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Title: A STUDY OF LANGUAGE AND REGIONAL IDENTITIES IN A SMALL OCCITAN VILLAGE.
Creator: sacleux, patrick, rivera, fernando, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This exploratory study utilized qualitative methods to approach regional language abilities of local respondents and how it affects their regional identity. The theoretical framework of this study explored some of the tenets of symbolic interaction emphasizing on identity theory and how the flexible aspect of face-to-face interaction can define the self and someone's regional identity as it relates to their regional language use. Data for this study were collected in a small Occitan...
Show moreThis exploratory study utilized qualitative methods to approach regional language abilities of local respondents and how it affects their regional identity. The theoretical framework of this study explored some of the tenets of symbolic interaction emphasizing on identity theory and how the flexible aspect of face-to-face interaction can define the self and someone's regional identity as it relates to their regional language use. Data for this study were collected in a small Occitan village in Southern France. In particular, the study explored the link between an individual residential setting, his/her age and his/her ability to speak the regional language. The results indicate that the ability to speak the specific regional or even sub regional language does not greatly affect an individual's regional identity, thus potentially contributing to the continuing decline of that language in the region. Furthermore, that future studies are merited to explore whether these results are specific or if they can more broadly be applied to other Occitan regions or elsewhere where regional languages are spoken.
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Date Issued: 2009
Identifier: CFE0002911, ucf:48015
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002911

Title: TECHNOLOGICAL DISASTERS: AN INVESTIGATION OF THE CONSERVATION OF RESOURCES THEORY ON DEPRESSION.
Creator: Gentry, Brian, Rivera, Fernando, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Researchers studying the affects of resource loss following a technological disaster have exclusively investigated the acute period directly after the event occurred. This study applied Hobfoll's (1988, 1989) Conservation of Resources model in order to examine the long term effects of resource loss on depression in Cordova, Alaska a decade after the Exxon Valdez Oil spill. Results suggest that resource loss was a more prominent predictor for depression than demographics, involvement in...
Show moreResearchers studying the affects of resource loss following a technological disaster have exclusively investigated the acute period directly after the event occurred. This study applied Hobfoll's (1988, 1989) Conservation of Resources model in order to examine the long term effects of resource loss on depression in Cordova, Alaska a decade after the Exxon Valdez Oil spill. Results suggest that resource loss was a more prominent predictor for depression than demographics, involvement in the on-going litigation, or commercial fishing jobs. The research concludes that certain aspects of resource loss are critical in the development of depression after a technological disaster, and in understanding how to address depression in the community.
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Date Issued: 2008
Identifier: CFE0002337, ucf:47779
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002337

Title: RACE AND HEALTH BEHAVIORS: A STUDY OF DIABETES AMONG AFRICAN AMERICAN ADULTS.
Creator: Towns, Tangela, Rivera, Fernando, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This project assesses the effects certain variables have on African American adults that suffer from diabetes. These include behaviors of African Americans that contribute to diabetes such as; diet behavior and physical activity. Thus, the focus of this study is to examine the effects of these health behaviors on the likelihood of having diabetes among African Americans. This assessment will be used to provide insights as they pertain to African Americans and diabetes.
Date Issued: 2009
Identifier: CFE0002620, ucf:48269
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002620

Title: HAVE YOU HEARD? PREDICTORS OF HPV AWARENESS AMONG A RANDOM SAMPLE OF COLLEGE STUDENTS.
Creator: Arrastia, Meagan, Rivera, Fernando, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: College students have been identified as at high risk for contracting Human Papillomavirus (HPV) due to engaging in risky behaviors, such as binge drinking and unprotected sex. Before preventative measures like vaccination and condom usage can be promoted, awareness must be evaluated. A random sample of 438 college students was surveyed on their awareness of HPV using both paper and online surveying methods. Using binary logistic regression, HPV awareness was predicted using demographic...
Show moreCollege students have been identified as at high risk for contracting Human Papillomavirus (HPV) due to engaging in risky behaviors, such as binge drinking and unprotected sex. Before preventative measures like vaccination and condom usage can be promoted, awareness must be evaluated. A random sample of 438 college students was surveyed on their awareness of HPV using both paper and online surveying methods. Using binary logistic regression, HPV awareness was predicted using demographic measures. The majority of the sample reported having heard of HPV before. Sexually active respondents and females were significantly more likely to report awareness. Non-whites and first-generation college students were also more likely to report awareness. These demographic predictors will help identify groups needing educational and HPV intervention programs. Implications and further research is discussed.
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Date Issued: 2009
Identifier: CFE0002640, ucf:48208
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002640

Title: Tails in the Wind: An Exploratory Examination of Media Reports on Nonhuman Animals Throughout Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico.
Creator: Jagoda, Nathan, Huff-Corzine, Lin, Rivera, Fernando, Grauerholz, Liz, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: On September 20th, 2017, category four Hurricane Maria rattled Puerto Rico, causing extensive damage throughout the island. While the experiences, injuries, and deaths of humans resulting from Hurricane Maria have received both scholarly consideration and large amounts of attention from media sources, one critical area that has been overlooked by many, particularly academics, are the ways in which various media sources have reported on, described and discussed nonhuman animals impacted by the...
Show moreOn September 20th, 2017, category four Hurricane Maria rattled Puerto Rico, causing extensive damage throughout the island. While the experiences, injuries, and deaths of humans resulting from Hurricane Maria have received both scholarly consideration and large amounts of attention from media sources, one critical area that has been overlooked by many, particularly academics, are the ways in which various media sources have reported on, described and discussed nonhuman animals impacted by the storm. This study aimed to address this gap by analyzing media reports of nonhuman animals throughout the days before, during, and after Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico. Mixed method content analysis was conducted on fifty-five media reports found to contain discussion of nonhuman animals and Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico, though a majority of the analyses were qualitative in nature. Analyses resulted in the identification of a variety of themes found to be emergent from the data.Themes explored include nonhuman animal abandonment, insufficient shelters, damaged shelters and lack of resources, collaboration between nonhuman animal welfare organizations, spay/neuter practices, positive descriptions of satos, bringing nonhuman animals to the U.S. mainland, a second chance at life for nonhuman animals, and the hierarchical arrangement of nonhuman animals presented within media reports. Results of the study point towards the need for greater planning and resource allocation in regard to nonhuman animals in Puerto Rico both during times of disaster and everyday life. The spay and neuter infrastructure and the animal shelters on the island are especially in need of resources. Additionally, the results indicate that the media sources examined placed their main focus on dogs and cats impacted by the storm, suggesting that these species of nonhuman animals hold a spot towards the top of the American nonhuman animal hierarchical arrangement.
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Date Issued: 2019
Identifier: CFE0007822, ucf:52808
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007822

Title: Socioeconomic Status and Prescription Opioid Use Behaviors among U.S. Adults: A Test of the Fundamental Cause Theory Framework.
Creator: Nicholson, Harvey, Ford, Jason, Rivera, Fernando, Hinojosa, Melanie, Rigg, Khary, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Using data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, I applied Phelan, Link and Tehranifar's (2010) fundamental cause theory (FCT) framework to examine the association between socioeconomic status (SES) and prescription opioid use behaviors. I also explored the mediating roles of health status and the deployment of flexible resources. I hypothesized that (1) a negative association would exist between SES and prescription opioid use, misuse, and use disorder, and (2) health status and...
Show moreUsing data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, I applied Phelan, Link and Tehranifar's (2010) fundamental cause theory (FCT) framework to examine the association between socioeconomic status (SES) and prescription opioid use behaviors. I also explored the mediating roles of health status and the deployment of flexible resources. I hypothesized that (1) a negative association would exist between SES and prescription opioid use, misuse, and use disorder, and (2) health status and the deployment of flexible resources (e.g. health care access, knowledge, social support) would mediate this relationship. As hypothesized and consistent with FCT, higher SES was associated with significantly lower odds of prescription opioid use behaviors. Two flexible resources, health care access and social support, and various indicators of poor health helped explain this relationship. Inconsistent with FCT, knowledge of heroin use as being a (")great risk(") was not a mediator of the SES-prescription opioid use behaviors association. Based on these findings, efforts to reduce SES disparities in prescription opioid use behaviors should emphasize reducing SES disparities overall as well as in health and access to important health-enhancing resources. Limitations of this study and directions for future research are discussed. ?
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Date Issued: 2019
Identifier: CFE0007695, ucf:52437
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007695

Title: The Intersection of Race and Class in Maternity Leave: Who's Left Out?.
Creator: Ittai, Christine, Carter, Shannon, Rivera, Fernando, Hinojosa, Melanie, Santana, Maria, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Maternity leave is a critical work-family policy that affects over two-thirds of the working U.S. female population. Although it has been studied extensively, especially since the passage of the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993, the majority of the research has focused on White, middle-class, married, and educated working mothers. There is a plethora of information about access to maternity leave, utilization of maternity leave, length of maternity leave, and compensation during leave....
Show moreMaternity leave is a critical work-family policy that affects over two-thirds of the working U.S. female population. Although it has been studied extensively, especially since the passage of the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993, the majority of the research has focused on White, middle-class, married, and educated working mothers. There is a plethora of information about access to maternity leave, utilization of maternity leave, length of maternity leave, and compensation during leave. However, there are several limitations in the research. A majority of studies use outdated datasets; measure family leave as a proxy for maternity leave; study paid and unpaid maternity leave as one variable; and leave out contextual factors. Using intersectionality theory as a guiding framework, which poses that women's gendered experiences are shaped by the intersection of race/ethnicity and class, the purpose of this study is to identify similarities and differences in the maternity leave practices of a racially diverse sample of working mothers. The Listening to Mothers III Survey of births occurring in 2011 and 2012 will be used for this study. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to determine the factors that predict access to leave, utilization of leave, length of leave, and compensation during leave. Results show that sociodemographic factors such as household income, poverty level, and insurance are consistent predictors of access to leave, use of leave, and length of leave. Using an intersectional approach revealed that mothers' intersectional locations can increase or decrease their chances of getting access to leave, using leave, the length of leave taken, and compensation received during leave. The results of this study show that including sociodemographic factors in maternity leave research can further our understanding of how the social characteristics of working mothers impact their maternity leave experiences. Paying more attention to these factors in maternity leave research will contribute recommendations for creating more inclusive maternity leave policies.
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Date Issued: 2018
Identifier: CFE0007338, ucf:52113
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007338

Title: My Plate, Your Food: Foodways of International Students in US(&)#191; Colleges and Universities.
Creator: Noyongoyo, Boniface, Mustaine, Elizabeth, Hinojosa, Melanie, Rivera, Fernando, Corra, Mamadi, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Research shows that the world is now more globalized than ever. In the education sector, students' movements have increased from the global South to the North as they look for a better tomorrow. Hence, international students in the US are from almost all countries around the world. The current study examines the changes in the foodways of international students since their arrival in the US The analysis is based on more than 260 surveys and 17 interviews of international students enrolled in...
Show moreResearch shows that the world is now more globalized than ever. In the education sector, students' movements have increased from the global South to the North as they look for a better tomorrow. Hence, international students in the US are from almost all countries around the world. The current study examines the changes in the foodways of international students since their arrival in the US The analysis is based on more than 260 surveys and 17 interviews of international students enrolled in US colleges and universities. The results from online self-administered surveys showed that international students' eating habit changes are mostly related to their continent of origin, gender, religious affiliation, and religious preference. Interviews conducted with students from different countries confirmed that the aforementioned characteristics are important in explaining these changes in eating habits.
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Date Issued: 2018
Identifier: CFE0007231, ucf:52225
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007231

Title: Hurricane Maria: A Qualitative Study of Recently Displaced Students to the State of Florida.
Creator: Cabrera, Esmeralda, Rivera, Fernando, Donley, Amy, Hinojosa, Melanie, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Over the past ten years Puerto Rico has been experiencing a severe economic crisis that was worsened when Hurricane Maria made landfall on September 20, 2017. Maria hit Puerto Rico as a category 4 storm, devastating the whole island and its 3.4 millionresidents. Many students were left with minimal educational choices after Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico. Research on Latino/a students shows that they are met with unique experiences and challenges as they pursue higher education. The current...
Show moreOver the past ten years Puerto Rico has been experiencing a severe economic crisis that was worsened when Hurricane Maria made landfall on September 20, 2017. Maria hit Puerto Rico as a category 4 storm, devastating the whole island and its 3.4 millionresidents. Many students were left with minimal educational choices after Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico. Research on Latino/a students shows that they are met with unique experiences and challenges as they pursue higher education. The current study uses qualitative data to investigate what are the unique challenges and needs of displaced students from Puerto Rico? and what role does social capital play in confronting and navigating the challenges and needs associated with their transition to a new institutional setting? This study proposes to research the issues that many displaced Puerto Rican college student's face and add to the growing body of knowledge. It is important to understand how these recently displaced students will be affected by leaving behind, economic capital and cultural capital that they had built up in their communities on the island. Participation in the study included 9 participants from a large southeastern university that provided in-state tuition to displaced students for semi-structured qualitative interviews. Results revealed that family support was the main source of support for many of the students. Mentorship support was key in their educational success because the more support and encouragement from faculty led to a better transition. Support from peers was positively associated with a better transition and feeling of acceptance. Higher campus resources were positively associated with a better transition.
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Date Issued: 2019
Identifier: CFE0007606, ucf:52526
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007606

Title: Thematic Patterns In Millennial Heavy Metal: A Lyrical Analysis.
Creator: Chabot, Evan, Gay, David, Lynxwiler, John, Rivera, Fernando, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Research on heavy metal music has traditionally been framed by deviant characterizations, effects on audiences, and the validity of criticism. More recently, studies have neglected content analysis due to perceived homogeneity in themes, despite evidence that the modern genre is distinct from its past. As lyrical patterns are strong markers of genre, this study attempts to characterize heavy metal in the 21st century by analyzing lyrics for specific themes and perspectives. Citing evidence...
Show moreResearch on heavy metal music has traditionally been framed by deviant characterizations, effects on audiences, and the validity of criticism. More recently, studies have neglected content analysis due to perceived homogeneity in themes, despite evidence that the modern genre is distinct from its past. As lyrical patterns are strong markers of genre, this study attempts to characterize heavy metal in the 21st century by analyzing lyrics for specific themes and perspectives. Citing evidence that the (")Millennial(") generation confers significant developments to popular culture, the contemporary genre is termed (")Millennial heavy metal(") throughout, and the study is framed accordingly. Utilizing prominent metal albums from the 2000-2009 decade, 250 randomly selected songs are analyzed for the inclusion of 115 different themes and their contextual usage. The frequency of each theme is then ranked by prevalence in order to illustrate common focus in the genre. Results showed that themes of death, storytelling, violence, and social commentary prevail; overall, accentuated topics and their usage point to an aptitude for confronting tenebrous realities and personal attempts to understand them. Characteristic connections between Millennial metal and the Millennial generation are also noted through emphasized individuality, social awareness, and civil liberalism.
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Date Issued: 2012
Identifier: CFE0004527, ucf:49234
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004527

Title: Exploring Theology and Practice in Islamic Parenting.
Creator: Akin, Mergin, Rivera, Fernando, Grauerholz, Elizabeth, Gay, David, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this study is to explore Muslims' parenting styles and determine how factors such as religion, education, income, physical and verbal punishment experienced as a child, and the perception of Islamic childrearing influence their parenting styles. The research focuses on the main tenets of parenting in the Islamic tradition such as fatherhood, motherhood, children's and parent's rights and responsibilities, discipline methods, and physical punishment. The study also informs the...
Show moreThe purpose of this study is to explore Muslims' parenting styles and determine how factors such as religion, education, income, physical and verbal punishment experienced as a child, and the perception of Islamic childrearing influence their parenting styles. The research focuses on the main tenets of parenting in the Islamic tradition such as fatherhood, motherhood, children's and parent's rights and responsibilities, discipline methods, and physical punishment. The study also informs the role of marriage in Islam and the adopted concepts and theories of Western sociological literature. Findings show that authoritative parenting was the most predominant parenting style among study participants. The study also revealed that those who frequently read the Qur'an tended to be less authoritarian. Parents that experienced physical punishment as a child and who think Islam allows spanking were more likely to sponsor an authoritarian parenting style. The study findings provide insights into the complex roles of religion and parenting in Muslim groups.
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Date Issued: 2012
Identifier: CFE0004493, ucf:49295
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004493

Title: Affective Response of African American and European American Students to Portrayals of Cross-racial Relationships on Television.
Creator: Mowatt, Earl, Wright, James, Carter, James, Rivera, Fernando, Kinnally, William, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Race is a potent discourse within the world of pop culture, particularly in television where viewers are witnessing more racial diversity in scripted shows. However, show creators must maintain standards that emphasize distinct social roles among characters in order to appeal to large heterogeneous audiences. These roles tend to be characterizations of racial stereotypes that often lead to biased opinions and inaccurate perceptions of minority groups. Previous studies detail that racial...
Show moreRace is a potent discourse within the world of pop culture, particularly in television where viewers are witnessing more racial diversity in scripted shows. However, show creators must maintain standards that emphasize distinct social roles among characters in order to appeal to large heterogeneous audiences. These roles tend to be characterizations of racial stereotypes that often lead to biased opinions and inaccurate perceptions of minority groups. Previous studies detail that racial biases in media adversely shape public opinions about African Americans and depress the desire for racial integration. This seems somewhat confounding since the shift in programming towards racial diversity presumes increased affirmation, importance, and validity of African Americans and other minority groups. This study investigates the affective response of Black and White college students to cross-race relationships on TV and the perceived realism of these media depictions. Since these relationship forms are now becoming part of television's pop culture, and pop culture reflects co-existing attitudes and values in society, it is important that they be examined. Additionally, examining cross-racial relationships may help in understanding larger race relations in the United States.
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Date Issued: 2012
Identifier: CFE0004268, ucf:49539
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004268

Title: Predictors of Food Insecurity in 3 Central Florida Communities.
Creator: Towns, Tangela, Rivera, Fernando, Carter, Shannon, Wright, James, Dunn, Stacey, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This study examined the association between different socio-demographic factors and food insecurity in the Central Florida Communities of Maitland, Winter Park, and Eatonville. Data from the Institute for Social and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Central Florida were utilized to analyze 3 main questions: In which community is food insecurity more prevalent? To what extent are food consumption, transportation, poverty, and unemployment associated with food insecurity? Does the...
Show moreThis study examined the association between different socio-demographic factors and food insecurity in the Central Florida Communities of Maitland, Winter Park, and Eatonville. Data from the Institute for Social and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Central Florida were utilized to analyze 3 main questions: In which community is food insecurity more prevalent? To what extent are food consumption, transportation, poverty, and unemployment associated with food insecurity? Does the association between food consumption, transportation, poverty, unemployment, and food insecurity remain when controlling for self-reported overall health, education, marital status, and race. The results revealed differences in predictors of food insecurities. Particularly, there was a positive relationship between food consumption and the knowledge of recommended number of servings of fruits and vegetables suggesting that those who have nutritional knowledge practice healthy dietary behaviors. Furthermore, structural dysfunctions and affordability pose food consumption limitations on the communities studied (mainly Eatonville).
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Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: CFE0004947, ucf:49564
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004947

Title: The Relationship Between Nonprofit Capacity Building, Organizational Learning and Organizational Effectiveness: A Case Study of Strengthening Communities Fund Program in Central Florida.
Creator: Broxton, Margaret, Kapucu, Naim, Bryer, Thomas, Feldheim, Mary, Rivera, Fernando, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Nonprofit capacity building programs and program activities positively influence perceived organizational effectiveness. Being able to link nonprofit capacity building to organizational effectiveness is a paramount concern for both nonprofits seeking capacity building programming and those entities, be it foundations or government that fund capacity building initiatives and programs. Therefore being able to link nonprofit capacity building to organizational effectiveness and higher...
Show moreNonprofit capacity building programs and program activities positively influence perceived organizational effectiveness. Being able to link nonprofit capacity building to organizational effectiveness is a paramount concern for both nonprofits seeking capacity building programming and those entities, be it foundations or government that fund capacity building initiatives and programs. Therefore being able to link nonprofit capacity building to organizational effectiveness and higher performance is crucial to ensure that both nonprofit organizations and funders continue to pursue and support capacity building programming. Through an examination of the developing hollow state and the resulting nonprofit capacity disparity this study demonstrates the purposeful need for the continuation of nonprofit capacity building programming and the support of such programming through outside private foundation and government funding. Using a conceptual model developed from the literature on organizational learning and change this study examines the impact of capacity building programming, programming activities, organizational learning theory and perceived organizational effectiveness. The influence of the type of capacity building programming, i.e. traditional workshop and traditional workshop plus technical and financial assistance is investigated through the use of quantitative and qualitative methods. Specifically the quantitative methods utilized were descriptive including bi-variate correlation analysis, paired and independent T-tests, ANOVA and multiple regression. The qualitative analysis including examining open-ended survey question responses from two pre-post capacity building intervention surveys and one post program survey and the analysis of comments made in 10 focus groups. The influence of capacity building programming activities, i.e. organizational development, organizational program development, organizational collaboration and organizational leadership is investigated through the use of multiple regression and qualitative analysis. This study uses pre-, post-test survey data from a total of 43 nonprofit organizations that participated in the Strengthening Communities Fund in Central Florida Program, managed by the Center for Public and Nonprofit Management at the University of Central Florida. The two year program was offered in two identical 10 month cycles. Pre- and post-test data were collected from 23 participant organizations in Cycle 1 and 20 in Cycle 2. This study sought to identify the nonprofit capacity building programming modality and programming activities that contributed most to perceived organizational effectiveness. According to the findings, nonprofit organizations seeking capacity building and funders looking to support capacity building programs should look to programs that offer activities that increase organizational leadership capacity and organizational program development. Increasing organizational leadership capacity and organizational program development contributes most to perceived organizational effectiveness. This study did not find support to recommend one particular capacity building training modality over another. Regardless of the method of capacity building program delivery, i.e. workshop and/or technical and financial assistance, programs which build organizational leadership capacity and organizational program development will greatly influence the perceived organizational effectiveness of the capacity building participant organizations.
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Date Issued: 2012
Identifier: CFE0004361, ucf:49417
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004361

Title: The effect of race, skin color, religion and national origin on duration of processing for permanent resident visas.
Creator: Bares, Lindsey, Wright, James, Pals, Heili, Rivera, Fernando, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: A great deal of attention has recently been focused on America's undocumented immigrants, a population estimated at around 10 million people (Passel, Capps, and Fix 2004). Much less attention has been paid (in both scholarly and academic circles) to legal immigrants, although in 2010 (the most recent year for which complete data are available), the Department of Homeland Security granted 1,042,625 permanent resident visas. Indeed, since 1994 when the government began to publish the Annual...
Show moreA great deal of attention has recently been focused on America's undocumented immigrants, a population estimated at around 10 million people (Passel, Capps, and Fix 2004). Much less attention has been paid (in both scholarly and academic circles) to legal immigrants, although in 2010 (the most recent year for which complete data are available), the Department of Homeland Security granted 1,042,625 permanent resident visas. Indeed, since 1994 when the government began to publish the Annual Flow Report, we have granted between 700,000 to around 1,300,000 new legal immigrant visas annually.Legal immigration into the US involves a process of varying length. That is to say, the elapsed time between applying for a permanent resident's visa and being granted that visa can range from as little as a few months to as long as several years. It is known that the type of visa being applied for (the various types are explained later) accounts for some of the variation in processing length, and also that lost paperwork is a significant factor (Jasso 2011). This study found no evidence of discrimination in regards to the race, skin color, and religion of the survey respondents in terms of the time it took to get their visas processed. The average wait time for visa processing was about 5 years; Mexicans and Filipinos waited longer than immigrants from other countries.For various reasons discussed in the text, our current immigration system has created a two-tiered family-based immigrant visa system. That is, the system gives heavy preference to family members of persons who are already legal immigrants. The preferential status of so-called family reunification visas has been a point of controversy in immigration advocacy circles and that controversy is also reviewed.
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Date Issued: 2012
Identifier: CFE0004355, ucf:49427
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004355

Title: When There's No Home to Prepare: Understanding Natural Hazards Vulnerability Among the Homeless in Central Florida.
Creator: Settembrino, Marc, Rivera, Fernando, Wright, James, Koontz, Amanda, Kapucu, Naim, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The current study explores the social construction of natural hazards vulnerability by examining the perceptions of emergency management personnel, homeless service providers and homeless men living in Central Florida. The matrix of vulnerability is proposed as a framework for studying disaster vulnerability, wherein vulnerability is viewed as a complex process consisting of social and physical risk, human agency and time. Using the matrix as a guiding framework, this study examines the risks...
Show moreThe current study explores the social construction of natural hazards vulnerability by examining the perceptions of emergency management personnel, homeless service providers and homeless men living in Central Florida. The matrix of vulnerability is proposed as a framework for studying disaster vulnerability, wherein vulnerability is viewed as a complex process consisting of social and physical risk, human agency and time. Using the matrix as a guiding framework, this study examines the risks that natural hazards present to the homeless living in Central Florida and the strategies used by the homeless to manage these risks. This study argues that because the homeless experience increased exposure to natural hazards coupled with potential chronic medical conditions, economic hardship, and social stigma, they are more vulnerable to natural hazards than the general population. However, this study finds that homeless men in Central Florida utilize a variety of strategies that help them manage their risks to severe and inclement weather in Central Florida.
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Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: CFE0004936, ucf:49618
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004936

Title: Probation Officer Productivity: Using the Effort-Reward Imbalance Model.
Creator: Presley, Brandon, Lynxwiler, John, Rivera, Fernando, Gay, David, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this study is to determine the extent to which workplace efforts and rewards are associated with probation officer stress, overcommitment, health, and productivity. This research uses the effort-reward imbalance model, which is an indicator of job stress, on a group of criminal justice probation officers. The probation officers completed questionnaires regarding their perceptions of health, perceived reward, perceived effort, perceptions of overcommitment, and perceived...
Show moreThe purpose of this study is to determine the extent to which workplace efforts and rewards are associated with probation officer stress, overcommitment, health, and productivity. This research uses the effort-reward imbalance model, which is an indicator of job stress, on a group of criminal justice probation officers. The probation officers completed questionnaires regarding their perceptions of health, perceived reward, perceived effort, perceptions of overcommitment, and perceived productivity. Afterward, the responses were collected, and analyses were conducted using correlation and multiple regression to determine the extent to which perceptions of effort, reward, and overcommitment effect probation officer productivity and health. A sample of 207 probation officers from Central Florida selected probation agencies are used in the study, with an individual response rate of approximately 90%. The results suggest that perceptions of reward have a limited effect on perceived productivity. Furthermore, the study found a significant relationship between effort-reward imbalance and perceptions of overcommitment. The study also found a significant relationship between perceptions of overcommitment and perceptions of reduced health. Finally, the study found that the interaction of effort-reward imbalance and overcommitment are correlated with negative perceptions of health. The results of the study demonstrate the ubiquity of perceptions among probation officers that they are overworked and under compensated. The results also suggest the need for improvements in organizational practice, so that efficiency and effectiveness of probation officers can be maximized.
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Date Issued: 2017
Identifier: CFE0006643, ucf:51239
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006643

Title: Attitudes Toward Cohabitation: A cross sectional study.
Creator: Shields-Dutton, Kensington, Gay, David, Rivera, Fernando, Huff-Corzine, Lin, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Cohabitation and attitudes toward cohabitation have been of interest to social scientists since the 1970s. Early research on cohabitation concentrated on college aged students enrolled at institutions of higher learning. This trend was due to convenience sampling (Trost, 1978). Later research demonstrated the college population represented less than half of the total number of cohabitating persons. With the growth in numbers of persons who are choosing to cohabitate versus marrying, this...
Show moreCohabitation and attitudes toward cohabitation have been of interest to social scientists since the 1970s. Early research on cohabitation concentrated on college aged students enrolled at institutions of higher learning. This trend was due to convenience sampling (Trost, 1978). Later research demonstrated the college population represented less than half of the total number of cohabitating persons. With the growth in numbers of persons who are choosing to cohabitate versus marrying, this study examines current attitudes towards cohabitation. This research augments the existing literature on attitudes toward cohabitation in the following ways: (1) it updates the current research on the attitudes toward cohabitation by using the 2012 General Social Survey, (2) it examines cohort differences in attitudes toward cohabitation among the four major birth cohorts in our society today (i.e., the Silent Generation, the Baby Boomer cohort, Generation X, and the Millennial cohort), and (3) it controls for other factors that affect attitudes toward cohabitation.
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Date Issued: 2016
Identifier: CFE0006181, ucf:51149
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006181

Title: The Gold Wrapper Standard: An Investigation into the Preference for Larger Sized Condoms.
Creator: Plaza, Diego, Grauerholz, Liz, Pritchard, Adam, Carter, Shannon, Rivera, Fernando, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Research looking into the relationship between masculinity and condoms has typically centered on how masculinity ideology acts as a deterrent toward condom use. The current study focuses on the social pairing between larger sized condoms and masculinity by examining the factors that predict the preference for larger sized condoms. Specifically, the current analysis uses survey data collected from a sample of 398 University of Central Florida students to examine the predictive role of gender,...
Show moreResearch looking into the relationship between masculinity and condoms has typically centered on how masculinity ideology acts as a deterrent toward condom use. The current study focuses on the social pairing between larger sized condoms and masculinity by examining the factors that predict the preference for larger sized condoms. Specifically, the current analysis uses survey data collected from a sample of 398 University of Central Florida students to examine the predictive role of gender, race/ethnicity, gendered-identification, relationship status, perceived penis size, condom malfunction experience, the opinion that men would be less reluctant to use condoms if offered a larger option, the opinion that men with larger penises are more masculine, and the opinion that men who use larger condoms are more masculine on preferences for larger sized condoms. Results of the analysis show that the model was highly predictive of preferences for larger sized condoms, with five out of the nine factors considered having a significant effect. The results indicated that relationship status, perceived penis size, the opinion that men would be less reluctant to use condoms if offered a larger option, the opinion that men with larger penises are more masculine, and the opinion that men who use larger condoms are more masculine significantly predicted larger sized condom preferences. Gender, race/ethnicity (dichotomized as White/non-White), gendered identity, and condom malfunction experience did not significantly predict larger sized condom preferences. Additionally, gender-specific trends were found when the analysis was run independently among men and among women. The implications of these results are discussed and possibilities for subsequent research are suggested.
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Date Issued: 2016
Identifier: CFE0006375, ucf:51526
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006375

Title: Sexual Violence Victimization and Prescription Drug Misuse: An Analysis Using General Strain Theory.
Creator: Pomykacz, Corey, Ford, Jason, Reckdenwald, Amy, Rivera, Fernando, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Sexual violence among college women is a widespread and severe public health issue in the United States. When compared to women in the general public, collegiate women are at an increased risk of sexual violence. Sexual violence can result in damaging and long-term consequences for the victim. Consequences of sexual violence include physical injuries, psychological distress, social withdrawal, poor grades and participation in health risk behaviors. While a connection between sexual violence...
Show moreSexual violence among college women is a widespread and severe public health issue in the United States. When compared to women in the general public, collegiate women are at an increased risk of sexual violence. Sexual violence can result in damaging and long-term consequences for the victim. Consequences of sexual violence include physical injuries, psychological distress, social withdrawal, poor grades and participation in health risk behaviors. While a connection between sexual violence victimization and negative outcomes is well established, most of the research in this area is atheoretical. To address this gap in the literature this study relied on Robert Agnew's General Strain theory (GST), one of the most empirically validated theories of crime and deviance. The current research examines the relationship between strain (sexual violence victimization), negative affect (anger and depression), and deviant coping (prescription drug misuse). Methodology: The data for the current research are from the National College Health Assessment (NCHA), a national study of the health related behaviors of college students, which was organized by the American College Health Association (ACHA). Schools selected for inclusion in the study either surveyed their entire student population or randomly selected students for participation. The current research used data from multiple data collection periods (Fall 2008 to Spring 2011) and includes 379,584 respondents. Findings: Findings are supportive of General Strain Theory. College women who have been sexually violated are more likely to report both negative affect and prescription drug misuse. In addition, the relationship between sexual violence victimization and prescription drug misuse is partially mediated by negative affect with depression being the stronger mediator.
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Date Issued: 2017
Identifier: CFE0006780, ucf:51817
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006780

college students (2)	+ -
medical sociology (2)	+ -
poverty (2)	+ -
race (2)	+ -
sociology (2)	+ -

Acheivement (1)	+ -
African American Health (1)	+ -
Agnew's General Strain Theory (1)	+ -
American Roma (1)	+ -
Animals and Society (1)	+ -
Bourdieu (1)	+ -
Central Florida (1)	+ -
Cohabitation (1)	+ -
Content Analysis (1)	+ -
Diabetes (1)	+ -
Dual enrollment (1)	+ -
EVOS (1)	+ -
Environmental Crisis (1)	+ -
Environmental Movement (1)	+ -
Environmental Policy (1)	+ -
Environmental Sociology (1)	+ -
Family (1)	+ -
Florida (1)	+ -
France (1)	+ -
General Strain (1)	+ -
Generations (1)	+ -
Goal Convergence (1)	+ -
HPV (1)	+ -
Health Behaviors (1)	+ -
Heavy Metal (1)	+ -

University of Central Florida (34)	+ -
Rivera, Fernando (33)	+ -
Wright, James (7)	+ -
Kapucu, Naim (6)	+ -
Carter, Shannon (5)	+ -

Gay, David (5)	+ -
Hinojosa, Melanie (4)	+ -
Cintron Delgado, Rosa (3)	+ -
Grauerholz, Elizabeth (3)	+ -
Grauerholz, Liz (3)	+ -
Santana, Maria (3)	+ -
Donley, Amy (2)	+ -
Ford, Jason (2)	+ -
Hawkins, Christopher (2)	+ -
Huff-Corzine, Lin (2)	+ -
Knox, Claire (2)	+ -
Koontz, Amanda (2)	+ -
Laureano Fuentes, Gloria (2)	+ -
Lynxwiler, John (2)	+ -
Owens, J. Thomas (2)	+ -
Pals, Heili (2)	+ -
Towns, Tangela (2)	+ -
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Bares, Lindsey (1)	+ -
Bedoya Arturo, Olga (1)	+ -
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