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Title: SOCIAL ANXIETY AND SUBTYPES OF EMPATHY: THE MODERATING INFLUENCE OF BIOLOGICAL SEX.
Creator: Berg, Samantha K, Bedwell, Jeffrey, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Only a few studies have examined relationships between social anxiety and subtypes of empathy. Findings are mixed. The present study examined social anxiety severity on a continuum and how it related to affective and cognitive empathy in 684 nonpsychiatric adults (77% female). Participants completed an online battery of measures that included: a self-report measure of social anxiety severity (Fear of Negative Evaluation), a self-report measure with subscales for affective and cognitive...
Show moreOnly a few studies have examined relationships between social anxiety and subtypes of empathy. Findings are mixed. The present study examined social anxiety severity on a continuum and how it related to affective and cognitive empathy in 684 nonpsychiatric adults (77% female). Participants completed an online battery of measures that included: a self-report measure of social anxiety severity (Fear of Negative Evaluation), a self-report measure with subscales for affective and cognitive empathy (Interpersonal Reactivity Index), and a behavioral measure of cognitive empathy (Reading the Mind in the Eyes Task; MIE). After statistically covarying for general anxiety severity, biological sex moderated the relationship between social anxiety severity and performance on the MIE task. In women, a higher severity of social anxiety related to better performance on the MIE. This relationship was not statistically significant in men. IRI subscale scores did not show significant main effects or interactions with sex in relation to social anxiety. The findings suggest a possible difference in how each sex experiences and/or develops social anxiety. This has implications for assessment and treatment. Future research should examine these relationships in more diverse psychiatric samples.
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Date Issued: 2018
Identifier: CFH2000449, ucf:45871
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000449

Title: THE EFFECTS OF HANDS-ON INSTRUCTIONAL STRATEGIES ON FOURTH GRADE STUDENTS' ATTITUDES AND PERFORMANCE IN MATHEMATICS.
Creator: Hosack, Lindsey, Gresham, Gina, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This study summarizes research conducted in a fourth grade classroom in a suburban elementary school in the fall of 2005. This study investigated the practice of using hands-on instructional strategies, enhanced with technology, to improve students' attitudes and performance in mathematics. The classroom teacher supplemented conventional mathematics instruction with hands-on activities. Attitudinal data were collected using a pre- and post anxiety survey as well as journal writing assignments...
Show moreThis study summarizes research conducted in a fourth grade classroom in a suburban elementary school in the fall of 2005. This study investigated the practice of using hands-on instructional strategies, enhanced with technology, to improve students' attitudes and performance in mathematics. The classroom teacher supplemented conventional mathematics instruction with hands-on activities. Attitudinal data were collected using a pre- and post anxiety survey as well as journal writing assignments and student interviews. Performance data was collected using evaluative assessments. Results of this study showed a positive change in students' attitude towards mathematics. Student performance gains were recorded and analyzed throughout the 12-week study. Twenty of the 26 students who participated in the study scored satisfactorily on all evaluative assessments. Data indicated little change was evident in student performance on assessments due to the high performing students who participated in the study.
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Date Issued: 2006
Identifier: CFE0001025, ucf:46815
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001025

Title: BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTIONS VERSUS PHARMACEUTICAL INTERVENTIONS TO REDUCE PREOPERATIVE ANXIETY IN SCHOOL AGED CHILDREN.
Creator: Cline, Jennifer J, D'Amato-Kubiet, Leslee, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Surgical procedures that require general anesthesia can be stressful and create needless anxiety for school-age children. Interventions aimed at reducing preoperative anxiety can improve cooperation and enhance postoperative outcomes by lowering anxiety levels prior to induction of general anesthesia. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of behavioral interventions versus drug therapy in reducing pre-operative anxiety in children. The secondary purpose was to compare methods...
Show moreSurgical procedures that require general anesthesia can be stressful and create needless anxiety for school-age children. Interventions aimed at reducing preoperative anxiety can improve cooperation and enhance postoperative outcomes by lowering anxiety levels prior to induction of general anesthesia. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of behavioral interventions versus drug therapy in reducing pre-operative anxiety in children. The secondary purpose was to compare methods used to integrate anxiety reduction interventions into pre-operative care and to evaluate the most widely used and effective strategy for clinical practice. A literature review exploring behavioral based stress reduction interventions and drug therapy targeted at reducing preoperative anxiety was conducted from various online databases. Peer reviewed articles, published in the English-language between 2006 and 2015 that focused on postoperative outcomes in which preoperative interventions to reduce anxiety in children age two years and older, as well as the parent's perspective of the outcome, were included for synthesis. Results from 9 randomized controlled trials that used behavioral based interventions implemented on the day of surgery, prior to anesthesia induction were compared for effectiveness at anxiety reduction versus the use of drug therapy prior to surgery. The studies suggest more successful post-surgical outcomes related to shorter length of stay and post-operative delirium for behavioral interventions to reduce anxiety prior to surgery and demonstrated even greater optimal outcomes for combined behavioral interventions. Drug therapy alone to decrease anxiety prior to anesthesia induction showed mixed results in reduction of physiologic and general outcomes following surgery. No significant difference between behavioral based interventions versus drug therapy was shown in any of the reviewed studies to have a significant effect on post-surgical outcomes. However, potentially promising behavioral based interventions such as clowns, electronic devices, parental presence and music over drug therapy prior to surgery, require further evaluation for their use in decreasing pre-operative anxiety in school-age children and having a positive impact on post-operative outcomes.
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Date Issued: 2016
Identifier: CFH2000090, ucf:45566
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000090

Title: MENTAL HEALTH INTERVENTIONS FOR ADOLESCENT CANCER PATIENTS.
Creator: Faherty, Kelsey A, Loerzel, Victoria, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Background: According to the National Cancer Institute (2017) approximately 15,270 individuals' ages 0 to 19 years would be diagnosed with cancer in 2017. Although pediatric cancer survival rates continue to rise, there are high rates of anxiety, fear, and depression amongst this population. The purpose of this literature review was to explore mental health interventions for adolescent cancer patients. Methodology: A total of 165 articles were found in a literature search. Databases used...
Show moreBackground: According to the National Cancer Institute (2017) approximately 15,270 individuals' ages 0 to 19 years would be diagnosed with cancer in 2017. Although pediatric cancer survival rates continue to rise, there are high rates of anxiety, fear, and depression amongst this population. The purpose of this literature review was to explore mental health interventions for adolescent cancer patients. Methodology: A total of 165 articles were found in a literature search. Databases used include: CINAHL Plus with Full Text, Cochrane Center Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Clinical Answers, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO. As results were further narrowed based on relevance and set limiters a total of 7 articles were used for the purpose of this review. Results: Multiple interventions were used in the purpose of this review including therapeutic play, animal-assisted activities, complementary and alternative medicine interventions, and coping and stress reduction interventions. Interventions used significantly decreased anxiety, fear, and depression amongst adolescent cancer patients. Conclusion: One intervention was not more successful than another. Interventions that included participants in their plan of care, promoted normalcy, and were developmentally appropriate were successful at decreasing anxiety, depression, and fear in adolescent cancer patients.
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Date Issued: 2018
Identifier: CFH2000365, ucf:45791
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000365

Title: RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN BROAD ASPECTS OF PERSONALITY FUNCTIONING AND GENERALIZED ANXIETY SEVERITY.
Creator: Lee Lum, Ashley A, Bedwell, Jeffrey, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This study looked at the relationship between personality functioning and generalized anxiety severity with the use of the Level of Personality Functioning - Self-Report Scale (LPFS-SR). This scale looks at the four core functions of personality: Identity, Intimacy, Empathy and Self-Direction. The population consisted of undergraduate students from the University of Central Florida who completed the study online (n = 1335; 63.7% female; mean age = 19.85, SD = 3.64, range = 18-57). Findings...
Show moreThis study looked at the relationship between personality functioning and generalized anxiety severity with the use of the Level of Personality Functioning - Self-Report Scale (LPFS-SR). This scale looks at the four core functions of personality: Identity, Intimacy, Empathy and Self-Direction. The population consisted of undergraduate students from the University of Central Florida who completed the study online (n = 1335; 63.7% female; mean age = 19.85, SD = 3.64, range = 18-57). Findings revealed that generalized anxiety severity related to more identity and empathy problems in both men and women. For both findings, women showed a stronger effect size than men. Future longitudinal research in a psychiatric sample can help clarify causal directions of these relationships. The results of this study can be applied to clinical settings to raise clinicians' awareness to further explore identity and empathy problems in individuals exhibiting generalized anxiety.
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Date Issued: 2019
Identifier: CFH2000512, ucf:45632
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000512

Title: THE ROLE OF PSYCHOLOGICAL SYMPTOMS IN THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ADVERSE CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCES AND SUBSTANCE MISUSE.
Creator: Merkley, Melissa J, Renk, Kimberly, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Although previous research identified exposure to significant adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) as harmful to individuals in several psychological and physiological health domains, research examining the mechanisms of action driving this relationship has been lacking. As a result, the current study examined the role that psychological symptoms serve in the relationship between ACEs and substance misuse behaviors. The current study included a sample of 183 participants (i.e., 82 men and 101...
Show moreAlthough previous research identified exposure to significant adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) as harmful to individuals in several psychological and physiological health domains, research examining the mechanisms of action driving this relationship has been lacking. As a result, the current study examined the role that psychological symptoms serve in the relationship between ACEs and substance misuse behaviors. The current study included a sample of 183 participants (i.e., 82 men and 101 women) who completed five questionnaires assessing exposure to ACEs; psychological symptoms of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and substance misuse behaviors. Correlational analyses indicated significant associations among the variables of interest. Exposure to ACEs was a significant predictor of substance misuse behaviors in both men and women. Additionally, depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and PTSD symptoms were significant predictors of men's substance misuse behaviors, whereas only PTSD symptoms were a significant predictor of women's substance misuse behaviors. Symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD each contributed unique and significant variance to the relationship between ACEs and substance misuse behaviors in men, consistent with partial mediations. A different pattern of prediction was evident for women. Such findings suggested that psychological symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD may serve as a risk factor for substance misuse behaviors in men later in life, especially when they have had a history of ACEs. These results demonstrated the importance of promoting trauma-informed mental health care to remediate negative substance outcomes, particularly in those who have had significant ACEs. The importance of studying the relationships among these variables is discussed further.
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Date Issued: 2019
Identifier: CFH2000557, ucf:45609
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000557

Title: PRE-SCREEN OF TRAITS THAT LEAD TO POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER.
Creator: Lee, Krystal, Hancock, Peter, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a disorder that is affecting many lives and families. Since it is believed that over 50% of Americans will experience a traumatic event and 25% will experience multiple traumatic events, PTSD is an issue that cannot be overlooked. Although PTSD is most commonly associated with war victims, the official definition of PTSD was stated in the DSM-IV as "an extreme traumatic stressor involving direct personal experience or that involves actual or threatened...
Show morePost-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a disorder that is affecting many lives and families. Since it is believed that over 50% of Americans will experience a traumatic event and 25% will experience multiple traumatic events, PTSD is an issue that cannot be overlooked. Although PTSD is most commonly associated with war victims, the official definition of PTSD was stated in the DSM-IV as "an extreme traumatic stressor involving direct personal experience or that involves actual or threatened death or serious injury or other threat to one's physical integrity; or witness to an event that involves death, injury, or a threat to the integrity of another person..." This definition shows that PTSD can be generalized to not only war victims but to anyone who has a traumatic experience.This study shows 82% of the participants are likely to experience PTSD if exposed to a traumatic event. This study provides a pre-screen of traits that likely lead to PTSD, in hopes to raise awareness and provide a potential cure and preventative measure in the future. Current forms of treatment include cognitive therapy; however, there is no solution. The usage of simulations such as Virtual Reality Exposure (VRE) could provide both a treatment but also a preventative measure.
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Date Issued: 2011
Identifier: CFH0003850, ucf:44690
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0003850

Title: AN EXAMINATION OF PSYCHOLOGICAL DISORDERS, SOCIAL ANXIETY, AND PERFECTIONISM IN HIGH-ACHIEVING UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS.
Creator: Elliott, Amy, Rovito, Michael, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: There is a long-standing debate on whether high-achieving students experience a better or worse psychological well-being than their peers. This retrospective cohort study adds to the current literature by examining the differences in rates of psychological disorders, social anxiety, and perfectionism between high-achieving and typical undergraduate students. A convenience sample of 357 students was gathered from the University of Central Florida (UCF). Participants were asked to fill out a...
Show moreThere is a long-standing debate on whether high-achieving students experience a better or worse psychological well-being than their peers. This retrospective cohort study adds to the current literature by examining the differences in rates of psychological disorders, social anxiety, and perfectionism between high-achieving and typical undergraduate students. A convenience sample of 357 students was gathered from the University of Central Florida (UCF). Participants were asked to fill out a brief survey which included questions about demographics, grade point average (GPA), social anxiety, perfectionism, enrollment in The Burnett Honors College, inclusion in any childhood gifted programs, and diagnosis of psychological disorders. Two groups (a High-Achieving group and a Comparison group) were formed based on GPA scores and enrollment in The Burnett Honors College at UCF. Relative risk and chi-squared analyses were conducted to see if there was a significant relationship between group classification and the incidence of psychological disorders, self-injury, and social anxiety. T-tests were used to compare group means of social anxiety and perfectionism. A statistically significant relationship was found between group classification and the incidence of psychological disorders, self-injury, and social anxiety (p = .033, p = .028, and p < .001). The High-Achieving group scored significantly higher on the SPAI-23 SP Subscale (p = .032), the SPAI-23 Difference Score (p < .001), and the APS-R Standards Subscale (p < 0.001). Altogether, the findings of this study indicate that High-Achieving undergraduate students experience a worse psychological well-being than their typical undergraduate student peers.
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Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: CFH0004408, ucf:45131
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004408

Title: An Exploratory Analysis of a Five Minute Speech Sample of Mothers of Children with Selective Mutism.
Creator: Kovac, Lisa, Culp, Anne, Hundley, Gulnora, Szente, Judit, Renk, Kimberly, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Selective mutism (SM), an anxiety disorder wherein children have difficulty speaking or communicating when they are uncomfortable, is relevant for the early childhood population as symptoms often manifest upon school entry (Steinhausen (&) Juzi, 1996) and early treatment leads to better treatment prognosis (Oerbeck, Stein, Wentzel-Larsen, Langsrud (&) Kristensen, 2014). Bergman, Gonzalez, Piacentini and Keller, (2013) utilized an integrative behavioral treatment for children (ages 4-8) with...
Show moreSelective mutism (SM), an anxiety disorder wherein children have difficulty speaking or communicating when they are uncomfortable, is relevant for the early childhood population as symptoms often manifest upon school entry (Steinhausen (&) Juzi, 1996) and early treatment leads to better treatment prognosis (Oerbeck, Stein, Wentzel-Larsen, Langsrud (&) Kristensen, 2014). Bergman, Gonzalez, Piacentini and Keller, (2013) utilized an integrative behavioral treatment for children (ages 4-8) with SM and reported a 75% treatment responder status after 24 weeks of therapy. Their mothers are the focus of this study.This exploratory study examined the content of Five Minute Speech Samples at baseline and end of treatment condition for 9 mothers whose children had participated in the randomized controlled trial. Via a content analysis of language samples, this study examined emergent themes and a priori codes of Expressed Emotion (a construct associated with a variety of disorders) and parental overcontrol (a construct associated with the development and maintenance of anxiety disorders). Results revealed five categories of content expressed by mothers: (a) child characteristics (b) child's activities, (c) relationships with others, (d) difficulties other than SM, and (e) thoughts related to SM. Analysis revealed mothers who had children with SM had higher levels of expressed emotion and emotional overinvolvement than samples of mothers of children without SM. The implication of this finding is unknown and is a direction for future research. Overcontrol was overtly present in one mother and subtle in other mothers. Levels of expressed emotion largely remained unchanged over the course of treatment. Overall, information garnered from giving mothers the five minutes speech sample provides insight for therapists to design intervention. Giving the mothers a chance to discuss their views and experiences with their children is valuable in determining the behavioral and emotional support they need as they parent their child with SM.
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Date Issued: 2018
Identifier: CFE0007033, ucf:51990
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007033

Title: The Impact of a Neurofeedback Training Intervention on College Students' Levels of Anxiety, Stress, Depression, and Cortisol.
Creator: McKinzie, Caitlyn, Lambie, Glenn, Hundley, Gulnora, Taylor, Dalena, Bai, Haiyan, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Anxiety, depression, and stress are three of the most common experiences that impact college student functioning and academic achievement. At least one in six college students struggle with anxiety, increasing risk for developing depressive symptoms or disorders that further impact wellness. However, as mental health concerns increase across campuses, universities are not equipped to meet the demand of mental health support for college students. Neurofeedback (NF) training presents as an...
Show moreAnxiety, depression, and stress are three of the most common experiences that impact college student functioning and academic achievement. At least one in six college students struggle with anxiety, increasing risk for developing depressive symptoms or disorders that further impact wellness. However, as mental health concerns increase across campuses, universities are not equipped to meet the demand of mental health support for college students. Neurofeedback (NF) training presents as an innovative intervention to treat anxiety, depression, and stress as it is designed to regulate brain processes in an effort to increase more effective brain functioning. A quasi-experimental, nonequivalent control group design was utilized to determine differences between treatment group and waitlist control group participants' anxiety, stress, and depression scores at four time points as measured by the: (a) Beck Anxiety Inventory [BAI] (Beck, Epstein, Brown, (&) Steer, 1988); (b) Beck Depression Inventory, Second Edition [BDI-II] (Beck, Steer, (&) Brown, 1996); (c) Perceived Stress Scale [PSS] (Cohen, Kamarck, (&) Mermelstein, 1983); and (d) Social Anxiety Thought questionnaire [SAT] (Hartman, 1984). Furthermore, cortisol testing was used through assessment of saliva samples using Salimetrics Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Key findings for the current investigation include: (a) a marginally significant (p = .051) difference between treatment group and control group participants' PSS (partial ?2 = .093), BDI-II (partial ?2 = .089), and SAT (partial ?2 = .052) scores over time; (b) no significance difference among participant demographics between treatment group and control group assessment scores over time; (c) no significance between treatment group and control group assessment scores and salivary cortisol levels over time; and (d) a negative relationship between the control group participants' salivary cortisol levels at pre-test on the BAI, PSS, and SAT. Finally, results are compared to previous studies. Limitations and implications as well as areas for future research are explored.
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Date Issued: 2018
Identifier: CFE0007052, ucf:51973
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007052

Title: Do Olfactory Stimuli Increase Presence During Exposure Tasks: A Comparative Study.
Creator: Munyan, Benson, Neer, Sandra, Beidel, Deborah, Jentsch, Florian, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Exposure therapy (ET) is an extensively studied and supported treatment for anxiety and trauma-related disorders. ET works by exposing the patient to the feared object or situation without any danger in order to overcome the related anxiety. Over the past few years, various technologies including head-mounted displays (HMDs), scent machines, and headphones have been used to augment the exposure therapy process by presenting multi-sensory cues (e.g., sights, smells, sounds) to increase the...
Show moreExposure therapy (ET) is an extensively studied and supported treatment for anxiety and trauma-related disorders. ET works by exposing the patient to the feared object or situation without any danger in order to overcome the related anxiety. Over the past few years, various technologies including head-mounted displays (HMDs), scent machines, and headphones have been used to augment the exposure therapy process by presenting multi-sensory cues (e.g., sights, smells, sounds) to increase the patient's sense of presence. While studies have shown that scents can elicit emotionally charged memories, no prior research could be identified that examined the effect of olfactory stimuli upon the patient's sense of presence during exposure tasks. In this study, the effect of olfactory stimuli on subject's sense of presence was assessed via psychophysiological response (electrodermal activity), visual scanning, and self-report measures. Linear Mixed Modeling showed relationships between olfactory stimuli and presence ratings as well as self-reported anxiety levels, but not visual scanning or physiological arousal. Recommendations were made for continued research in the union of olfactory stimuli, presence, and exposure therapy.
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Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFE0005850, ucf:50931
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005850

Title: Using Exposure Therapy to Treat People Who Stutter: A Multiple Baseline Design.
Creator: Scheurich, Jennifer, Beidel, Deborah, Neer, Sandra, Vanryckeghem, Martine, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is a debilitating condition, and it is estimated that approximately half of adults who stutter have SAD. Thus, there is a need for the assessment and treatment of SAD in this population. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has shown promise in decreasing anxiety symptoms among adults who stutter and have SAD, but exposure, the key ingredient for successful CBT for SAD, has been understudied and underemphasized. The aims of this study were to develop an exposure...
Show moreSocial anxiety disorder (SAD) is a debilitating condition, and it is estimated that approximately half of adults who stutter have SAD. Thus, there is a need for the assessment and treatment of SAD in this population. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has shown promise in decreasing anxiety symptoms among adults who stutter and have SAD, but exposure, the key ingredient for successful CBT for SAD, has been understudied and underemphasized. The aims of this study were to develop an exposure therapy protocol specifically for people who stutter and have SAD and to evaluate its efficacy for reducing anxiety and stuttering severity. Utilizing a multiple baseline design, six participants were randomized to receive zero, two, or four sessions of progressive muscle relaxation therapy. This served to establish the staggered start and to account for the common factors of therapy. All participants received ten sessions of exposure therapy. Participants recorded daily social anxiety levels, and anxiety and stuttering severity were assessed at major assessment points. All participants demonstrated substantial reductions in social anxiety and substantial improvements in the affective, behavioral, and cognitive experiences of stuttering following exposure therapy. No reliable change was observed for stuttering frequency. Results suggest that exposure therapy may be useful for people who stutter and have SAD, but will not necessarily influence their speech fluency. These findings underscore the importance of the assessment and treatment of SAD among adults who stutter and suggest that the integration of care between psychologists and speech-language pathologists may prove beneficial for this population.
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Date Issued: 2017
Identifier: CFE0006914, ucf:51702
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006914

Title: An Evaluation of Anxiety Following Substance Abuse Withdrawal and Assessment of Somatic Treatments presently Available with a Focus on Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation.
Creator: Hutchison, Janet, Neff, Donna, Weiss, Josie, Covelli, Maureen, Seikel Thomas, Stacy, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Addictive disorders/substance use disorders (SUDS) affect almost everyone in the United States, either directly or indirectly. The cost of substance abuse to the social and economic structure in the United States is huge. Anxiety is one of the most frequently mentioned symptoms which lead to relapse during the early weeks of recovery due to neurohormonal changes in the limbic system as well as cortisol production which occur during this time. Present research in the treatment of anxiety in...
Show moreAddictive disorders/substance use disorders (SUDS) affect almost everyone in the United States, either directly or indirectly. The cost of substance abuse to the social and economic structure in the United States is huge. Anxiety is one of the most frequently mentioned symptoms which lead to relapse during the early weeks of recovery due to neurohormonal changes in the limbic system as well as cortisol production which occur during this time. Present research in the treatment of anxiety in substance abuse and long term recovery is focused on genetics and pharmaceuticals, however most pharmaceuticals produce sedation. Additional therapies in early recovery, which decrease the symptoms of anxiety while enhancing cognitive ability to learn and apply coping skills, are needed.Purpose: The purpose of this dissertation was to identify the natural degradation of anxiety symptoms occurring during the first few weeks following detox from alcohol or opiates. To identify non pharmacological methods in use to decrease anxiety symptoms during this period, and then examine whether treatment with Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation (CES) would enhance the degradation of anxiety symptoms. Methods and Results: The initial prospective study of 53 men in residential treatment, measured anxiety on entry, 30 and 60 days. The results found that increased anxiety measured prior to a participant leaving against medical advice was more significant than increased anxiety measured on admission. The follow-on pilot study in the same residential program was a double-blind experimental study using CES with active and placebo CES units loaned from the manufacturer. The intervention was conducted during the first 3 weeks of opiate/alcohol abstinence; a period identified when anxiety peaks, and dropout rate is high. There were 29 men in the experimental group and 31 in the placebo group. Salivary cortisol and state anxiety were measured on the first and final day of CES treatment. Anxiety was also measured at study enrollment and at 30 days when study enrollment was terminated. The results were statistically inconclusive as both the placebo and CES (experimental) groups trended downward; however the trend was greater in the CES group. Discussion/Implications: Anxiety was identified as a significant factor in leaving treatment early. Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation appears to decrease anxiety in non-substance abusing populations. However, these finding were not supported in this substance abusing population during the first month of recovery. Although CES appeared to be the most promising alternative therapy, more research is needed in the use of this and other emerging therapies for the treatment of anxiety symptoms during this early recovery period.
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Date Issued: 2016
Identifier: CFE0006118, ucf:51169
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006118

Title: Using Technology in the Treatment of Selective Mutism: The Incorporation of Mobile Applications.
Creator: Bunnell, Brian, Beidel, Deborah, Rapport, Mark, Neer, Sandra, Hundley, Gulnora, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Selective mutism (SM) is a diagnosis marked by withdrawal of speech in certain social situations. The treatment of SM is often a difficult and lengthy process and there are many barriers to successful intervention. Behavioral therapy is most effective in the treatment of SM and the addition of therapeutic activities such as games and mobile devices may provide distinct advantages to this treatment (i.e., decreased patient anxiety levels and more active engagement). The current investigation...
Show moreSelective mutism (SM) is a diagnosis marked by withdrawal of speech in certain social situations. The treatment of SM is often a difficult and lengthy process and there are many barriers to successful intervention. Behavioral therapy is most effective in the treatment of SM and the addition of therapeutic activities such as games and mobile devices may provide distinct advantages to this treatment (i.e., decreased patient anxiety levels and more active engagement). The current investigation examined the utility of mobile applications during the behavioral treatment of SM as well as the effect of using mobile applications on child-reported and physiological indicators of anxious responding. Results indicated that children made remarkable treatment gains in just two treatment sessions (i.e., spoke to the clinician within 22 minutes of treatment and held five, five-minute conversations with additional adults during a second session) regardless of modality of delivery (using mobile applications, other activities, or reinforcement alone). Children shaped to speak with the inclusion of mobile applications reported less anxiety and exhibited decreased physiological anxious distress during treatment. The utility of mobile applications during the treatment of SM is discussed in addition to areas for future research (e.g., mobile-based treatment dissemination initiatives).
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Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFE0005767, ucf:50087
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005767

Title: THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PSYCHOMETRICALLY-DEFINED SOCIAL ANXIETY AND WORKING MEMORY PERFORMANCE.
Creator: Paskowski, Timothy, Bedwell, Jeffrey, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Anxiety disorders are among the most commonly diagnosed class of mental illness in the United States, and often involve abnormally high levels of stress and social fear. Despite high lifetime prevalence rates, social anxiety disorder (SAD) has remarkably low diagnosis and treatment rates. Furthermore, while individuals with other specific psychiatric disorders tend to exhibit significant neuropsychological deficits, neuropsychological functioning in individuals with SAD remains largely...
Show moreAnxiety disorders are among the most commonly diagnosed class of mental illness in the United States, and often involve abnormally high levels of stress and social fear. Despite high lifetime prevalence rates, social anxiety disorder (SAD) has remarkably low diagnosis and treatment rates. Furthermore, while individuals with other specific psychiatric disorders tend to exhibit significant neuropsychological deficits, neuropsychological functioning in individuals with SAD remains largely untested. A majority of the few existing studies concerning neuropsychological performance in SAD samples focus on specific functions, and their limited results are highly mixed. The primary objective of this investigation was to provide a more thorough, broad assessment of both auditory and visual working memory as related to psychometrically-defined social anxiety disorder. In addition, this study aimed to help clarify as to whether such deficits are related to the construct of social anxiety, or whether any potential deficits are better explained by generalized state and/or trait (in-the-moment) anxiety. The implications of a deficit in the visual and/or auditory working memory domains are multifaceted. For example, such a deficit may lead to the inability to detect visual cues in social situations. The inability to process these social cues has the potential to exacerbate some SAD- related symptoms, such as fear of humiliation and judgment. Twenty-nine college students completed both phases of this study, including an assessment of state and trait anxiety as well as social phobia and a four-part working memory battery. An analysis of the Phase II data indicates that individual scores on the four measures of both visual and auditory working memory did not relate to trait and/or state anxiety or psychometrically-defined social anxiety. Thus, it appears that social, generalized trait, and generalized state anxiety do not relate to a neuropsychological deficit in either type of working memory in this sample population. However, we did find a statistical trend suggesting that as social anxiety increased, there was a relative decrease in visual vs. auditory working memory. This statistical trend remained after covarying for state and trait anxiety respectively. Therefore, future research in this area should examine the discrepancy in performance between the auditory and visual working memory domains as it relates to both diagnosed social phobia and psychometrically-defined social anxiety.
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Date Issued: 2011
Identifier: CFH0003798, ucf:44744
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0003798

Title: Does Virtual Reality Elicit Physiological Arousal in Social Anxiety Disorder.
Creator: Owens, Maryann, Beidel, Deborah, Cassisi, Jeffrey, Bowers, Clint, Neer, Sandra, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The present study examined the ability of a Virtual Reality (VR) public speaking task to elicit physiological arousal in adults with SAD (n=25) and Controls (n=25). A behavioral assessment paradigm was employed to address three study objectives: (a) to determine whether the VR task can elicit significant increases in physiological response over baseline resting conditions (b) to determine if individuals with SAD have a greater increase from baseline levels of physiological and self-reported...
Show moreThe present study examined the ability of a Virtual Reality (VR) public speaking task to elicit physiological arousal in adults with SAD (n=25) and Controls (n=25). A behavioral assessment paradigm was employed to address three study objectives: (a) to determine whether the VR task can elicit significant increases in physiological response over baseline resting conditions (b) to determine if individuals with SAD have a greater increase from baseline levels of physiological and self-reported arousal during the in vivo speech task as opposed to the VR speech task and (c) to determine whether individuals with SAD experience greater changes in physiological and self-reported arousal during each speech task compared to controls. Results demonstrated that the VR task was able to elicit significant increases in heart rate, skin conductance, and respiratory sinus arrhythmia, but did not elicit as much physiological or self-reported arousal as the in vivo speech task. In addition, no differences were found between groups. Clinical implications of these findings are discussed.
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Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: CFE0004906, ucf:49624
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004906

Title: THE RELATIONSHIP OF PARENT AND CHILD SELF-TALK IN A COLLEGE SAMPLE.
Creator: Donnelly, Reesa, Renk, Kimberly, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Research has demonstrated the importance of early social interactions in the development of self-talk. It does not appear, however, that existing research has examined the relationship between parents' self-talk and the self-talk that develops in their children. This study examined the relationship between self-talk in parents and their college-age children. Results revealed significant relationships between students' and parents' positive self-talk, but not negative self-talk. Marginal...
Show moreResearch has demonstrated the importance of early social interactions in the development of self-talk. It does not appear, however, that existing research has examined the relationship between parents' self-talk and the self-talk that develops in their children. This study examined the relationship between self-talk in parents and their college-age children. Results revealed significant relationships between students' and parents' positive self-talk, but not negative self-talk. Marginal relationships were found for self-talk ratios (ratios of positive and negative self-talk). Maternal communication was found to mediate the relationship between students' and their mothers' positive self-talk. Different trends also were noted between genders. Finally, self-talk was related significantly to depression, anxiety, and self-esteem. Overall, results of this study emphasize the relationship between parents' and their children's positive self-talk and the importance of self-talk in psychological functioning. These findings lend promise to the possibility of modifying parents' self-talk and communication as a way to modify their children's self-talk and psychological functioning.
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Date Issued: 2005
Identifier: CFE0000414, ucf:46401
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000414

Title: AN EXPLORATION OF TEACHER PERSPECTIVES OF MATHEMATICS ANXIETY AND GENDER STEREOTYPING.
Creator: Browning, Jessica, Gresham, Regina, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this study was to identify the current perspective of grades three through twelve in-service teachers regarding mathematics anxiety, its causes, and its relation to gender stereotyping. A short online survey was conducted to gain insight into their classrooms and perspectives of the subject. The results showed that mathematics anxiety did exist in the classroom, and in-service teachers did report seeing a gender gap between the anxiety experienced by females and males. I...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to identify the current perspective of grades three through twelve in-service teachers regarding mathematics anxiety, its causes, and its relation to gender stereotyping. A short online survey was conducted to gain insight into their classrooms and perspectives of the subject. The results showed that mathematics anxiety did exist in the classroom, and in-service teachers did report seeing a gender gap between the anxiety experienced by females and males. I believe that from these findings it is important to conduct further research on in-service teachers to see in depth what they think. This is important because their beliefs about the subject can have a lasting impact on their students and their feelings towards mathematics.
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Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFH0004756, ucf:45347
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004756

Title: REIMAGINING DESIRE: QUEER TIME, LIMINAL SPACE, AND NARRATIVE ANXIETY.
Creator: Mitchell, Aidan, Jones, Anna Maria, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Media shapes and supports certain ideas about how we view ourselves and others. The narratives that we consume train us to desire a particular formula of what critic Lauren Berlant calls "the good life": growing up, becoming a man or a woman, getting married, having children, and retiring. People who fail to fit into these narratives are often punished and excluded from society. However, queer theorist Jack Halberstam asks us to reconsider failure as a means of resistance. The texts that I...
Show moreMedia shapes and supports certain ideas about how we view ourselves and others. The narratives that we consume train us to desire a particular formula of what critic Lauren Berlant calls "the good life": growing up, becoming a man or a woman, getting married, having children, and retiring. People who fail to fit into these narratives are often punished and excluded from society. However, queer theorist Jack Halberstam asks us to reconsider failure as a means of resistance. The texts that I examine fail to conform to narrative expectations or to fit formulae that are easily consumable or defined. They present queer characters and relationships that exceed social norms and generic conventions. These characters and relationships encourage us to reconsider the models of desire given to us, and to embrace a more nebulous state of anxiety found in liminal space. In Chapter 1, I discuss Argentine-Spanish-French film XXY (2007), which follows the story of Alex, an intersex teen who refuses to fit within the binary of male or female. In Chapter 2, I argue that Hitchcock's Vertigo (1958) lays the groundwork for the visual representation of anxiety and desire in the Japanese manga Aku no Hana (Flowers of Evil ), which explores non-monogamous relationships structured around sadistic voyeurism. In the conclusion I turn briefly to children's cartoons Steven Universe and Adventure Time, in which failure has been reimagined as queer utopia. By focusing on media that resist heteronormative conventions we can start to reimagine models for more empathetic and compassionate communities.
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Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFH0004847, ucf:45437
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004847

Title: THE RISKS AND BENEFITS OF SELECTIVE SEROTONIN REUPTAKE INHIBITORS AND THE EFFECT OF PARENT-CHILD COMPLIANCE ON MEDICATION TEACHING IN PEDIATRIC ANXIETY DISORDERS.
Creator: Nizam, Sabiha, Dever, Kimberly, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Pediatric anxiety disorders characterized as Generalized, Separation, and Social Anxiety Disorders, are chronic debilitating conditions that leave children feeling tense and isolated, both physically and emotionally. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a classification of antidepressants that can be prescribed to children diagnosed with these disorders. SSRIs have been shown to be effective in treating anxiety disorders in children. The purpose of this literature review was to...
Show morePediatric anxiety disorders characterized as Generalized, Separation, and Social Anxiety Disorders, are chronic debilitating conditions that leave children feeling tense and isolated, both physically and emotionally. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a classification of antidepressants that can be prescribed to children diagnosed with these disorders. SSRIs have been shown to be effective in treating anxiety disorders in children. The purpose of this literature review was to examine and determine if there are more risks or benefits associated with SSRIs, as well as evaluate teaching and education regarding anxiety disorder medication compliance in both children and parents. A secondary purpose of this research was to provide recommendations in nursing practice to allow children to feel more involved in their medical regimen. The following databases were used for the search: CINAHL, Academic Search Premier, and Web of Science. Key terms used in the search include but are not limited to: child* and anxiety, not autism, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, OR SSRI*, OR adolsecen*, not med*, pediatric*, OR side effects. The results suggest that the benefits of SSRI therapy in children with anxiety disorder, when taken on a regularly scheduled basis, outweigh the risks, however more research aimed at compliance with SSRI therapy in children and parents is necessary. Further research analyzing children with anxiety disorders is needed to assess SSRI usage based specifically on their developmental age, and the inclusion of appropriate teaching and explanation related to their diagnoses to identifying stressors that can include behavioral therapy as well.
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Date Issued: 2016
Identifier: CFH2000020, ucf:45574
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000020

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