Dissertations / Theses: 'Psychological sciences'

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Honn, Vanessa Janel. "Psychological outcomes and moderators /." The Ohio State University, 2002. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu148646206784129.

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Hughes, Kathryn. "Psychological aspects of criminal propensity." Thesis, University of Huddersfield, 2015. http://eprints.hud.ac.uk/id/eprint/25777/.

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The psychological aspects of propensity to offend are considered. The relationship between attitude, personality, and reported offending is explored. Some literature considers how attitude influences offending; others look at the relationship between personality and offending. The present thesis proposes that there is a complex relationship between all three. The Attitude to Offending Style Scale measures preferences towards hypothetical offending styles. Shultzs’ FIRO-B explores the structure of interpersonal personality. Finally, an adaptation of Youngs’ D42 (D45) explores styles and level of reported offending. 254 members of the general public complete each of these self-report scales. An SSA-I tests the construct validity and structure of the scales stated above. Multiple regression analyses explore the relationship between attitude and personality, and how these influence level of reported offending. The moderating role of interpersonal personality is also considered. The findings reveal that Attitudes are categorized as: Instrumental or Expressive high risk, and Low risk. Shultzs’ FIRO-B scale has four facets: Expressed Inclusion Expressed Control, Received Inclusion and Received Control. Finally, reported offending is categorised as More or Less serious, Instrumental or Expressive, and target Person or Property. Results show that variations in attitude and personality styles are related to level of reported offending. Furthermore, it was found that the relationship between attitude and level of reported offending is moderated by level of ‘Received Control’. More specifically, when an individual shows a positive attitude towards Instrumental high risk crimes and feel ‘controlled by others’, their level of reported offending is also likely to be high. The presented research shows the value of considering attitudes towards offending, the moderating role of interpersonal personality, and how this relates to level of reported offending. The methods employed throughout the thesis demonstrate the strength and validity of self-report measures. Results are applicable to many areas, including direction and methods in future research. The findings can be applied to areas such as rehabilitation, interview techniques and preventative measures.

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Trottier, Lauren. "Multicultural Personality and Psychological Functioning." Master's thesis, University of Central Florida, 2013. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETD/id/5879.

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As the U.S. becomes increasingly diverse, individuals will need to interact effectively with a wide range of people. The theory of multicultural personality refined by Ponterotto (2010) proposes that some individuals may be better suited than others to adapt to the changing demographic landscape. Individuals with a multicultural personality are theorized to have the ability to interact effectively within a wide range of contexts and draw on diverse experiences and resources to solve everyday problems in multiple ways as well as seek out diversity in their lives. Because of their skills and disposition, Ponterotto (2010) suggests that those with a multicultural personality may experience better psychological functioning than their non-multicultural counterparts. The current study utilized Structural Equation Modeling to test the hypothesis that individuals who endorse greater multicultural personality also exhibit less prejudice, greater ethnic identity, and better psychological functioning, defined as a combination of subjective well-being and clinical symptomology. Results indicated moderate fit to the data and examination of specific paths within the model suggests that the relationship between multicultural personality and subjective well-being may be stronger than that between multicultural personality and clinical symptomology. Differences by ethnicity were also found on measures of ethnic identity and mental health. These results highlight the need to further refine the concept of multicultural personality as well as examine the complex relationships between multicultural personality, subjective well-being, and clinical symptomology.
M.S.
Masters
Psychology
Sciences
Psychology Clinical

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Earl, Stephen R. "The role of young adolescents' psychological needs at secondary school : applying basic psychological needs theory." Thesis, University of Kent, 2017. https://kar.kent.ac.uk/60986/.

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Drawing on basic psychological needs theory (BPNT; Deci & Ryan, 2000), the aim of this thesis was to investigate the influence that pupils' autonomy, competence and relatedness may have upon their personal and academic functioning at school. The purpose was to provide new conceptual insights into BPNT within young adolescents' schools and to identify practically viable interventions that could enhance educational practise. Specifically, this thesis addresses two methodological vacancies within BPNT research and two practically driven investigations. The first methodological consideration involved a person-centred examination that identified distinct pupil profiles based on differences in their psychological need satisfaction composition. Hierarchal cluster analysis revealed four distinct pupil groups. Pupils reporting the highest satisfaction across the three needs displayed the highest levels of well-being, autonomous motivation, teacher rated performance, and the least ill-being. These person-centred findings emphasise the necessity for the satisfaction of all three psychological needs, as well as highlighting specific need deficits that some pupils may experience in classrooms. The second methodological consideration explored how the satisfaction of each psychological need may predict changes in school attainment patterns. Hierarchal growth modelling revealed that higher pupil competence satisfaction was a driving stimulus for temporal attainment increases across the school year, whereas higher pupil relatedness satisfaction buffered against the summer decay of school grades following the summer vacation. These findings offer unique insights into the dynamic nature of school attainment. From a practical perspective, the thesis explored if the candid frustration of different psychological needs underpins active and passive types of classroom disengagement. Structural equation modelling demonstrated the frustration of pupil competence uniquely explained passive disengagement via reduced subjective vitality, whereas experiences of autonomy frustration underpinned both active and passive disengagement but not via subjective vitality. All three disengaging processes were found as a consequence of perceived psychologically controlling teaching. Finally, the thesis explored the feasibility of conducting a novel pupil-focused intervention to enhance pupils' perceptual awareness of their own psychological needs. Using a pupil completed diary-log as a methodology, a two week pilot and focus group discussion highlighted practical issues and recommendations for the potential implementation of a future intervention. These findings indicated that the diary-log may need to be in the form of an electronic application and would need to be combined with existing need supportive sessions. Overall, the thesis findings add to existing knowledge by indicating how pupils' psychological needs may enhance or diminish their academic and psychological development at school. The findings allude to the interplay between the three needs within school contexts and provide insights into the unique role the different psychological needs may have on school attainment and disengagement. The findings also suggest there may be scope to advance existing teacher-focused BPNT interventions by helping pupils become more active in their own experiences of psychological need satisfaction.

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Kantor, Debra P. "Factors Influencing Psychological Distress in Patients with Cancer." Thesis, Adelphi University, 2013. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=3571079.

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Over 40% of Americans are at risk for developing cancer during their lifetime. Technological advances have resulted in improved survival rates. The uncertainty associated with the diagnosis of cancer may give rise to psychological distress. Psychological distress is a multifaceted, complex concept that has shown to interfere with the patient's quality of life, treatment regimens, and treatment outcomes. The purpose of this study was to explore the factors that influence psychological distress in patients with cancer. Influencing factors of psychological distress include medical treatments, personal concerns, family relationships, social support, spirituality, uncertainty and professional support. The theoretical framework that guided this study was derived from the Theory of Uncertainty, Chaos Theory, and review of the literature. The sample consisted of 150 patients diagnosed with non-metastatic cancer living in the suburbs of a major Northeastern United States city. Data was collected using three instruments that measured the degree of psychological distress and the influencing factors: the Distress Thermometer, Mishel's Uncertainty Scale and the Distress Inventory for Cancer-Version 2. The results of this study revealed that significant relationships exist between psychological distress and personal concerns, finances, and uncertainty. In this study the influencing factor of personal concerns was shown to mediate the other factors. Studies have shown that nurses do not routinely screen for psychological distress. Nurses involved in the care of oncology patients can utilize the results of this study to recognize the impact of cancer beyond the clinical manifestations. In addition, nurses can use the results to develop a collaborative plan of care to address the psychological distress that patients with cancer may be experiencing.

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Langham, Ariana. "Generational Differences in Understanding of Psychological Abuse." Honors in the Major Thesis, University of Central Florida, 2005. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETH/id/767.

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This item is only available in print in the UCF Libraries. If this is your Honors Thesis, you can help us make it available online for use by researchers around the world by following the instructions on the distribution consent form at http://library.ucf
Bachelors
Arts and Sciences
Psychology

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Black, Alice A. "Spatial abilities, earth science conceptual understanding, and psychological gender of university non-science majors /." free to MU campus, to others for purchase, 2003. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/mo/fullcit?p3115524.

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Messer, Katelynn. "Psychological distress and substance use among college students." Honors in the Major Thesis, University of Central Florida, 2013. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETH/id/880.

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Research indicates that young adults have relatively high rates of psychological distress and substance use. Research also suggests that psychological distress and substance use are correlated as individuals may turn to substance use as a coping mechanism for psychological distress. The goal of the current research is to examine the relationship between psychological distress and substance use among college students. A secondary question is to determine if the relationship between psychological distress and substance use is different for men and women. College students are a good sample for this research question for a number of reasons. First, more young adults are enrolled in college today than ever, with about 70% of high school graduates in 2011 enrolling in college the following fall. Second, research indicates that the prevalence of substance use is relatively high among college students and that young adults enrolled in college are at increased risk for certain types of substance use compared to their same age peers who do not attend college. Third, research indicates that college students are at greater risk for psychological distress compared to their same age peers who do not attend college. This may be due to the fact that college students are exposed to unique stressors that are likely to increase risk for psychological distress. The current research uses data from a sample of college students to examine the relationship between psychological distress and substance use. Several forms of substance use are included for the dependent variable. First, a measure of binge drinking is used based on the Harvard School of Public Health College Alcohol Study to measure binge drinking. Second, a measure of marijuana use is included. Third, a measure of prescription drug misuse is included based on the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. All substance use measures are coded 0 = No and 1 = Yes.; The independent variable of interest is psychological distress, measured with Kessler's Psychological Distress Scale (K10). We also measure respondent's sociodemographic characteristics (e.g., age, gender, race/ethnicity) and correlates of substance use (e.g., Greek affiliation, peer substance use, and grades) to include as controls in our analysis. A positive correlation is expected between psychological distress and substance use, as respondents with higher levels of psychological distress will be more likely to report binge drinking, marijuana use, and prescription drug misuse. In addition, it is expected that the relationship between psychological distress and all forms of substance use is moderated by gender. The relationship between psychological distress and substance use is expected to be stronger for females. To test research hypotheses several logistic regression models are estimated.
B.A.
Bachelors
Sciences
Sociology

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Lucia, Danielle. "Yoga and psychological wellness, physical wellness, and subjective well-being." Thesis, Pacifica Graduate Institute, 2014. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=3615864.

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This survey-based observational study was designed to study an individual's Yoga experience as it relates to psychological wellness, physical wellness, and subjective well-being. Men and women ages 18–85 were recruited though Yoga studio participation and through word of mouth. They answered demographic question as well as items from four differential scales. Dependent variables included physical wellness, life satisfaction, mindfulness, and subjective vitality.

Data was analyzed using SPSS software. Results indicated that Yoga participants perceive higher levels of mental wellness, physical wellness, and subjective well-being. Additionally, Yoga participants, as compared to non-Yoga participants, were more likely to perceive higher levels of perceived wellness, in almost all domains tested, than exercisers versus nonexercisers.

The results of this study bring merit to Yoga participants' perception of wellness. Further studies could investigate a variety of topics. Understanding how long it takes a Yoga participant to feel higher levels of perceived wellness may be useful in designing intervention studies. Additionally, looking at different styles of Yoga, specifically āsana, meditation, and pranayama techniques, and implementation (home versus studio) would be useful in the design of future research studies.

Anecdotally, most Yoga participants would agree that practicing Yoga benefits their overall wellness. This study offers empirical evidence that Yoga participants experience higher levels of perceived wellness than non-Yoga participants. This research is significant as it validates the role Yoga plays in the health and well-being of participants.

Keywords: Yoga, Wellness, Well-Being, Quantitative, Observational, Life Satisfaction, Mindfulness, Survey.

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Quail, Jacqueline Mary. "Unmet needs and psychological distress in the community-dwelling elderly." Thesis, McGill University, 2009. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=32529.

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As people age, they are increasingly likely to develop health problems that can lead to an impaired ability to perform essential activities of daily living (ADL). This decrease in functional ability may then result in an increased need for physical assistance which, in turn, may not be met. There has been little research on unmet need in the elderly and its association with psychological distress. This research used data from the Montreal Unmet Needs Study, a prospective cohort study of 576 women and 263 men designed to investigate self-reported unmet need for community-based services among the Montreal elderly aged 75 and older. Information on psychological distress and unmet need was obtained by self-report during in-depth face-to-face interviews at baseline, and again twelve months later. Interview information was supplemented with data provided by RAMQ and MEDECHO government databases. Multivariable linear and logistic regression models were used to investigate the associations between unmet need and psychological distress, and to determine the conjoint effect of both these factors on emergency department (ED) visits within the six months following the baseline interview. All analyses were stratified by sex. For elderly women, unmet need at baseline predicated increased psychological distress one year later. Conversely, psychological distress was not found to predict the development of any unmet need one year later. Both unmet need in IADL and increased psychological distress at baseline were found to be independent predictors of an increased likelihood of elderly women visiting an ED. For elderly men, unmet need was not found to be associated with psychological di
À mesure qu'ils vieillissent, les gens ont de plus en plus tendance à développer des problèmes de santé susceptibles de causer une dégradation de leurs capacités à effectuer des activités essentielles de la vie quotidienne (Activities of Daily Living). Cette diminution des capacités fonctionnelles peut entraîner une augmentation des besoins d'aide physique, qui à leur tour, ne peuvent toujours être comblés pour autant. Peu de recherches ont été menées sur les besoins non comblés des personnes âgées et leur relation avec la détresse psychologique. La recherche s'est appuyée sur les données de l'étude prospective de cohorte Montreal Unmet Needs Study à laquelle ont participé 576 femmes et 263 hommes et dont l'objectif consistait à étudier les besoins non comblés auto-déclarés en matière de services communautaires chez les personnes âgées de 75 ans et plus à Montréal. Les renseignements relatifs à la détresse psychologique et aux besoins non comblés ont été obtenus par auto-évaluation pendant les entrevues personnelles initiales au temps zéro et celles qui ont eu lieu douze mois plus tard. Les renseignements obtenus pendant les entrevues ont été complétés par de l'information provenant des bases de données gouvernementales de la RAMQ et MEDECHO. Les chercheurs ont utilisé les modèles de régression linéaire multivariable et de régression logistique pour étudier les corrélations entre les besoins non comblés et la détresse psychologique et pour déterminer l'effet conjoint de ces deux facteurs sur les visites au service des urgences pendant les six mois suivant les entrevues au temps zéro. Toutes les analyses ont ét

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Curley, Maureen L. "Psychological distress after abortion among university students: Developing an intervention." Thesis, McGill University, 2011. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=96794.

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Background A gap exists within healthcare between identifying and treating adverse psychological outcomes to abortion. Meanwhile, 30% of women worldwide experience significant emotional distress after abortion. Specifically, younger women are at the highest risk for developing mental health problems after abortion. No empirical data for interventions to relieve psychological distress after abortion were found. Goal: This thesis provides a framework to identify and treat psychological distress after legal, induced, voluntary abortion. It proposes a first of a kind evidence-based and patient-centered intervention to relieve psychological distress after abortion among university students. The thesis proposes a theory and conceptual model to understand negative psychological responses to abortion. Population-specific evidence and preference for services support the theory. Methods The United Kingdom Medical Research Guidelines were used to develop the intervention. Two phases of the five-phase method were used. First, the Pre-Clinical Phase developed: (a) the theoretical and (b) evidential basis for target symptoms of the intervention. Next, using these results, the Modeling Phase established (c) the design, (d) patient preferences, and (e) feasibility for delivering the intervention. The thesis is formatted as three manuscripts. ResultsThe Pre-Clinical Phase applied psychological stress theory to guide the intervention. It also generated evidence from a cross sectional study of N=151 participants who identified target symptoms. Participants who preferred treatment for distress after abortion demonstrated severe psychological stress (Impact of Event Scores of >26) and moderate perinatal grief (Perinatal Grief scores > 60) focused on the pregnancy and abortion. The Modeling Phase designed the intervention based on patient preferences for a group treatment addressing unanticipated guilt, enhanced coping skills, and education of psychological distress reactions after abortion. Significance and Conclusions The thesis is a series of studies that were used to develop a targeted and acceptable intervention for university students who had an abortion, reported distress afterward, and preferred treatment to relieve it if such treatment was available. The thesis provides a mechanism within nursing to understand, identify, and treat psychological distress after abortion that is population-focused, and currently does not exist. The intervention can be tested for efficacy and replicated on larger samples. Effective interventions after abortion have the potential to reduce psychiatric morbidity and mortality after abortion within a university student population.
Découvert Il existe dans le domaine médical une lacune entre la science et la pratique pour comprendre, identifier et traiter les conséquences psychologiques après un avortement. En effet, 30% des femmes du monde qui ont choisi un avortement subissent des conséquences psychologiques significatives. C'est surtout évident parmi les jeunes femmes que l'on trouve les risques les plus élevés pour ces problèmes psychologiques. Les données empiriques pour les interventions qui adressent ce problème n'ont pas été découvertes. ObjectifCette thèse a comme but de fournir une base de connaissance et pratique pour traiter les problèmes psychologiques, qui existent après un avortement. L'intervention proposée, unique en son genre, est basée sur les éléments de preuves recueillis des étudiantes universitaires qui ont éprouvé des effets négatifs après un avortement et qui accepteraient un traitement pour leur désordre. Cette thèse propose une théorie et un modèle pour mieux comprendre les mauvais effets psychologiques après un avortement. L'évidence accumulée et les préférences des clients, concentres sur la population du groupe de contrôle, soutient la thèse.MéthodesThe United Kingdom Medical Research Guideline a fourni la méthode pour l'élaboration des interventions. Parmi les cinq phases proposés dans ce guide, les deux premiers ont été utilisés: la phase préclinique et la phase modèle. La phase préclinique développe (a) une théorie pour la détresse après un avortement et (b) les symptômes ciblés pour l'intervention. Avec cette évidence comme base, la deuxième phase a été élaborée : (c) plan de l'intervention ; (d) les préférences du client pour une intervention spécifique et (e) la faisabilité et l'application du traitement. RésultatsLa phase préclinique, a déterminé une théorie du désordre psychologique comme base de l'intervention. En plus, une étude descriptive d'un groupe (N=151) de participants fournit l'évidence des symptômes ciblés. Les participants qui cherchaient un traitement, avaient démontré une sévère détresse psychologique (Impact de Grands Nombres d'Evénement >26 et deuil périnatal modéré >60), spécifique à la grossesse et l'avortement. L'évidence ramassée dans la phase préclinique a été utilisé pour déterminer une intervention appropriée. Parmi ces interventions préférées parmi des clients étaient : le service d'une thérapie en groupe pour la culpabilité non anticipée, le succès des compétences, et l'enseignement sur les effets psychologiques après un avortement. Signification et conclusionLa thèse actuelle représente une série d'études utilisée pour développer une intervention ciblée et acceptée par les étudiants universitaires qui, après avoir subi un avortement, ont éprouvé des conséquences psychologiques négatives et qui cherchaient un traitement médical. Cette thèse pourvoit une base de connaissance cohérente dans la profession d'infirmière à comprendre, identifier, et traiter la détresse psychologique après un avortement. Cette connaissance, concentrée dans la population, n'existe pas encore. L'intervention développée pourrait être examinée pour l'efficacité et répliquée parmi les groupes plus nombreux. Les interventions efficaces, qui réduisent la détresse après un avortement pourraient aussi réduire la portée de morbidité psychiatrique et mortalité après l'avortement dans la population du niveau universitaire.

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Arcan, Kuntay. "Psychological Predictors Of Problem Gambling Behaviors." Phd thesis, METU, 2012. http://etd.lib.metu.edu.tr/upload/12614363/index.pdf.

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Gambling becomes a source of difficulties of varying severity for some individuals whereas it is a positive experience for most of other people. Although gambling continues to be an entertaining activity for the majority of gambling individuals, prevalence rates suggest that pathological gambling is not low compared to other types of diagnosis. Most of the data with respect to gambling is from Western gambling literature, whereas research investigating the associated features of problem and pathological gamblers are very limited in the Turkish sample. The present study aimed to adapt two gambling-related instruments into Turkish and subsequently to examine the contributory roles of gambling participation, personality, affect, cognition, and motives of Turkish gamblers on gambling severity and gambling-related harm. The present study sample consisted of 357 males who were gambling in the sports and horse-races betting terminals. The findings pointed out it is important to conduct gambling research with Turkish samples considering the gambling severity and harm scores of the participants. The Turkish versions of Gambling-Related Cognitions Scale and Gambling Motives Scale showed promising psychometric properties with respect to their reliability and validity analyses. Besides, relatively higher negative affect, neuroticism, gambling-related cognitions, avoidance motive, and gambling participation were found to be associates of probable pathological gambling among Turkish regular gambling individuals. Moreover, the relationships of gambling cognitions / motives and gambling severity were mediated by the gambling participation. The main findings and related findings of the present study together with their implications are reported and discussed within the relevant gambling literature.

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Sams-Iheme, Mira. "The psychological aspects of battered African-American women." DigitalCommons@Robert W. Woodruff Library, Atlanta University Center, 1996. http://digitalcommons.auctr.edu/dissertations/AAIEP15793.

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There is sparse research on the battering phenomena as it relates to African-American women. Therefore, this study was undertaken in order to determine whether a relationship existed between battering, depression and low levels of self-esteem in African-American women. Another purpose of this study was to obtain a profile of demographic characteristics of these battered African-American women. The study was conducted in two battered women shelters located in metropolitan Atlanta, Georgia. The actual site locations were in Fulton and DeKalb counties. A quasi-experimental design was used. The non-random sample consisted of 53 African-American women who resided in the battered women shelters during the research period. The Beck Depression Inventory, the Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory and the Questionnaire for Battered African- American women were administered. l Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permission. Statistical procedures that were used to analyze the data from this study were frequency analysis and the Pearson R. The results indicated that there was a relationship between battering and depression in African- American women. There were also variations in the demographic data of these women. Limitations of this research and implications for counselors are included. Recommendations for future research conclude this work.

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Monroig, Marlaine Marie. "Associations between positive health behaviors and psychological distress." Honors in the Major Thesis, University of Central Florida, 2011. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETH/id/482.

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Research examining the relationship between psychological distress and health behaviors is limited, as most of these studies examine one type of psychological distress and relate it to one type of health behavior. To address this limitation, an exploratory study was conducted that included online self-report measures of a wide range of positive health behaviors (Health Behavior Checklist; HBC) and a wide range of different types of psychological distress (Brief Symptom Inventory; BSI). Participants were 762 undergraduate students from the University of Central Florida (55% female). Results revealed that the total BSI score showed statistically significant negative correlations with the HBC total score and all four HBC subscales. Thus, participants reporting more overall psychological distress reported that they engaged in fewer positive health behaviors, across all health behavior subtypes. Stepwise regressions that examined the nine BSI subscales and their relationship with the HBC total score revealed that the Hostility subscale of the BSI was the strongest and most consistent predictor of positive health behaviors (in a negative direction). Stepwise regressions also revealed additional relationships of the BSI subscales of Depression and Phobia to particular HBC subscales. The results of this exploratory study provide an initial model on the relationships of particular types of psychological distress that are related to particular types of health behaviors, which will inform future studies on this important topic area.
B.S.
Bachelors
Sciences
Psychology

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Lee, Virginia Dr. "The impact of meaning-making coping on psychological adjustment to cancer." Thesis, McGill University, 2005. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=42330.

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The diagnosis and management of cancer evokes profound questions about one's understanding of the self, the world, and one's purpose in life. The stress and coping literature suggest that the process of meaning-making provides a suitable framework to study such existential questions, as well as an ideal method of intervention. Through a series of manuscripts, this thesis examines the construct of meaning-making within the specific domain of cancer, describes the development of a meaning-making intervention, and assesses the impact of meaning-making coping on psychological adjustment to cancer. The recent proliferation of studies on the concept of meaning that includes the adult cancer experience has been conceptualized and operationalized in a variety of ways. To better understand and use the meaning-making concept within the cancer experience, a systematic review of the literature was conducted to synthesize the current level of knowledge and determine where research should be directed. This review of the empirical and qualitative findings suggested that the successful ability to construct a sense of meaning in illness may lead to positive psychological outcomes. Thus a novel meaning-making intervention (MMI) for cancer patients was developed, and its applicability as well as its effects on psychological adjustment to cancer were explored in a pilot study with a heterogeneous group of patients. Significant improvements in self esteem and self-efficacy were reported in a small, uncontrolled sample and encouraged the need for further confirmatory testing. Guided by the pilot study results, a randomized controlled trial tested the effect of the MMI on levels of self-esteem, optimism, and self-efficacy in a homogeneous sample of newly diagnosed breast or colorectal cancer patients. After controlling for baseline differences on each outcome variable, participants in the experimental group (n=35) who received the MMI were found to have significantly improved percep

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Jones, Barbara Leonard. "Factors related to psychological adjustment following myocardial infarction in mid-life men /." The Ohio State University, 1993. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1487843688957665.

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Devenport, Jennifer Leigh. "Does expert psychological testimony improve juror sensitivity to lineup suggestiveness?" FIU Digital Commons, 1996. http://digitalcommons.fiu.edu/etd/2783.

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Previous research has examined the validity of behavioral assumptions underlying the presumed effectiveness of safeguards against erroneous conviction resulting from mistaken eyewitness identification. In keeping with this agenda, this study examined juror sensitivity to lineup suggestiveness in the form of foil, instruction, and presentation biases and whether expert psychological testimony further sensitizes jurors to the factors that influence the likelihood of false identifications. One hundred and sixty jury eligible citizens watched versions of a videotaped trial that included information about the identification of the defendant by an eyewitness and that varied the suggestiveness of the eyewitness identification procedure. In addition, half of the mock-jurors heard the testimony of an expert psychologist regarding the factors that influence lineup suggestiveness. Mock-jurors rendered individual verdicts, rated the defendant's culpability and the suggestiveness and fairness of the identification procedure. Results indicated that jurors are somewhat sensitive to foil bias but are insensitive to instruction and presentation biases. No evidence was found to suggest that expert testimony leads to juror skepticism or juror sensitization. These results question the effectiveness of cross-examination and expert testimony as safeguards against erroneous convictions resulting from mistaken identification.

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Vitori, Tracey. "PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS AND CARDIAC DISEASE." UKnowledge, 2016. https://uknowledge.uky.edu/nursing_etds/26.

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The purpose of this dissertation was to evaluate the association of psychological distress with cardiac disease, events, and mortality. Specific aims were to: 1) to evaluate the association between hostility level and recurrence of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and all-cause mortality in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD); 2) to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI) hostility and anxiety subscales in a group of incarcerated participants at high risk of cardiovascular disease; and 3) to evaluate the association of patient and caregiver psychological state with quality of life in both patient and caregiver, and postoperative complications after cardiac surgery. Specific aim one was addressed through a secondary analysis of data collected during the Patient Response to Myocardial Infarction following a Teaching Intervention Offered by Nurses trial to determine whether hostility was a predictor of ACS recurrence and mortality. Hostility was common after ACS and predicted all-cause mortality. Hostility did not predict recurrent ACS. Specific aim 2 was addressed in a secondary analysis of baseline data from a randomized controlled trial in male prisoners. Participants completed the BSI at baseline prior to the intervention. Internal consistency reliability was good for both subscales (Cronbach’s alpha - hostility 0.83, anxiety 0.81). Items from the two dimensions were analyzed together using exploratory factor analysis with varimax rotation. Two dimensions, anxiety and hostility, were identified. Construct validity was supported; those with high anxiety and hostility reported a greater number of days where their self-reported health was rated as fair or poor. Those prisoners with less perceived control had higher levels of anxiety and hostility. Specific aim 3 was addressed through a prospective, descriptive correlational study that measured patient and caregiver anxiety, hostility and depressive symptoms, at baseline to determine whether these predicted quality of life using a multilevel dyadic analysis; and to evaluate the association of baseline anxiety, hostility and depressive symptoms and quality of life with postoperative complications and mortality. Anxiety, hostility, and depressive symptoms were common in both cardiac patients and their caregiver. Psychological state influenced quality of life in both dyad members, but was not associated with complications.

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Keller, Zoe A. "Correlations between body mass index and psychological distress in adolescents." Thesis, California State University, Long Beach, 2014. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=1527717.

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The purpose of the current study was to address the relationship between Body Mass Index (BMI) status and psychological distress within the adolescent population. Data was acquired from the California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) 2011-2012, a state-wide phone survey which addresses health issues among the resident population. The present study used data from 2,1 04 California adolescents, utilizing variables relating to demographics, general health condition, and mental health.

Results indicated a statistically significant relationship between BMI and psychological distress, with overweight adolescents experiencing more distress and depression than their underweight/healthy weight counterparts. Gender and perceived general health condition were both significantly related to distress, with females and those of poor perceived general health condition experiencing greater psychological distress, regardless of weight status. This study has implications for social work policy and practice, especially in work with youth and families.

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Karlsson, Louise. "Stress : From a biological, social, and psychological perspective." Thesis, Högskolan i Skövde, Institutionen för biovetenskap, 2018. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:his:diva-16104.

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Over the years stress has been a term lacking one clear and specific definition. In general, the term stress has been used mostly as an explanation of a response or reaction to a stressor. A stressor can be of both physiological and behavioral character. The experience of stress can occur both due to a real or a perceived stressor. In this literature review, the concept of stress is viewed with insights from biological, psychological, and social perspectives. The stress response is described biologically with the central nervous system (CNS), the brain, and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Social and psychological stress are concepts related to how stress is perceived by the mind and due to social surroundings which is described in relation to social support, self-efficacy, the locus of control and cognitive appraisal. Dealing with stress can be done through coping which refers to the individual capacity to handle a stressor and has generally been divided into two categories, active/passive coping and problem-focused/emotion-focused coping. Depending on the individual resources to cope with a stressor and the ability to decrease the stress response when needed, the long-term effects of stress can therefore vary between individuals. It has been found that positive coping (known as reducing stress) can increase the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) volume and decrease anxiety and depression. The prefrontal cortex (PFC), the hippocampus, and the amygdala are closely linked to the ACC and affect emotions, learning, and memory related to the stress response.

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Rogan, Malisa. "Psychological Capital and Contentment; Is there correlation?" Franklin University / OhioLINK, 2021. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=frank1623942529290833.

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Pham, Quynh Chi. "Factors associated with psychological distress among older Vietnamese adults." Thesis, California State University, Long Beach, 2015. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=1585645.

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The purpose of this thesis was to examine the factors associated with psychological distress among older Vietnamese adults. Utilizing information from secondary data called the California Health Interview Surveys (CHIS), a quantitative research method was completed for this study. The study explored levels of psychological distress with several factors including demographic characteristics, language use and proficiencies of patients, patients' understanding of rights to request for an interpreter during doctor visits, number of visits to doctors' offices, language used by doctors during consultation (English, Vietnamese, or other), and lastly, quality of interaction with doctors.

The result of this study indicated significant relationships among several factors and the level of psychological distress among older Vietnamese adults. These factors, include: demographics, patients' understanding of rights to an interpreter, number of doctor visits, language used by doctors during consultation, and doctor-patient communication.

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Rennick, Janet Elizabeth. "Children's psychological responses following critical illness and exposures to invasive technology." Thesis, McGill University, 1999. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=36051.

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Children who are hospitalized in a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) are subjected to a barrage of highly invasive, often painful interventions necessary in overcoming the critical period of their illness. While the majority of these children survive, little is known about the impact of critical illness on their subsequent psychological adjustment. The purposes of this study were (a) to compare the psychological responses of children hospitalized in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) with those of children hospitalized on a general ward; and (b) to determine whether there was a relationship between children's psychological responses post-hospital discharge and their age, the number and type of invasive procedures to which they were exposed during hospitalization, severity of illness, and length of hospital stay. A prospective cohort design was used to study two groups of children (N = 120). The study group included 60 children who had been hospitalized in a PICU, and the comparison group 60 children hospitalized on a general ward. Data were collected just prior to discharge, at six weeks and six months following discharge, from two metropolitan children's hospitals. Groups were compared on the following psychological responses: (a) the child's sense of control over his or her health; (b) the child's medical fears; (c) intrusive thoughts and avoidance behaviors related to hospitalization, as indicators of post-traumatic stress; and (d) changes in the child's behavior following hospitalization. In order to examine the possibility of post-traumatic stress responses in these children, the 'Child Impact of Event Scale' was developed in this study as a modified version of an adult measure originally developed by Horowitz and colleagues (1979). Other psychological responses were measured using established instruments. Relationships between the children's psychological responses and their age, the number and type of invasive procedures to which they were exposed d

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Dupee, Margaret. "Exploring a bioneurofeedback training intervention to enhance psychological skills & performance in sport." Thesis, University of Ottawa (Canada), 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/10393/27681.

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The purpose of the present study was to explore whether BNFK, which trains self-awareness and self-regulation of physiological and mental-emotional states, can enhance an athlete's psychological skills, specifically their ability to focus, relax and regulate their arousal and anxiety levels, and ultimately, enhance their sport performance. This research utilized a multiple-case study design. Six elite athletes, with a minimum of five years experience at the international or Olympic level, each received 30 hours of a BNFK training intervention. The effect of BNFK training was explored in three ways: (a) three phases of interviews were conducted with each athlete, prior to the BNFK training, between 20-30 hours of BNFK training, and at the end of the 2007-2008 competitive season; (b) physiological and neurological quantitative data was collected which measured improvements specific to the BNFK training; and (c) performance results were noted at the completion of the 2007-2008 competitive season and compared to previous results. The findings indicate that within the lab setting, the athletes developed (i) greater self-awareness of how they hold tension and anxiety in the body and (ii) self-regulation techniques to decrease that tension. As well, the athletes became more aware of their mental state, and through regulation of their level of anxiety and tension in the body, they enhanced their ability to focus. Although much improvement was seen, none of the athletes developed optimal self-regulation of all aspects measured. With respect to competition results, no definite improvement in performance was seen. The results of the study are further discussed in the context of the BNFK and sport psychology literature. Implications and future directions are also offered.

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Harris, Laura L. "Psychological impact of injury : changes in athletic training students' perceptions of the collegiate athlete /." The Ohio State University, 2001. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1302016507.

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Maldonado, Lizmarie Gabriela. "Linear Mixed-Effects Models: Applications to the Behavioral Sciences and Adolescent Community Health." Scholar Commons, 2012. http://scholarcommons.usf.edu/etd/4363.

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Linear mixed-effects (LME) modeling is a widely used statistical method for analyzing repeated measures or longitudinal data. Such longitudinal studies typically aim to investigate and describe the trajectory of a desired outcome. Longitudinal data have the advantage over cross-sectional data by providing more accuracy for the model. LME models allow researchers to account for random variation among individuals and between individuals. In this project, adolescent health was chosen as a topic of research due to the many changes that occur during this crucial time period as a precursor to overall well-being in adult life. Understanding the factors that influence how adolescents' mental well-being is affected may aid in interventions to reduce the risk of a negative impact. Self-esteem, in particular, has been associated with many components of physical and mental health and is a crucial focus in adolescent health. Research in self-esteem is extensive yet, sometimes inconclusive or contradictory since past research has been cross-sectional in nature. Several factors associated with self-esteem development are considered. Participation in religious services has also been an interest in research for its impact on depression. Depression development and its predictors are evaluated using LME models. Along with this line, this project will address the research problems identified through the following specific topics (i) to investigate the impact of early adolescent anxiety disorders on self-esteem development from adolescence to young adulthood; (ii) to study the role of maternal self-esteem and family socioeconomic status on adolescent self-esteem development through young adulthood; and (iii) to explore the efficacy of religious service attendance in reducing depressive symptoms. These topics present a good introduction to the LME approach and are of significant public health importance. The present study explores varying scenarios of the statistical methods and techniques employed in the analysis of longitudinal data. This thesis provides an overview of LME models and the model selection process with applications. Although this project is motivated by adolescent health study, the basic concepts of the methods introduced have generally broader applications in other fields provided that the relevant technical specifications are met.

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Aytolun, Nilay. "Psychological Adjustment Of Children With Spastic Cerebral Palsy." Master's thesis, METU, 2009. http://etd.lib.metu.edu.tr/upload/2/12611295/index.pdf.

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The aim of the present study was to examine the predictive values of sociodemographic variables, parental variables (parental stress, family functioning, parental adjustment, coping methods), and child variables (coping methods, self concept) for the adjustment of children with spastic cerebral palsy. Transactional stress and coping model was used as the conceptual framework for the study. The sample of the study was composed of 80 children with spastic cerebral palsy and one of their parents. Hierarchical regression analysis was conducted to test the child adjustment by using child gender, parent education, parental stress, family functioning, parental adjustment, parental coping methods, child coping methods, and child self concept as independent variables. Results revealed that parentalstress, parents&rsquo
problem solving/optimistic coping and fatalistic coping predicted the adjustment of children with spastic CP. However, parental adjustment, family functioning, child coping and child self concept were not significantly predicting of child adjustment. The findings, strengths, limitations as well as the implications of the findings were discussed.

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Pavlas, Davin. "A model of flow and play in game-based learning the impact of game characteristics, player traits, and player states." Doctoral diss., University of Central Florida, 2010. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETD/id/4513.

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In this dissertation, the relationship between flow state, serious games, and learning was examined. Serious games, which are games that convey something other than enjoyment (e.g., learning), are increasingly popular platforms for research, training, and advertisement. The elements that make serious games useful to researchers, trainers, and practitioners are closely linked to those that make up the positive psychology construct of flow state. Flow state describes an optimum experience that is encountered when a variety of factors are met, and is characterized by high focus, engagement, motivation, and immersion. While flow state is often discussed in the serious games literature, in-depth empirical examinations of flow state remain elusive. In this dissertation I addressed this need by conducting a thorough literature review of flow, serious games, and game-based learning in order to propose a new model of flow in games. Two studies were conducted in support of this model. The first experiment consisted of the creation and validation of a play experience scale. Based on the data from 203 Study 1 participants, the Play Experience Scale was validated for use with video games. The 14-item version of the Play Experience Scale was composed of the components of freedom, lack of extrinsic motivation, autotelic experience, and direct assessment of play. The scale was reliable, with a calculated alpha of .86. In the second study, the newly developed scale was used alongside an immune system serious game to examine the impact of play, in-game performance, and emotional experience on flow in games. In an effort to provide a more symmetrical version of the scale, two items were added to the scale, resulting in a 16-item revision. Based on the empirical results obtained from Study 2's 77 participants, the proposed model of flow in games was revised slightly.; Though Study 2 only examined a subset of the overall model of flow in games, the evidence suggested the model was a good theoretical match. Further, the two added items of the Play Experience Scale were valid, providing a final 16-item version of the scale. Play and in-game performance were key predictors of game-based learning. Additionally, play, video game self-efficacy, and emotional experience exhibited a reciprocal relationship with flow state. Implications for serious game development, scientific research into games and learning, and industry testing of game playability were provided. Following these implications, conclusions were presented alongside suggestions for further research.
ID: 029051055; System requirements: World Wide Web browser and PDF reader.; Mode of access: World Wide Web.; Thesis (Ph.D.)--University of Central Florida, 2010.; Includes bibliographical references (p. 163-184).
Ph.D.
Doctorate
Department of Psychology
Sciences
Applied Experimental and Human Factors

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Obradovich, Anthony Frank. "The relationship of stressful life events, social support, and personality to psychological and physical health /." The Ohio State University, 1990. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1487683401440963.

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Hoggatt, Celia. "Abuse Factors, Anxiety, and Somatic Complaint in Psychological Evaluation of Pain Patients." Honors in the Major Thesis, University of Central Florida, 2005. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETH/id/762.

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This item is only available in print in the UCF Libraries. If this is your Honors Thesis, you can help us make it available online for use by researchers around the world by following the instructions on the distribution consent form at http://library.ucf
Bachelors
Arts and Sciences
Psychology

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Berry, Brittany. "The Protective Role of Psychological Empowerment on Tobacco Use Behaviors." VCU Scholars Compass, 2011. http://scholarscompass.vcu.edu/etd/2498.

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THE PROTECTIVE ROLE OF PSYCHOLOGICAL EMPOWERMENT ON TOBACCO USE BEHAVIORS By: Brittany M. Berry, B.A. A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science at Virginia Commonwealth University Virginia Commonwealth University, 2011 Major Director: Aashir Nasim Associate Professor Department of Psychology The primary aim of this study was to determine the protective effects of psychological empowerment (i.e., the belief that one has the knowledge, capabilities, and authority to be an active agent in their own life and in the surrounding community) on the tobacco use behaviors of young adults. A secondary aim was to examine whether religiosity confers a protective advantage to psychologically empowered individuals within an African American subsample. Multiple linear regression was used to determine the main and interaction effects of psychological empowerment and religiosity on the current cigarette use behaviors of 798 young adult, college students. The findings suggest a link between empowerment, religiosity, and tobacco use such that the protective effects of empowerment and religious support on cigarette use behaviors may be codependent. This research provides insight on the mutual dependence of protective factors for tobacco use and suggests an expansion of current risks and protective factors models.

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PEACH, ELIZABETH ELAINE. "MATERNAL PSYCHOLOGICAL BENEFIT OF PRENATAL REPAIR FOR SPINA BIFIDA." University of Cincinnati / OhioLINK, 2001. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ucin996076806.

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Ryan, Kelsea M. "Intentional weight loss among healthy women| Behavior patterns and psychological concerns." Thesis, San Jose State University, 2015. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=1583511.

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Although there is an extensive literature on women who are overweight, obese, or suffer from eating disorders, less is known about women who are at a healthy weight yet who are attempting to lose weight. To learn more about the psychological characteristics and behavioral patterns of such women, this study analyzed data from the American College Health Association's National College Health Assessment (ACHA-NCHA-II). We compared these women with two groups of women: (a) those who are at a healthy weight but who are not attempting to lose weight and (b) overweight women who are attempting to lose weight. We employed numerous variables including BMI, depression, anxiety, academic performance, exercise, and diet strategies in these comparisons. In terms of psychological health and weight-related behavior, healthy women attempting weight loss are more similar to overweight women who are attempting weight loss than they are to healthy women who are not attempting to lose weight. We found comparatively high rates of depression, anxiety, and academic difficulty among our target population. Based on our findings and the relevant literature, we recommend that university health officials provide weight-related educational information to female students in an effort to promote psychological well-being and healthy weight practices.

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McKnight, Katherine May 1963. "Psychological responses to athletic injury: An inquiry into self-discrepancy theory." Thesis, The University of Arizona, 1993. http://hdl.handle.net/10150/278393.

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This study was designed to examine the relationships between exercising while injured, and variables found to be relevant in the exercise dependence literature. It was also designed to test the utility of the Self-discrepancy model (Higgins, 1989) of motivation, cognition and affect. Twenty-six (N = 26) injured athletes participated. The AIQ was designed for this study to measure involvement with exercise and the nature of the injury. Negative mood was measured by POMS, and self discrepancies were measured by the Selves Questionnaire. Therapists' ratings were included to measure injury rehabilitation behavior. Confirmatory factor analyses and hierarchical regression analyses were used to test hypotheses. The utility of the self-discrepancy model for this sample, was unsupported. Seriousness and persistence with exercise, the recurrence of the injury, and depression due to the injury, were significant predictors of exercising while injured. A power analysis was used to test the probability of significant findings.

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DarkaShade, Candrick C. "The Psychological Impact of Distal Combat on Veterans." ScholarWorks, 2016. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/3224.

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Researchers and military organizations have defined military conflicts as being fought in two principal combat environments, namely, close proximity, or the proximal combat environment, and distant proximity, or the distal combat environment. This study used Gal and Jones's psychological model of combat stress as the theoretical framework. The study also used Merriam's generic interpretative qualitative research method, including open-ended interviewing and document review, to obtain data. The study used inductive thematic analysis to analyze the narratives of 10 distal combat veterans who were recruited for the study. The research questions were designed to identify the characteristics of distal combat and the personal narratives of distal combat veterans. The study also was an exploration of the emotional, psychological, behavioral, and physical reactions of distal combat veterans to the onset of combat stress and the type of coping strategies that they used in the face of such challenges. Potential social change implications of the study are that it elucidated current understanding of the psychological consequences of distal combat and identified factors that can help combat soldiers and veterans to develop resiliency to distal combat stress. Given the gap in the combat literature regarding distal combat stress, conducting this study adds to knowledge of the ways in which combat stress affects distal combat veterans during operations.

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Skrutkowski, Myriam. "Uncertainty in cancer survivors : physical factors, beliefs about control, and psychological well-being." Thesis, National Library of Canada = Bibliothèque nationale du Canada, 1999. http://www.collectionscanada.ca/obj/s4/f2/dsk1/tape9/PQDD_0022/MQ50882.pdf.

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37

Ali, Haris. "Investigating power, interdependence and struggle in the employment relationship : a psychological contract perspective." Thesis, University of Glasgow, 2015. http://theses.gla.ac.uk/6999/.

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This thesis explores the implications of power in relation to the psychological contract. The majority of the psychological contract literature, because of its underpinning assumptions of mutuality and reciprocity, largely downplays the dynamics of power in the employment relationship. The key objective of the current study therefore is to make further empirical and theoretical developments in relation to the psychological contract by exploring these power dynamics in the relationship between employees and employer. Concerning power, the complex interdependencies and the associated workplace struggles characterizing the employment relationship between employees and the different representatives of the organization are investigated. From an empirical perspective, the research contributes in a twofold manner as the results not only highlight the complex interdependencies and the workplace struggles in the employment relationship but also offer new knowledge about work and management in Pakistan. This context of employment relations based on underlying power dynamics that are embedded into the complex and interdependent relationships between employees and organizational representatives is globally significant in terms of workplace research, yet generally neglected in the relevant studies. The current study has a qualitative orientation and follows a critical realist research philosophy. Using data collected from 43 interviewees in three call centre organizations, the research additionally makes a theoretical contribution to the psychological contract from the perspectives of mutuality, reciprocity and agency. The results illustrate that, in comparison to mutuality and reciprocity, interdependence and negotiation play a critical role in the psychological contracts of employees. Largely acknowledging the implications of power dynamics, these concepts highlight that employees, based on their perceptions of interdependence (rather than mutuality) in the employment relationships, tend to focus primarily on negotiation (rather than reciprocation) in their psychological contracts with employers. Concerning agency, different classifications of human agents are highlighted (i.e. primary agents, secondary agents, multiple agents, incumbent agents). The current research extends the concept of agency beyond the boundary of human agents into the domain of the electronic agents of the organization. The results highlight that it is not only the perceived capability to reward or punish but also the perceived tendency to actively use that capability which significantly influences employees’ assumptions to consider particular organizational members as the agents of the organization. From the viewpoint of relational interdependence in the employment relationship, the efforts made by employees to decrease their dependence on employers and increase the employer’s dependence on them are illustrated. The research findings demonstrate that these efforts are largely motivated by the employees’ objective of promoting their bargaining power in employment relationship.

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Siversten, Otilia. "Psychological Profile in Patients with Pathologic Gastroscopic Findings andFunctional Dyspepsia:A Pilot Study." Thesis, Örebro universitet, Institutionen för medicinska vetenskaper, 2017. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:oru:diva-66822.

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39

Meerwijk, Esther Lydia. "Heart Rate Variability and Frontal EEG Asymmetry as Markers of Psychological Pain." Thesis, University of California, San Francisco, 2013. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=3587886.

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Introduction: Psychological pain is a frequently observed symptom in depression, and escape from unbearable psychological pain is often mentioned as the reason for suicide. We explored the relationship between psychological pain and two potential biomarkers: heart rate variability (HRV) and frontal EEG α-asymmetry. As both markers have successfully been used as feedback to alter mood state, knowledge about the relationship between HRV, frontal EEG, and psychological pain may be of particular interest for interventions to alleviate psychological pain.

Methods: Adults with a history of depression (N = 35) participated in six 5-minute sessions during which heart rate and EEG were recorded, while the participants sat upright with their eyes closed. In addition, participants completed the Beck scales for depression, hopelessness, and suicide ideation, and two measures of psychological pain: the Psychache Scale and the Orbach & Mikulincer Mental Pain (OMMP) Questionnaire.

Results: Mean age of the participants was 35.0 ( SD 11.84) and their average level of depression and hopelessness was moderate. The intraclass correlation coefficient indicated excellent agreement of neurophysiological variables across successive measurements. In separate hierarchical regression models, after controlling for depression and hopelessness, low-frequency HRV and right midfrontal delta power contributed significant variance (Δ R ² = 8.8%, β = -.30, p = .02 and ΔR² = 7.0%, β = -.26, p = .03, respectively) to the prediction of current psychological pain on the OMMP. For worst-ever psychological pain on the OMMP, midfrontal delta power contributed significant variance (ΔR ² = 20.5%, β = -.45, p = .004), after controlling for depression. Suicidal desire moderated the relationships of low-frequency HRV and midfrontal delta power to psychological pain on the Psychache Scale. High-frequency HRV and frontal α-asymmetry did not correlate with the Psychache Scale or OMMP scores. EEG asymmetry based on fractal dimensions decreased (greater left than right complexity) with increasing current and worst-ever psychological pain on the OMMP.

Conclusion: Findings suggest that greater psychological pain is associated with increased sympathetic nervous system activity, rather than with reduced parasympathetic nervous system activity. Psychological pain may affect the right frontal cortex more adversely than the left frontal cortex.

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Sloan, Carole A. "The modulation of mucosal immune markers, URS, and psychological parameters following acute and chronic exercise." Thesis, Wayne State University, 2014. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=3640129.

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The purpose of this dissertation was to evaluate changes in two antimicrobial markers, upper respiratory symptom (URS) variables, and mood state following participation in an acute (N = 93) and chronic (N = 88) observational study of college aerobic exercise, yoga exercise, and non-exercise classes.

METHODS: Unstimulated whole saliva was collected pre/post-acute (50 minutes) and pre/midpoint/post-chronic (12 weeks) during the study period. Saliva was analyzed for salivary immunoglobulin A (SIgA) and salivary alpha amylase (SAA) using protocols and assay kits by Salimetrics, upper respiratory symptoms (URS) were evaluated using the Wisconsin Upper Respiratory Symptom Survey (WURSS), and mood states were evaluated by the Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaire.

RESULTS: Analysis of the acute data revealed significant improvements for SIgA concentration in the aerobic exercise group (AEG) and the yoga exercise group (YEG) as well as SIgA secretion increases for all participants combined. No significant acute SAA concentration or secretion improvements were noted.

Chronic measurements revealed significant SIgA secretion (pretest to midpoint and pretest to posttest) and SFR increases (pretest to posttest) for all participants combined with no changes in SIgA concentration. The WURSS data revealed a significant decrease in the symptom score for the YEG and a significant increase in the symptom score for the non-exercise group (NEG) with notable but non-significant decreases in the incidence of infections of 39, 30, and 27 for the NEG, AEG, and YEG, respectively. Significant chronic SAA concentration decreases were noted for all participants combined between the pretest and posttest. Analysis of the POMS scores found significant acute improvements for all cohorts in all POMS categories and Total Mood Disturbance except for vigor-activity. Additionally, the entire cohort had significant chronic improvements for fatigue-inertia.

CONCLUSIONS: This study's results provide meaningful contributions to the field of mucosal immune research indicating that a 12 week yoga exercise class may decrease symptomatology of URS. The chronic SIgA secretion increases were attributed to SFR increases and the significant SFR increases may be a benefit for people suffering from xerostomia. Additionally, participation in an acute exercise session of aerobic or yoga exercise may elevate SIgA concentration immediately following exercise indicating strengthened mucosal immunity.

Since SAA is a relatively new antimicrobial marker, this study provides meaningful observations about the pattern of change seen in SAA following acute and chronic exercise of low and moderate intensity.

Collectively, these results provide support for the continued encouragement of individuals to use moderate and low intensity exercise such as aerobics and yoga to improve mucosal immunity.

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Schumacher, Ashley M. "The relationship of two types of trauma exposure to current physical and psychological symptom distress." Diss., Search in ProQuest Dissertations & Theses. UC Only, 2009. http://gateway.proquest.com/openurl?url_ver=Z39.88-2004&rft_val_fmt=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:dissertation&res_dat=xri:pqdiss&rft_dat=xri:pqdiss:1465492.

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Thomason, Lani. "Childhood Verbal Abuse and its Psychological Effects on Adults." ScholarWorks, 2018. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/5276.

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Researchers have documented an increase in child abuse in the past 50 years. Child abuse is associated with many adult physical, emotional, social, and cognitive impairments. To date, physical and sexual abuse have received more attention than verbal abuse. There is a gap in the literature on the effect of verbal abuse on mental health. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of verbal abuse in children on adult psychological functioning. A retrospective, casual-comparative design was used drawing a sample of adults (n = 224), ages 18 to 40, who reported verbal abuse as children as well as those not reporting verbal abuse, from local universities and colleges. Participants completed the Childhood Traumatic History Questionnaire and the Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory-IV (MCMI- IV). Logistic regression was used to examine the relationships between verbal abuse in children within 4 research questions. The analysis of 4 research questions showed that verbal abuse significantly predicts the likelihood of anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Verbal abuse significantly predicted the likelihood of one personality disorder, but not others. Better understanding of effects of verbal abuse in children on adult psychological functioning could equip individuals and practitioners with prevention and treatment measures that could reduce the adverse effects verbal abuse on mental health.

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Hammond, Catherine Campbell. "Relationships between psychological factors and immune dysregulation in context : a life-course approach." Thesis, University of Essex, 2018. http://repository.essex.ac.uk/22333/.

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The thesis provides evidence about relationships between adverse exposures, psychological responses to them and immune dysregulation. The approach taken is informed by theories about the life-course, the stress process, the stress response and the inflammatory theory of depression. The first two empirical chapters provide evidence about the contribution of psychosocial factors to immune dysregulation. Immune dysregulation is measured by onsets of asthma and rheumatoid arthritis during adulthood. Comprehensive life-course data are used to provide valuable evidence about the epidemiology of each disease. More specifically, new evidence is provided about the psychosocial pathways that lead to disease onset. After adjustment for material adversities, social adversities predict onsets of each disease. Chronic as opposed to acute adversities are salient for rheumatoid arthritis onset, which is consistent with existing theory that chronic stress contributes to immune dysregulation. Depressive symptoms mediate an association between childhood adversity and asthma onset decades later. A small but consistent association between depressive symptoms and asthma onset soon afterwards may reflect psychological consequences of chronic inflammation preceding asthma diagnosis. The third empirical chapter tests prospective associations between chronic inflammation and depressive symptoms. It finds that chronic inflammation predicts depressive symptoms and provides new evidence that these associations are mediated by factors associated with sickness behaviours. Findings indicate the relevance of psychosocial pathways to the development of immune-mediated diseases and the potential involvement of immune behaviours in psychological symptoms. Practitioners and policy makers working with people who have conditions characterised by immune dysregulation should consider the psychological predictors and consequences of immune dysregulation. More research in this area is needed and this would be facilitated by the development and inclusion in surveys of well-validated measures of psychological and biological stress and of the psychological and behavioural correlates of sickness behaviours thought to be induced by inflammation.

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Norwood, Joan M. "Psychological Uncertainty, Stress, Frustration and their Relationship with Counterproductive Workplace Behavior." ScholarWorks, 2018. https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/5761.

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The overall problem this research addresses is the costly impact of counterproductive work behaviors. The purpose of this study was to examine whether uncertainty, stress, or frustration are related to variability, or in predicting counterproductive work behaviors. Wavering economic conditions have steadily altered work environments, and with continuous work changes are growing feelings of uncertainty, concerns of employee and organizational safety, performance, and overall wellbeing. The social exchange theory and the workplace social exchange network were used in this study to better understand employee relationships and response behaviors. Research questions compared the relationships among perceived uncertainty, stress, frustration, and levels of counterproductive work behaviors. For this study, a sample of 180 volunteers completed the Psychological Uncertainty Scale, the Perceived Stress Scale-10, the Frustration Scale, and the Counterproductive Work Behavior Checklist-10. Volunteers were recruited via invitation by Findparticipants.com. and SurveyMonkey-® hosted the data collection. This non-experimental, quantitative study employed a survey design, and multiple linear regression analysis were used to test the hypotheses. Regression analyses indicated a significant relationship between frustration and counterproductive work behaviors (t = 4.269, p < .001); however, the relationship of uncertainty and stress with counterproductive behaviors was not statistically significant. Predicting employee negative behaviors and gaining a better understanding of factors with negative influences on work behavior allows leadership the opportunity to develop more sustainable strategies designed to influence and encourage positive social change.

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Wasano, Lauren C. "A comparison of assessment procedures for pica." Scholarly Commons, 2006. https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/uop_etds/2721.

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Pica is a potentially life-threatening behavior problem displayed by many individuals with developmental disabilities that can result in serious medical complications. The purpose of this study was to compare findings from a functional analysis (FA), which is the state of the art method of behavioral assessment, with two indirect assessment measures: the Motivational Assessment Scale (MAS) and the Questions About Behavioral Function (QABF). For three participants, results from the indirect measures paralleled those of the FA in identifying the function of pica. The indirect measures were more cost and time efficient. Use of these indirect methods of assessment not only identified the functional relations that served to maintain pica, but also served as a simpler, less time consuming and accurate alternative to an FA. When an FA is time or cost prohibitive, use of the MAS and QABF may be helpful in suggesting the function of pica.

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Olofsson, Emmie. "Children of Divorce : Long-Term Psychological Effects and Neurological Consequences." Thesis, Högskolan i Skövde, Institutionen för biovetenskap, 2019. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:his:diva-17474.

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This thesis has examined what long-term psychological and neurological effects that are apparent in children and adults who have experienced parental divorce. It was predicted that significantly more children and adult children from divorced families would have increased symptoms of mental disorders than children and adult children from married homes e.g., anxiety, depression, panic disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. It was further predicted that parental divorce would negatively affect the neurological system in the offspring. The correlation between children of divorce and negative neurological effects was not found to be true. However, adult children of divorce have significantly lower baseline cortisol levels compared to adult children of marriage. Dysregulated cortisol levels are highly associated with the development of e.g., anxiety, depression, and brain damage. Parental divorce did not only influence how secretion of the hormone cortisol is regulated within adult children of divorce, but how both children and adult children of divorce psychologically adapt post-divorce. Children of divorce have for instance lower general well-being, more symptoms of anxiety and depression, lower self-esteem, and feel more stress than children of marriage. Adult children of divorce are more likely to experience marital discord, getting divorced themselves, anxiety and depression, lower academic performance, and substance abuse, etc. The result of the thesis suggests that children and adult children from divorced families are negatively affected, both psychologically and neurologically, regardless of age. Parental divorce and supplementary effects make it more likely for children and adult children to experience more symptoms of mental disorders.

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Sadock, Elizabeth. "EVALUATION OF PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES PROVIED IN A UNIVERSITY-BASED PRIMARY CARE CLINIC." VCU Scholars Compass, 2012. http://scholarscompass.vcu.edu/etd/2781.

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Primary care clinics are increasingly integrating psychological services into their service programs; however few studies have provided quantitative data to support these services. This study served as a program evaluation of the psychological services provided at the Ambulatory Care Clinic at the Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center in Richmond, Virginia. It includes: 1) a description of the program, including types of patients served, their presenting problems, and treatments administered and 2) evidence of the impact of mental health services on primary care patients’ emotional adjustment and progress on behavioral goals. Data on exposure to stressful life events and intake and follow-up measures of depression, anxiety, smoking, insomnia, chronic pain, and weight loss were collected on 452 adult primary care patients. Although inferences are limited by the lack of a control or comparison group, preliminary findings indicate that the mental health services provided were effective. Implications and future directions are discussed.

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Podevijn, Gaetan. "Effects of the Interaction with Robot Swarms on the Human Psychological State." Doctoral thesis, Universite Libre de Bruxelles, 2017. https://dipot.ulb.ac.be/dspace/bitstream/2013/245391/5/ConratGP.pdf.

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Human-swarm interaction studies how human beings can interact with a robotswarm---a large number of robots cooperating with each other without any form of centralizedcontrol. In today's human-swarm interaction literature, the large majority of the works investigatehow human beings can issue commands to and receive feedback from a robot swarm. However, only a few ofthese works study the effect of the interaction with a robot swarm on human psychology (e.g. on thehuman stress or on the human workload). Understanding human psychology in human-swarm interaction isimportant because the human psychological state can have significant impact on the way humansinteract with robot swarms (e.g. a high level of stress can cause a human operator to freeze in themiddle of a critical task, such as a search-and-rescue task). Most existing works that study human psychology in human-swarm interaction conduct their experimentsusing robot swarms simulated on a computer screen. The use of simulation is convenient becauseexperimental conditions can be repeated perfectly in different experimental runs and becauseexperimentation using real robots is expensive both in money and time. However, simulation suffersfrom the so-called reality gap: the inherent discrepancy between simulation and reality. Itis therefore important to study whether this inherent discrepancy can affect humanpsychology---human operators interacting with a simulated robot swarm can react differently thanwhen interacting with a real robot swarm.A large literature in human-robot interaction has studied the psychological impact of theinteraction between human beings and single robots. This literature could in principle be highlyrelevant to human-swarm interaction. However, an inherent difference between human-robot interactionand human-swarm interaction is that in the latter, human operators interact with a large number ofrobots. This large number of robots can affect human psychology---human operators interacting with alarge number of robots can react differently than when interacting with a single robot or with asmall number of robots. It is therefore important to understand whether the large number of robotsthat composes a robot swarm affects human psychology. In fact, if this is the case, it would not bepossible to directly apply the results of human-robot interaction research to human-swarminteraction.We conducted several experiments in order to understand the effect of the reality gap and the effectof the group size (i.e. the number of robots that composes a robot swarm) on the humanpsychological state. In these experiments our participants are exposed to swarms of robots and arepurely passive---they do not issue commands nor receive feedback from the robots. Making theinteraction passive allowed us to study the effects of the reality gap and of the group size on thehuman psychological state without the risk that an interaction interface (such as a joystick)influences the psychological responses of the participants (and thus limiting the visibility of both thereality gap and group size effects). In the reality gap experiments, participants are exposed tosimulated robot swarms displayed either on a computer screen or in a virtual reality environment, and toreal robot swarms. In the group size experiments, participants are exposed to an increasing numberof real robots.In this thesis, we show that the reality gap and the group size affect the human psychological stateby collecting psychophysiological measures (heart rate and skin conductance), self-reported (viaquestionnaires) affective state measures (arousal and valence), self-reported workload (the amountof mental resource needed to carry out a task) and reaction time (the time needed to respond to astimulus). Firstly, we show with our results that our participants' psychophysiological measures,affective state measures, workload and reaction time are significantly higher when they interactwith a real robot swarm compared to when they interact with a robot swarm simulated on a computerscreen, confirming that the reality gap significantly affects the human psychological state.Moreover, we show that it is possible to mitigate the effect of the reality gap using virtualreality---our participants' arousal, workload and reaction time are significantly higher when theyinteract with a simulated robot swarm displayed in a virtual reality environment as opposed to whenit is displayed on a computer screen. Secondly, we show that our participants' psychophysiologicalmeasures and affective state measures increase when the number of robots they are exposed toincreases. Our results have important implications for research in human-swarm interaction. Firstly, for thefirst time, we show that experiments in simulation change the human psychological state compared toexperiments with real robots. Secondly, we show that a characteristic that is inherent to thedefinition of swarm robotics---the large number of robots that composes a robotswarm---significantly affects the human psychological state. Finally, our results show thatpsychophysiological measures, such as heart rate and skin conductance, provide researchers with moreinformation on human psychology than the information provided by using traditional self-reportedmeasures (collected via psychological questionnaires).
Doctorat en Sciences de l'ingénieur et technologie
info:eu-repo/semantics/nonPublished

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Petkus, Veronica. "The Role of Identity Distress as a Mediator Between Identity Status Variables and Psychological Symptoms." Honors in the Major Thesis, University of Central Florida, 2005. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETH/id/789.

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This item is only available in print in the UCF Libraries. If this is your Honors Thesis, you can help us make it available online for use by researchers around the world by following the instructions on the distribution consent form at http://library.ucf
Bachelors
Arts and Sciences
Psychology

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Tennant, Chris. "On the threshold : a social psychological study of different standpoints in the climate change debate." Thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science (University of London), 2012. http://etheses.lse.ac.uk/395/.

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Helm (2008) asked: 'Climate change policy: why has so little been achieved?' Cultural Theory (CT) has been used to analyse the debate over climate change, arguing that competing worldviews mandate divergent policy responses (Rayner & Malone 1998). CT's framework suggests the monolithic structure of the UNFCCC process fails to integrate these multiple worldviews, hindering effective action. This thesis uses a complementary framework, Fiske's (1992) Relational Model's Theory (RMT). Whereas CT analyses the debate at the societal level, RMT proposes a framework of individual social cognition comprising four models of social exchange: 'Equality Matching', based upon reciprocity; 'Communal Sharing', based on equal entitlement within a community; 'Authority Ranking', based upon established status; and 'Market Pricing', based on an external currency of merit. RMT implies that the relational models found in individual cognition should be mirrored in any debate at the societal and inter-personal levels. Content analyses of media articles and focus group interviews support the view that there are four coherent Standpoints matching these relational models in the debate. Survey respondents who believe in climate change used different models from those who did not, but survey evidence also gave support to the view that individuals use multiple models to reason over novel or contested issues such as climate change. CT explicitly argues that one of the four hypothesised worldviews, the 'fatalist', is not active in shaping policy. In contrast, these empirical studies suggest that the closest equivalent relational model, Equality Matching, generates the Commons Dilemma (Hardin, 1968) that actually drives much of the debate. The studies also raised new questions about the structure connecting the four relational models, or the worldviews. Lastly, the framework confirms it will be difficult to get concerted action before climate change impacts intensify, at which point social as well as climate thresholds will have been crossed.

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Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Psychological sciences'

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