Psychology Commons^™

Is It Who Am I Or Who Do You Think I Am? Identity Development Of Adolescents With Substance Use Disorders, Danielle N. Treiber

Antioch University Dissertations & Theses

The purpose of this study was to unearth how adolescents with substance use disorders achieve the task of identity formation and the construction of self-concept in the midst of the drug culture and society that exists. It sought to uncover the social constructs designed to ignore and/or remove human complexities and allow an intersectional approach to be brought to a study on this population. Historically, there has been a failure to investigate the underlying social attitudes and behaviors that impact the very delicate and vulnerable process of finding self. Psychosocial and relational adjustment are strongly influenced by the extent to …

Examining The Relationship Between Alcohol Use And Work In The Professional Theater, Michael A. Carollo

Antioch University Dissertations & Theses

Objective: The perception of a culture within the professional theatrical community that promotes problem drinking has been discussed anecdotally within the industry. No meaningful research has been conducted within this population. This study presents initial epidemiological survey data on the drinking habits of professional theatrical community (PTC) members as compared to the general public (GP) in order to confirm whether the phenomenon exists for further study. Methods: Data are from a convenience sample of 104 members of the PTC and GP who were each provided two previously clinically validated measures of problem drinking, the AUDIT and CAGE questionnaire. Drinking habits …

Involuntary "Whiteness": The Acculturation Of Black Doctoral Female Students In The Field Of Clinical Psychology, Carmela A. Maxell-Harrison

Antioch University Dissertations & Theses

This dissertation is based on qualitative research that documents the experiences of Black women matriculating through clinical psychology doctoral programs in predominantly white institutions (PWIs) and the perceived psychological effects of becoming a psychologist in a stigmatized field. Additionally, the historical and collective traumas that are continually experienced by this group and their coping mechanisms are explored and highlighted. More specifically, as existing research has revealed, Black women in doctoral programs in general experience a series of responses to racialized and gendered discriminatory practices leading them to withdraw from their programs or invoke coping mechanisms that may be counterintuitive to …

When Bad Genes Ruin A Perfectly Good Outlook: Psychological Implications Of Hereditary Breast And Ovarian Cancer Via Narrative Inquiry Methodology, Cammi Clark

Antioch University Dissertations & Theses

Scientists debunked the belief that breast cancer is always viral with the mid-90s discovery of the first hereditary genetic mutation linked to a significantly higher-than average chance of breast and ovarian cancer. This genetic condition, called Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC), passes the mutation from generation to generation in a family. Thousands of variations of such mutations exist, and carriers account for 10 to 15% of all breast cancer, and up to 20% of ovarian (Childers et al., 2017). In addition, genetic testing uncovered a rapidly rising number of healthy people (never had breast/ovarian cancer) who are also carriers, …

Phenomenological Experience Of Mexican Curanderismo, Yoseline P. Lopez-Marroquin

Antioch University Dissertations & Theses

This qualitative research design focused on the various treatment dimensions of Curanderismo and explored it as a possible compliment with traditional Western psychotherapy. The principal investigator gathered information about the treatment provided in Curanderismo and gained a deeper understanding of participant's lived experiences during such healings. This study also aimed to understand how individuals made the choice to seek treatment with a curandero/a, as well as if a deeper understanding of such treatment could help the mental health field be better informed care providers to the Latino/a community. Phenomenological research methodology was used in efforts to grasp how the participants, …

The Good Bloke In Contemporary Australian Workplaces: Origins, Qualities And Impacts Of A National Cultural Archetype In Small For-Profit Businesses, Christopher George Taylor

Antioch University Dissertations & Theses

This study explored the nature and significance of a common but widely misunderstood phrase encountered in Australia: The Good Bloke. Underlying this enquiry was awareness, based on the researcher’s personal and professional experience, that the idea of a Good Bloke powerfully influences individual perceptions of leaders in Australian small-to-mid sized for-profit firms. The study commenced with an exploration of the origins and history of the phrase, tracing it to the 1788 arrival of a disproportionately male Anglo-Celtic population was composed significantly of transported convicts. The language and mores of this unique settler population evolved for two centuries based on relationships, …

Women’S Lived Experiences Of Gender Microaggressions: Dental Hygienists’ Stories, Karin E. Hovey

Antioch University Dissertations & Theses

This dissertation presents research involving women’s subjective experiences of gender microaggressions. The introduction includes a review of the literature on microaggressions: (a) the types of microaggressions, (b) the emotional and psychological cost to those who experience microaggressions, and (c) how gender microaggressions against women work to maintain oppression and sexual objectification of women in American society. This current research addresses the knowledge gap created by little research on women’s lived experiences of gender microaggressions they encounter in their everyday lives, particularly in the workplace. The population studied was dental hygienists. This population is unique because of the disproportionate number of …

Sexual Dysfunction: Providers’ Willingness To Ask Lgbq Veterans About Their Sexual Functioning, Melanie A. Brayman

Antioch University Dissertations & Theses

The prevalence of sexual dysfunction (SD) in veterans is high when compared to the general population because of its relationship to physical and mental health issues endured while serving their country (Hosain, Latini, Kauth, Goltz, & Helmer, 2013). Research has mainly concentrated on male, heterosexual veterans with SD and very little research has explored lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer (LGBQ) veterans’ experiences. This is concerning considering research indicates that LGBQ veterans’ sexual minority status adds unique stressors such as fear of disclosing identity, fear of stigma, and internalized homophobia in addition to the stresses that occur from being in the …

Polyamorous Millenials In Therapy: Interpreting Experiences To Inform Care, Rebecca Calhoun-Shepard

Antioch University Dissertations & Theses

Polyamory (poly) refers to a way of loving involving multiple concurrent romantic relationships. It has been suggested that consensual non-monogamies are becoming increasingly visible, particularly in the millennial generation. This warrants exploration of cultural considerations and the unique needs of this population to inform care and minimize potential for harm. The present study used interpretative analysis to explore the phenomenon of polyamorous millennials in therapy as described across semi-structured interviews with therapists and poly clients. Three primary themes emerged from aggregate data, including Idiographic Experiences in Therapy, Therapy with Polyamorous Millennials, and information about Polyamory and Millennials beyond a therapy …

The Philosopher's Journey: A Chapter In Kindness And Animals, Vaughn E. Sayers

UNF Undergraduate Capstone Projects and Honors Theses

We each are presented with a choice; do we remain in the cave of ignorance or embark on the philosopher’s journey. Your choice will determine the way in which you interpret this paper. However, I will confidently make the assumption that you, like myself, desire to embrace an existence guided by the light of wisdom. This thesis is one of many chapters in the philosopher’s journey, dealing with animals and (cutting through the jargon) kindness. I have found that a lot of scholarship on animal ethics acknowledges a truth, but does not acknowledge that the application of such a truth …

Neural Circuits Underlying Rodent Sociality: A Comparative Approach, Nicole S. Lee, Annaliese K. Beery

Neuroscience: Faculty Publications

All mammals begin life in social groups, but for some species, social relationships persist and develop throughout the course of an individual’s life. Research in multiple rodent species provides evidence of relatively conserved circuitry underlying social behaviors and processes such as social recognition and memory, social reward, and social approach/avoidance. Species exhibiting different complex social behaviors and social systems (such as social monogamy or familiarity preferences) can be characterized in part by when and how they display specific social behaviors. Prairie and meadow voles are closely related species that exhibit similarly selective peer preferences but different mating systems, aiding direct …

Effects Of Eye Tracking During Infancy On Social Ambiguity And Emotional Distress, Gabriela Hernandez

University of the Pacific Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between early eye tracking and later non-suicidal self-injury, and whether this relationship was negatively impacted by distress and impulsivity, and conversely alleviated by emotional regulation and problem solving abilities. Briggs-Gowan et al. (2001) found that young children with recurrent and comorbid externalizing and internalizing problems have the most impairment; they exhibit greater difficulty with emotional stability, and require greater utilization of mental health services. Little research has focused on the relationship between eye tracking in early infancy and suicidal self-injurious (NSSI) behavior in early childhood. Multiple regression analysis was used …

Preparation Of A Perylenebisimide Acceptor With Serinol And Nonadecyl-Swallowtail Imides For Use In Molecular Rectification, Tarrah Frederick

Honors Theses

Several attempts were made to add 2-amino-1,3-propanediol to the acceptor perylene monoanhydride (PMA). The theoretical product, N-(10-nonadecyl)-N'-(1,3-dihydroxypropan-2-yl)perylene-3,4,9,10-bis(dicarboximide), is intended for use in unimolecular rectification because the perylenebisimide core is classified as a good acceptor due to its high electron affinity. Rectification usually utilizes donor-σ-acceptor molecules, whose localized orbitals permit electron transfer when placed between metal electrodes of asymmetric voltages. However, according to an “asymmetric rectification” analysis, an electron can pass from one electrode, through the LUMO of the acceptor, and then to the other electrode when said electrodes are held at certain voltages, and result in rectification if the acceptor …

The Relationship Between Combat Experience, Veteran Pathology And The Pathology Of Their Intimate Partners: What Factors Predict The Pathology Of Veterans And Their Intimate Partners, Edwin A. Brennan

Dissertations

Problem Statement

Military members and their family members who are part of the Global War on Terrorism have experienced deployments and war for over sixteen years and with the resulting toll on both the veteran and their intimate partner. As a result, higher levels of pathology, such as PTSD, Anxiety, and Depression have been experienced by this population. While research has studied the effect of combat on military members, very little research has addressed the effects on family members. Further, no research that has been found by this researcher, has addressed the concept of resonating of pathology between the combat …

The Impact Of Psychostimulants On The Executive Capacities Of Children With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Theresa C. Mcmahon

PCOM Psychology Dissertations

The current study compared executive-skill and executive-function deficits resulting from teacher ratings of two clinical groups of students diagnosed with ADHD (ADHD-Med, ADHD-NoMed) with ratings of demographically- matched control groups. In addition, teacher ratings of the ADHD-Med group and the ADHD-NoMed group were compared. The data for both clinical groups and their respective matched control groups were part of the data collected during the standardization of the McCloskey Executive Function Scale – Teacher Report (MEFS-TR). Analyses examined teacher responses to all of the items of the seven Self-Regulation, the Self-Realization, and the Self-Determination Clusters of the MEFS. Congruent with the …

Girl Time: An Enrichment Program Fostering Social And Emotional Well-Being Among Kindergarten Girls, Irene A. Opuka

PCOM Psychology Dissertations

Early identification and intervention are essential in meeting the unique needs of all children and families (Bagdi & Vacca, 2005). In addition to studying the growth of separate emotions and their importance for mature development, researchers have discovered that early-childhood years are a key time for developing capacity to control and regulate emotions (Nuttall, Romero, & Kalesnik, 1999). Schools are designed to promote emotional well-being, and GIRL TIME could be viewed as part of a responsive and collaborative approach to a child-centered service continuum that includes promotion, prevention, and intervention. Effective social-emotional-behavioral interventions have been found to change the balance …

Do Teachers Participating In A Therapy Dog Program Perceive An Impact On Students’ Attitudes And Behaviors Toward Reading?, Jenna M. Dragani-Reagan

PCOM Psychology Dissertations

No abstract provided.

The Impact Program: Increasing Employability Skills Of High School Students Through Adventure Based Learning, Titina Finch Brown

PCOM Psychology Dissertations

High school students face unique challenges following graduation such as the rising costs of post-secondary education, demands from employers for a highly skilled workforce, and the desire of employers to hire workers who are not only technologically proficient, but also effective communicators and team players. Soft skills have become a commodity to businesses. High schools find themselves more and more responsible for adequately preparing students for a rapidly changing economy. Engaging instruction in social motional learning (SEL) for secondary students is essential in preparing them for this transition. Research shows that Adventure Based Learning (ABL) could be the vehicle for …

Describing The Impact Of Low Socioeconomic Status On School Performance, Barry Linden Cropp Ii

PCOM Psychology Dissertations

This study used archival school data compiled during the 2017-2018 school year to analyze the impact of family income, as determined by student eligibility for free- or reduced-lunch benefits, on several measures of school performance. This study was based upon an investigation of the effects of income on three dependent variables: academic performance, school attendance, and need for behavioral management interventions. Participants included 165 male students in third through fifth grade who attended a single elementary school in the mid-Atlantic region of the United States. Indicators of school performance were derived from data routinely collected and maintained in students' cumulative …

Sleep, Communicative Ability, And Diet As Predictors Of Aggression In Autism Spectrum Disorder, Rafat Omar

PCOM Psychology Dissertations

Aggression is a common behavioral issue in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Aggression is often treated with evidence-based behavioral treatments, such as applied behavioral analysis and functional communication training. Another form of intervention that has grown in popularity is to alter the child’s diet. The most popular dietary intervention, the autism diet, has been used as a form of behavior management by parents and guardians for children diagnosed with ASD to address aggressive behavior; however, its use has not been strongly supported by research. The authors proposed that a more beneficial way of understanding aggression in ASD is to …

Exploring Relationships Between Parenting Style, Perceived Stress, Coping Efficacy And Coping Strategies In Foster Parents, Jason Coleman

PCOM Psychology Dissertations

Removing a youth from the care of their biological family can place them at heightened risk for behavioral, emotional, social, and academic problems, and contribute to parenting stress. Foster caregivers with a high burden level may be impeded in their ability to function effectively. Our study investigated relationships between foster parent stress, coping efficacy, coping strategies, and parenting style to identify effective coping strategies in 178 foster parents. Current foster parents completed self-report measures assessing parenting styles, Coping Self Efficacy Scale (CSE), Brief COPE, and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). Results indicated foster parents with more than three years of experience …

The Effect Of Social Problem-Solving, Health Anxiety, And Psychological Distress On Breast Cancer Genetic Testing Decisions In A Sample Of Healthy Women, Alexandria Muench

PCOM Psychology Dissertations

Breast cancer is a leading cause of death in women in the United States, with hereditary breast cancers accounting for approximately 10% of the diagnoses. Nevertheless, women can decrease their risk by obtaining genetic testing and are often referred for the test if one or more of their relatives has been diagnosed with breast cancer and has the BRCA/BRCA2 cancer mutation. The purpose of the current study was to examine predictors of healthy women’s (ages 18 to 35) hypothetical decisions about genetic testing and prophylactic treatments for the BRCA1/BRCA2 genetic mutations by measuring social problem solving (SPS) variables, health anxiety, …

Medical Students' Knowledge, Confidence, And Empathy Towards Dementia And Caregiver Stress, Courtney Williamson

PCOM Psychology Dissertations

Early diagnosis of dementia and dementia-related illnesses provides increased time for treatment, which is aimed at maintaining patient function and delaying decline (Teel, 2004). Empirical studies have shown a decline in empathy during undergraduate and graduate medical education (Hojat et al., 2009). This study examines differences between 2nd and 4th year Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) students’ knowledge, empathy and confidence in working with individuals diagnosed with dementia and addressing caregiver stress. Students from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine completed an online survey which included the Knowledge in Dementia Scale (KIDE), Jefferson Scale …

Sensory Processing Patterns And Emotion Regulation In Children Presenting With Externalizing Behaviors, Melanie Levitt

PCOM Psychology Dissertations

Sensory processing is a neurological process that involves a child’s perception, organization, and reaction to sensory stimuli. Certain groups of people, such as children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), experience more intense sensory processing patterns (Dunn, 2007). Researchers have also observed that children presenting with ASD and ADHD exhibit more externalizing scores as their sensory processing patterns become more intense or problematic (Gourley et al., 2013). However, researchers have not examined the relationship between sensory processing and externalizing behaviors in those not diagnosed with ASD and ADHD. Additionally, there are overlapping neural mechanisms between sensory …

The Relationship Between Cognitive Distortions, Self-Compassion, And Insomnia Severity, Gabriel Stanziano

PCOM Psychology Dissertations

The goal of this study was to examine the relationships between cognitive distortions, self-compassion, and insomnia severity. Individuals were assessed using the Inventory of Cognitive Distortions (ICD), Self-Compassion Scale (SCS), and Insomnia Severity Index (ISI). Data were analyzed using a sample of 67 participants, ranging in age from 18 to 74. A simple linear regression analysis was conducted to test the hypothesis that cognitive distortions would be predictive of insomnia severity. The results were not significant. A multiple regression analysis was used to test the hypothesis that the specific cognitive distortions of fortunetelling, labeling, and jumping to conclusions would be …

The Effects Of A Guided Imagery Intervention On The Working Memory Of Primary Aged Students, Monica D. Addison-Walker

PCOM Psychology Dissertations

Many practitioners view working memory as the temporary capacity to store and manipulate information. Current findings suggest a developmental trajectory of working memory and other executive functions. Limited research has been effective in improving working memory using short term methods; however, recent findings suggest guided imagery and mindfulness meditation improves working memory in children. This study examined whether or not a 30 day guided imagery intervention affected the working memory of students in the primary grades of an elementary school. Participants from a sample of convenience were randomly assigned to a guided imagery intervention (n = 12) or to a …

Comparison Of The Executive Function Profiles Of Child And Adolescent Groups Diagnosed With Adhd And Matched Controls, Jenna Inglese

PCOM Psychology Dissertations

The current study examined teacher ratings of the executive capacities of child and adolescent groups of ADHD-diagnosed students and matched controls. Teacher ratings of each clinical group were compared with the teacher ratings of a group of matched nonclinical peers, then the teacher ratings of the child and the adolescent clinical groups were compared. The data for both clinical groups and their respective matched control groups were part of the data collected during the standardization of the McCloskey Executive Functions Scale – Teacher Report Form (MEFS-TR). It was hypothesized that when compared to their matched control groups, teacher ratings of …

Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Techniques To Improve Socialization Skills For High School Students With High Functioning Autism, Erika D. Wood

PCOM Psychology Dissertations

The literature on the use of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) suggests that it is a well researched and evidenced-based viable intervention in teaching and improving social skills for children with high functioning autism (HFA). Autism is a prevalent diagnosis for children and adolescents as school settings struggle with how to provide effective interventions and support to address students’ deficits with communication and social skills. Students with HFA may not have difficulty with verbal language skills; however, there is the expectation of being able to navigate social relationships, use social communication and be aware of social cues and rules which are …

Domestication And Cognitive Complexity, David R. Brodbeck, Madeleine I. R. Brodbeck, Keeghan Rosso

Animal Sentience

Marino and Merskin (2019) list a number of tasks that sheep can perform well. As comparative psychologists, we are not surprised by these results. Indeed, many domesticated animal species show similar abilities.

Just Policy Paralysis?, Clare Palmer, Bob Fischer

Animal Sentience

Treves et al. (2019) argue that policy making should include the interests and well-being of present and future generations of humans and nonhumans. There are deep and abiding conflicts of interest both between and within these groups. Trying to factor in so many considerations is likely to generate political gridlock. The authors need to explain how to avoid this.