APUS Richard G. Trefry Archives | Home: Psychology

Sarah Holcomb
Program: Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: February 2024
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Andre Rawls
Abstract: Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, organizations all over the world have grappled with implementing effective remote work models. This literature review explores the transition seen in recent years from an initial widespread employer embrace of remote work to a more cautious approach as organizations begin calling their employees back into the office. As employees have resisted such return to work mandates, employers have cited organizational culture - consisting of organizational mindsets, abilities, systems and structures - as the driving force behind reducing flexible work arrangements. While recent research has found that telework can significantly employee wellness leading to increased productivity and engagement, other findings suggest that there are several drawbacks to remote work, including disconnection from company culture and negative impacts to career advancement and development opportunities. In order to address both the benefits and the drawbacks to telework, organizations have begun implementing hybrid work models which provides employees with the “best of both worlds” of telework and in-office presence. As telework is likely here to stay for the foreseeable future, trust and communication between organizations and their employees will be primary factors driving the success behind such flexible work arrangements in the new norm of the workplace.

LaTeia Kizer
Program: Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: February 2024
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Andre Rawls
Abstract: This literature review delves into the diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among children aged five to eight who have experienced severe physical abuse from caregivers in the United States. The study identifies three main themes. First, it examines the prevalence and impact of severe physical abuse, which is a widespread issue leading to life-threatening injuries. Second, this literature review analyses and contrasts the diagnostic criteria for PTSD in the DSM-5 and ICD-11. These criteria differ in structure and diagnostic thresholds, with varying results regarding their validity and reliability in diagnosing young trauma survivors. Third, this review explores the diagnostic practices of PTSD in young abuse victims. The literature shows that most U.S. providers opt not to use DSM-5 criteria due to various barriers, such as insufficient training and resources. Instead, alternative diagnoses are preferred, impacting the quality of treatment and the outcomes for young victims of abuse. In summary, this literature review underscores the complexities of diagnosing PTSD in young abuse victims. The high prevalence and severity of severe physical abuse in young children emphasize the need for a nuanced and well-informed approach to diagnosis, informing better clinical practices.

Michelle Nicolay
Program: Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: January 2024
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Monique M. Chouraeshkenazi
Abstract: This paper aimed to investigate the short and long-term psychosocial health outcomes of pediatric oncology patients and their healthy siblings by expanding child life (CL) services to regularly include healthy sibling and home-based care. The initial research strategy was to gather substantial information on the status of psychosocial services being provided to pediatric oncology patients and their siblings, specifically by child life specialists (CLSs). This search was then expanded to include differing perspectives on the need for additional services, barriers, and psychosocial outcomes related to these services, and included additional careers such as pediatric nurses, child psychologists, and social workers. This literature review concluded that expanding CL services to include healthy siblings and home-based care enhanced psychosocial outcomes for pediatric oncology patients and their healthy siblings. However, many barriers exist at multiple dimensions that are preventing adequate provision of these services. This research highlighted the need to initiate policy change and modification to the provision standards within the CL community if it wants to have improved psychosocial health outcomes and adhere to the tenant of family-centered care.

Morgan Rae Willis
Program: Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: January 2024
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Monique M. Chouraeshkenazi
Abstract: Traumatic experiences in childhood create an adverse and enduring impact on an individual's psychological well-being. Evidence to support a connection between childhood trauma and mental illness has been thoroughly developed, yet this association with schizophrenia is underexamined. The primary aim of this integrative capstone project was to review current literature regarding individuals with a history of childhood trauma and their potential to develop schizophrenia. This investigation discovered that emotional and physical neglect were the most common methods of childhood trauma among individuals with schizophrenia. Additionally, various genetic, environmental, and biological factors indicated that the incidence of childhood trauma could potentially predict the development of schizophrenia. These factors included genetic vulnerabilities, neurotransmitter regulations, epigenetic modifications, familial relationships, socioeconomics, and neurobiological and structural brain dysfunctions. Furthermore, the discovery of psychiatric and medical comorbidities, including anxiety, depression, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease, was ubiquitous among the individuals assessed within the studies. The significance of identifying the most common methods, factors, and comorbidities associated with childhood trauma and schizophrenia was to support researchers and mental health professionals in determining the causation of schizophrenia. This discovery would aid in the advancement of treatment resources, interventions, and preventative measures for individuals seeking care.

Jessica Austin
Program: Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: October 2023
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Pamela Curtin
Abstract: The psychological community has observed evidence of a correlation between neurological activity and mental states, but specific, definitive brain-mind causations have yet to be demonstrated. The research purpose was to distill the correlation between the physical and chemical structures of the material brain and the cognitive patterns of the immaterial mind. The literature was conducted to explore the role of defective brain architecture, its various neurobiochemical atmospheres, and medical intervention responses. The theoretical framework selected for this paper is the neurobiological perspective. According to this theory, psychological outcomes are influenced by brain characteristics. Three subthemes emerged from the research: a) brain chemistry and psychological disorders, b) brain structure and psychological disorders, and c) neuropsychological disorders and treatment. Differences in brain mass sizes and certain neurochemical deficiencies were identified as some of the brain abnormalities connected to psychological disorders. The collection of findings provide evidence for the causal relationship between the material brain and the expression of the mind, together with some preliminary solutions for treatment.

Windy Garrett Calvert
Program: Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: May 2023
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Andre W. Rawls
Abstract: This research examines the issue of sexual assault in the United States military, specifically the impact of women's integration on rates of assault and the problem of Military Sexual Trauma (MST) and treatment options. The methodology includes a sampling approach that focuses on primary research studies published over the last ten years, peer-reviewed studies, and relevance to the research topic. The findings indicate a high prevalence of sexual assault on women in the military, which has significant consequences for the well-being and safety of service members. The review shows various efforts to prevent and address sexual assault in the military, including policy and legislative changes, training programs, and victim support services. The studies reviewed highlight the importance of addressing the issue of MST and providing appropriate treatment options for survivors. The research suggests that more needs to be done to address the issue of sexual assault in the military and ensure the proper integration of women. The investigation also found that sexual assault significantly impacts military personnel, including physical and mental health consequences, career progression, and retention. The studies also show a need to improve the prevention and response to sexual assault, including implementing gender-specific strategies and addressing the military culture.

Rebecca Krause
Program: Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: June 2023
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Pamela Curtin
Abstract: Neurodivergent individuals (NDIs) are disproportionately underrepresented in the workforce, but the reasons for this have not been fully uncovered. The research purpose was to explore what is known about the employment barriers that NDIs face that prevent them from achieving stable careers. The literature review process included an examination of the current research about NDIs’ experiences in the workplace, information on their job performance, and the perceptions of their coworkers. The review scrutinizes the collected data through the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) theory, which states that if occupational demands exceed available resources, workers will encounter stress, reduced productivity, and burnout. The studies examined fell into three subthemes: the differences in neurodivergent workers, costs and benefits to organizations, and obstacles and solutions faced at work. Some of the barriers NDIs faced that interfered with employment were burnout, stressful hiring processes, and negative stigma around their conditions or accommodations. The combined findings are used to demonstrate that NDIs encountered greater demands in employment settings than their neurotypical peers, that interview-based hiring practices were a frequent barrier to entry, and that educating the workforce about neurodiversity significantly increased their available resources.

Suleika Torres Lugo
Program: Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: April 2023
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Andre W. Rawls
Abstract: Child abuse is a silent epidemic that has persisted in all areas of our society, including the United States Armed Services, since the start of humanity. The primary objective of this research is to explore the prevalence of child abuse among military families, to identify the risk factors within the family that generate abusive behaviors towards these children, and to assess the effects of parental deployment, revictimization, and the resources available to military members and their families. A sample of twenty-four peer-reviewed articles and supplemental literature were analyzed in this review. The findings revealed that the male gender was identified as one of several risk variables that may predispose children to maltreatment. Concerning military-specific risk variables, rank or pay grade has been connected with abuse risk since the vast number of parent offenders tend to be junior enlisted personnel. Likewise, the deployment cycle is accompanied by a series of separations and adjustments that strain family dynamics and relationships. Child abuse rates, especially by civilian parents, were shown to be significantly higher during deployment. The need for further research to identify risk and protective factors among other branches of the armed forces where child abuse occurs repeatedly cannot be overstated.

Clifford Bernard Marsh
Program: Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: July 2023
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Beau Diehl
Abstract: The purpose of the literature review is to assess how mental health professionals in South Carolina have fared psychologically and emotionally since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. The literature review consisted of a review of research conducted over the past three calendar years. The search consisted of investigating the impact, if any, of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health professionals who were frontline responders with those affected by the virus. The findings if healthcare professionals of all types, to include mental health providers, were personally and professionally impacted with the suddenness of the systemic impact of COVID-19 and the associated changes existent throughout the United States. COVID-19 was not an urban issue, but an issue that impacted rural areas, and mental health professionals working in these geographic areas. COVID-19 provided an unfortunate opportunity to learn more about best practices towards devising alternate programming to assist with the individualized clinical needs of diverse clientele. Further research can assist with identifying best practices towards preparedness of how best to provide services in the event of another international pandemic.

Michael McVey
Program: Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: May 2023
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Andre W. Rawls
Abstract: The Gottman method is an evidence-based approach to couple therapy that is effective in helping partners overcome relationship distress and enact changes that lead to long-term relational satisfaction. However, the curriculum presented in Gottman training programs introduces participants to a vast amount of background data and research findings, a sprawling theoretical framework, and dozens of assessment tools and interventions. All of this can be overwhelming for experienced therapists, much less new ones. This capstone project begins with an overview of the field of couple therapy that considers how the Gottman method arose within the field. It then reviews the recent research on the Gottman method, highlighting key themes in the research pertinent to psychotherapy integration, psychoeducation, intimate partner violence, and diversity. It then offers considerations for new therapists based on these themes, and finally distills key elements of Gottman therapy into a proposed framework that new therapists can use to facilitate their learning and practice of the method.

Gloria A. Moran
Program: Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: February 2023
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Pamela A. Curtin
Abstract: In this literature review, the ameliorative effects of exercise interventions upon mental health disorders were explored. With the rising prevalence of mental health disorders, it is critical that additional treatment interventions are developed. The review process consisted of searching scholarly databases for current research articles surrounding the use of exercise interventions in the treatment of mental health disorders. The Biopsychosocial Theory was utilized as a framework through which to analyze mental health disorders and the multitude of factors that influence both their occurrence as well as treatment. The articles were divided into the subthemes of treatments for depressive disorders, treatments for anxiety-related disorders, and treatments for generalized mental health disorders. The findings indicate that exercise could be effectively used in the treatment of mental health disorders, including major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder. Further research is needed to determine what mode, intensity, and frequency of exercise prove most efficacious in reducing mental health symptomology, as well as the long-term effectiveness of such treatments.

Sheri Newcomb
Program: Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: June 2023
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Pamela A. Curtin
Abstract: In this literature review, postpartum depression (PPD) and Attachment Theory were examined. The objective of this research was to explore treatment options and interventions that may benefit mothers with PPD and their children. This review was conducted by investigating scholarly databases to find articles related to PPD and attachment. Attachment theory serves as the theoretical framework for this literature review. This research encompasses various aspects, including the subthemes of understanding of postpartum depression, an exploration of Attachment Theory, the examination of treatments for PPD, and intervention methods for attachment disorders. PPD can cause symptoms that are not favorable to the maternal-infant bonding process, therefore, can negatively impact attachment development. Interventions and preventative measures can be used to ensure secure attachment is developed. Additional research into treatments for PPD and attachment development will benefit mothers and their infants dealing with PPD.

Kennith M. Shiflett
Program: Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: March 2023
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Andre W. Rawls
Abstract: This literature review explains the history, and origins of automatic item generation (AIG), test security overhaul, test security in AIG, and test security in neural networks. The Corona Virus 19 caused significant shifts in the way tests are being administered, which is allowing artificial intelligence to come to bear as a method to assist in securing high-stakes exams. Automatic item generation and the use of neural networks is allowing the community of test developers, credentialing specialist, and testing sites to implement newer security measures that are highly capable and adaptable.

Cheryl Tiouat
Program: Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: August 2023
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Beau Diehl
Abstract: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is associated with highly disruptive symptoms such as impulsivity, inattention, and hyperactivity that can lead to unfavorable outcomes in many domains. Although ADHD was once misconceived as a condition that only affects children, current research suggests that a substantial percentage of the adult population now meets the diagnostic criteria for the disorder. While pharmaceutical approaches are often the first-line approaches to treatment, many individuals do not respond well to ADHD medications, are unable to pursue this avenue of treatment, or are opposed to pharmacological interventions altogether. For many adults, however, non-pharmacological treatments can be safe and efficacious strategies to reduce ADHD symptoms. This literature review investigates the efficacy of current and emerging interventions for the disorder that do not include medication and examines the validity of treatment approaches consisting of behavioral therapies, mindfulness training, exercise, neuromodulation, neurofeedback, online interventions, and various emerging therapies. The review discusses the main themes and findings that were observed, limitations noted in the research examined, implications for future research, and concludes that many non-pharmacological approaches are highly effective while not being associated with the limitations and risks that come with ADHD medication.

Rileymarie Clarke
Program: Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: October 2022
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Pamela A. Curtin
Abstract: In this review, the potential for classic psychedelics to treat Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) was examined. There are limited treatment options available to people with BPD; novel interventions and further research are necessary. Psychedelic research is compounding, and psychedelic substances are being utilized to treat various conditions as more information becomes available and applied in clinical practice. The review process consisted of searching databases for single-study scholarly articles and categorizing, evaluating, and synthesizing findings. Predictive Processing Theory was applied as a framework to understand how psychedelics impact perception and cognition and lead to enduring changes in the brain and subjective life experiences. The impact of psychedelics on common BPD symptoms, common comorbidities associated with BPD, and personality and overall well-being were explored. Psychedelics had positive impact on symptoms of BPD, effectively treated common comorbidities with BPD such as eating disorders, mood disorders, substance use disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder, and generally enhanced well-being. Further research is necessary in this field, that psychedelics work well as a complementary assist to traditional therapeutic interventions, and that clinicians would benefit from understanding psychedelic experiences and best practices to support preparation and integration for clients.

Colin A. Harris
Program: Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: August 2022
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Andre Rawls
Abstract: There are a variety of treatment modalities available to those diagnosed with developmental conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is currently one of the more popular treatment approaches supported by empirical research data and covered by military health insurance. Although mental health providers specializing in ABA can be found on or near most major military installations, studies have shown that a considerable number of service members with an ASD-diagnosed child report difficulty finding and accessing treatment for their child following a military PCS (permanent change of station) move. Common consensus among those reporting are themes like delays in diagnosis/assessment, interrupted or restarted individualized education plans (IEPs), inconsistency in quality and variability of services between different locations, and difficulty locating providers in a new area. Multiple studies have suggested the potential of technology in mitigating these challenges through such programs as mentorship training for parents, basic ABA practice training for parents and educators, and even the use of tablet (i.e., iPad) applications to foster skills in language and academic development. Such programs may enhance family involvement and effectiveness in the treatment process during those transitional periods between school systems and mental health providers.

Shaylee Nicole Kile
Program: Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: August 2022
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Andre Rawls
Abstract: Deployment is often cited as a heroic and honorable thing to do, especially for service members with young children and families. The impact of deployment on the psyches of soldiers who return home from combat has been divulged into deeply, with numerous studies and even therapeutic techniques invented to alleviate the accompanying symptomology service members’ bear. However, the children of these service members are often an afterthought amidst overwhelming concern to enable the soldier to return to a life of normalcy. The saying goes that military families serve too, however support for the psychological impact parental absence and reintegration difficulties in children is repeatedly thrown to the wayside. The purpose of this literature review is to examine the mental health impact of military parent deployment on the mental health and well-being of military youth. Research included within this literature review is relevant to the assessment of the effect military deployment can impose on children and adolescents. Furthermore, risk and protective factors, such as deployment, marital tension, military affiliation, self-esteem, and resiliency are discussed, along with potential solutions to reduce stress within the military family unit. The paper concludes with recommendations as well as further research prospects designed to minimize the influence of deployment and other considerable factors. In order to reduce bias within my research, studies that yield no significant findings were included as to demonstrate future avenues are still left open for researchers to explore.

Jessica D. Ogozaly
Program: Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: October 2022
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Beau James Diehl
Abstract: Mental illness is multiple or one disorder that may cause severe disruptions in an individual’s life. Mental illness is becoming a concern worldwide and affects the ability to function appropriately in society. Severe mental illness is a set of disorders causing the inability to think and feel about others and their surroundings. Severe mental illnesses include schizophrenia, personality disorders, bipolar, and several others. People with severe mental illness (SMI) may be identified in society as “weak”, or “crazy” which creates judgment and biases within the workplace. Employment among the SMI population finds barriers to obtain and maintain due to discrimination and not being able to fit into the workplace. Another barrier for individuals who have a severe mental illness is living in poor conditions which creates barriers socially and economically. There is an overlap in the literature showing how poverty may lead to homelessness due to individuals not being able to financially afford housing because they are limited to income.

Julie Ross
Program: Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: June 2022
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Pamela Curtin
Abstract: Animal assisted intervention (AAI) includes structured and unstructured time spent with certified therapy animals. The research purpose was to explore the effectiveness of AAI for the treatment of mental health concerns in children. The review process involved searching scholarly databases for current research articles about the use of AAI in treating children with a variety of mental health issues. Bowlby and Ainsworth proposed in their Attachment Theory that secure attachment to primary caregivers allows children to learn to regulate their affective states, develop coping strategies, and develop socially. The articles reviewed were divided into the subthemes AAI for Autism Spectrum Disorder, AAI for Other Mental Disorders, and AAI for Adverse Childhood Experiences. The findings indicated AAI provided positive feelings of emotional and physical safety to children with who had experienced Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), reduced the severity of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptoms, and relieved symptoms such as anxiety and depression. Additional randomized, controlled studies with larger sample sizes are still needed to better understand the generalizability of recent findings as well as studies that focus on the mechanisms of AAI that produce positive treatment outcomes.

Eileen Stevens
Program: Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: June 2021
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Pamela Curtin
Abstract: In this review, the role of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in trauma-related psychopathology was examined. The HPA axis controls the stress response, an evolutionary survival mechanism, known as “fight or flight.” Researchers have linked changes in HPA axis functioning due to trauma and stress to psychopathology, including depression, PTSD, and substance use disorders. Individuals with a history of trauma or chronic stress exhibit impaired stress responses indicated by HPA axis hyporeactivity, measured as reduced cortisol levels. Researchers have linked maladaptive responses such as self-harm, stress eating, and substance use as attempts to achieve allostasis by choosing behaviors that increase cortisol levels. The review process involved searching databases such as ProQuest Central and APA Psych Articles for scholarly articles. B.F. Skinner’s theory of operant conditioning was utilized to understand how changes in HPA axis functioning can result in psychopathology, as behavior is learned through interaction with the environment and strengthened through positive reinforcement. The effects of trauma and chronic stress were explored, including how they change HPA axis functioning, resulting in maladaptive behavioral responses. Treatment and prevention of HPA axis dysfunction was examined as a way to reduce and prevent psychopathology.

Kristyn Larae Jackson
Program Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded January 2021
Capstone Instructor:Dr. Melissa Trevathan-Minnis
Understanding the concepts of marital rape and the differences across world is critical to dissecting views of culture, religion and myths. The purpose is to shed light on the injustice survivors of marital rape receive and the foundation it is formed upon. This research is important to understanding the commonality of marital rape, the injustice present, and the lack of acknowledgement of the reality of marital rape. It is far more severe than any other type of rape because of the psychological component and the deep level of betrayal by a loved one. The findings show that culturally and religiously, marital rape perpetrators have been given free passes to do what they chose to those closest to them, solely based on the fact that they are married to them. Findings also show that victims of marital rape continue to feed into the justification of rape myths because of the pure fact they do not report. This continues the cycle in the belief that ‘husbands cannot rape their wives’ because wives are intimidated and conceptualized to believe they are not victims. Accountability is necessary for change to happen and that starts with deep rooted cultural and religious ties.

Casey L. Hayes
Program Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded January 2021
Capstone Instructor:Dr. Melissa Trevathan-Minnis
It has scarcely been tested whether the opinions held towards online learning regarding motivation, performance, and sociality are accurate in comparison to real student experiences and performance. A comprehensive literature review was conducted to determine whether various perspectives towards online learning were accurate or if discrepancies existed. The real experiences and performance of online students were also evaluated. Specific topics relating to online learning covered in the review included general opinions of online students, academic performance, motivation, and both social and technological experiences within the online educational domain, particularly in comparison to the brick-and-mortar equivalent. These opinions and experiences were also compared against findings of actual student performance, motivation scales, and other past studies. It was found through the review of many studies that the views held towards online learning are not always representative of real student experiences and outcomes who attended virtual high schools and that multiple variables account for real student performance. Positive opinions tended to be more accurate than negative opinions held towards online learning and students. The literature review challenged previously held beliefs about online learning while also presenting multiple different existing opinions.

Brian John Hiatt
Program Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded September 2020
Capstone Instructor:Dr. Pamela Curtain
The degree by which a child develops cognitively, behaviorally, and emotionally, has been linked with the relationships and interactions that they form with their parents, their school teachers, as well as external environmental influences. The purpose of this research was to gauge the impact that parents and teachers have on positively developing their children as they reach preschool and early adolescence. Through surveys, statistics, observation, and personal interviews, researchers were able to see how certain learning techniques possess more value in terms of positive cognitive development. Maternal sensitivity played a big role in identifying a child’s strengths and weaknesses so that effort from teachers could be student focused to enable development and learning. Furthermore, a child’s self-regulation played a big role in how the child controlled their emotions and behaviors, which also aided their cognitive development. By observing the emotional and social beliefs and attitudes of others, the research presented supports Bandura’s social learning theory.

Jason M. Fosco
Program Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded April 2019
Capstone Instructor:Dr. Pamela Curtain
Discrimination divides populations because of something as simple as a difference in pigmentation, origin of birth or cultural practices. What some would consider harmless jokes and in some areas of the country, normal behavior, impact minorities in ways not understood by the general population. What is truly baffling is the lack of investment in our country towards combatting discrimination as well as treating those who have been discriminated against. The lasting effects of discrimination have yet to be determined and while we know discrimination impacts depression and PTSD, we have not yet identified lasting solutions. Research included in this study is relevant to the Examination of Discrimination and its Impact on Depression and PTSD. The researchers included in this study lend support to the causal effect discrimination has on depression and PTSD. Furthermore, common themes throughout the review such as discrimination, depression and PTSD are discussed along with potential applications and treatment strategies. The paper concludes with recommendations for future research and strategies to minimize the impacts of discrimination. In order to adequately address discrimination and its impact on depression and PTSD. I selected studies which were not specific to any one race or culture to better illustrate the impacts of discrimination. Skinner’s theory of operant conditioning is the theoretical framework of my study. His theory that behavior is acquired through interactions with the environment and is either positively or negatively reinforced is similar to the behaviors of those who discriminate and those who suffer from discrimination.

Corianne Carver
Program Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded September 2020
Capstone Instructor:Dr. Pamela Curtin
Cognitive development in adolescence and young adulthood has been associated with heightened vulnerabilities to anxiety. The research purpose was to examine the development, recognition, and treatment of anxiety. The predominant premise was that students can be taught selectivity for neurological beliefs that influence the development of anxiety disorders. Neurological and situational triggers of irrational anxiety were examined along with the efficacy of treatments. The review process involved locating, categorizing, assessing, and synthesizing scholarly articles related to four anxiety themes: neurological development, perceptions of control, challenges of enacting school-based anxiety programs, and moving forward with future programs. The findings indicated neurological variations in volume, reactivity, or functional connectivity were associated with dysfunctional anxiety. The alterations were linked with activating events like social conflicts or abuse, academic pressures, and puberty. Albert Ellis elaborated upon the cognitive behavioral theory to expose the rationale of anxiety development and irrational behaviors by positing that thoughts govern feelings and behaviors. Cognitive reframing was associated with lowered levels of anxiety and depression. School therapists could use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to diminish the development of anxiety disorders. Students code experiences into memory which guide their actions as explained by cognitive learning and the planned behavior theory.

Derek M. Maxwell
Program Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded April 2019
Capstone Instructor:Dr. Pamela Curtain
The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the current understanding of cultural variables which affect the risk factors, progression, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of anorexia nervosa (AN). Recent studies discussing this disorder were reviewed for data concerning these cultural factors in an attempt to create a more complete understanding. Several trends were noted, particularly regarding age, gender, national origin, and level of education. Individuals with AN generally experienced onset of the disorder during adolescence and were predominantly females in developed countries with education above the mean for their region. However, shortfalls in demographic data collected in much of this research was identified, indicating the need for more detailed and standardized questionnaires regarding demographics in order to provide a more complete understanding. Additionally, overgeneralization of populations on a national scale is observed, indicating the need for increased education regarding the significance of variations within cultures.

Kraig Andrews
Program Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded September 2020
Capstone Instructor:Dr. Beau Diehl
Intimate partner violence (IPV) has been a major issue throughout societies across the world (Ali & Naylor, 2013). Many theories and perspectives have been used to describe the very complex IPV, what it is, and why it occurs. A literature analysis review has been conducted on prior research conducted to identify the variables that cause IPV, how it affects both children and adults, why victims decide to stay in abusive relationships, what causes victims to return back to their abusers once they leave, and what interventions could help IPV victims. Some predictors of IPV are cognitive distortions and exposure to IPV as a child. IPV affects children and adults differently due to children being primarily witnesses and adults being the first-hand victims of the abuse. Childhood exposure to IPV can cause more psychological distress causing behavioral, emotional, social, and cognitive distortions than those children in homes without violence (Pernebo et al., 2018). Men and women are affected differently, which social stigmas and other variables are identified as being different between both men and women. To help mitigate IPV, predictive factors must be identified early in order to formulate interventions for the victims.

Derek M. Maxwell
Program Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded April 2019
Capstone Instructor:Dr. Pamela Curtain
The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the current understanding of cultural variables which affect the risk factors, progression, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of anorexia nervosa (AN). Recent studies discussing this disorder were reviewed for data concerning these cultural factors in an attempt to create a more complete understanding. Several trends were noted, particularly regarding age, gender, national origin, and level of education. Individuals with AN generally experienced onset of the disorder during adolescence and were predominantly females in developed countries with education above the mean for their region. However, shortfalls in demographic data collected in much of this research was identified, indicating the need for more detailed and standardized questionnaires regarding demographics in order to provide a more complete understanding. Additionally, overgeneralization of populations on a national scale is observed, indicating the need for increased education regarding the significance of variations within cultures.

Todrick Body
Program: Psychology: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: February 2017
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Shaneika Dilka
Abstract: Recent technological advances involving the use of the Internet and complex communication devices have significantly impacted the provision of psychotherapy and other mental health services as well as how the training of educators and clinicians may be conducted. Technology can provide greater access to needed services such as training, treatment, and consultations. The prevalence of mental health professionals that are using social media and emerging technologies to engage with clients, conduct research, and interact with other professionals has led to unique opportunities as well as previously unforeseen challenges for today’s mental health practitioners. This paper reviews literature that is relevant to the use of technology in four major areas of psychological field which are contemporary issues, ethics, physiology, and learning/cognition. These studies highlighted the positive outcomes of the increased use of technology and the limitations specific to technology-related mental health interventions. Findings suggest that the unavoidable incorporation of new forms of technology may provide a long list of positive breakthroughs in the future, but they might also lead to a myriad of challenging ethical and legal issues if they are not fully understood in the present.