Master of Science in Psychology Student Thesis Collection

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http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12264/339

Students completing the Master of Science in Psychology program at Purdue Global may elect to complete a thesis as the program's culminating experience. Select students are invited to submit their thesis for inclusion in the University Archive.

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Strategic Cultivation: Intentionally Developing a Company Culture During the Formation of a Small Business's Impact on the Future Culture of the Company
(2024) Peters, Joseph
The study intended to find out if there is any correlation between intentionally focusing on company culture during the founding of one's business and how this affects the future of the business's culture. This is based on the idea that once culture is created, it stays within the business, so if a business founder intentionally forms it rather than letting it develop itself, will this, in turn enhance the future of the culture in the business? The more intentional the founder is in focusing on company culture, the better the culture will be in the future of the business. The research was done by having the founders of businesses fill out a short survey asking if they put any thought into company culture during the founding of their business, then asking how much thought they put in on a Likert scale from "none at all" to "a main focus." An assessment called the Organizational Culture Inventory was then sent to the founder's current employees to assess how strong and what type of culture the current business has. There were 13 founders that had at least one employee who took the assessment and filled out the survey, then 49 employee participants. The results did not support the original hypothesis, with the founders responding "no thought" and having the current highest good culture assessment; however, only one founder was responding to this option. The company with the highest negative culture assessment was the second lowest option having put "a little thought" into company culture.
Individuals with Depression and Anxiety Disorders: Effectiveness of Holistic Approaches
(2024) Urbano, Maria Andrea
Abstract Holistic psychology, as a comprehensive approach to mental health, acknowledges the interplay of physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions within an individual. This systematic literature review delves into the core tenets of holistic psychology, accentuating the significance of the mind-body connection, spiritual exploration, social considerations, and the promotion of a balanced lifestyle. With depression and anxiety increasingly prevalent worldwide, there arises an urgent demand for comprehensive and alternative interventions. This systematic review examined carefully the efficacy of diverse interventions aimed at enhancing mental, physical, spiritual, and social well-being. Drawing from a selection of fifteen studies published within the last five years, this research investigated the impact of integrated holistic interventions on depression and anxiety outcomes. The interventions examined included mindfulness practices, exercise regimens, nutritional adjustments, spiritual elements, and other modalities. Results demonstrate compelling evidence supporting the hypothesis that integrated holistic interventions lead to sustained improvements in mental health outcomes across various age groups and settings. Specifically, fourteen out of the fifteen studies reviewed revealed significant reductions in depression and anxiety symptoms following the implementation of holistic interventions. Major findings underscore the importance of incorporating holistic interventions into one's lifestyle as a means to reduce and prevent depression and anxiety. However, given the complexity and breadth of this topic, further research should be taken into consideration to deepen our understanding of its mechanisms and effectiveness. Moreover, longitudinal studies are essential to assess the longevity of the observed results.
Violent Crime Reduction and Prevention Program Method Efficacy for Adolescents and Young Adults in Urban Metropolitan, High-Risk Areas for Crime: A Systematic Review
(2024) Tillander, Elizabeth
In this study, the current literature discussing the reduction and prevention of community-based violence prevention for adolescents and young adults in urban metropolitan areas has been systematically reviewed. Through the synthesis and analysis of this literature, this study aims to investigate the efficacy and applicability of specific programs and the methods utilized. Overall, twenty studies were collected, each investigating programs designed to prevent firearm, physical, or sex-related violence. These studies were selected due to the age range investigated (adolescent and/or young adult), the area in which they were implemented (urban metropolitan areas). Of these, the vast majority suggested that programs emphasizing strength-based approaches and improving accessibility to jobs, school, or housing were the most beneficial for preventing overall violence. Key themes additionally noted a preference of peer-mentoring, emphasis on autonomy, and life skills from individuals participating in these programs. The information collected in this systematic review is intended to guide future research and the development of evidence-based, empirically supported programs for the individuals within these settings.
Managing Neo-diversity Anxiety; Improving the Therapeutic Relationship in Addiction Counseling
(2024) Díaz Astorga, Deina Abigail
The purpose of this study was to analyze the negative effect of neo-diversity anxiety on the therapeutic relationship experienced by clients of color and ethnic minorities in cross-cultural relationships with counselors in the field of substance use treatment. A regression analysis was used to test the relationship between neo-diversity anxiety and the therapeutic relationship. Participants included 33 self-identified people of color and ethnic minorities who attended counseling for substance use with therapists with different cultural backgrounds. The sample completed the Neo-Diversity Anxiety in Therapy Questionnaire and the Working Alliance Inventory- Short Revised (WAI-SR). As predicted by the hypothesis, the regression analysis showed a B value of -0.769, showing a strong negative correlation between variables, which was statistically significant at p < .001. The statistical results showed an inverse relationship between neo-diversity anxiety and the therapeutic relationship; showing that as neo-diversity anxiety scores increased, the therapeutic relationship scores decreased. The results validated the experience of people of color and ethnic minorities in substance use treatment, revealing that most of the sample had medium neo-diversity anxiety scores, highlighting the reality of neo-diversity anxiety in therapy and how it can negatively affect the therapeutic relationship. Findings are discussed with respect to how multicultural competency can be improved for multicultural clients to improve their quality of care.
Individuals with Attention-deficit/hyperactivity Disorder: Relationship to Post-traumatic Stress Disorder in Adults
(2024) Patel, Ria
This paper explores the relationship between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This paper delves into the hypothesis that adults who have ADHD and PTSD tend to experience trauma that is separate from ADHD rather than the current understanding of ADHD and PTSD being comorbidities. The study is a quantitative design that looked at the correlations between ADHD and PTSD as well as other forms of trauma and experiences that can affect it. This study uses an online survey consisting of four questionnaires (ASRS-v1.1, PCL-5, CTQ, and ACEQ). The study had 100 participants who qualified. The surveys were scored individually to compare the adults with ADHD to those who have and do not have PTSD and adverse childhood events (ACE) as well as the five types of childhood trauma (CT). Data was analyzed using Excel to run regression analysis and to calculate for r-value. The study results indicate that ADHD does not have any correlation with PTSD, CT, and ACE. This means that there is no relationship between ADHD and PTSD. These results contribute to the larger discussion of how treatment for ADHD and PTSD can be improved through the understanding of the topic.
The Long-Lasting Effects of Childhood Trauma on Criminal Behavior: A Comprehensive Analysis
(2024) Van Horn, Nataleigh
This study systematically reviews the literature on the relationship between childhood abuse and criminal behaviors. Drawing upon a comprehensive analysis of existing research, this study aims to synthesize the long-term consequences of childhood trauma, specifically its role in shaping criminal tendencies. The synthesis of evidence will shed light on the various forms of trauma, such as physical abuse, physical neglect, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, emotional neglect, exposure to violence, and their differential effects on criminal outcomes. The review did show connections between specific types of childhood trauma, mental illnesses, and specific criminal behaviors. Key themes addressed include the identification of specific trauma types most strongly associated with criminal behavior, the role of gender and socio-economic factors, and the impact of mental illnesses and attachment styles. Childhood trauma was linked to a variety of mental illnesses in adulthood which had an impact on the specific types of crimes which were committed. By elucidating the nuanced connections between childhood trauma and criminality, this systematic literature review aims to inform future research directions and intervention strategies aimed at breaking the cycle of criminal behavior stemming from early-life adversities.
Adult women with childhood trauma: How religion/spiritual practice impedes the healing process
(2024) Winchell, Robin
This research paper demonstrates the role that past childhood trauma can affect engagement with religious or spiritual organization of community involvement if negative impacts are present as seen through a purposive sample. An original survey was utilized to identify if negative impacts would cause disengagement in religious or spiritual involvement for those with past childhood trauma. 26 participants of U.S. citizens, who identified as female, confirmed past childhood trauma, as well as being engaged in mental health therapy, and engagement with a religious or spiritual organization were derived through the survey platform SurveyMonkey. The study yielded results that indicate that the type of mental health counseling received could impact an individual’s decision to disengage from their religious or spiritual organization or community if a negative impact was present. The result of this research provides supporting evidence that the data supports the hypothesis that a negative impact can cause disassociation with a coping strategy. The results contribute to the discussion of childhood trauma and the relationship between mental health counseling and the effects that can happen to the individuals religious or spiritual experience if a negative impact occurs. This can help mental health professionals and religious counselors understand the connection between childhood trauma, disengagement, and utilizing religious and spiritual organizations in a positive manner and being aware of what could cause issues with this coping strategy.
Substance Abuse Disorders in Adulthood: The Influence of Retrospectively Perceived Parenting Style
(2024) Alexander, Rebecca
The purpose of this research was to determine if parenting styles impact substance use issues in adulthood based on the participant’s retrospectively perceived parenting style. It was hypothesized that authoritative parenting will show a decreased risk of substance use in adulthood, while authoritarian and permissive parenting styles show an increased risk. The research was conducted with 97 participants who completed a survey which included both the DAST-20 (Drug Abuse Screening Test) and a Parenting Style Assessment to determine severity of substance use issue as well as perceived parenting style. This survey resulted in two groups, those who had a substance use issue and those who did not. The responses from those who did not have a substance use issue resulted in primarily authoritative and authoritarian parenting styles. The majority of participants with a substance use issue reported an authoritarian parenting style. A one-way ANOVA was performed to determine statistical significance. While there was no statistical significance between authoritarian and authoritative parenting styles for those without a substance use issue, there was statistical evidence to support the claim that participants with a substance use issue were most likely to experience an authoritarian parenting style. Permissive parenting was scored as the lowest experienced parenting style overall. This research shows a link between authoritarian parenting style as a factor in substance use issues in adulthood. By understanding factors that impact substance use, mitigating factors such as implementing authoritative parenting style practices could help decrease the number of individuals who have substance use issues.
Generation Z and Workplace Values: Determining a Generation Z Hierarchy of Workplace Values that Influence Workplace Preferences
(2024) Bellinder, Margaret
This study explores the workplace values and preferences of Generation Z (Gen Z), the latest generation entering the workforce. Existing studies focus on nine workplace values significant to Gen Z that influence how they relate to the workplace environment: diversity, equity, inclusion, mental well-being, personal connection, learning and development, corporate social responsibility, and ethical standards. By analyzing data from a pairwise comparison survey administered to 258 participants, this research identifies patterns in workplace value prioritization among Gen Z and investigates differences in generational workplace value preferences. Hypotheses tested include Gen Z's prioritization of professional growth and development, gender differences in prioritizing connection, and the strength of agreement in the workplace values hierarchy compared to previous generations. The resultant workplace values hierarchy supported the hypothesis that Learning and Development is a top priority among Gen Z. Moreover, contrary to expectations, men were predicted to be more likely to prioritize personal connection than females. Additionally, analysis between generational cohorts captured a relationship between the strength of preference towards workplace values and Generation. The study recognizes the significance of developmental programs in attracting Gen Z and cultivating gender diversity. Moreover, the research uncovers a potential pitfall in exclusively catering to employee preferences when crafting corporate policies and initiatives, as individualistic values tend to hold greater prominence in the workplace values hierarchy of Gen Z. To address this challenge, organizations can adopt a balanced approach by incorporating collectivist values into their organizational culture, while also promoting individualistic values through complementary initiatives.
Graduate Students Seeking to Improve Self-Care: Effect of Emotional Intelligence Training on Self-Care
(2023) Miller, Tatiana
Graduate students are an at-risk group for burnout and tend to neglect their self-care; however, the sparse literature on self-care in graduate programs highlights the need for more research and further emphasis in graduate programs on self-care. This study examined if emotional intelligence training would help increase graduate students' self-care practices. A random sample of 25 participants between the ages of 25-53 completed The Self-Care Questionnaire, watched a half-hour emotional intelligence training, and then a week later completed the same questionnaire. The research results show that graduate students do not regularly practice overall self-care. The results indicate that the intervention (watching the EI training of how often they engage in self-reflection) had a positive and statistically significant impact on the multiple dimensions of self-care, including Physical, Psychological, Emotional, Spiritual, Academic, and Balance. The results also indicate that the intervention (watching the EI training of how often they engage in self-reflection) effectively promoted these dimensions of well-being. After watching the emotional intelligence training, graduate students' overall self-care practices increased. The emotional intelligence training provided graduate students with a strategy, journaling, in order to self-reflect as a way to engage in self-care. The fact that almost a third of the participants had never considered emotional or spiritual practices as part of their self-care highlights a gap in knowledge and awareness in this area. These results should be considered when graduate programs seek ways to support their students, prevent burnout, and reduce stress. Keywords: emotional intelligence, self-care, self-reflection, stress, coping.
People Management and Success: Effects of Leadership Traits on Individual Career Growth
(2023) Arm, Alexander
The present study investigated the relationship between the possession of traits related to adaptability, communication, and social interaction and career success of people leaders. Participants (total n = 141, 76 male and 65 female) were assigned a survey containing two primary questionnaires. The first focused on questions aimed at identifying career success, while the second focused on the possession of certain behavioral leadership traits. Overall, participants did not have a significant relationship between the possession of adaptability, communication, or social interaction and career success. This correlation did not exist regardless of demographic breakdown, or by aggregating any of the categories of leadership traits for comparison. Given the lack of external data presently available studying leadership traits and individual career success, further research is needed to better understand the traits and other factors that lead to success for people leaders.
Building Effective Work Relationships: How employees are Building and Maintaining Relationships in the Office and Remote Environment By Generation
(2023) Wisniewski, Bethanie
This study looks at how employees build and maintain work relationships in a remote environment compared to in-person and by generation. The study takes from research by Vangelisti and Caughlin (1997), Lubben et al. (2006), and Golden et al. (2006) to measure the quality of the coworker relationship by work location and generation. Additionally, the study includes an original survey to measure the methods, actions, and use of technology that the participants employ to build and maintain these relationships by work location and generation. The results show no significant difference in the coworker relationship quality by location. However, there was a significant difference in the psychological closeness of the coworker relationships between the different generations, with older generations rating higher quality relationships with their colleagues. There was also a significant difference in the use of technology by work location and generation, with remote workers and older employees (Baby Boomers) using more forms of technology to build relationships with their colleagues.
Recidivism Among Adult Criminal Populations: A Systematic Review of Methods for Reducing Adult Criminal Recidivism
(2023) Tanner, Kailee
This systematic literature review examines psychological interventions to reduce recidivism among adult criminal populations. The review assesses empirical studies published within the last five years, focusing on interventions targeting reoffending rates among incarcerated or formerly incarcerated adults. The study drew from established databases, including the Purdue Global Library, Google Scholar, PsychArticles, ProQuest, and Academic Search Complete . The selected articles undergo meticulous evaluation, considering interventions ranging from cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBT) such as Reasoning and Rehabilitation 2 (R&R2), Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT), Aggression Replacement Training (ART), and alternative approaches like Forensic Peer Support (FPS), Bridges to Life (BTL), and Mental Health Courts (MHC). Analysis of the aggregated findings demonstrates a nuanced landscape of intervention effectiveness, with some programs showcasing reduced recidivism rates while others yield inconclusive or ineffective outcomes. The review highlights the alignment between successful interventions and psychological theories, emphasizing the importance of tailored, evidence-based strategies rooted in cognitive-behavioral and restorative justice principles. Additionally, the study identifies ethical, legal, individual, and socio-cultural implications of effective interventions, illuminating the broader impact beyond recidivism reduction. Acknowledging study design and methodology limitations, the review proposes future research directions, advocating for standardized intervention protocols, integrated multimodal approaches, and post-release community transition programs. These strategies offer promising avenues to develop comprehensive and adaptable interventions aimed at addressing recidivism within adult criminal populations.
North Carolina Mental Health Courts: Recidivism Rates of Program Graduates vs. Non-graduates
(2024) Lassiter, Angela D.
This study investigates the disparities in recidivism rates between graduates and non-graduates of Mental Health Courts (MHCs) in North Carolina, drawing data from Durham and Mecklenburg Counties. The research aimed to assess the impact of MHC program completion on reducing reoffending among individuals with mental health diagnoses. While Mecklenburg County's MHC program exhibited promising outcomes, the study underscores the necessity for improved data collection methodologies and comprehensive record maintenance to ascertain the full impact of MHC program completion on reducing recidivism rates among individuals with mental health diagnoses in North Carolina.
Impact of Opioid Use Disorder on Family
(2024) Arnold, Rachel
Background and Aims: Despite a large body of research correlating SUD and caregivers, solidifying the research on the effects on family members, FMs, with young adults with OUD. This study aims to see the effects being a FM of a young adult with OUD with the hypothesis that there will be negative effects from the FMs. Methods: The survey included 18 family members, aged 18-65, of those with a young adult, age 16-36, with OUD with 4 exclusions due to inaccurate data within the survey. Participants were recruited through social media of Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter along with a communication app of Slack. Participants were assessed with mean and standard deviation along with a t-test. Results: Of the 14 participants, a majority were White females. The results showed equal amounts of positive and negative effects on the different domains of mental, physical, emotional, and QoL. Major findings show no statistical significance between the negative and positive effects. The two-tailed p-value was found to be 0.9379. Conclusion: Positive and negative effects are present when researching FMs and their young adults with OUD. The sample size can cause the lack of generalizations towards this population.
Mental Health and Recidivism Rates in Idaho
(2023) Shetler, Ynez
There has been extensive research done nationwide on the effects of mental health treatment in regards to recidivism rates, but very little in Idaho. The goal of this research study was to change that, and to learn if introducing mental health treatment has a positive impact on Idaho’s recidivism rates. The hypothesis is those that spent time in an Idaho Department of Corrections facility who received mental health treatment either while in custody or immediately after would have lower recidivism rates. A short survey was created that asked questions about if the participant had been diagnosed with a co-occurring mental health and substance use disorder, if they received mental health treatment while in custody or immediately following released and if they were convicted of new crimes within 90 days, 1 year and 3 years. The survey was sent to 2,000 potential participants via email and had 19 responses, limiting the research in depth. With the limited number of responses, it was determined that over the course of three years, those with mental health treatment did have an improvement in recidivism. However, due to the limited number of responses, there are no major implications from this research.
Intimate Partner Violence Perpetration and Victimization: Influence of Childhood Maltreatment on Intimate Partner Violence Among Young Adults
(2023) Kirk, Ashley
Intimate partner violence is a growing concern. It has been shown to cause long lasting psychological and physical effects for those who experience IPV. Additionally, those who experience childhood victimization have been seen to be more likely to continue being victimized or perpetuate the violence later in life. It was hypothesized that the more childhood maltreatment a person experienced, the more likely they would be to face IPV victimization or perpetration in young adulthood. An anonymous questionnaire was given to college students using the Adverse Childhood Experiences International Questionnaire (ACE-IQ) and the Revised Conflict Tactics Scale (CTS2) for couples. This asked about their childhood home life and current or most recent relationships. Two sample t-tests were then done to determine significance. Statistical significance was found when testing both IPV perpetration and victimization against childhood maltreatment. When graphed, it could be seen that events of both IPV perpetration and victimization rose as the events of childhood maltreatment rose. This type of research is essential for early intervention in preventing the perpetuation of the cycle of violence. More research will also bring much needed attention to this difficult topic.
Serial Homicide: Forensic Psychological Perspective on Nature versus Nurture
(2024) Rybicki, Michelle
This thesis examines the role of nature and nurture as it pertains to serial sexual homicide perpetrators through the lens of forensic psychology related professionals. Pre-existing literature looks at antisocial personality disorder, the Dark Triad, adverse childhood experiences (ACE), brain development, sex, and testosterone as contributing factors to violence. A survey distributed to social media groups and businesses labeled as having forensic psychologists was utilized to analyze the general perception of the variables for general violence and serial violence to ascertain whether there was a perceived difference on the impact of nature and nurture. The impact of ACEs (nurture) was anticipated as being perceived as being more impactful by forensic psychologists. Welch’s T-test analyses were conducted to ascertain the common beliefs of forensic psychology professionals regarding such variables. The study found that there is a consensus towards nurture related variables being more impactful. However, male serial sexual homicide offenders saw a consensus of nature being more impactful for Ted Bundy and Jeffrey Dahmer, while the female serial offender, Aileen Wuornos, saw nurture as being more impactful. The research largely confirms pre-existing literature while expanding the serial homicide population pool to include Aileen Wuornos, a female serial sexual homicide perpetrator.
Intergenerational Traumas Effect on Next-Generation Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) on Marginalized Populations
(2023) Johnson, Crystal
This literature review explores how the transmission of intergenerational trauma can affect the next generations' adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) within marginalized populations. The research question for the abstract was to evaluate intergenerational trauma transmission's role more clearly in next-generation ACE formulation. To answer the proposed research question, a review of current psychological articles was conducted to find gaps in knowledge. The synthesized review consisting of twenty-four articles on intergenerational trauma and next-generation ACEs for marginalized populations began from October to December 2023. Study outcomes included an increase in child development of ACEs through internal and external factors (21%) such as poverty, health equity, housing stability, racism, state-perpetuated violence, and immigration. Findings spoke to understanding ACEs and combating those effects with resilience interventions and strategies to offset later-life physical, behavioral, and mental health disorders. Results confirmed that there is evidence to support a causal inference to the claim that maternal ACEs impact children's development and poor social and emotional outcomes that potentially cause mental health symptoms (such as depression and anxiety). Further empirical research is required to understand intergenerational trauma in marginalized families better, as well as the different types and levels of trauma experienced and how it manifests from generation to generation. Furthermore, a more comprehensive ACE evaluation should consider individual and community ACE indicators. This will help to improve public health initiatives for adversity at the community level by providing a more accurate explanation of the mechanisms by which ACE effects are transmitted to public health at the population level.
Problematic Online Behaviors and the Possible Links to Psychopathic Personality Traits Among Online Users
(2024) Lamar, Rebecca Maria
Problematic online behaviors can range from online trolling behavior, cyber-bullying, publishing of fake news to internet addiction in which it can negatively affect the individual’s/victim’s daily functioning. In recent research, personality traits have been studied to discover possible links between it and problematic online behaviors. In particular, the Dark Triad has been the cluster of personality traits used. To further examine problematic online behaviors of the Dark Triad, the psychopathic personality trait was highlighted to gain a thorough understanding of its association with the problematic online behavior of internet addiction. The methodology that was applied involved surveying 80 internet users ages 18 years old and older to measure their internet usage and to screen for psychopathic personality traits, along with collecting demographic background information. Additionally, the participants were recruited via several Facebook groups. Consequently, the results of the study showed that there was a significant positive correlation between internet addiction and psychopathic personality traits of online users. Thus, stakeholders of the online arena and practitioners may gain an essential understanding of the relationship between internet addiction and psychopathic personality traits.

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