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- Title
- "ANIMAL-LIKE AND DEPRAVED": RACIST STEREOTYPES, COMMERCIAL SEX, AND BLACK WOMEN'S IDENTITY IN NEW ORLEANS, 1825-1917.
- Creator
-
Dossie, Porsha, Lester, Connie, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
My objective with this thesis is to understand how racist stereotypes and myths compounded the sale of fair-skinned black women during and after the slave trade in New Orleans, Louisiana. This commodification of black women's bodies continued well into the twentieth century, notably in New Orleans' vice district of Storyville. Called "quadroons" (a person with 1/4 African ancestry) and "octoroons" (1/8 African ancestry), these women were known for their "sexual prowess" and drew in a large...
Show moreMy objective with this thesis is to understand how racist stereotypes and myths compounded the sale of fair-skinned black women during and after the slave trade in New Orleans, Louisiana. This commodification of black women's bodies continued well into the twentieth century, notably in New Orleans' vice district of Storyville. Called "quadroons" (a person with 1/4 African ancestry) and "octoroons" (1/8 African ancestry), these women were known for their "sexual prowess" and drew in a large number of patrons. The existence of "white passing" black women complicated ideas about race and racial purity in the South. Race as a myth and social construct, or as Evelyn Brooks Higginbotham explains in her essay, African-American Women's History and the Metalanguage of Race, a "metalanguage" exposes race not as a genetic fact, but rather a physical appearance through which power relations and status were to be conferred. My methodology uses race and gender theory to analyze primary and secondary sources to understand and contextualize how population demographics, myths, and liberal 18th century colonial laws contributed to the sale of black women's bodies. The works of Emily Clark, Walter Johnson, Gwendolyn Midlo Hall and other historians who utilize Atlantic history have been paramount in my research. Emily Clark has transformed the "white-black" women from a tragic, sexualized trope into a fully actualized human being, while Hall has tackled the racist underpinnings inherent in the neglect of black women's history. The writings of bell hooks, particularly her essay Eating the Other, establishes the modern day commodification of black women vis-a-vis their representation in media, as well as through the fetishism of their bodies by a white patriarchal system. During slavery plantation owners could do virtually anything they wanted with their property, including engaging in sexual intercourse. By depicting black women as hypersexual jezebels, they could justify their rape, while establishing their dominance and place in the white male hegemony of that time period. For the right price a white male of a lesser class could achieve the same thing at a brothel down in Storyville at the turn of the twentieth century, for as Emily Clark argues in her book, The Strange History of the American Quadroon, these brothels were a great equalizer, allowing all white men to experience "sexual mastery enjoyed only by elite planters before the Civil War." By democratizing white supremacy, the quadroon and others like her forged solidarity that bridge across all classes, while upholding whiteness and oppressing people of color at the same time.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFH0004652, ucf:45310
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004652
- Title
- "BACK" TO THE FUTURE: AN EVALUATION OF MORPHOLOGICAL INTEGRATION IN KYPHOSIS.
- Creator
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Ceuninck, Kristyna L, Starbuck, John, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Morphological integration refers to the interdependence of two or more phenotypic structures. The morphological integration concept is based on the fact that parts of complex organisms do not vary randomly and instead display degrees of non-independence that are thought to occur from shared genetic or developmental origins, and/or functional demands. Integrated traits may develop, evolve, and be inherited together. One instance of morphological integration can be found between the vertebral...
Show moreMorphological integration refers to the interdependence of two or more phenotypic structures. The morphological integration concept is based on the fact that parts of complex organisms do not vary randomly and instead display degrees of non-independence that are thought to occur from shared genetic or developmental origins, and/or functional demands. Integrated traits may develop, evolve, and be inherited together. One instance of morphological integration can be found between the vertebral column and the skull. Due to the position of the skull resting atop of the vertebral column, posture may influence skull development and overall craniofacial morphology. Morphological integration within or between structures is typically statistically assessed by exploring correlation and covariation patterns among biological structures of interest. In this study, an analysis of morphological integration was carried out by studying covariation of morphometric measures from the vertebral column and craniofacial complex. Age- and sex-matched, de-identified computed tomography images of individuals with kyphosis spinal malformation (n = 15) and controls (n = 19) were acquired from Florida Hospital. It is hypothesized that the sample of individuals with kyphosis will exhibit statistically significant covariance differences relative to the control group for T6 vertebral and midfacial linear distance measurements. Anatomical landmarks were identified on the T6 thoracic vertebrae (n = 6) and the midfacial skeleton (n = 6), and XYZ coordinates were recorded for analysis. A subset of 10 individuals (5 kyphosis, 5 controls) individuals were measured on two occasions to assess reliability and measurement error. An Euclidean Distance Matrix Analysis (EDMA) of morphological integration was carried out on the entire sample by calculating correlation values for paired linear distance measurements (one vertebral and one midfacial) separately for the kyphosis and control samples (n = 225 for each sample). Next, EDMA calculated correlation differences and statistically assessed significance using a non-parametric bootstrap (1,000 resamples) and confidence interval testing (? ? 0.10). Only 35 of the 225 (15.56%) correlation differences were statistically significant. Patterns of variation among these significant correlation differences were explored by examining sample directionality of differences, sign patterns, and strengths. The relevance of these results to clinical and anthropological pursuits are discussed. Several recommendations for future investigations are made.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFH2000286, ucf:45812
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000286
- Title
- "DON'T ASK, DON'T TELL": A HISTORY, LEGACY, AND AFTERMATH.
- Creator
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Wansac, Alexis, Jewett, Aubrey, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Though many believe some of the greatest military leaders of all time - from Alexander the Great to Julius Caesar - have engaged in sex acts with other males, and though certainly a very different political climate from that of ancient Greece or Rome, the United States military has historically never accepted homosexual sex acts within its own military, nor has the United States military accepted open homosexuals either until recently. This thesis focuses on the evolution of United States...
Show moreThough many believe some of the greatest military leaders of all time - from Alexander the Great to Julius Caesar - have engaged in sex acts with other males, and though certainly a very different political climate from that of ancient Greece or Rome, the United States military has historically never accepted homosexual sex acts within its own military, nor has the United States military accepted open homosexuals either until recently. This thesis focuses on the evolution of United States military policy towards homosexuals and the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" (DADT) policy of the United States military in order to recommend a path that the United States can follow to provide an equal opportunity for success of openly homosexual service members. This research traces the history of policy towards homosexuality in the United States military up through the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy and its repeal. This research discusses changing governmental policies towards homosexuals in the military, as well as changing public opinions about "Don't Ask, Don't Tell". This research also outlines discharges under the policy, connecting changing public opinion to the policy's eventual repeal. Through the analysis of statistics surrounding discharges, opinion surveys, and anecdotal evidence, this research evaluates the level of acceptance for openly homosexual service members in a post-DADT world. These findings will then be compared with the adjustment of troops in Great Britain and Canada, who each have experienced relative success in the integration of homosexual troops, in order to make a recommendation for a course of action that the United States could take in order to help better the adjustment of soldiers to a non-exclusionary policy.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFH0004487, ucf:45068
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004487
- Title
- "I'M A STRONG INDEPENDENT BLACK WOMAN": THE COST OF STRONG BLACK WOMAN SCHEMA ENDORSEMENT.
- Creator
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Castelin, Stephanie, White, Grace, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The Strong Black Woman Schema (SBWS) is a cultural expectation placed on black women to unfailingly display signs of strength and caretaker qualities, while suppressing their emotions. The present study aimed to examine the relationship between the SBWS and psychological distress, suicidal behaviors, and resilience. Researchers expected to find a positive relationship between the SBWS and psychological distress, a positive relationship between the SBWS and resilience, and an undefined...
Show moreThe Strong Black Woman Schema (SBWS) is a cultural expectation placed on black women to unfailingly display signs of strength and caretaker qualities, while suppressing their emotions. The present study aimed to examine the relationship between the SBWS and psychological distress, suicidal behaviors, and resilience. Researchers expected to find a positive relationship between the SBWS and psychological distress, a positive relationship between the SBWS and resilience, and an undefined relationship between the SBWS and suicidal behaviors. The study also examined the potential moderating effects of the SBWS and resilience on the existing psychological distress-suicidal behaviors relationship. Lastly, the study examined how socioeconomic status moderates the relationship between the SBWS and psychological distress. It was expected that the SBWS and resilience would weaken the relationship between psychological distress and suicidal behaviors; higher socioeconomic status would weaken the relationship between the SBWS and psychological distress. Researchers recruited 177 black women to take a 30-minute survey. A bivariate correlation analysis showed that the SBWS shares a positive relationship with psychological distress, including depression, anxiety, and stress, and suicidal behaviors. However, resilience was not associated with the SBWS. Resilience was found to moderate the psychological distress-suicidal behaviors relationship, while the SBWS did not. Socioeconomic status did not moderate the relationship between the SBWS and psychological distress. The findings of this study bear important clinical and community implications. By determining the harmful effects of the SBWS, further research can be conducted on how black woman, mental health professionals, and community advocates can mitigate its effects.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2019
- Identifier
- CFH2000494, ucf:45679
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000494
- Title
- "METHODS SHORT OF WAR": THE UNITED STATES REACTS TO THE RISE OF THE THIRD REICH.
- Creator
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Negy, Kenneth, Crepeau, Richard, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This project analyzes the various opinions in the United States of Adolf Hitler and the Nazis during the 1930s and studies the amount of information that was available in the United States regarding Nazi Germany before entering World War II. Specifically, it seeks to understand why the United States did relatively little to influence German and European affairs even in the face of increasing Nazi brutality and bellicosity. The analysis has been divided into three different categories. The...
Show moreThis project analyzes the various opinions in the United States of Adolf Hitler and the Nazis during the 1930s and studies the amount of information that was available in the United States regarding Nazi Germany before entering World War II. Specifically, it seeks to understand why the United States did relatively little to influence German and European affairs even in the face of increasing Nazi brutality and bellicosity. The analysis has been divided into three different categories. The first focuses on the United States government, and the President and Secretary of State in particular. The second category analyzes the minority opinion in the United States that had Nazi sympathies. Finally, the third deals with the American public in general. The evidence suggests that there was enough information regarding Nazi Germany for Americans to make a reasonable judgment. Most of the United States was opposed to Nazism and the German government. In spite of this, the majority agreed that the United States should not intervene or enter war. This study is significant because it helps shed further light on a debate in the country that continues to the present day: what role should the United States have when it comes to world affairs? The research in this thesis suggests that, in spite of opposition by the American public, if there is enough verifiable evidence of a humanitarian crisis to justify intervention, the government should act.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFH0004415, ucf:45094
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004415
- Title
- "THAT'S SO GHETTO": A STUDY OF THE RACIAL/SOCIOECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS ASSOCIATED WITH THE TERM "GHETTO".
- Creator
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Richardson, Shaun, Donley, Amy, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The term ghetto has an ambiguous meaning in American society. The term frequently has been used as either a noun or an adjective. As a noun the term "ghetto" is often used to describe a place- Small describes the ghetto as a:"...a particular type of neighborhood; it exhibits a cohesive set of characteristics, such as deteriorating housing, crime, depopulation, and social isolation"(2008: 78.) This description as a noun is indicative of unsavory social conditions and climate that fosters an...
Show moreThe term ghetto has an ambiguous meaning in American society. The term frequently has been used as either a noun or an adjective. As a noun the term "ghetto" is often used to describe a place- Small describes the ghetto as a:"...a particular type of neighborhood; it exhibits a cohesive set of characteristics, such as deteriorating housing, crime, depopulation, and social isolation"(2008: 78.) This description as a noun is indicative of unsavory social conditions and climate that fosters an unproductive populace. As an adjective the term remains more difficult to solidly define. The bulk of available research often has worked to define what the ghetto is in reference to a physical location. The term seems to be more pervasive than simply being a place; it can be used to describe people, particular behaviors and traits as well as objects. The current study seeks to gain a deeper understanding of what a ghetto is and how the word is used in a variety of ways. This study will analyze the multifaceted applications of the term ghetto and how the term works to promote negative socioeconomic racialized ideologies. This study is pertinent because it addresses issues of institutionalized discrimination and prejudiced language. Findings are predicted to address the manners in which discrimination functions through language usage.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFH0004553, ucf:45181
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004553
- Title
- "THE GIRL IN 14G:" ANALYZING SOLUTIONS FOR VOCAL ISSUES THROUGH VOCAL PEDAGOGY.
- Creator
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Pires-Fernandes, Catherine, Chicurel, Steven, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The intent of this thesis is to study a variety of vocal techniques and identify how to solve different vocal challenges in the musical theatre song, "The Girl in 14G." In order to be successful in the entertainment business, it is imperative that a singer performs healthily and in a variety of music styles. Through an exploration of Lessac Kinesensic Training, Estill Voice Training Systems and Bel Canto techniques, a singer can gain a holistic perspective about voice. I will study with three...
Show moreThe intent of this thesis is to study a variety of vocal techniques and identify how to solve different vocal challenges in the musical theatre song, "The Girl in 14G." In order to be successful in the entertainment business, it is imperative that a singer performs healthily and in a variety of music styles. Through an exploration of Lessac Kinesensic Training, Estill Voice Training Systems and Bel Canto techniques, a singer can gain a holistic perspective about voice. I will study with three voice teachers, each of whom specializes in one of the aforementioned techniques. This thesis will reveal how each voice teacher brought her expertise to the lesson. It is a singer's responsibility to ensure she is well rounded and knowledgeable about her voice, and the different approaches to teaching voice. Solutions that reflect different techniques will be analyzed. Observations and discoveries made in private voice lessons will also be described. Documentation of lessons with each teacher will provide insight about the distinctions and similarities in vocal techniques. This thesis is intended to serve as a starting point for students and teachers to satisfy their own vocal curiosity and exploration.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFH0004610, ucf:45320
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004610
- Title
- "UNNATURAL CONDUCT & FORCED DIFFICULTIES": AUSTEN, READING, AND THE PARADOX OF THE FEMININE IDEAL.
- Creator
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Dickens, Faith, Oliver, Kathleen, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Though some scholars have maintained that Jane Austen closely adheres to the ideology of courtesy novels and conduct literature, I argue that Austen uses her knowledge of this ideology to reveal the flaws in reader assumptions about the presumed commonsensical nature of the courtesy novel and its feminine ideal. Austen is familiar with the conventions of eighteenth-century fiction, but, rather than adopting its tropes in her own work, she uses realism to parody its excesses and...
Show moreThough some scholars have maintained that Jane Austen closely adheres to the ideology of courtesy novels and conduct literature, I argue that Austen uses her knowledge of this ideology to reveal the flaws in reader assumptions about the presumed commonsensical nature of the courtesy novel and its feminine ideal. Austen is familiar with the conventions of eighteenth-century fiction, but, rather than adopting its tropes in her own work, she uses realism to parody its excesses and improbabilities; this realism then works against reader expectations and exposes paradoxes inherent in the courtesy novel and in conduct-book literature itself. In my thesis I observe how Austen uses courtesy novel tropes to expose or even mock the courtesy novel's inherently unrealistic qualities, and I do so by examining the act of "reading" in her novels: specifically, I argue that the literal reading that Austen's characters engage in does not produce the expected outcomes predicted by conduct books and courtesy novels; that the figurative reading of one character by another demonstrates the dangerousness and unsuitability of the heroine as "open book," as conduct books and courtesy novels urged her to be, as well as the irrationality and hypocrisy of acting the part of "closed book" to her intended lover; and, finally, that the act of reading an Austen novel is intended to prevent the absorption or interpretation of unrealistic ideals, through insistence on (more) realistic outcomes and through narrative intervention.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- CFH0004095, ucf:44784
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004095
- Title
- "WORSE THAN GUARDS:" ORDINARY CRIMINALS AND POLITICAL PRISONERS IN THE GULAG (1918-1950).
- Creator
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Klements, Elizabeth T, Solonari, Vladimir, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This paper explores the volatile relationship between the political prisoners and the common criminals in the Soviet GULAG. Lenin's theories on crime and punishment shaped the early Soviet penal system; he implemented policies which favored the common criminals and repressed the political prisoners. He deemed that the criminals, as "social allies" of the working class, were more likely to become good Soviet citizens than the political prisoners, considered "counterrevolutionaries" and ...
Show moreThis paper explores the volatile relationship between the political prisoners and the common criminals in the Soviet GULAG. Lenin's theories on crime and punishment shaped the early Soviet penal system; he implemented policies which favored the common criminals and repressed the political prisoners. He deemed that the criminals, as "social allies" of the working class, were more likely to become good Soviet citizens than the political prisoners, considered "counterrevolutionaries" and "enemies of the state." In the decade after the Bolshevik revolution, the prison administration empowered the criminals in the GULAG by giving them access to the life-saving jobs and goods in the labor camps, while gradually withdrawing the political prisoners' access to the same. From the 1930s to shortly after the end of World War II, the strong criminal fraternity in the GULAG robbed, beat, and killed the political prisoners, while the GULAG administration refused to intervene. Using the testimony of former political prisoners and GULAG personnel, as well as secondary sources, I identify the policies that led to the criminals' "reign of terror," I address theories regarding if and why the administration permitted such violence and disorder in the camps, and I demonstrate that the political prisoners responded to their situation in a range of ways, from holding their tormentors in contempt to forming a tentative friendships with individual criminals who could offer them their protection and a way to survive the camps.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2019
- Identifier
- CFH2000560, ucf:45648
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000560
- Title
- #BECAUSE I SHAVE MY ARMPITS...": A CONTENT ANALYSIS OF #WOMENAGAINSTFEMINISM ON TWITTER.
- Creator
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Brandman, Marina, Donley, Amy, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Because of the speed and convenience of Twitter, it has become one of the most widely utilized platforms for breaking news and is often used to raise awareness of current social issues, political happenings, and social injustices. As more women use Twitter and other social media to embrace the feminist label online, an array of criticism has come to surface. A new movement, #WomenAgainstFeminism, has become popular with Twitter users who reject feminism ideals and the feminism label. Research...
Show moreBecause of the speed and convenience of Twitter, it has become one of the most widely utilized platforms for breaking news and is often used to raise awareness of current social issues, political happenings, and social injustices. As more women use Twitter and other social media to embrace the feminist label online, an array of criticism has come to surface. A new movement, #WomenAgainstFeminism, has become popular with Twitter users who reject feminism ideals and the feminism label. Research has been done examining the presence of online feminism, "hashtag feminism," and online activism in general. Currently, there is no research analyzing the online reaction to feminism, #WomenAgainstFeminism. The purpose of this study is to analyze tweets containing #WomenAgainstFeminism to identify the salient reasons for rejecting feminism, stereotypes associated with feminism, and characteristics associated with feminists. This study broadens the current literature that analyzes attitudes towards feminism, stereotypes of feminists, and feminist identification. This study also adds to the growing body of literature that appreciates the impact Twitter and other social media networks have on members of society and social movements. This study differs from previous research because it focuses on the common stereotypes and characteristics associated with feminism that are prevalent in a social media campaign created to refute feminism.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2015
- Identifier
- CFH0004828, ucf:45475
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004828
- Title
- #STORYOFMYLIFE: PERSONALITY CHARACTERISTICS ASSOCIATED WITH ATTENTION SEEKING BEHAVIOR ONLINE AND SOCIAL MEDIA USE IN EMERGING ADULTHOOD.
- Creator
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Berryman, Chloe, Negy, Charles, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The intent of this study was to explore to what extent loneliness, need for belonging, and parent-child relationships relate to time spent communicating via social media. The study also focused on predicting social media integration and vaguebooking, an attention seeking behavior on social media. Results from a sample of 471 college students indicated that need for belonging was related to more time spent communicating with friends online. Parent-child relationship, social anxiety, and...
Show moreThe intent of this study was to explore to what extent loneliness, need for belonging, and parent-child relationships relate to time spent communicating via social media. The study also focused on predicting social media integration and vaguebooking, an attention seeking behavior on social media. Results from a sample of 471 college students indicated that need for belonging was related to more time spent communicating with friends online. Parent-child relationship, social anxiety, and loneliness were not significantly correlated with social media use. Need for belonging predicted social media integration and loneliness predicted vaguebooking. Histrionic symptoms significantly predicted both social media integration and vaguebooking behaviors, indicating that for those with histrionic traits, social media may reinforce attention seeking behaviors.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFH0004706, ucf:45407
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004706
- Title
- ''ALL DOLLED UP": SELF-OBJECTIFICATION, GROOMING BEHAVIORS, AND BODY IMAGE DISTURBANCE AMONG COLLEGE WOMEN.
- Creator
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Piercey, Cianna, Brophy-Ellison, James, White, Grace, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The relationship between self-objectification, grooming behaviors, and body image disturbance was examined among 389 female students at the University of Central Florida. Self-objectification positively predicted body image disturbance, as well as the average amount of time and money that women reported investing into grooming behaviors (i.e. hair-styling, hair-removal, makeup application, nail adornment and other grooming behaviors). Body mass index (BMI) was also found to positively predict...
Show moreThe relationship between self-objectification, grooming behaviors, and body image disturbance was examined among 389 female students at the University of Central Florida. Self-objectification positively predicted body image disturbance, as well as the average amount of time and money that women reported investing into grooming behaviors (i.e. hair-styling, hair-removal, makeup application, nail adornment and other grooming behaviors). Body mass index (BMI) was also found to positively predict body image disturbance and time spent on grooming, however, no relationship was found between self-objectification and BMI. Furthermore, lower socioeconomic status (SES) was found to be associated with body-dissatisfaction and more frequent negative body image emotions in comparison to participants with higher SES. A significant negative correlation was also found between time spent on grooming and grade point average (GPA).
Show less - Date Issued
- 2019
- Identifier
- CFH2000582, ucf:45698
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000582
- Title
- 'I AM A CRITICAL THINKER': EXPLORING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SELF-CONCEPT AND CRITICAL THINKING ABILITY.
- Creator
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Antler, Melissa, Whitten, Shannon, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Critical thinking is an academically coveted skill important to all areas of education (Halpern, 1998). The ability to think critically requires an individual to question and possibly reject accepted ideals and authorities. A strong self-concept may play an important role in this process. The present study hypothesized a positive relationship between total self-concept and critical thinking ability. An additional purpose of this study was to explore whether self-concept accounted for more of...
Show moreCritical thinking is an academically coveted skill important to all areas of education (Halpern, 1998). The ability to think critically requires an individual to question and possibly reject accepted ideals and authorities. A strong self-concept may play an important role in this process. The present study hypothesized a positive relationship between total self-concept and critical thinking ability. An additional purpose of this study was to explore whether self-concept accounted for more of the variance in critical thinking than other correlates of the ability, such as metacognition (Halpern, 1998; Magno, 2010) and openness to experience (Clifford, Boufal, & Kurtz, 2004). The hypothesis was supported; total self-concept significantly and positively correlated with the total score of critical thinking. Regression analyses revealed self-concept was a better predictor of critical thinking, accounting for 19.2% more variance in critical thinking than metacognition and openness to experience. Overall, the results suggest that nourishing students' self-concept may support their ability to think critically.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFH0004378, ucf:45027
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004378
- Title
- 'NO HOME HERE': FEMALE SPACE AND THE MODERNIST AESTHETIC IN NELLA LARSEN'S QUICKSAND AND SYLVIA PLATH'S THE BELL JAR.
- Creator
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Cherinka, Julianna N, Mathes, Carmen Faye, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
In her 1929 essay "A Room of One's Own," Virginia Woolf famously asserts that "a woman must have money and a room of her own if she is to write fiction" (4). This concept places an immediate importance on the role of the Modernist female subject as an artist and as an architect, constructing the places and spaces that she exists within. With Woolf's argument as its point of departure, this thesis investigates the theme of female space in two Modernist texts: Nella Larsen's Quicksand (1928)...
Show moreIn her 1929 essay "A Room of One's Own," Virginia Woolf famously asserts that "a woman must have money and a room of her own if she is to write fiction" (4). This concept places an immediate importance on the role of the Modernist female subject as an artist and as an architect, constructing the places and spaces that she exists within. With Woolf's argument as its point of departure, this thesis investigates the theme of female space in two Modernist texts: Nella Larsen's Quicksand (1928) and Sylvia Plath's The Bell Jar (1963). The respective protagonists of Quicksand and The Bell Jar, Helga Crane and Esther Greenwood, each undertake journeys to obtain spaces that are purely their own. However, this thesis positions each space that Helga and Esther occupy as both male-constructed and male-dominated in order to address the inherent gendering of space and its impact on the development of feminine identities. This thesis focuses specifically on the roles of the mother, the muse, and the female mentor, tracking the spaces in which Helga and Esther begin to adhere to these roles. Expanding on Lauren Berlant's theory of cruel optimism, this thesis will use the term "cruel femininity" to support its intervening claim that the respective relationships that Helga and Esther each have with their own feminine identities begin to turn cruel as they internalize the male-dominated spatial structures surrounding them. Overall, this thesis argues that there is no space in existence where Helga and Esther can realize their full potential as human beings, as long as the spatial structures within their communities continue to be controlled by hegemonic, patriarchal beliefs.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFH2000412, ucf:45708
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000412
- Title
- ...AND THEN, CLAIRE: AN INDIE-ROCK MONOLOGUE; INTEGRATING THE INDEPENDENT MUSIC SCENE INTO AMERICAN MUSICAL THEATRE.
- Creator
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Bahr, Mickey, Chicurel, Steven, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
For more than fifty years, the Independent (indie) Music Scene has existed as an evolving business model, allowing indie artists to develop a wealth of progressive musical ideas while creating a sustainable audience base. American Musical Theatre has an already-established rich history of adapting styles to fit concurrent trends in popular music while maintaining the story as the core of a show. While some indie artists (The Lisps, The Mountain Goats, Stephin Merritt, and Stew) and some...
Show moreFor more than fifty years, the Independent (indie) Music Scene has existed as an evolving business model, allowing indie artists to develop a wealth of progressive musical ideas while creating a sustainable audience base. American Musical Theatre has an already-established rich history of adapting styles to fit concurrent trends in popular music while maintaining the story as the core of a show. While some indie artists (The Lisps, The Mountain Goats, Stephin Merritt, and Stew) and some musical theatre composers (David Yazbek, Doug Crossley, and Michael Friedman) have created crossover works, there is currently an overall dearth of musical theatre pieces infused with the indie style and a lack of indie albums with an actable musical theatre storyline. The intent of this thesis is to prove that although American Musical Theatre and the Independent Music Scene are two vastly different art forms, they can be combined to create a viable and unique form that appeals to both audiences. The indie-rock monologue ...and then, Claire was composed, recorded, and performed to test the viability of this thesis. In addition to presenting research on the history of American Musical Theatre and the Independent Music Scene, an analysis of the already-successful artists mentioned above is presented to provide context for ...and then, Claire. This context along with the original indie-rock monologue proves successful combinations of American Musical Theatre and the Independent Music Scene as well as the potential for more attempts in the future.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2012
- Identifier
- CFH0004202, ucf:44970
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004202
- Title
- 3-AMINO-2-PIPERIDINEQUINOLINE A NOVEL NATURAL PRODUCT-INSPIRED SYNTHETIC COMPOUND WITH ANTIMALARIAL ACTIVITY.
- Creator
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Valor, Cristhian, Chakrabarti, Debopam, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Malaria afflicts about 500 million people worldwide thus causing significant global economic toll. The drugs available to treat the disease are rapidly losing their efficacy because of widespread prevalence of drug resistant parasites. Thus there is an urgent need to discover novel malaria therapeutics. This research is focused on to study the properties of a novel natural-like synthetic scaffold and analyze its selectivity, and cellular mechanism of action in Plasmodium falciparum. We have...
Show moreMalaria afflicts about 500 million people worldwide thus causing significant global economic toll. The drugs available to treat the disease are rapidly losing their efficacy because of widespread prevalence of drug resistant parasites. Thus there is an urgent need to discover novel malaria therapeutics. This research is focused on to study the properties of a novel natural-like synthetic scaffold and analyze its selectivity, and cellular mechanism of action in Plasmodium falciparum. We have identified a novel compound, 3-amino-2-piperidinequinoline (APQ), which we termed UCF401. APQ demonstrated IC50 at submicromolar concentrations against Plasmodium falciparum using the SYBR Green-I fluorescence assay measuring cellular proliferation. This compound also demonstrated low cytotoxicity against the NIH3T3 and HEPG2 cells using MTS assays, showing an IC50 of 174 uM and 125 uM respectively, suggesting of excellent selectivity. We evaluated the compliance of APQ with Lipinski's parameters and determined the in vitro physicochemical profiles of the compound. Our results show that APQ is a Lipinski parameter compliant and has good physicochemical properties. The cellular mechanism of action of APQ was characterized through the assessment of the effects of the compound at different stages of the parasite's intraerythrocytic life cycle. This assay was done by treating a synchronized cell line with the compound at 5X the IC50 value and then imaging the cells at 12-hour intervals. We found that APQ arrests parasite development at the trophozoite stage. In addition we determined that APQ is parasitocidal after a 96 h exposure. These results demonstrate that APQ can be considered as a validated hit and/or early lead.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFH0004593, ucf:45233
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004593
- Title
- A CASE OF DOUBLE CONCIOUSNESS: AMERICO-LIBERIANS AND INDIGENOUS LIBERIAN RELATIONS 1840-1930.
- Creator
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Santana , Genesys, Gordon , Fon, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This study argues that the formation of Americo-Liberian identity overwhelmingly relied on White American middle class cultural values despite the founders' criticisms and rejection of racial oppression and slavery. Americo-Liberians' previous participation in a culture that downgrades African heritage fostered the internalization of Western notions of civilization and African inferiority that led them to establish an oppressive regime similar to the one they had escaped from, and even...
Show moreThis study argues that the formation of Americo-Liberian identity overwhelmingly relied on White American middle class cultural values despite the founders' criticisms and rejection of racial oppression and slavery. Americo-Liberians' previous participation in a culture that downgrades African heritage fostered the internalization of Western notions of civilization and African inferiority that led them to establish an oppressive regime similar to the one they had escaped from, and even enslaved the indigenous population, which they considered "uncivilized." The study thus investigates how formerly oppressed and enslaved blacks became oppressors and enslavers of other black people in the name of a "civilizing mission." The relationship that developed between Americo-Liberians and indigenous Liberians provides a case study to explore the impact of White supremacy ideology on enslaved Africans and racial uplift ideology. Building on contributions of social theory and conflict theory my analysis of Americo-Liberians demonstrates how social class and ideology interacted to produce socio-economic developments that led to the Liberian Civil War. This study covers the founding of Liberia as a republic during the 1840's through the League of Nation's intervention in 1928. It is during this time period that Americo-Liberians fostered an exploitative and colonizing relationship with the indigenous Liberian population. Previous scholarship regarding Liberia engages in descriptive analysis this study is the first to employ the theoretical framework of double-consciousness to further illuminate the ambivalent positions of the Americo-Liberians vis-à-vis indigenous Liberians
Show less - Date Issued
- 2012
- Identifier
- CFH0004216, ucf:44952
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004216
- Title
- A CASE STUDY OF NATIONAL IDENTITY: AN ANALYSIS OF THE AMERICAN DREAM IN POLITICS AND LITERATURE.
- Creator
-
Horning, Sarah-Marie, Houghton, David, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The American Dream has been the inspiration of many political speeches, political writings, and works of literature throughout American history. Most recently, it has inspired political groups like the Center for the New American Dream and academic groups like the Xavier University Center for the Study of the American Dream. As of late, the notion of the American Dream has begun to crop up more often than not in main stream political discourse, especially surrounding the topic of immigration...
Show moreThe American Dream has been the inspiration of many political speeches, political writings, and works of literature throughout American history. Most recently, it has inspired political groups like the Center for the New American Dream and academic groups like the Xavier University Center for the Study of the American Dream. As of late, the notion of the American Dream has begun to crop up more often than not in main stream political discourse, especially surrounding the topic of immigration with the aptly named Dream Act. Why has the American Dream drawn this new attention and inquiry? Why and how is it important to American Political thought? What does it mean? Why does it endure? As a complex issue of American culture, this thesis will use disparate methods of analysis to form answers to these questions. The American Dream is often referred to as our national myth. It is comprised of the many ideals and narratives which undergird American politics and culture. Through examination of literary works of fiction and of political texts, this research will examine the meaning and the history of the American Dream. Then, using secondary survey data, this research will examine the implications and state of the American Dream. Finally, to answer the question of why the American Dream endures, this research will employ elements of psychoanalytic and Marxist theory to argue that the Dream works as a cycle of American political thought.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFH0004422, ucf:45116
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004422
- Title
- A CASE STUDY OF VETERAN AND CIVILIAN STUDENT ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA.
- Creator
-
Diehl, Floyd C, Seigler, Daniel, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This study seeks to provide a brief overview of academic standards and performance of veterans of the United States military and civilians who attend the University of Central Florida. Whether a student is a veteran or a civilian, he or she must learn how to adapt to the requirements of an academic community in order to be successful in that environment. It may be difficult for some. In able for society to discern the importance of the academic performance of both veterans and civilians alike...
Show moreThis study seeks to provide a brief overview of academic standards and performance of veterans of the United States military and civilians who attend the University of Central Florida. Whether a student is a veteran or a civilian, he or she must learn how to adapt to the requirements of an academic community in order to be successful in that environment. It may be difficult for some. In able for society to discern the importance of the academic performance of both veterans and civilians alike, research is vital. There are various assumptions about veterans. For example, it can be assumed vets do not know how to adapt after leaving the military. It is important to demonstrate that most military veterans are very good at adapting and overcoming stressful situations. Time is evident for adaptability for some. As veterans re-enter society, most make clear and decisive decisions as to the life they desire to have. The modus operandi of veterans is intrinsic as it pertains to an academic setting. This research compares the academic success of both veterans and civilians at the University of Central Florida to begin this conversation. While there has been some research conducted on this topic, there seem to be various ecological fallacies pertaining to conclusions of the research that has been conducted. Academic performance needs to be researched further as well as the effects of standards regarding the performance of veterans and civilians in an academic setting.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFH2000357, ucf:45904
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000357
- Title
- A CASE-STUDY OF THE AFRICAN LEOPARD (PANTHERA PARDUS PARDUS) POPULATION ON THE NAMBITI PRIVATE GAME RESERVE.
- Creator
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Castaneda, Erica, Borgon, Robert, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The Nambiti Private Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa is a nature reserve that aids in the conservation of some of the world's most renown species. This includes members of the "Big Five," which is comprised of the African lion (Panthera leo), the African elephant (Loxidonta africana), the Cape buffalo (Syncerus caffer), the black and white rhinoceroses (Diceros bicornis and Ceratotherium simum, respectively), and the African leopard (Panthera pardus pardus). These animals represent...
Show moreThe Nambiti Private Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa is a nature reserve that aids in the conservation of some of the world's most renown species. This includes members of the "Big Five," which is comprised of the African lion (Panthera leo), the African elephant (Loxidonta africana), the Cape buffalo (Syncerus caffer), the black and white rhinoceroses (Diceros bicornis and Ceratotherium simum, respectively), and the African leopard (Panthera pardus pardus). These animals represent the top five African animals desired by trophy hunters and by tourists hoping to view wildlife (Caro and Riggio, 2014). While studies concerning the African leopard population status have been completed on surrounding game reserves (Balme et al., 2009; Chapman and Balme, 2010), there have not been any studies done investigating the African leopard population on Nambiti. It is important that the population on Nambiti be identified since conservation management of leopards is largely influenced by their population numbers. For example, southern African countries rely on population estimates to establish trophy hunting quotas (Balme et al., 2010). Furthermore, knowledge on the reserve's leopard population can also lead to ecotourism benefits by attracting tourists to visit areas of known leopard activity (Lindsey et al., 2007). This case study investigated baited camera trapping footage, obtained by Nambiti rangers between May 2015 - May 2017, to determine the African leopard population on Nambiti. Camera footage results revealed that there were four leopards identified in six different locations on the reserve between May 2015 - May 2017. Baited Location J in the Western region of the reserve showed the greatest amount of leopard activity, indicating that it is the baited location most likely to provide ecotourism benefits. Furthermore, 23 non-target species were identified from the camera trapping footage, providing insight into the reserve's biodiversity, prey availability, and competition among predators.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFH2000285, ucf:45908
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000285