Tag: 499

Alexis Heenan 

The Body is Not a Machine: Understanding Addiction

In this evidence-based synthesis paper I incorporate research discovered in 22 peer-reviewed journals to propose an alternative approach to understanding addiction. I introduce the paper with an illustration of French philosopher, René Descartes’ metaphysical theory of substance dualism in efforts to introduce Western medicine’s biomedical system which views the human body as a working machine with individual parts. I include descriptions of addiction, substance, and addictive behavior as defined by the American Psychological Association. I dissect the most recent version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders’ description of addiction. Furthermore, I use scientific evidence to differentiate two opposing arguments defending the definition of addiction: the Brain Disease Model of Addiction and the Addiction Theory Network. I acknowledge and explain three prevalent addictions in the United States: (1) food, (2) technology, and (3) drugs. After careful ingestion of the data presented, the reader may come to understand that the biomedical approach in Western healthcare is counterproductive in understanding and treating those with addiction or addictive behavior. In opposition to substance dualism, and through the integration of various research, I offer that addiction can be most understood when the mind and the body are viewed to be one whole rather than two halves of the human being.

PSY499- Senior Capstone

Dr. Erin Mueller

1pm – P103

Andrew Lindley

Bushnell Cafeteria Offerings Survey and Analysis

This study seeks to improve the Bushnell dining experience by utilizing statistical methods. Using data gathered by a specific survey process, this project will uncover what meals students like, what meals students don’t like, and what can be done to better the cafeteria in light of these discoveries. The data collection design, data visualization, and statistical methods used in determining results will all be presented and explained. The end goal is an unbiased and accurate study that equips our staff to provide the best possible dining experience at Bushnell.

MATH499- Senior Capstone

Dr. Connie Wilmarth

10:30am – P003

Benjamin Randol

The Story of a Colonel and How the Artillery He Commanded Forever Changed American Military History

Of all the new military technologies used during the American Civil War, the one that had the most influence on American military history was light artillery as its lighter structure enabled more maneuverability, the accuracy of new rifled guns made artillery units more crucial in battle, and the resulting victory of the Union lead to the creation of other mobile artillery technologies, including the modern tank.

HIST499- History Capstone

Dr. Melisa Berry

Bushnell History Symposium (L203: 2:30-4:30pm)

Bethany Taylor

Crucial communication strategies between caregivers and children post-pandemic

Abstract- Studies suggest the COVID-19 pandemic had a major impact on youth ages 6 – 14 and their behaviors and skills, including communication skills. As a result of my passion for working with youth, I found this topic both intriguing and critically important to their future success. The objectives of my capstone is to inform parents and guardians of the various intervention methods and opportunities to utilize with young people to enhance their skills and confidence when communicating. Guided by research, I plan to recommend opportunities for parents and guardians to foster better communication at home by giving them easy tools to incorporate with the young people in their home on a daily basis. My capstone project includes a curriculum that will be shown to parents during a dedicated “Parents/Guardian Resource Night” as well as a take-home resource packet.

COMM499- Senior Capstone

Kelsey Rychener

1pm – P003

Braden Abbott

Effective Pastoral Care for Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, and Multigenerational Communities

What is effective pastoral care for baby boomers, generation x, millennials, and multigenerational communities? This research question has been the focus of my capstone since the beginning of the semester. As a Christian ministries major with a focus in pastoral ministry, I know that most of my time throughout my career will be spent providing spiritual care to those around me. It is obvious that this is a topic that will help me prepare for this task, but what if I told you that this topic is relevant to every church-going Christian? Pastoral care is an overlooked area of mental health which has the potential to help anyone struggling with things like depression, anxiety, life transitions, meaning making, and more. Finding a working definition of this concept and applying it to different populations is essential for its effective practice. Once this is established, effective pastoral care can be applied to a broad sociological profile for each of the generations mentioned in the research question. Finally, all this research will be applied to a multigenerational community such as a church serving multiple age groups in relationship. The findings of this capstone will prepare me to be a more effective practitioner of pastoral care and allow anyone in the audience to better understand how pastoral care can help them, regardless of the generational cohort they belong to or the experiences they have had throughout their lives.

CM499- Senior Capstone

Dr. Agam Iheanyi-Igwe

3:30pm – Bucher Room

Bryana Yoshida

Mental Health Care for Pregnant Women

The mental health of pregnant women has been neglected in the American healthcare system. This is especially true in regard to pre and postpartum depression and suicide.  According to the article Suicides During and Shortly After Pregnancy Are an Urgent Concern, Farzana Akkas states, “A study recently published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that over the past decade, nearly 9% of females of childbearing age (15-44) who died by suicide were pregnant or recently postpartum.” I propose three methods to address these problems. The first is support groups. The second is education, and the third is financial assistance. Eligibility for mental health resources should not depend on a woman’s financial status, racial identity, or ability. Mental health care during pregnancy should be open for all female residents in the United States

IDS 499 – Senior Capstone

James Berry

1pm – Bucher Room

Celsie Smith

From Poverty to Respectability: How Boxer James J. Braddock’s Internal Wealth transformed Depression Era Boxing

Referred to as “The Cinderella Man” by newspapers, James J. Braddock was a washed-up boxer with a “fairytale” return to the spotlight who become the world heavyweight champion in 1935.  Impacted by the Depression, he experienced defeat and humility, and had to face the economic and social reality of his situation. Braddock’s commitment to make his children healthy, fed, and happy drove him to return to boxing, despite previous failures. Seeing Braddock face and triumph over not just his opponents, but his own economic, mental, physical, social, and spiritual challenges re-ignited hope for American citizens facing their own poverty.

HIST499- History Capstone

Dr. Melisa Berry

Bushnell History Symposium (L203 2:30pm – 4:30pm)

Ency Soto Jacobo

Negative Factors Impact Female Athletes and Can Lead to the Development of Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are a serious mental health concern that can affect individuals of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, including female collegiate athletes. In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I examined the prevalence of eating disorders among female collegiate athletes and identified risk factors that are associated with the development of eating disorders. I explored interventions that may effectively prevent and treat eating disorders in female collegiate athletes. Eating disorders have one of the highest mortality rates among psychological disorders. It is important to understand why female athletes are at increased risk and what solutions can be implemented in a collegiate environment. Researchers have consistently found that female collegiate athletes are at an increased risk of developing eating disorders; as high as 45% of female college athletes engage in disordered eating behavior. Repeated risk factors associated with developing eating disorders in female collegiate athletes include social and cultural pressures, achieving an ideal body, sport-specific demands, competitive environment, stress, anxiety, and other psychological factors. This being said it is critical to increase awareness of this issue among coaches and athletes. Overall, the findings provide valuable insights into the risk factors of eating disorders in female collegiate athletes and highlight the importance of implementing intervention strategies to help prevent and treat these disorders. Future research must identify effective prevention and intervention programs in collegiate athletics.

PSY499- Senior Capstone

Dr. Erin Mueller

1:30 – P103

Hannah Shepard, Jennifer Banning, & Jaron Carter

Strategic Plan for One Hope

We have created a Strategic Plan for One Hope, a local non-profit. Elements of our plan include their vision and mission and plans for moving forward.

BUS499- Business Strategy and Policy

Christy Silverthorne

2pm – Bucher Room

Isaac Johnston

Worship: The Key to Spiritual Formation and the Heart of Discipleship

This project shows how an individual’s view of worship impacts their spiritual maturity. This paper will define the terms “worship” and “liturgy,” walk through transforming uses of liturgy to direct our worship in a congregational setting, and show how liturgy can form and point our individual worship to God in day-to-day life. In these things we will find the key to becoming like Christ for our personal spiritual formation and our discipleship of others.

CM 499 – Senior Capstone

Dr. Agam Iheanyi-Igwe

4pm – Bucher Room

Isaiah Robles

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)

In this presentation, I will define FASD, including its relevance to worldwide populations, describe practices for FASD diagnosis, describe practices for therapeutic interventions over the lifespan of the individual, and describe the impacts/challenges of FASD. My youngest brother was adopted and was born with FASD, specifically FAS. Therefore, diving deep into this disorder helps me better understand the abnormalities going on with my brother, and how I can better interact with him. Because this condition is also severely underdiagnosed, it will be beneficial for the audience to understand the dangers of alcohol during pregnancy and the proper steps to raise and treat a child with FASD.

BIOL 499 – Senior Capstone

Dr. Paul Allee

11am – L204

Jamison Hanson

Vision, Mission, and Values as Competitive Advantage for Convergence Physical Therapy and Performance

Abstract- Vision, mission, and values are core tenants of what makes a business functional and beyond that, what makes a business thrive and leads to long term success. Without a vision, there is no direction for the company. Without mission, the company lacks a why, and the values that a company holds direct how it is going to function and what it is going to focus on and prioritize. Convergence Physical Therapy and Performance is a local Eugene based gym that works with clients in a cash based physical therapy model, as well as a strength training model. This presentation examines the tenants of vision, mission, and values as whole and specifically how they apply to Convergence, all under the guise that vision, mission, and values if used properly can be competitive advantages.

BUS499- Business Strategy and Policy (Honors Thesis Defense)

Christy Silverthorne

10am – Bucher Room

Jamison Hanson, Halle Neumann, Leslie Reynaga, & Peyton Ritchie

Convergence Physical Therapy Strategic Plan

We have created a strategic plan for Convergence Physical Therapy & Performance. The presentation will encompass many different areas of strategy from vision, mission, and values to strategic goals and timelines for implementation.

BUS499- Business Strategy and Policy

Christy Silverthorne

1:30pm – Bucher Room

Kaden Sand

How The Impact of Sports And Sports Marketing Has Changed Over Time

Sports and athletes have always had significant impact on the world and the communities that are participating in them. We can find instances of sports being played since the beginning of time because it is a peaceful way to settle the competitive spirit that most of us possess. Throughout history, these sporting events and their meanings have changed drastically to become what they are today. From settling war disputes, to holistic rituals, to now being competitive entertainment for our enjoyment we have seen many factors go into changing the significance of sports. In the modern era, social media and technology has helped make the push in the sport industry to become a profitable business that large companies and businesses have been able to use in order to become more successful. Due to the large followings that athletes and organizations have, it is a golden opportunity for sports marketing to enable this practice in the modern world.

IDS499- Senior Capstone

James Berry

4pm – P003

Kalina Mae Rojas

How attachment style formed during adolescence impacts communication strategies, behavioral patterns and well-being in adulthood

Research suggests that attachment styles are sensitive systems which develop during adolescence, and the attachment styles we form as infants directly impact the way we navigate relationships and communication in adulthood. My presentation will first review and synthesize key studies related to attachment theory that have been collected through my communication courses at Bushnell University as well as my own research. I will then seek to explain the different attachment theories that can form, along with the long-lasting impacts of these styles specific to interpersonal communication strategies, behavioral patterns, and well-being.

COMM 499 – Senior Capstone

Kelsey Rychner

1:30pm – P003

Karina Phifer

The Ramifications Of Child Maltreatment in Personality Development

Exposure to child maltreatment (CM) at any stage of development may have enduring ramifications on one’s personality. Individuals with a history of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have an increased risk for psychopathology. Many of these risk factors have been associated with anxiety, depression, and personality disorders (PDs). PDs that I discussed were paranoid personality disorder, schizoid personality disorder, and antisocial personality disorder. The purpose of this evidence-based synthesis paper was to (a) analyze interrelationships between the different types of CM, (b) childhood experiences from maltreatment, and (c) the effects of personality development and behavior. By reviewing 16 empirical articles from 1999 to 2023, I found that neglect played a key role in the relationship between CM with personality traits during development. However, the research is limited and more studies on neglect are needed to better understand this important issue and how to prevent it.

PSY499- Senior Capstone

Dr. Erin Mueller

2pm – P103

Kaylen Kamelamela

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) 

In my presentation, I will give an overview of the kidneys and their function followed by a description of chronic kidney disease (CKD), its relevance to populations, ongoing treatment options, and a more detailed explanation of treatment through dialysis. Kidney disease has been on the rise in America, making it one of the top ten leading causes of death in the United States. It is important to know how to discern the functionality of your kidneys, acknowledge signs or symptoms, and be aware of different risk factors that can increase the chances of being diagnosed with CKD and needing treatment.

BIOL 499 – Senior Capstone

Dr. Paul Allee

11:30am – L204

Kilano Loyd

Mental health struggles faced throughout childhood

Abstract In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I focus on the topics of depression and anxiety. By examining several stages of a person’s life beginning with prenatal development. I examine the many factors that a mother may endure while she is pregnant, and then I focus on childhood maltreatment. Childhood maltreatment includes abuse and neglect. I explain how childhood maltreatment may affect a child’s growth and contribute to developing depression and anxiety. Next, I examine individuals who have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and how they may deal with depression and anxiety. Finally, I investigate the effects of peer influence, including issues such as social norms, social status, cyber bullying, and social phobias. By reviewing 17 empirical articles, I offer a synthesis of the research in order to provide a better understanding of the complexities of depression and anxiety.

PSY499- Senior Capstone

Dr. Erin Mueller

3:30pm – P103

Madisen Trueblood

Benefits of Effective Classroom Management Techniques

Abstract – Effective classroom management is crucial in establishing a positive learning environment where the basic needs of all students are met. The modern education system requires aspiring and veteran educators to enforce effective and efficient classroom management strategies to enhance overall student behavior, social-emotional development, and academic achievement. If implemented successfully, classroom management techniques allow educators to provide quality instruction while simultaneously creating a space that promotes student success, development, and learning. As the structure of traditional American classrooms is ever-changing, teacher preparation programs have a responsibility to integrate course requirements that will adequately prepare aspiring educators for the harsh reality of behavior management challenges.

IDS499 – Senior Capstone 

James Berry

10:30am – Bucher Room

Mason Delamarter

A deep dive of major communication trends throughout the last 15 years

Communication is foundational to what makes us human, and yet, communication has evolved and changed drastically throughout time. My research looks specifically at communication trends throughout the last 15 years (2008-2023), focusing on the emergence of smartphones as a primary tool of communication, the rise of social media and its global impact on communication, as well as the more recent impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on present communication. My presentation will include a comparison of these impacts, both those perceived as positive and others as negative.

COMM499- Senior Capstone

Kelsay Rychener

2pm – P003

Michael Frank

How Can Church Based Youth Groups Address the Social Impacts of the Pandemic on Young People (6th-12th Grade)

Abstract- This essay will be exploring how church based youth groups can address the social impacts of the pandemic on young people (6th-12th grade). COVID-19 undoubtedly had lasting affects on everyone, but young people specifically suffered in major ways. Young people’s lives were drastically changed forever. With that said, there must be a way that church based youth groups can come alongside young people, and better meet them where they are at with their struggles.

BTM499- Senior Capstone

Dr. Agam Iheanyi-Igwe

2pm – L203

Olivia Bailon

Tree Death From America to Oregon

Throughout our nation, there are many different reasons behind why our forests and orchards are dying. In the United States, our trees are dying because of drought, various diseases, pests, and invasive species and plants. With the loss of large amounts of trees due to these variables, this has brought attention to the idea of losing valuable carbon sinks. Within the state of Oregon, forests are dying due to drought, but also bark beetles and various root diseases like laminated root rot and black stain root rot. Locally here at Dorris Ranch in Springfield, Oregon, was an outbreak of the fungus Eastern Filbert Blight in 2016. This has had a huge impact on the hazelnut industry due to the fact that our nations’ supply comes from the Willamette Valley here in Oregon.

BIOL499- Senior Capstone

Dr. Paul Allee

10:30am – L204

Rebecca Kuskie

Cognitive Differences Between Bilingual and Monolingual Children

In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed findings across 15 empirical studies from 2008 to 2021 to summarize what is currently known about cognitive differences between bilingual and monolingual children. The differences between bilingual and monolingual children have been studied since the early 20th century. There was much debate as to whether there was an advantage or disadvantage in executive function and memory flexibility for bilingual children. Most researchers have found that there is a bilingual advantage in the inhibitory control and cognitive flexibility of executive function, as well as memory flexibility. There does not appear to be a clear advantage or disadvantage to the working memory process of executive function. Furthermore, researchers utilized that information to explore what effect that advantage has on language acquisition and survival processing. Some limitations to the research conducted was that there is not one cohesive definition of a bilingual child, and the requirement for the participants utilized varied in each study depending upon the definition used. Additionally, most studies are not replicable due to the strict nature of the groups studied and the variation that occurs between the different languages that each study tested.

PSY499- Psychology Capstone

Dr. Erin Mueller

3pm – P103

Samuel Hayter

The Application of Business Concepts to Help Start a Church. 

Abstract: Business ideas can be applied to help a church have a smooth and successful start. With ideas like the marketing mix, product what is it you are telling the target audience they need, promotion by getting the word out to people, place and location is a serious choice, price, what does it cost the consumer. Another idea is having a strong network of pastors who give help,  give a wise council, and advise. Next is choosing what denomination and characteristics does your church immolate. The management of the church is very and having an order to authority, so communication is clear. Finally having a proper leadership style, there are many forms to leadership but assessing what style is best to take depending on the situation. 

IDS 499 – Senior Capstone

James Berry

3:30pm – P003

Sarah Phillips

The Influence of Intrinsic Motivation in Elementary School Children

In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I compiled 15 current primary research articles dating from 1993 to 2023. The focus of this review is to show the influence and effects of intrinsic motivation relating to elementary-school children’s academic success. I defined and described different types of motivation, various factors that drive motivation, learning theories, consequences of teacher-expectancy effects, and goal-setting techniques for children. A similar finding in close to all articles was intrinsic motivation is the highest predictor for children’s academic success, well-being, and positive learning experiences. This is an important finding because it has been shown that children can thrive academically and succeed when given the right environment to be motivated internally versus externally.

PSY499- Senior Capstone

Dr. Erin Mueller

2:30pm – P103

Taylor Bryant

Mindfulness and the Modern Dilemma: Exploring the Use of Mindfulness as a Means of Individual and Interpersonal Well-being

Research has suggested many benefits of mindfulness on individual and interpersonal health. My presentation will include an introduction that explains the modern dilemma of mental illness and social dysfunction, a review of literature that investigates the effects of mindfulness on health, and a personal account of my self-experiment that included implementing mindfulness practices into my daily life and conducting interviews with individuals who specialize in mindfulness practices. The purpose of this presentation is to make the case that humanity is in desperate need of a wellness revolution, and mindfulness is a powerful tool in that pursuit. Furthermore, my intention is to provide personal experience to encourage others firsthand that practicing mindfulness is not only beneficial, but transformative.

COMM499- Senior Capstone

Kelsay Rychener

1pm – P103

Tyler King

Remember and the Bible

Remembering is a major theme of the Hebrew Bible from altars to Israelites forgetting, and this theme persists into the New Testament. What can we learn about God through seeing how the word remember is used in the New Testament and how does that affect our walk with God? The words remember remind and forget come up eighty different times in the New Testament making them a central piece of these letters therefore christians should pay attention to how they are used. Some lessons that can be learned from examining how these themes are used are, praying for the persecuted church, dwelling on scripture, using physical reminders, having mentors/mentees, and more.

CM 499 – Senior Capstone

Dr. Agam Iheanyi-Igwe

3pm – Bucher Room