the media as well as community leaders. Law enforcement agencies have a duty to find resolution to these crimes. Yet, even with the rapid growth of forensics and the technology associated with it, there are still cases that go unsolved. These cases are commonly referred to as cold case homicides. In order to evaluate whether forensic evidence or investigative technique plays a larger role in the clearance of cold case homicides, a retrospective study was conducted to examine previously solved cold …

Effective Parole Supervisor Traits Observed By Texas Parole Officers, David H. Bolding Ii

Regis University Student Publications (comprehensive collection)

This research study uses a quantitative method to identify the traits that Texas parole officers observe make an effective leader. This study adds to what seems to be a void in research on parole supervisors. Prior literature has identified that numerous individual traits and observable traits play an active role in effective leaders. This study uses "Survey Monkey" to employ the use of surveys across Texas, and to ensure confidentiality. By utilizing the method in this study, effective traits can be identified and used as a tool to increase present supervisory capabilities and allow others to have a guide on …