Tag: PSY 499

Madison Bender

Pornography Consumption: Biopsychosocial Effects and Treatment Implications

In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed findings across 18 empirical studies and five additional sources from 2011 to 2024 to summarize the currently known research on the negative biological, psychological, and social aspects of pornography consumption. Pornographic content has been traced back to 1524 and has evolved to become a culturally accepted phenomenon in many parts of the world through technological advances. Researchers have found that altered genes and reward pathways in the brain may contribute to the formation of problematic pornography usage. Physical issues, such as erectile dysfunctions, may arise from excessive pornography use. Psychologically, emotional regulation, mental health disorders, and dehumanization also may occur. Common emotions that may arise from pornography use are shame, guilt, loneliness, depression, and anxiety. Relationships and social functioning also may be affected by pornography use due to exploitation of other human beings and moral incongruence. Attachment styles between the user and their friends and family have shown to be impacted. Socially, human trafficking also is being supported through the use of pornography, with the majority of women and children shown in online pornography being victims of human trafficking. Treatments for pornography addictions are sparse and consist of different forms of psychotherapy. Because pornography use is culturally acceptable in America, pornography addiction is not seen as an addiction and is not widely addressed. Further research, replication, and attention are needed to uncover the true impact that pornography usage has.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

S100

11 – 11:30 AM

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Kaitlin Cook

Posttraumatic Growth: Protective Factors and Instilling Resilience into Future Generations

Emerging research shows potential for positive psychological adaptations post adversity. In this evidence-based research paper, I examined 21 peer reviewed articles and supplementary materials dating from 2003 to 2024 in order to connect ideas of posttraumatic and resilience growth capabilities, predictors, and outcomes. In this review, I aimed to reframe traumatic experiences from a salutogenic perspective by highlighting the opportunity for personal and social advancement following adverse experiences. Through psychological interventions, self-dedication, and success strivings, individuals may reconstruct life meaning and develop greater levels of prosocial behavior, empathy, altruism, and problem solving. Adverse experiences in many cases are unavoidable; therefore, increasing psychological strength through resilience training and growth-based parenting is a priority to instill hope into future generations. Post trauma functioning given adaptive responses has outcomes of social and cognitive flourishing. Future research should prioritize increasing the body of longitudinal data by comparing baseline levels of functioning and life meaning to growth capabilities following trauma. Research directions should seek to develop practical ways to implement resiliency within institutions and integrate it into social constructs. 

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

S100

11:30 AM – Noon

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Alsea Diffenderfer

Psychoneuroimmunology in Childhood Abuse Survivors

In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I examined 19 empirical articles as well as three additional sources dating from 2008 to 2024 to review the research on psychoneuroimmunology with a focus on stress caused by childhood abuse. Psychoneuroimmunology refers to the study between the connections of the nervous system, the immune system, and psychological factors. It has been studied since the 1970s and recently has gained much traction in healthcare as research continues to affirm the importance of these connections as it relates to trauma. Child abuse is a trauma endured by thousands in the United States each year. Studies have shown that biological and psychological altercations can occur as the result of maltreatment in childhood and if not properly cared for, can result in long-term negative implications on quality of life. To offer a holistic approach to healthcare for those who have survived childhood abuse, it is imperative to continue broadening our understanding and account for each branch of psychoneuroimmunology in trauma recovery. 

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

S100

1 – 1:30 PM

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Tierra Dumlao

Social Media’s Role in Suicide

This evidence-based synthesis paper contains topics on suicide. I reviewed 18 empirical studies from 2018 to 2024 and summarized them in order to understand the impact of social media, and its role in suicide. These articles included information and data on the psychological effects that an individual may have when suicide-related content is posted on social media. In addition, some articles included recommendations for individuals who would like to post suicide-related content on social media. From the articles that I have reviewed, it is apparent that there are many ways the internet can influence someone’s mental health: negative self-comparison, social imitation, social isolation, and cyberbullying experiences that could potentially lead to suicide. When studying adolescents, researchers focused on specific mental states that show suicidal ideation and behavior. Furthermore, the evaluation of how suicide-related content is posted and interacted with has been examined. From these studies, it became evident that there are some psychological reasons why individuals who use social media may feel the need to consistently use it. Concepts such as Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, social learning theory, self-esteem, persona implication, the Werther effect, and the Papageno effect have been identified as reasons that an individual would commit suicide. It is important to address this outside perspective as social media has become normalized in society. Future research should focus on suicide, social media, and the overlapping factors to better understand this complex relationship. Moreover, the understanding of these connections can increase prevention efforts and save lives, decreasing the number of suicides.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

S100

1:30 – 2 PM

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Bethany LaFon

Technology in the Workplace

In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I have reviewed the findings of 15 current research articles dating from 2019 to early 2024. The focus of this evidence-based synthesis review was on the relationship between growing efforts in the workplace for integration of technology and the relationship between human and machine. These articles included information about changing laws, because of increased technology use, changes regarding personal and work balance having no boundaries due to technology, and the changes of workplace dynamics due to the integration of technology. In many of the articles, there were other common themes, such individuals advocating for technology because of a loss of connection with clients, and many others refusing technology because of the negative outcomes it has had on their personal life and work lives. In my research, I found that there is considerable debate between the benefits of growing technology and the negative outcomes of technology. Relationships have changed, and people crave a connection with others. Companies are forcing the new age of co-existence with Artificial Intelligence, and we no longer have necessary boundaries to promote work-life balance. Future research should address the growing desire for more technology in the workplace. Will this potentially harm companies in the future or build necessary connections between client and professional?

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

S100

2 – 2:30 PM

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Taylor Morgan

The Relationship Between Psychological Disorders and the Criminal Justice System

In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed research on the complex relationship between crime and psychological disorders (PDs). Stigma, prejudice, and discrimination toward people with psychological disorders stem, in part, from the absence of a research-informed media and criminal justice system, which can result in limited awareness, advocacy, resources, and social acceptance. I examined 15 studies from 2019 to 2023 on the lack of resources for PDs in correctional facilities and the influence of the media in maintaining stereotypes. I also included case studies and additional supplementary sources in my review. Additionally, I highlighted the necessity for a comprehensive understanding of these disorders by giving a general review of the classification of PDs and their prevalence in correctional settings. The debate over appropriate punishment and the division between the criminal justice system and psychiatric hospitals are among the issues that emerged regarding the difficulties associated with managing PDs in the system. Research indicates that we need to change the criminal justice system to better serve people with PDs by providing more financing for mental health facilities and better treatment alternatives. Future research can further societal knowledge on this topic, create potential policy changes within the criminal justice system, and advocate for comprehensive mental health reform.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

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Erin Mueller

S100

2:30 – 3 PM

Adam Sabatino

Mental Health Challenges and Support Strategies Among College Athletes

For this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed the research conducted from 15 empirical research articles dating from 2018 to 2023 covering a wide variety of information about mental health in college athletes. A common approach found in all of the evaluated articles was the use of surveys, which provided a foundation for comprehending the complex nature of mental health issues. This research of college athletes included a range of backgrounds, including differing racial, gender, and age demographics. Researchers were able to obtain complex insights into the unique perspectives and experiences of collegiate athletes by using this methodological technique. In addition, a number of the articles used a comparison approach, contrasting collegiate athletes’ experiences with their peers’ non-athletic or professional experiences in terms of mental health. These comparative studies provide insight into the particular pressures and weaknesses experienced by collegiate athletes in the larger framework of academic life and sports competitiveness. For example, some research found variances in the mental health outcomes of players and non-athletes, and these variations were linked to the unique demands and stresses of collegiate athletics.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

Return to schedule

S100

3 – 3:30 PM

Eryn Wilder

Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Comprehensive Review of Comorbidities and Diagnosis 

In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed findings from 15 empirical studies ranging from 2023 to 2010, as well as the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5 TR). Using these studies, I summarized the current knowledge surrounding complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) and its high comorbidity rate with other psychological disorders. CPTSD has been conceptualized as a psychological disorder for many decades targeting individuals who have experienced prolonged and repeated​ trauma(s). There was much debate as to whether this was an evidence-based diagnosis until 2019 when the ICD-11 elected to​ include an adult version of​ CPTSD based on the validation of its ​research. Most researchers have found this a challenging disorder to both study and diagnose due to its symptom complexity, non-linearity origin, and extensive psychiatric​ comorbidity. Researchers have found that CPTSD is most common in clinical samples as it is a debilitating disorder going beyond the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It has been recognized that there is a crucial need to review the effects of CPTSD and comorbidity with other psychological disorders, improving clinical assessment methods for this newly recognized disorder. Furthermore, researchers in the mental health field recognize the importance of adopting trauma-informed approaches, highlighting the need for accurate assessment methods, and treatment, emphasizing the significance ​of not overlooking the potential impacts of traumatization​ beyond the symptoms of PTSD.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

S100

3:30 – 4 PM

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Taylor Copenhaver

The Association Between Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Cognitive Impairment in Adulthood

In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed 23 journal articles, both empirical studies and literature reviews, dating from 2013 to 2023 examining the association between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and cognitive impairment in adulthood. Many researchers found significant results suggesting that the decline in the cognitive function of memory is associated with PTSD. Additionally, researchers concluded that neurocognitive disorder is strongly associated with PTSD, but the specific neurocognitive disorder of Alzheimer’s disease is not directly correlated with PTSD. Furthermore, it has been discovered that the comorbid relationship of PTSD and depressive symptoms is the strongest correlation with cognitive impairment. When it is not comorbid, PTSD is more closely associated with cognitive impairment than other mental disorders. A few limitations within the research are that many of the studies included symptoms of mental disorders and not clinical diagnoses, the sample sizes of some studies were not large enough to make a generalization of the researched population, and there is not enough evidence to suggest a causal relationship between PTSD and cognitive impairment.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

Womack 100

10 – 10:30 AM

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Ethan Ferry

The Therapeutic Benefits of Well-Integrated Religion and Spirituality

In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed the findings of 18 peer-reviewed, empirical studies dating from 2001 to 2022. The goal of this review was to determine effective methods of integrating religion and spirituality into counseling. In addition, I focused on some of the mental and physical benefits of religion and spirituality in the face of struggles, such as trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety, and chronic illness. In the last 20 years, the constructs of religion and spirituality and their relation to mental health have increasingly become the subject of research. Most studies have shown that including religion and spirituality in counseling is helpful for patients who value religion and spirituality. There are various assessments that counselors can include during intake and treatment which help gauge the client’s religion and spirituality as well as help the counselor to protect against bias. There is evidence suggesting that the integration of these into counseling increases positive affect, strengthens the client-counselor relationship, and increases positive treatment outcomes. Religion and spirituality as coping strategies lose effectiveness in adolescents as they age. Additionally, religion and spirituality have also been found to be detrimental to clients who do not have strong theodicies and clients with low levels of engagement in faith. Negative religious coping strategies were also found to be associated with more negative outcomes in comparison to individuals who use positive or other non-religious coping strategies.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

Womack 100

10:30 – 11 AM

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Daniel Furman

Effects of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy and Head Injuries on Athletes

In this synthesis-based evidence paper, I reviewed findings from 17 different empirical articles from 2015 to 2023 to provide an overview of findings on the lasting effects of head injuries and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) on athletes. The term CTE was derived in 1940 from Bowman and Blau. They define CTE as a neurodegenerative condition that is thought to be partially brought on by repeated head trauma. The results from the peer-reviewed articles revealed the severity and far-reaching effects frequent head traumas can have. These traumatic brain injuries (TBI) affect the patient’s psychological and physiological states of mind. Findings between the articles showed similar lasting consequences of CTE across different athletes. Results revealed that high-contact sports, and in rare cases, low-contact sports, can result in lasting head trauma and potential neurocognitive impairments. Most researchers agreed that playing in a high-contact sport like football for long enough will eventually cause some sort of traumatic brain injury, or potentially CTE. Some limitations to the research on CTE and head injuries were that the results could not be generalized around the globe, studies on CTE are done postmortem, and there are no findings on the immediate effects of CTE. The development of techniques for diagnosing CTE during life, as well as additional research into the validity, precision, and practicality of the recently released diagnostic criteria for CTE, are imperative to address these, and other significant concerns for head trauma.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

Womack 100

11 – 11:30 AM

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Cole Vamos

Social Anxiety, Depression, and Peer Pressure Amongst College Life

In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed findings and discoveries across 15 empirical studies ranging from 2001 to 2023 to summarize current knowledge and new information about social anxiety, peer pressure, and depressive disorders within college students. I included different demographics and geographics, ethnicity, age, and gender. The main methods of research conducted through these studies were questionnaires to access and categorize the different levels of anxiety or depression, depending on the study. These methods allowed discoveries with emerging adults entering college life, and those who already attend college, therefore showing where these symptoms form or have originally formed prior to college life. Overall, there was an increase in prevalence of cases of college students dealing with different forms of social anxiety, as well as depressive symptoms. Symptoms varied depending on cases, the majority related to negative habits like drinking or drug addiction which led to negative self-esteem, even deliberate self-harm. Furthermore, future studies will only extend further knowledge or develop more evidence based facts about depressive symptoms and social anxiety amongst college life.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Erin Mueller

Womack 100

11:30 AM – Noon

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Shay Coons

Applying Therapeutic Interventions to Build Resilience in Children from Homes At-risk for Abuse

Throughout history, with startling prevalence, children have faced maltreatment within family and home settings. Early intervention specialists have long emphasized the need to implement intervention programs highlighting the development of resilience, social-emotional skills, and improving the family dynamic. Therapeutic intervention strategies for children in homes at-risk for abuse may be effective in promoting resilience in children and predicting successful life outcomes. Thus, this presentation will review four research trends in therapeutic intervention strategies. First, resiliency is regarded as a protective factor for children at-risk for abuse. Next, researchers have highlighted the importance of developing social-emotional skills in children at-risk for abuse. Moreover, parental involvement in interventions for children in homes at-risk for abuse is of paramount importance. Finally, the impact of current interventions on children at-risk for abuse has shown promising outcomes. Children demonstrating features of resilience exhibited reduced perception of being threatened and lower states of anxiety. Intervention methods such as Child-Centered Play Therapy, focused on the development and improvement of social-emotional skills, have demonstrated a decline in externalizing negative behaviors. A holistic approach to intervention, involving parent education, is an important aspect of improving family dynamics in homes at-risk for abuse and preventing retraumatization. Current intervention strategies have demonstrated positive outcomes in promoting social-emotional skills and altering neural patterns for response inhibition among children at-risk for maltreatment. Future directions in research will be reviewed, including the need to explore developmental stage differences that could impact the effectiveness of particular interventions and ensure that they are developmentally appropriate.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

Bucher Room (view livestream here)

2:30 – 3 PM

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Eric Marbley Jr.

The Impact of Retirement on Athletes’ Mental Health

American adults nearing retirement may experience mental health struggles. Specifically, in professional and collegiate sports many athletes are not prepared for the mental health challenges they will encounter when it is time to step away from their sports. Athletes who are near retirement may experience poor mental health surrounding diverse factors. Thus, this presentation will review four research trends regarding the impact retirement has on athletes’ mental health. First, many factors contribute to the mental health struggles of athletes in retirement. Next, athletic injuries play a substantial role in retired athletes’ mental health. Moreover, when athletes retire from their respective sports a loss of identity may take place. Lastly, athletes may be reluctant to seek help due to the stigma surrounding mental health in the sports setting. These variables may exist because of the lack of preparation not solely by the athlete but by the athlete’s support system as well.  Collegiate athletes have extremely full schedules with schoolwork and game preparation. Researchers have found that retired athletes reported greater depressive symptoms than active players. This may be due to the fact that retired athletes are more open to sharing their mental health status and thus, mental health professionals are more aware of the retired athletes’ mental health challenges. Future directions in research will be reviewed, including the need to further explore the impact that mental health may have on athletes’ ability to perform while playing their sports, and to have a clearer understanding of how to care for athletes in retirement.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

Bucher Room (view livestream here)

2 – 2:30 PM

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Meagan Mollahan

US College Student Vulnerability to Suicidality

American college students are experiencing increasing mental health challenges. Specifically, suicide is the second leading cause of death amidst college students. Multiple factors impact the mental health of college students and may lead to their increased vulnerability to suicidality. Therefore, this presentation will review four research trends concerning factors that escalate college students’ suicidal ideation. First, depression and sense of burden are prominent in contributing to risk of suicidality. Equally important, fear of rejection and lack of belonging perpetuate desires to isolate and withdraw from society and life altogether. Moreover, minority students face greater stress and vulnerability to suicidal ideation than their Caucasian or heterosexual counterparts. Lastly, negative coping strategies escalate suicidality, while positive coping strategies have the potential to encourage resilience. Regardless of whether the perception is true, students with depression are more likely than non-depressed students to perceive other people as viewing them as a burden, better off dead. The more an individual avoids their emotions, and isolates themself, the greater their sensitivity to being rejected. They feel unwanted and alone. Minority students face even greater emotional distress and may feel unsafe in college solely because of who they are, leading to higher suicidality risk. In an attempt to escape overwhelming emotions, students commonly turn to alcohol and other substances; but for many, these practices only increase distress and suicidal ideation. Future directions in research will be reviewed, including the need to explore ways to reduce the stigma of suicide and mental health struggles in men.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

Bucher Room (view livestream here)

1:30 – 2 PM

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Taylor Quirk

The Impact of Trauma on Emotion Development in Childhood

Throughout history, children have been subjected to diverse traumas in their homes by their parents, caregivers, and “trusted” adults. Experiencing these traumas can hinder a growing child’s development in their emotion regulation, their attachment styles, and their mental health. Experiencing trauma may impede emotion development in children and adolescents. Thus, this presentation will review four research trends in childhood emotion development impeded by trauma. First, children may be subjected to betrayal trauma in their own households, most often by their mothers. Next, domestic violence trauma in childhood predicts concurrent co-morbid mental health disorders. Moreover, children experiencing sexual abuse trauma have been linked to developing insecure or disorganized attachment styles. Finally, experiencing trauma in childhood is negatively linked with children’s emotion regulation development. Maternal betrayal trauma and negative parenting styles are revealed in the psychological and emotional distress which these children experience at home. Early exposure to household violence and intimate partner violence is likely to derail children’s emotional well-being. Children experiencing sexual abuse have been associated with post-traumatic stress disorder and depression, along with psychological challenges and distress. Emotion regulation is a common concern found among children experiencing diverse traumas. Future directions in research will be reviewed, including the need to explore parent education regarding building a healthy and nurturing environment for children so they may be provided with safe and encouraging emotional growth in the face of life’s challenges.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

Bucher Room (view livestream here)

3 – 3:30 PM

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Melissa Swick

Homelessness and Opioid Addiction

An opioid epidemic is raging in America, a crisis that has steadily increased since 2000. At the same time, the number of people experiencing homelessness and opioid addiction has also increased. Individuals with a history of homelessness are at increased risk for opioid addiction. Thus, this presentation will review four research trends that examine opioid abuse and being homeless in America. First, there is a critical relationship between homelessness and opioid use disorder (OUD). Second, chronic pain contributes significantly to OUD in people who experience homelessness. Third, treatment programs for OUD in people experiencing homelessness vary in their success rates. Fourth, there are many barriers to successful treatment of OUD for people experiencing homelessness. The rates of opioid abuse in people who experience homelessness are almost three times higher than for those who are housed. Researchers have discovered that people who experience homelessness are at increased risk of OUD because they have higher rates of chronic pain than people in the general population. Managed opioid programs may result in improvements in the health and social well-being of people who experience homelessness. There are numerous barriers, however, to treatment adherence for people who experience homelessness. Future directions in research will be discussed, including the need to explore the impact of the opioid epidemic on individuals who live in small towns or rural areas and experience homelessness.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

Bucher Room (view livestream here)

3:30 – 4 PM

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Karissa Bailor

Understanding the Impact of Online Influencers

The Internet has provided a unique opportunity for online entertainment, and a more direct way to connect with online influencers. Parasocial relationships between online content creators and their viewers, however, may have a negative impact on the viewers’ finances, trust, and personal worldviews. Recent research trends will also be reviewed, e.g., findings that online Influencers maintain the successful promotion of products or potential scams, and online influencers maintain strong influence on children and adolescent viewers. Future directions will also be reviewed including the fact that psychology researchers have not adequately investigated the psychological impact of Influencers; current research is heavily focused on marketing benefits, while few studies have researched the often blind trust between viewers and influencers, the psychological impact and benefits of influencer marketing. Researchers must explore the far-reaching effects of social media influencers on developing children and youth.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

Join by Zoom

3:30 – 3:55 PM

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Sam Dodd

Benefits of Tabletop Role-Playing Games

Tabletop role-playing games (TRPGs) have long been anathematized since their inception with the first edition of Dungeons & Dragons, though in recent times, they have been seen as more of a blessing. Engaging in tabletop role-playing games may positively impact adolescents and emerging adults in regard to self-discovery, the classroom, critical thinking and communication skills, and as clients in mental health therapy. Recent trends in research will be discussed, e.g., those who engage in TRPGs may benefit from increased self-discovery and may utilize acquired skills to apply to their work as clients in therapy. Future directions will also be reviewed including the need for researchers to examine the effects of TRPGs on overall mental health in children, adolescents, and adults.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

Join by Zoom

1:30 – 1:55 PM

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Fern Gardea

The Impact of Parents with Mental Illness on their Children’s Health and Quality of Life

Mental health is currently a popular topic in the United States; mental illness is another matter. Further, we fail to acknowledge and talk about the countless children who live in the shadows with parents who experience mental illness; few acknowledge what these children live with daily. Parents experiencing mental illness may negatively impact their children’s development, including their emotional and mental health. Recent trends in research will be reviewed (e.g., mental illness in parents and the resultant anxiety, depression, and poor emotion regulation in their children; parenting styles in parents with mental illness and the impact on their children). Future directions will also be reviewed including the need for researchers to explore the role and potential impact of psychotherapy for parents with mental illness and for their children, in addition to whole family therapy, as well as the negative effects on children of parents who utilize poor parenting styles.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

Join by Zoom

2:30 – 2:55 PM

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Jonathan Rambousek

Barriers to Mental Health Care Among Active-Duty Military and Veterans

When military personnel come home from deployment or transition out of the military, they often do not know that they need mental health care. If they are aware that they need help, service members and veterans likely do not know where to look for that help. A culture of stigma may foster mental health care avoidance in active-duty and military veterans. Researchers have recently suggested that entrenched attitudes against mental health treatment seeking and risks to career advancement are likely to blame. Future directions will also be reviewed including the need for researchers to delve more deeply into the role veteran status of providers could play in the likelihood of service members and veterans entering and continuing treatment, as well as the need for more effective non-pharmacological interventions.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

Join by Zoom

3:00 – 3:25 PM

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Stella Reaka

Substance Use in Prison: A Never Ending Cycle

Issues regarding the prison system evoke concern worldwide, in part because punishment has largely replaced rehabilitation. Individuals with substance use disorders in the prison system are being punished for their disorders rather than getting the treatment they need in order to be successful in society. Recent trends in research will be reviewed, e.g., prison release from prison without treatment, and evidence that ongoing treatment after release results in higher risk of recidivism and lethal overdose. Future directions will also be reviewed, including the need for researchers to explore the impact of increased rehabilitation on society.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

Join by Zoom

2 – 2:25 PM

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Drenna Thompson

Gender Expression on the Autism Spectrum

Gender expression on the autism spectrum is currently a highly salient topic, with researchers indicating a high rate of fluid and unique identity within this population. Autistic individuals are more likely than neurotypicals to have a non-conformist relationship to gender, whether that be identifying outside the binary, disregarding gender roles, or being transgender. Recent trends in research will be examined, e.g., how autistic children express their gender identity and the struggles they face, and how queer people contacting gender clinics often also receive referrals for an ASD evaluation and potential diagnosis. Future directions will also be reviewed including the need for ASD-specific sex education, as well as inclusion of ASD voices in related research.

PSY 499, Senior Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

Join by Zoom

4:00 – 4:25 PM

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Grayson Rose Carmack

Gender Roles in Adults with Asperger’s Syndrome/High-Functioning Autism 

The researcher will present an original exploratory qualitative study investigating the intersection of adults with Asperger’s Syndrome/high-functioning autism and gender identity. The researcher gathered qualitative data through the use of interviews and related measures. Participants included four adults, ranging from young adult to middle-aged, with three males and one female. Further, the researcher administered the Autism Quotient (Baron-Cohen, 2001), interviews in two individual sessions, demographic survey, and a graphic measure designed by the researcher for the purpose of assessing internal sense of conformity to gender roles along the gender continuum. The researcher found that the participants expressed a history of negative experiences relating to gender roles, especially when they found they could not conform to those roles adequately. Also, upon being made aware of this difficulty, they made committed efforts to fit in with their peers, especially in adolescence. As they matured, they abandoned these efforts and prioritized their natural inclinations and values over pressure to conform to societal gender roles. Based on study findings, the researcher concluded that people with Asperger’s Syndrome/high-functioning autism may experience greater difficulty navigating binary societal gender roles in comparison to their neurotypical peers. Future directions will also be discussed, including the need for a replication of the present study focused on transgender adults with Asperger’s Syndrome/high-functioning autism. 

PSY 490/499, Research Practicum & Capstone 

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers 

Banquet Room 

10 – 11 AM 

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Covita Rachelle Hughes

Post Sexual Assault Outcomes in Females 

Sexual assault is one of the most complex issues in our society.  It is one of the most injurious crimes that perpetrators can inflict on other individuals.  Females are among the most vulnerable.  Female survivors of sexual assault of any age may experience long-term adverse effects later in life.  Thus, this presentation reviews four research trends in the long-term negative outcomes of sexual assault. First, female victims of sexual assault experience shame and low self-esteem. Second, there is a high risk for revictimization for female survivors of sexual assault.  Third, female victims experience emotional and psychological challenges. Lastly, female survivors of sexual assault are at risk for mental illnesses such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and suicidal ideation.  Researchers have reported that once a female has experienced sexual assault, her risk of experiencing further sexual victimization is significantly elevated. Victims may experience high levels of shame and guilt and feel that they are to blame for the sexual assault and their inability to escape from their perpetrators.  Future directions will also be discussed, including the need for research focused on strategies for improving accurate societal understanding of sexual assault and its long-term effects.     

PSY 499, Capstone 

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers 

Banquet Room 

11 – 11:30 AM 

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Malcolm Fleming

Diversity in Children’s Literature
This presentation focuses on diversity in children’s literature, which is critical because all children need to see themselves reflected in the literature they read. This literature also helps children appreciate individual differences. Researchers found that a majority of children’s literature in school libraries did not reflect racial, religious, SES, gender, disabilities, or sexual identity diversity. Researchers concluded that representations of children from diverse populations in literature must be characterized in ways that are realistic and engaging. For this study I examined current diversity in children’s literature to assess the range of diversity reflected. I went to three higher education libraries; Lane Community College, Northwest Christian University, and the University of Oregon. I examined their children’s literature collections in the following diversity categories; disability, LGBTQ, family/SES, and gender. I also examined racial diversity in each of the previous categories. I examined and evaluated 44 children’s books that ranged from pre-k to high school reading levels. I found that LCC had the most current collection of children’s literature in the four diversity categories. Fourteen of the 44 books addressed family and SES (e.g., divorce, domestic abuse, refugees, immigrant status, incarcerated parents, poverty, foster care). In the disability category the books primarily addressed physical disabilities. In summary, this presentation will stress the importance of exposing children of diverse populations, as well as societally mainstreamed children, to literature that will strengthen their awareness of themselves and others.
PSY 499, Capstone
Mary Ann Winter-Messiers
SPS 101
4 – 4:30 PM
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Elizabeth Gregory

Shared Personality Traits Among Mothers of Children with Autism
Mothers of children with autism may share personality traits and hold related behaviors in common. This presentation will review an exploratory study, the purpose of which was to investigate the intersection of mothers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and potential personality commonalities and experiences. The researcher conducted a qualitative study, including interviews related to personality traits. Participants were five mothers of children with diverse autism diagnoses, 35 to 61 years of age with children ranging in age from early childhood to young adulthood. Further, the researcher administered the Big Five Personality Inventory, interviews in two individual sessions, an assessment based on mothers’ quotations, and demographic questions. The researcher found strong relations among mothers of children with autism and their similar emergent traits and behaviors becoming more identifiable as their children with autism aged. These traits are seemingly adaptive to the intensive needs and situations that accompany raising children with autism. Comparable identified, developed traits and experiences in the mothers included conscientiousness, agreeableness, gratitude, research and self-education, and social isolation. Based on the findings, the researcher emphasized the critical need for institutional and governmental support, community-wide acceptance and assistance, and overall societal compassion, understanding, and provision of aid for mothers of children with autism.
PSY 499, Capstone
Mary Ann Winter-Messiers
SPS 101
1:30 – 2:30 PM
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Luiz Muñoz

Elementary School Students At-Risk for Academic Failure
For decades, children in the US school system who are at-risk, have been neglected and avoided by teachers and administrators, exposing them to the likelihood of academic failure. In elementary school, children at-risk show signs of academic struggle when their grades fall below the class average. These children may be less likely to demonstrate academic success in school than their peers who are not at-risk. Thus, this presentation reviews four research trends in children at-risk for academic failure in elementary school. First, children at-risk may experience academic failure due to reading difficulties. Next, they may experience academic failure due to low math skills. Furthermore, children who are at-risk for academic failure may come from low SES homes. Finally, children at-risk for academic failure may reside in foster care. These common factors are four of many that may cause a child to be at-risk in academic progress. Researchers reported that if students at-risk do not have early help with their reading, they will fail academically. Due to their lack of curricular understanding in reading and math, children also expressed heightened anxiety and/or anger while being subjected to classroom testing. Moreover, children from low SES families or residential foster care who changed schools three to four times over a five-year period demonstrated higher cognitive dysregulation, which negatively affected their academic capabilities. Future directions for research will be discussed, including the need to conduct longitudinal studies that evaluate participants’ academic progress throughout future grade levels.
PSY 499, Capstone
Mary Ann Winter-Messiers
SPS 101
2:30 – 3 PM
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Jordan Norris

The Impact of Religious Belief on Domestic Violence
Women of faith around the world have long been oppressed by their intimate partners due to manipulation of biblical texts. This epidemic transcends culture, countries, and religion. Women of faith, however, may become more resilient after experiencing domestic violence. Thus, this presentation reviews four research trends of the interplay between religion and domestic violence. First, the exposure of men to domestic violence in childhood may predict their engaging in domestic violence in their own marriages. Next, women of faith may withstand domestic violence because of biblical gender roles enforced by their husbands. Moreover, women of faith may remain in situations of domestic violence due to being economically dependent on their husband. Finally, additional training and education may be needed in order to counsel victims who experienced domestic violence. These elements of domestic violence among women of faith may be perpetrated by the language and culture of religious institutions endorsing female submission. These institutions may have supported this because many clergy felt ill-equipped in handling situations of domestic violence, leading them to avoid confronting male perpetrators of domestic violence in their faith communities. Future directions for research will be discussed, including the need to explore domestic violence in other countries and other religions, e.g., Hinduism, Buddhism, and Mormonism, in order to gain a more accurate picture of the ways in which domestic violence transcends religions.
PSY 499, Capstone
Mary Ann Winter-Messiers
SPS 101
3 – 3:30 PM
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Tracey Raywinkle

The Impact of Cyberbullying on Adolescents
Adolescents today not only have to deal with traditional bullying but may also face cyberbullying. Adolescents and young adults who are the object of cyberbullying and involuntary isolation are more likely to engage in self-harm and suicidality than their non-bullied peers. Thus, this presentation will review four evidence-based factors of cyberbullying and the harm that it can bring upon vulnerable adolescents. First, the presentation will consider the evolution of bullying from traditional forms through today’s modern technology, or cyberbullying. Next, the presentation will review the impact of cyberbullying on adolescents in other countries. In addition, the presentation will examine the lack of relational and emotional support which may lead to cyberbullying. Finally, the presentation will highlight gender differences associated with cyberbullying. Researchers found that substance use and violent behavior may explain why both physical bullying and cyberbullying increased suicidal behavior in adolescents. Researchers also observed that both direct and relational victimization at school were positively associated with suicidal ideation, while relational victimization was more strongly associated with completed suicide. Researchers found that boys who experienced cyber-victimization were protected by schools, whereas, girls who experienced face-to-face victimization were more protected by parents. Lastly, experiencing cyberbullying not only resulted in girls having more negative attitudes toward school, but toward learning as well. Future directions for research will be discussed, including the need to gather more data from schools in other states and countries to increase the specificity of data, and the awareness of cyberbullying in other cultures.
PSY 499, Capstone
Mary Ann Winter-Messiers
SPS 101
3:30 – 4 PM
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Stephanie Steinhardt

Definitions of Calling: A Comparative Study of Qualitative Responses
The word “calling” is often used to describe the feeling or urge towards a profession or career; however, “calling” can also be broadly defined as an approach to life, especially for Christians. The present study was a content analysis on qualitative responses of 103 Northwest Christian University traditional and adult degree undergraduate students to open-ended questions on definitions of calling related to work and life. Several themes emerged from the responses. For definitions of calling as it relates to career, the themes identified were guiding factor (e.g., God’s plan), personal fit, and altruism. External forces, internal forces, and the greater good emerged as themes when considering one’s approach to career as a calling. Ninety-eight percent of the participants responded that calling applied to other areas of life; their explanations revealed that calling relates to everything, meaningful relationships, meaningful activities, and lifestyle. The findings of the present study support previous qualitative research that college students apply calling to their work and areas outside of paid work. A sense of calling has been linked with greater job and life satisfaction, so it is an important concept to study. Future research should investigate gender differences and the implications of calling to well-being.
PSY 499, Capstone
Nani Skaggs
SPS 101
11:30 AM – Noon
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Elizabeth Willet

Critical Factors in Childhood Resulting in Vulnerability to Human Trafficking
Human trafficking, with its main sub-category of sex trafficking, thrives globally in the 21st century. However, women and children are the most susceptible to sex trafficking victimization. Critical factors in childhood may increase the likelihood of adolescents becoming victims of sex trafficking. Therefore, this presentation addresses four current research themes of childhood maltreatment in pre-sex trafficking victimization. First, physical abuse and sexual abuse may predict later trafficking victimization. Second, influence perpetrated and modeled by family and friends engaged in the sex trade may increase the likelihood of victimization. Third, adolescents who experience homelessness and foster care may become future victims. Finally, later victimization may be predicted by childhood substance addiction. These factors may be the dominant elements of maltreatment that increase children’s vulnerability to traffickers. Researchers reported that both physical and sexual abuse factored heavily in the participants’ childhoods. Furthermore, researchers found similar findings regarding the latter three topics and their relations to childhood experiences. These factors may have increased victimization, because childhood maltreatment skewed the adolescents’ understanding of love and security, which lack may drive children to seek them from exterior sources. Future directions will be discussed, such as creating a cohesive and universal scale for measuring the vulnerability of sex trafficking victimization in children.
PSY 499, Capstone
Mary Ann Winter-Messiers
SPS 101
1 – 1:30 PM
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Tayler Anderson

The Impact of Autism Spectrum Disorder on Families

Developmental disorders can have substantial impact on individuals. Pervasive disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may have particular bearing on individuals’ everyday lives. The presence of an individual with ASD in a family may have both positive and challenging impact on neurotypical family members. Thus, this presentation will review four research trends regarding the impact of ASD on the family unit. First, having a child or adolescent with ASD may substantially impact the parents’ relationships. Next, neurotypical siblings are also impacted by the presence of a sibling with autism. Moreover, the Special Interest Area of a family member with ASD may impact families in diverse ways, e.g., the child may only focus on that topic. Lastly, financial impact is a considerable challenge for families with family members with autism. Researchers have observed that although some parent relationships have difficulty coping with the challenges of ASD, many parents face the obstacles together and remain committed to their relationships. Further, researchers emphasized that neurotypical siblings help their siblings with ASD to develop more effective social skills. In addition, researchers have stated that the Special Interest Areas of family members with ASD may result in diverse challenges for the family, e.g., extensive investment of time. Finally, researchers have reported that families in which a member has ASD may encounter substantial financial responsibilities, e.g., medical treatment and behavioral interventions. Future directions for research will be discussed, including the need for further research into the impact of Special Interest Areas on neurotypical siblings.

PSY 499, Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

SPS 100

2 – 2:30 PM

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Micah Jury

Horror and Trauma in Edgar Allan Poe’s Short-Stories through the lens of Psychology and Literature

Edgar Allan Poe’s stories are known for their gothic elements of murder, horror and insanity. Some of these stories are characterized by unstable central characters and their unwitting victims. This presentation will examine two of Poe’s short stories: “The Tell-Tale Heart” and “The Cask of Amontillado,” specifically analyzing the protagonists and the victims. The marked similarity between the protagonists will be highlighted by showing Poe’s use of both an unreliable narrator and focalization in his stories, as well as his use of conflicting facts within the text. These uses of literary techniques engage the reader and form the catalyst that propels the stories from merely disturbing to hauntingly gripping. In the second half of this presentation, psychological theorems of trauma, captivity, and Betrayal Trauma will be used to elucidate the emotional state of being in which the victims find themselves. In addition, the psychological state of the victims post facto will be examined using current psychological research. Future directions for research will also be addressed, including examining Poe’s tumultuous life and how it affected his writings.

ENG 499 & PSY 499, Capstone

James Watson/Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

SPS 100

2:30 – 3:30 PM

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Emily Morgan

The Impact of Sibling Loss Across the Lifespans of Surviving Siblings

Across centuries and cultures there have typically been siblings within the family unit, allowing for strong bonds to be created between brothers and sisters. Over the lifespan, however, siblings will pass away from various causes, leaving behind surviving siblings and an empty spot within the family. Due to this, the death of a sibling may predict adverse mental and physical health outcomes over the lifespan. Thus, this presentation reviews four research themes that examine the effects of sibling death on surviving siblings across the lifespan. First, parental perceptions regarding the mental states of surviving siblings following a sibling death will be analyzed. Next, the potential evolution of grief in surviving siblings one decade past sibling death will be examined. Moreover, the impact of sibling death on the mental health of surviving siblings will be analyzed. Finally, the risk of disabling conditions and premature mortality associated with siblings surviving sibling death will be examined. These themes tend to appear in surviving siblings across their lifespan, as they must cope with a new reality. With this life change, surviving siblings may experience Complicated Grief, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, anxiety, and depression. In addition, family dynamics change as there is now a missing part of the unit, and parents may be unable to give their surviving children their full attention, as they are going through their own grieving process. Future directions for research will be discussed, including the need to further examine sibling loss in adulthood and including more diverse population samples.

PSY 499, Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

SPS 100

1:30 – 2 PM

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Ruben Carmona

The Relation Between Children Raised in Foster Care and Increased Difficulties in Adulthood

Children who grow up in the foster care system typically face many adverse experiences. These adverse experiences may create complications for these children as they become young adults. In particular, growing up in the foster care system may predict an increased risk for developing mental health issues and substantial insecurity as they approach adulthood. This presentation will review four foster care research themes relating to mental health challenges and instability in young adulthood. First, placement instability in foster care may increase the chances of being diagnosed with a mental health disorder. Next, substance abuse in children within foster care may exacerbate the risk of their developing Substance Use Disorder. Additionally, children in foster care and older adolescents aging out of foster care, may experience homelessness at an increased rate compared to children who were not in foster care. Lastly, children in foster care may be at higher risk for developing comorbid mental health disorders in addition to their initial mental health diagnosis. Researchers have found that children placed in foster care often have difficulty developing relationships with their foster parents, teachers, and peers from school, due to the likelihood of their being frequently moved to different home placements. Researchers have also reported that children in foster care are more likely to use illegal drugs when compared to children who have not been in the foster care system. Future directions for research will also be discussed in the presentation, including the need to explore drug prevention programs for children in foster care and placement stability.

PSY 499, Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

SPS 100

10 – 10:30 AM

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Kelsey Hansen

The Emotional Impact of Cancer in Adults: Diagnosis to Post-Treatment Outcomes

Cancer has affected the lives of countless Americans for many decades and continues today to substantially impact individuals and their loved ones. In addition to the physical pain that one may experience while undergoing cancer treatment, there may also be emotional pain. The intervention of chemotherapy may result in emotional, mental, and cognitive side effects in adults undergoing treatment, as well as those who are living post-treatment. This presentation will review four research themes regarding the potential emotional, mental, and cognitive side effects of chemotherapy. These themes are: the roles of a cancer diagnosis in mental health, coping throughout treatment and survivorship, emotional and psychological distress in mental health, and quality of life in post-treatment. Researchers have reported that a cancer diagnosis may be traumatic and may result in depression, anxiety, and fear. They have further noted the importance for patients of learning various methods of coping with this diagnosis throughout their cancer journey. Emotional and psychological distresses may be substantial factors in the life of a cancer patient and may result from seeing a cancer diagnosis as life-threatening. This may result in individuals who have experienced a cancer diagnosis and treatment needing frequent social support in order to develop a satisfactory quality of life. Further, future directions for research are discussed in this presentation, including the need for providing participants with information regarding resources during their participation in research studies.

PSY 499, Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

SPS 100

10:30 – 11 AM

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Brighton Hebisen

Self-Care Practices in Response to Compassion Fatigue in Mental Health Professionals

Mental health professionals invest substantial time, energy, and resources in training and working hard to support others, but may have little to no support for themselves and may not practice regular self-care. As a result, compassion fatigue and burnout are prevalent in the mental health field. Mental health professionals who disregard the practice of self-care may experience increased compassion fatigue and burnout. This presentation will review four research themes regarding compassion fatigue and burnout in this professional population. These themes are: first, the various predictors of compassion fatigue and burnout among mental health professionals; second, the impact of service delivery location; third, self-care practices that may mitigate compassion fatigue; and finally, the ways in which compassion satisfaction may balance compassion fatigue. Researchers have found that the intense nature of mental health work requires these professionals to take part in self-care in order to lessen the risk of burnout and compassion fatigue. Individuals with more years in the field were found to be at higher risk for developing compassion fatigue or burnout. Further, researchers have reported that conducting therapy in private practice may decrease compassion fatigue in comparison to practice within the public agency. Those professionals who experienced greater compassion satisfaction from their work, decreased their risk of compassion fatigue, as well. Future directions are explored, including the need to examine gender differences, client age, and programs that can be implemented to prepare professionals for the intensity and potential risks of their work.

PSY 499, Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

SPS 100

11 – 11:30 AM

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Spencer Mattox

The Quality of the Mentor-Mentee Relationship and Its Impact on Youth

For decades, US communities have dealt with the issues of drugs, violence, and substance abuse. Countless children in these communities grow up without any positive adult figures to protect and support them in choosing appropriate behaviors and discouraging them from engaging in criminal activity. Whether at-risk youth are able to envision a positive future may be determined by the quality of the mentor-mentee relationship. This presentation will review four themes in which researchers explore the impact of the mentor-mentee relationship in building a positive future for at-risk youth. First, the duration of the mentor-mentee relationship is a key element in positively or negatively impacting the at-risk youth’s life. Second, the characteristics the mentor possesses may enable his or her mentee to achieve the mentee’s goals. Third, increased ethnic diversity in the mentor community may benefit the mentor and the mentee. Finally, the role the informal mentor plays in the life of his or her mentee is vital. Researchers have found that, it is essential for mentors to possess positive attributes in order to establish trust with their mentees. This, in turn, will augment the mentees’ self-esteem. Researchers noted that when the mentor and mentee spend time together, positive results are observed in the behaviors of the mentee. Future directions for research will also be discussed in the presentation, including the need to conduct studies in communities heavily populated with at-risk youth.

PSY 499, Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

SPS 100

11:30 AM – Noon

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Selena Portillo Barrera

Pre- and Post-Flight Traumatization Factors in Refugee Populations

The current refugee crisis worldwide is a phenomenon that has arisen due to unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters, political unrest, and human devastation. Refugee populations face a preponderance of internal and external challenges in their nomadic search toward safety and resettlement in the new society of a host country. Pre- and post-flight resettlement status in the refugee population may predict traumatization in the form of physical and mental ill health, sexual assault, and diverse socio-economic and cultural acclimation challenges. This presentation will focus on four areas in which refugee populations demonstrate traumatization: prevalence of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder amongst pre-flight refugees, sexual assault and gender-based violence perpetrated against pre-flight female refugees, mental and physical ill-health challenges faced by post-flight refugees, socio-economic and acclimation challenges in a post-flight society. Researchers have found Post-traumatic Stress Disorder to be especially prevalent in culturally diverse refugee populations, but also that war-affected refugees are most impacted. Lack of access to mental and medical health services hinders the refugee resettlement process in the host society, along with cultural barriers such as preconceived attitudes, language, and mistrust of “other.” Future directions for research are discussed, such as the need to access multicultural mental health services and trauma counseling at an earlier stage of the refugee immigration process.

PSY 499, Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

SPS 100

1 – 1:30 PM

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Kimberly Snyder

Women, Religiosity, and Intimate Partner Violence

Intimate partner violence has long been a pervasive issue for women, occurring across all ethnicities, socioeconomic status, religions, and races. A wide variety of survival skills are employed by these women to help cope with the abuse they are experiencing. Despite the breadth of personal differences, these victims commonly utilize religion. Personal religious devotion may strengthen their capacity to survive intimate partner violence and post relationship trauma. This presentation reviews four research trends in personal religious beliefs as a coping strategy. First, women may reach out to clergy members or religious leaders for support and counseling. Moreover, prayer may be a particularly common coping mechanism. In addition, religious coping may be particularly prevalent among African-American and other Black women. In contrast, some researchers argue that personal religious devotion may be an ineffective coping technique, causing barriers to healing. Researchers have found women who rely on their religious beliefs to survive the violence credit a myriad of ways religion helped them. The violence perpetrated by intimate partners leaves lasting psychological trauma for victims. Researchers report that the coping strategies used may help strengthen women’s resilience in these relationships, and help provide additional support in post-traumatic healing. Future directions for research will also be discussed in this presentation, including resources for these victims at religious communities.

PSY 499, Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

SPS 100

1:30 – 2 PM

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Sonja Towner

Adverse Effects of Child Abuse in Adult Females

Childhood abuse creates a substantial and long-lasting impact that may follow women into adulthood. Abusive events of girlhood may traumatize young girls, leaving them vulnerable to myriad post-traumatic outcomes mentally, physically, and emotionally. Women abused prior to the age of 11 may be at greater risk for mental illness and substance abuse through self-medication in adulthood. This presentation will review four areas which researchers have identified as possible adverse effects of girlhood abuse. First, women use substances to self-medicate to avoid the negative affect associated with girlhood abuse and learned negative reinforcement. Second, substance abuse may intensify girlhood maltreatment-induced mental illness. Third, women who have been exposed to adverse girlhood experiences may be at greater risk for diverse negative outcomes in adulthood. Finally, exposure to multiple adverse experiences in girlhood may lead to comorbid disorders in adulthood, further exacerbating other negative symptoms. Researchers have found that the effects of abuse in girlhood may be clinically significant. Moreover, researchers found that women experienced outcomes including substance abuse, mental illness, and incarceration. Researchers have reported a potential link between girlhood maltreatment and the traumatic events that may follow girls into adulthood. Future directions will also be discussed in this presentation, including the need for a longitudinal study that explores the impact of each type of adverse event in mental illness and substance abuse. Furthermore, researchers should also study why some women demonstrate resilience to girlhood abuse while others remain deeply impacted over their lifetimes.

PSY 499, Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

SPS 100

2 – 2:30 PM

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Janieve Boyles

Changing Attitudes Towards LGBTQ in Christianity

In recent history, acceptance of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) individuals has increased in some cultures. Furthermore, some states in the U.S. and countries recognize same-sex marriage. While times are changing, there has been an undeniable divide between Evangelical Christians and the LGBTQ community. This gap has been created due to the firm belief based on scripture that homosexuality is wrong and sinful. Many Evangelical Protestants hold traditional, conservative views and beliefs. These traditional, conservative attitudes towards LGBTQ are harmful and destructive, but are changing due to biological explanations of same sex attraction, personal experience with LGBTQ people, and alternative Biblical interpretations. Contributing factors to an opposition of same-sex rights and prejudice toward LGBTQ in Christianity are right wing authoritarianism, a strong belief that the nature of homosexuality is a choice, and friendships with like-minded thinkers in religious contexts. Traditional, conservative attitudes towards LGBTQ are often filled with disgust, judgement, and lack of acceptance that are hurtful and painful for the LGBTQ community. There are many negative consequences of prejudiced attitudes, discrimination, and victimization of LGBTQ people including increases in substance abuse, homelessness, and suicide. Many Evangelical Christian attitudes are changing due to biological explanations, exposure to LGBTQ people, and acceptance by younger generations. These changes are leading to positive outcomes for LGBTQ people. Christian spaces are becoming more welcoming and appealing to LGBTQ individuals as the environments become safer and accepting. Prejudice, discrimination, and victimization have negative impacts on LGBTQ people, so ways to support the LGBTQ community need to be implemented.

PSY 499, Capstone

Nani Skaggs

P103

1:30 – 2 PM

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Olivia Cordes

Oppositional Defiant Disorder in Children

Parenting a child is one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences a person may encounter in his or her lifetime. Parents find themselves honing their parenting skills as their child grows, sometimes to the child’s detriment, because early childhood is a crucial period for mental, physical, and emotional development. Therefore, children who are substantially negatively impacted by their socio-familial environment may be at higher risk for developing Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) than children raised in a more nurturing environment. This presentation reviews research themes in parenting styles, emotion regulation, parent-child relationship quality, and gender differences. Specifically, one cause of ODD may be negative parenting styles that include inconsistent discipline and harsh punishment toward a child. In addition, children who are subjected to poor parenting styles may develop emotion regulation deficits. As a result, when a parent lacks communication skills and experience, it is common for their negative parent-child interactions to interfere with healthy development. This may then lead children to exhibit inappropriate behaviors, e.g., aggression or hostility. Gender differences may also be a factor in the development of ODD, with symptoms appearing more frequently in males than females. Future directions are addressed, including the need for further research on global child maltreatment measures and deeper examination of post-treatment levels of positive parent-child relationships.

PSY 499, Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

P114

2:30 – 3:00

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Alaina Thomson

Women in Academe

Females have long been undermined and abused throughout history when societal expectations surrounding the roles of women are challenged. In the academy, many women contest gender-based stereotypes as they strive to shatter the glass ceiling by pursuing education, careers, and advancement. Women in academia may experience substantial discrimination in comparison to their male peers. This presentation reviews four research trends in discrimination in higher education. First, prejudice against women academics is prominent in the oppressive gender inequality to which they are regularly subjected. Next, women experience bias in workplace sexism. Moreover, women of color in the academy may be additionally confronted with gender-based racial discrimination. Finally, women academics may also experience inequity based on their current or potential status as mothers, which intolerance may hinder their careers and futures. These elements of discrimination may be perpetuated largely by the dominant oft male-governed institutions of higher education. As women pursue academic careers they are stymied by the exclusive, abusive nature of predominantly male social networks, e.g., “good old boys” clubs, that ensure the success, notoriety, and advancement of men. Researchers have reported that higher education may perpetuate an environment that is hostile for women. This may be due to the attitudes and actions of administrators, fellow faculty, staff, and students toward women academics. Future directions for research are discussed, including the need to explore the gender-specific sacrifices that women academics must make to be successful in their careers and co-exist with males in mutually nurturing environment.

PSY 499, Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

P114

3 – 3:30 PM

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Canaan Threlfall

Parental Incarceration and its Effects on Children

Children whose parent is incarcerated struggle emotionally, behaviorally, and educationally.  Emotionally, children experience attachment issues, depression, and high levels of stress due to parental absence.  Behaviorally, children with incarcerated parents have a higher likelihood of being delinquents, and they struggle with behaviors such as aggression and conduct disorder.  Educationally, these children experience many difficulties in school. The difficulties include, trouble completing homework and the struggle to pay attention in class. These difficulties result in a lack of motivation that can lead to poor academic success and school dropout.  Research shows that providing emotional support can help children with incarcerated parents succeed emotionally, behaviorally, and educationally, thus leading to positive outcomes.

PSY 499, Capstone

Nani Skaggs

P103

1 – 1:30 PM

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Chelsea Stone

Substance Abuse and Intimate Relationships

Substance abuse disorder is a mental health issue, which has a significant impact on an individual and their intimate partner. If one or both intimate partners abuse substances, relationship quality and functioning are negatively affected. Further, studies reveal that couples in which one or both intimate partners are abusing drugs or alcohol are at a higher risk for intimate partner violence than couples who do not abuse drugs or alcohol. Effective treatment options for the individual with a substance abuse disorder need to equip the individual with effective tools and resources to increase relationship quality and functioning with their intimate partner.

PSY 499, Capstone

Nani Skaggs

P114

1 – 1:30 PM

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Emily Sutherland

The Benefits of Breastfeeding

In past years, breastfeeding was not seen as an important practice for new mothers, but researchers have found that it may have many positive effects on a child later in life. Wet nursing, feeding, and the use of formula were all feeding practices of the past some are still practiced today, but a mother’s breast milk may be ideal food for infants. This presentation addresses four researcher themes on the benefits of breastfeeding, including how it may positively affect a child’s cognitive and language development, prevent obesity, reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), and strengthen an infant’s immune system. Researchers have found that babies who were exclusively breastfed were more likely to achieve higher levels of language capacity as well as language fluency at a young age. Babies who were breastfed were also more likely to remain at a healthy weight as they grew, as opposed to babies who were not breastfed. SIDS is also a concern for parents, but researchers have found that if a baby is breastfed, a mother’s breast milk gives the baby nutrients that may prevent illnesses that can cause SIDS in infants. One important factor of breastfeeding is the duration of breastfeeding. Breastfeeding duration may positively affect the overall health of the infant. Future directions for research include investigating the psychological development of breastfed infants in comparison to infants who are not breastfed.

PSY 499, Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

P003

1:30 – 2 PM

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Chelsea Taylor

Recidivism of Sex Offenders

Many believe sex crimes to be one of the most despicable and brutal crimes an individual can both commit and experience. Sexual offenses violate the most intimate part of a person, violating physically, emotionally, mentally, and sexually. It is often falsely believed that the rate of recidivism for sex offenders is higher than the average crime, due to its oftentimes violent and invasive nature. Due to this belief, sex offenders are often stigmatized by the public, even upon releasement. In order to understand the recidivism of sex offenders, this presentation will gather information from researchers who explored elements which show promise in reducing their rate of recidivism. This will then prevent future sex crimes, thus reducing the number of victims and leading citizens to become more productive. Despite the stigma and other obstacles which increase the likelihood of recidivism, researchers pinpointed possible elements which indicated reduced recidivism rates. Those elements include purposeful sentencing, rehabilitation and therapy, and reintegration techniques. Understanding what perpetuates sex offender recidivism as well as developing tools in order to prevent recidivism, the anticipation is fewer sex crimes, thus, fewer brutal violations of innocent men, women, and children.  Future directions for research and victim impact will also be addressed.

PSY 499

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

P003

2 – 2:30 PM

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Haley Cochell

Compassion Fatigue in Counseling Professionals

“There is a cost to caring.” With these striking words, Figley (1995) exposed a darker side to the counseling profession in opening his chapter on compassion fatigue in counseling professionals. He assigned the term compassion fatigue to the counseling field to describe a set of adverse symptoms that professionals may experience in the course of their work. Researchers have demonstrated that some compassion fatigue symptoms are comparable to those of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (e.g., intrusive thoughts, hypervigilance, nightmares, migraines). Researchers have also identified the development of self-doubt as a recurrent symptom of compassion fatigue, e.g., over half the participants in one study reported signs of self-doubt. Conversely, many professional counselors report confidence-building personal outcomes derived from their professional engagement with clients, e.g., satisfaction, fulfillment, and other positive emotions or responses; these positive outcomes are known as compassion satisfaction. Researchers have recognized the positive role of compassion satisfaction in the lives of professional counselors; compassion satisfaction may buffer the adverse effects of compassion fatigue. Moreover, researchers have found evidence to support several protective factors that professionals may use to prevent or address compassion fatigue in a healthy manner. There is critical need for further study of compassion satisfaction, as well as exploration of the impact of gender and racial/ethnic differences and religious/spiritual commitment on the experience of compassion fatigue in counselors. Such studies may aid professionals in taking care of themselves so that they may continue to provide caring and effective services for their clients.

PSY 499

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

PFB 103

1:30 – 2:00 PM

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Trevyn DuBois

The Effects of Dog Owner’s Personality on Dog Behavior

The bond between dogs and people is well documented. Many different factors can affect this important relationship, which could include a variety of different aspects of dog behavior as well as human behavior. In the current study, the link between owner personality traits, specifically extraversion and neuroticism, and dog behavior was measured. Twenty-three dog-owner dyads were recruited from a local area pet store. Participants completed a Big Five personality traits scale that measured extraversion, neuroticism, openness to experience, agreeableness, and conscientiousness. Participants were asked to get their dogs to sit using only commands (no food or physical manipulation were allowed). The number of commands given and the latency to sit were recorded. There was no relationship between owner’s extraversion and number of commands needed for the dog to sit, but there was a statistically significant negative correlation between dog’s latency to sit and owner’s neuroticism. Those dogs that took less time to sit had owners who scored higher on the neuroticism trait. Particular owner personality traits do appear to play a role in dog behavior.

PSY 499 Capstone

Nani Skaggs

PFB 103

1:00 – 1:30 PM

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Ana Ortiz

Obesity and Eating Disorders in Adulthood as Potential  Outcomes of  Trauma in Childhood

Childhood trauma is a continuous and prevalent problem in US society, creating a ripple effect in the physical and mental health of individuals later in adulthood. In 2012 alone, there were 3.4 million referrals made on behalf of children who were abused or neglected. Researchers have found that children who experience trauma, e.g., sexual, physical, or verbal abuse, and/or neglect, are more likely to become obese or develop eating disorders as adults. Sixty-one percent of American adults are considered obese, one in 200 American women suffer from anorexia, and two to three in 100 American women suffer from bulimia. Furthermore, researchers have found that the specific type of abuse experienced in childhood correlates with the level of severity in individuals’ eating disorders or obesity. Finally, the paper will present the findings of researchers exploring the role of Depressive Disorder in the lives of adults struggling with obesity and eating disorders.

PSY 499 Capstone

Mary Ann Winter-Messiers

PFB 103

2:00 – 2:30 PM

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