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Title: A HEALTHY PREGNANCY CURRICULUM FOR ADOLESCENT MOTHERS: PARTICIPANTS' PERCEPTIONS AND EFFECTS ON INFANTS' BIRTH WEIGHT.
Creator: Konjoian, Rae, Allen, Kay, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this study was to determine if there are differences in birth weight of infants, tobacco use during pregnancy, and Apgar scores of infants between pregnant adolescents who successfully complete a healthy pregnancy curriculum and those who do not and to further examine the adolescent mothers' perceptions of the major concepts included in a healthy pregnancy curriculum. The study involved the collection and analysis of retrospective data to determine differences in birth weight...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to determine if there are differences in birth weight of infants, tobacco use during pregnancy, and Apgar scores of infants between pregnant adolescents who successfully complete a healthy pregnancy curriculum and those who do not and to further examine the adolescent mothers' perceptions of the major concepts included in a healthy pregnancy curriculum. The study involved the collection and analysis of retrospective data to determine differences in birth weight of infants, tobacco use during pregnancy, and Apgar scores of infants. Additionally, a questionnaire, focus group discussions, and follow-up interviews were conducted with former students of the healthy pregnancy curriculum to examine the adolescent mothers' perceptions of the major concepts in the healthy pregnancy curriculum. The participants answered questions regarding how important they thought each major concept is for inclusion in the healthy pregnancy curriculum, how much they learned about each major concept, and how helpful that information was in their own experiences. Analyses of the data did not show statistical differences between adolescents who successfully completed a healthy pregnancy curriculum and those who did not complete a healthy pregnancy curriculum regarding differences in birth weight of infants, tobacco use during pregnancy, and Apgar scores of infants. These findings of non-significance may be due to the small number of participants (n=50), non-participants (n=149), and the limited duration of the study data (1999 to 2003). A larger population over a longer period of time might yield different results. The findings from the qualitative data provided by the seven former students suggest that pregnant adolescents who successfully complete the class perceive the components of the healthy pregnancy curriculum as valuable and important. Topics that were indicated as particularly important were The Birth Process, Nutrition, Decision Making, and Family Planning. Participants further indicated changes in their attitudes for all ten topics and changes in behaviors in the areas of Human Reproduction, Nutrition, Health-Care Practices, Environmental Effects on the Unborn Baby, and Decision Making.
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Date Issued: 2005
Identifier: CFE0000470, ucf:46356
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000470

Title: REFLECTIONS: A THEATRICAL JOURNEY INTO THE LIVES OF ADOLESCENT GIRLS.
Creator: Page, Leah, Boyd, Belinda, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Adolescence is a difficult time for young women. Their bodies are changing and they are being asked to conform to a new set of feminine standards if they are to be accepted (Pipher 39). Studies have found that girls experience a decrease in self-esteem during this time. They are less likely to speak their minds openly and honestly, which can lead to depression and a feeling of falseness. As young women attempt to comprehend this turbulent time in their lives, they often find strength through...
Show moreAdolescence is a difficult time for young women. Their bodies are changing and they are being asked to conform to a new set of feminine standards if they are to be accepted (Pipher 39). Studies have found that girls experience a decrease in self-esteem during this time. They are less likely to speak their minds openly and honestly, which can lead to depression and a feeling of falseness. As young women attempt to comprehend this turbulent time in their lives, they often find strength through positive relationships with others as well as from their own knowledge and self-awareness. Reflections is a one-woman show that investigates the current challenges associated with adolescence. The play uses short monologues as well as songs from musical theatre repertoire to tell the story of three separate and unique women. The protagonist of Reflections is an eleven-year-old girl whose personality and sense of self changes drastically during the course of the show. At the beginning of the show, she speaks her mind freely and openly and is unafraid to express her true feelings. When she discovers there are consequences to acting this way, she immediately alters her behavior to ensure her peers accept her. When she witnesses her sister's strength and becomes aware of her mother's intelligence, she realizes she no longer wants to act in ways that do not reflect her true feelings. Her sixteen-year-old sister wants so badly to be accepted that she has begun altering her appearance in dangerous ways in order to fit in. Their mother is struggling to comprehend how to raise two daughters in a culture that does little to support and nurture adolescent girls. Reflections: A Theatrical Look at the Lives of Adolescent Girls outlines each characters distinct journey, using research and analysis to support their stories. In the end it offers advice on how to prevent young women from losing their sense of self during adolescence. This part of the document will present a companion piece to the production in the form of a theatre workshop. This workshop will give young women the opportunity to explore important issues in a safe space. Participants will be able to express their thoughts and feelings without fear of retribution and can begin to investigate ways to challenge social forces that oppress them.
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Date Issued: 2007
Identifier: CFE0001746, ucf:47295
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001746

Title: INVESTIGATING A POTENTIAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SIBLING GENDER COMPOSITION AND HEALTH BEHAVIOR INDICATORS IN YOUNG ADULT AND ADOLESCENT MALES.
Creator: Goss, Taylor N, Rovito, Michael J., Jasinski, Jana, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The presence of siblings during childhood and adolescence has a significant impact on the behaviors and perceptions of adults later in life. Effects of mixed-gendered sibling dyads on delinquent behavior, gender typing, and romantic and sexual relationships are of interest. These behaviors can lead to notable health disparities, making it imperative to gain insight into factors associated with such behaviors in young adult and adolescent males. This project explored possible correlations...
Show moreThe presence of siblings during childhood and adolescence has a significant impact on the behaviors and perceptions of adults later in life. Effects of mixed-gendered sibling dyads on delinquent behavior, gender typing, and romantic and sexual relationships are of interest. These behaviors can lead to notable health disparities, making it imperative to gain insight into factors associated with such behaviors in young adult and adolescent males. This project explored possible correlations between gender composition of siblings and health behavior indicators for violence, competition and risk, and sexual and romantic relationships. Analysis of these variables was performed using data from the Young Adult and Adolescent Male Health Behavior Indicator Scale [YAAMHBIS]. Descriptive analyses showed YAAM understanding of abuse and successful marriage and relationship qualities, as well as a conditional acceptance of violence, competition, and risk. Means testing between those with and without sisters indicated that those with sisters acknowledged abuse, marriage qualities, and the consequences of infidelity. Additionally, those with sisters had, on average, an earlier age of sexual debut than those without supporting previous research regarding the effects of female communication in childhood on adult interactions. The correlations found between sibling gender and YAAM perceptions later in life could lay the groundwork for future studies further investigating sibling gender or split households and an association with health behaviors.
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Date Issued: 2018
Identifier: CFH2000317, ucf:45807
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000317

Title: PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS THAT IMPACT THE DROP-OUT RATE IN ADOLESCENT SPORTS.
Creator: McClone, Nicole, Biddle, Jeffrey, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Children are dropping out of sport at alarming rates. With the highest numbers of drop-out occurring between the ages of ten and seventeen, the focus of this research is on the drop-out rates of adolescents from sport. Athletic participation has been linked to positive academic performance, key development of leadership skills, and increased engagement in the community. The research that has been conducted related to sport persistence has had a greater focus on examining factors related to...
Show moreChildren are dropping out of sport at alarming rates. With the highest numbers of drop-out occurring between the ages of ten and seventeen, the focus of this research is on the drop-out rates of adolescents from sport. Athletic participation has been linked to positive academic performance, key development of leadership skills, and increased engagement in the community. The research that has been conducted related to sport persistence has had a greater focus on examining factors related to the physical domain. Attention is now beginning to shift however, and researchers are looking outside the physical domain and analyzing sport attrition more through sociological and psychological domains. The purpose of this research is to conduct a literary analysis on the psychological factors that impact the drop-out rate of adolescents from sport with adolescents being defined as children between the ages of ten and seventeen. Research in this domain is fairly limited; however numerous psychological theories have recently emerged as framework for conducting research as it relates to participation and drop-out in adolescent sports. These include self-determination theory, basic needs theory, achievement goal theory, and leisure constraints theory. The developmental model of sport participation is also a tool that is widely used to study sport persistence and drop-out. Foundationally based on psychology, this literature analysis was constructed to explore drop-out factors related to adolescent sport with the intent to collect data that either supports or disputes the relational connections between sport attrition or persistence. These relationships include but are not limited to the athlete/athlete, athlete/coach, athlete/parent, and athlete/self.
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Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFH0004901, ucf:45498
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004901

Title: PREDICTORS OF PARENTAL DISCIPLINE IN FAMILIES RAISING YOUTH WITH HEARING AND COMMUNICATION DISORDERS.
Creator: Klein, Jenny, Renk, Kimberly, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Children with disabilities are at high risk for several forms of maltreatment, including abuse and neglect (Ammerman, Hersen, Van Hasselt, Lubetsky, & Sieck, 1994; Sullivan & Knutson, 1998b), and children with hearing and communication disorders comprise a substantial portion of children at risk (e.g., Sullivan & Knutson, 2000). For example, some literature investigating the parenting practices of parents raising children and adolescents with hearing and communication disorders suggests that...
Show moreChildren with disabilities are at high risk for several forms of maltreatment, including abuse and neglect (Ammerman, Hersen, Van Hasselt, Lubetsky, & Sieck, 1994; Sullivan & Knutson, 1998b), and children with hearing and communication disorders comprise a substantial portion of children at risk (e.g., Sullivan & Knutson, 2000). For example, some literature investigating the parenting practices of parents raising children and adolescents with hearing and communication disorders suggests that these parents have a tendency to use physically harsh discipline practices (Knutson, Johnson, & Sullivan, 2004; Sullivan & Knutson, 1998b). Further, high prevalence rates of emotional and behavioral problems are documented in these youth (e.g., Greenberg & Kusché, 1989; Hindley, 1997; Prizant, Audet, Burke, & Hummel, 1990). Despite these findings, a limited amount of research focuses on understanding factors related to these undesired outcomes. Therefore, this study investigates the relationships among dimensions of parents' psychological functioning and parent-child interactive processes in a culturally diverse, national sample of families raising children and adolescents with hearing and communication disorders. Results suggest that parents' stress, depression, and anxiety as well as parent-child communication and involvement are important correlates of discipline practices and subsequent child behavior in families raising children and adolescents with hearing and communication disorders. Additionally, psychological aggression and parents' depression are highly predictive factors in the use of corporal punishment. Also, psychological aggression and parenting stress are highly predictive of reported youth behavior problems. The information gained from this investigation may provide direction for assessment and therapeutic intervention with parents of children and adolescents who have hearing and communication disorders.
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Date Issued: 2009
Identifier: CFE0002878, ucf:48024
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002878

Title: COED ADOLESCENT SOCCER PLAYERS IN A COMPETITIVE LEARNING MILIEU: AN ETHNOGRAPHIC ASSESSMENT OF GENDER ATTITUDES, PERCEPTIONS, AND SPORT SPECIFIC TESTING.
Creator: O DONNELL, FRANCIS, Rohter, F. D., University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: ABSTRACT:The history of association soccer dates back to the 1800's, and all indications are that prospects for the female athlete was scarce in all sports. The researcher has arranged an environment where young females can train with males in a soccer setting that has all the necessary elements for the athletes to learn, improve and compete with their own gender as well as opposite gender. The female group has been noticeable underachievers in this sport and is not aware of their potential....
Show moreABSTRACT:The history of association soccer dates back to the 1800's, and all indications are that prospects for the female athlete was scarce in all sports. The researcher has arranged an environment where young females can train with males in a soccer setting that has all the necessary elements for the athletes to learn, improve and compete with their own gender as well as opposite gender. The female group has been noticeable underachievers in this sport and is not aware of their potential. The research methodology is ethnographic in nature and study could easily be related to a traditional way to learn and develop in this sport. The method stresses the importance of reproducing procedures that were taught to the researcher. The employment of this method was to provide motivation and additional teaching resources to assist and enhance development of the research participant's potential.This was an ethnographic endeavor that accumulated several sources of data on 13 elite male and female athletes. Based on the data collected interpretations were made regarding their perceptions of the opposite gender. Ethnography was combined with descriptive statistics and employed to elicit and compile the data in the soccer specific testing components and the interviews. Merging techniques of observation (participant observation), field notes, video analysis, individual and group interviews were the sources of rich information for the researcher. This was a practical approach to bring out or discover any overt or covert trends, and to determine what possible barriers to learning would limit and reduce participation in the sport of soccer. The theoretical nature of the research, formal sociology is very much related to observational methods, choosing to gather data in a controlled and organized approach. The researcher's decision to tape the interview process and his preference to videotape events would thereby collect a complete and accurate account of the training progression subject matter. The results in the soccer specific testing indicated that the males were generally faster on sprint runs and had more endurance on the distance runs. However, a few of the females did better some of the males' scores in the aerobic and anaerobic events. The technical and tactical data indicated a slight improvement for the females when comparing pre and posttest results. Once more, the males were more advanced than the females. The psychological data showed the females progressed on the posttest scores. However, there was no overall male domination on the 20 categories. There are different areas on the inventory where females scored higher and other areas where the males would top the females. The interviews provided some enlightening information that confirmed aspects of male domination exist in sport and the feminist's role in sport as bringing attention to many gender issues, the positive and negative aspects of education and sport, the goals and motivation to participate in sport. Finally, the contrasting viewpoints between the American adolescent in this study and the English adolescent in Flintoff's (1993) dissertation and Flintoff and Scraton's (2001) study on physical education and gender issues. The most important finding was that learning had occurred in the training milieu. Learning was accomplished through the males' ability to facilitate the dynamics of attention and discipline required throughout the training sessions that were offered. The soccer specific test results indicated a much more motivated female group and the females' spring season was very successful; the team went undefeated in all competitions. The males in the study began to shed the superior attitude to one of more respect and tolerance of their female counterparts. The female differs emotionally from the male as the interview data illustrated and the co-education environment was both positive and productive, but there are limits to the inclusion of th
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Date Issued: 2004
Identifier: CFE0000066, ucf:52853
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000066

Title: Understanding Gender and Sexuality in a Gay/Straight Alliance.
Creator: Duesterhaus, Megan, Grauerholz, Elizabeth, Lynxwiler, John, Carter, James, Schippert, Claudia, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Gay/Straight Alliances aimed at providing sexual minority youth and their allies with support, social events, and activism and education opportunities have proliferated in high schools in the United States over the past two decades. This study employs a qualitative, grounded theory approach to examine how sexual minority youth and their allies navigate gender, sexuality, and social movement participation. A year and a half of observation and 16 semi-structured individual interviews were...
Show moreGay/Straight Alliances aimed at providing sexual minority youth and their allies with support, social events, and activism and education opportunities have proliferated in high schools in the United States over the past two decades. This study employs a qualitative, grounded theory approach to examine how sexual minority youth and their allies navigate gender, sexuality, and social movement participation. A year and a half of observation and 16 semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with Gay/Straight Alliance members in a high school setting in the southeastern United States. The study reveals that, through the lens of frame analysis, the G/SA is analogous to larger and more organized social movement organizations. The findings also suggest members often struggle and engage with issues surrounding sexuality, including its origins, coming out as a process, and judgments and evaluations surrounding sex and desire. Additionally, the findings address elements of gender conformity and non-conformity.
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Date Issued: 2012
Identifier: CFE0004228, ucf:49008
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004228

Title: A QUALITATIVE INVESTIGATION OF ADOLESCENT FEMALES' USE OF SOCIAL NETWORKING WEBSITES.
Creator: Pate, Janine, DeLorme, Denise, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The aim of the present study was to explore the ways adolescent females, age 14 through 17, utilized social networking websites such as MySpace and Facebook for communication, self-presentation and identity development purposes. Uses and gratifications theory served as a framework for identifying the participantsÃ‚Â' motivations for heavily using these websites, which allow users to post pictures, interests and updates for their friends to view and interact with online....
Show moreThe aim of the present study was to explore the ways adolescent females, age 14 through 17, utilized social networking websites such as MySpace and Facebook for communication, self-presentation and identity development purposes. Uses and gratifications theory served as a framework for identifying the participantsÃ‚Â' motivations for heavily using these websites, which allow users to post pictures, interests and updates for their friends to view and interact with online. Using a qualitative method, one preliminary focus group and ten in-depth interviews were conducted, totaling fifteen female participants between the ages of 14 and 17. Interview questions covered topics such as peer interactions through social networking sites, posting personal content to their profile pages, self-presentations through pictures and text, creating and maintaining friendships through these sites, and negative and positive feedback received through comments. Results indicated that the participants frequently used social networking websites for five main gratifications: Information Sharing, Convenient Communication, Self-Expression, Friendship Formation and Social Support.
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Date Issued: 2010
Identifier: CFE0003180, ucf:48608
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003180

Title: IS "GOOD" GOOD ENOUGH? A SMALL AREA VARIATION ANALYSIS OF DISPARITY IN EXPRESSED RATES OF ACCESS TO AND SATISFACTION WITH CHILD AND ADOLESCENT HEALTHCARE SERVICES IN EAST CENTRAL FLORIDA.
Creator: Schaefer, Jay, Holmes, Stephen T., University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this dissertation research was to explore indications of disparities within the east Central Florida child and adolescent healthcare services market. Structured as a follow-up study to work completed in 2005 under the direction of the Health Council of East Central Florida assessing parental perceptions of community child and adolescent healthcare services, this research extended that evaluation by aggregating participant responses at the county and small area zip code group...
Show moreThe purpose of this dissertation research was to explore indications of disparities within the east Central Florida child and adolescent healthcare services market. Structured as a follow-up study to work completed in 2005 under the direction of the Health Council of East Central Florida assessing parental perceptions of community child and adolescent healthcare services, this research extended that evaluation by aggregating participant responses at the county and small area zip code group levels, contextually testing the uniformity of responses in understanding parent perceptions of access to, and satisfaction with, community healthcare service offerings available for children and adolescents. Under a variety of methodologies significance in the responses concerning access to healthcare services were demonstrated between the counties studied. Statistical modeling, however, could not demonstrate the core demographic differences among these data. Data representing perceptions of satisfaction with the services received by children and adolescents were demonstrated at the small area zip code group level within Orange county. Primary effect assessment of the demographic variables representing these respondents yielded findings generally consistent with theoretical expectations of disparity but, notably, the correlation effects between a number of key independent variables demonstrated a mediation of the primary effects on overall perception of satisfaction. Specifically, it was demonstrated that the interaction of white race with possession of private healthcare insurance, and the interaction of greater levels of educational attainment with black race, caused a proportional reduction in the predicted satisfaction score of these survey respondent cohorts. Further research specific to these phenomenon encompassing a clearer understanding of the type of care received and the individual's specific experiences with their healthcare providers was recommended, with ensuing research to better identify commonalities of interactions with specific area providers, local restrictions imposed by area insurance carriers, influences caused by language and/or cultural barriers, and the like as drivers in understanding the individual dynamics of satisfaction.
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Date Issued: 2010
Identifier: CFE0003505, ucf:48977
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003505

Title: Deconstructing Differences in Effectiveness of Reading Teachers of Ninth Grade Non-Proficient Readers in One Florida School District.
Creator: Wysong, Jason, Taylor, Rosemarye, Murray, Barbara, Baldwin, Gordon, Doherty, Walter, Zugelder, Bryan, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: ABSTRACT This study was undertaken to identify specific instructional and professional differences between the most effective and least effective teachers of ninth grade students enrolled in intensive reading courses in one Florida school district. Teachers from eleven schools were invited to complete a survey that included categorical, Likert, and open-ended response items. Principals and assistant principals at these schools were also invited to complete a similar survey. Teacher...
Show moreABSTRACT This study was undertaken to identify specific instructional and professional differences between the most effective and least effective teachers of ninth grade students enrolled in intensive reading courses in one Florida school district. Teachers from eleven schools were invited to complete a survey that included categorical, Likert, and open-ended response items. Principals and assistant principals at these schools were also invited to complete a similar survey. Teacher respondents were then divided into three effectiveness groups based on the percentage of their students who met 2011-2012 FCAT performance targets established by Florida's value-added learning growth model. Inferential statistics were used to identify specific attributes that differed among the most and least effective teachers. These attributes included years of classroom teaching experience, status of Florida Reading Endorsement, belief in collaboration with others as a source of effectiveness, valuation of classroom strategies including teaching students to self-monitor their progress and cooperative learning activities, and frequency of use of reading strategies including sustained silent reading and paired/partner student readings. School administrators and the most effective classroom teachers reported similar beliefs about valuation and frequency of use of the four aforementioned classroom strategies. Analysis of responses to open-ended response items resulted in the identification of three instructional themes(-)importance of building positive relationships with students, student practice, and student self-reflection(-)and three resource needs(-)increased access to technology, print resources, and professional learning.
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Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: CFE0004963, ucf:49571
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004963

Title: Deconstructing Differences in Effectiveness of Teachers of Tenth Grade Non-Proficient Readers in One Florida School District.
Creator: Williams, Mary, Taylor, Rosemarye, Doherty, Walter, Murray, Barbara, Baldwin, Gordon, Zugelder, Bryan, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Despite an intense focus and considerable financial commitment to remediate non-proficient readers in high school, the large suburban school district that was the target of this study had been unable to consistently improve student achievement in the lowest 25% of students as measured by outcomes on the FCAT Reading. Scholarly literature on high school reading had focused mostly on evaluation of curriculum rather than on teacher practices. A clear understanding of these differences in...
Show moreDespite an intense focus and considerable financial commitment to remediate non-proficient readers in high school, the large suburban school district that was the target of this study had been unable to consistently improve student achievement in the lowest 25% of students as measured by outcomes on the FCAT Reading. Scholarly literature on high school reading had focused mostly on evaluation of curriculum rather than on teacher practices. A clear understanding of these differences in practice will inform future decisions related to staffing, scheduling, and professional learning. This study sought to identify the underlying professional and instructional differences between the most effective and least effective teachers of tenth grade intensive reading courses through teacher and principal/assistant principal surveys along with teacher evaluation data. This study revealed with regards to a teacher's preparation to teach reading (research question one), that years of experience in the classroom and years of experience as a high school reading teacher were the only significant factors that influenced a teacher's effectiveness. For research questions two and three; which had to do with the beliefs and professional practices of the teacher, the educationally relevant belief that the more effective teachers were more confident about their abilities than their less effective peers was noted. Research question four provided the data with regards to the general classroom teaching strategies and the adolescent reading strategies the effective teachers employed. This data revealed that the more effective teachers implemented posting and communicating daily and long term learning goals more frequently than their less effective peers. In addition, the general classroom teaching practices of efficient use of learning time, establishing and maintaining classroom routines, and checking for understanding proved to be educationally relevant. Additionally, the adolescent reading strategies of sustained silent reading, paired/partner readings, and students reading one-on-one with teacher, were educationally relevant as well. Finally, in regards to research question five, it was of statistical significance that administrators valued the use of the general classroom teaching strategy of posting and communicating daily and long term learning goals and were able to recognize the use of this strategy when observing and evaluating the teachers.?
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Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: CFE0004960, ucf:49573
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004960

Title: ADOLESCENT AND CAREGIVER IDENTITY DISTRESS, IDENTITY STATUS, AND THEIR RELATIONSHIP TO PSYCHOLOGICAL ADJUSTMENT.
Creator: Wiley, Rachel, Berman, Steven, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The present study addresses identity distress and identity status in adolescents with clinical diagnoses, and their caregivers. There were 88 adolescent participants (43.2% female) ranging in age from 11 to 20 (mean =14.96; SD =1.85) who were recruited from community mental health centers in Volusia and Orange Counties. The 63 caregiver participants included mothers (82.5%), fathers (7.9%), grandmothers (7.9%), and grandfathers (1.6%), ranging in age from 28-70 (mean = 40.24; SD = 9.16). A...
Show moreThe present study addresses identity distress and identity status in adolescents with clinical diagnoses, and their caregivers. There were 88 adolescent participants (43.2% female) ranging in age from 11 to 20 (mean =14.96; SD =1.85) who were recruited from community mental health centers in Volusia and Orange Counties. The 63 caregiver participants included mothers (82.5%), fathers (7.9%), grandmothers (7.9%), and grandfathers (1.6%), ranging in age from 28-70 (mean = 40.24; SD = 9.16). A significant proportion of adolescents (22.7%) met criteria for Identity Problem in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed., text rev.; American Psychiatric Association, 2000) and 9.5% of the adolescents' caregivers met criteria for Identity Problem. Regarding identity status, 68.2% of adolescents and 27.0% of caregivers reported being in the diffused status. Additionally, 25.0% of adolescents and 54.0% of caregivers met criteria for the foreclosed status. Significant associations were found among adolescent and caregiver psychological symptoms and identity variables. Further examination of the psychological symptom variables found that obsessive-compulsive and paranoid ideation symptoms significantly predicted identity distress. In addition, caregiver identity commitment significantly predicted adolescent identity distress over and above the adolescents' identity variables. These findings and implications are discussed in further detail.
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Date Issued: 2009
Identifier: CFE0002743, ucf:48181
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002743

Title: AN ANALYSIS OF TRAUMA NARRATIVES: PERCEPTIONS OF CHILDREN ON THE EXPERIENCE OF SEXUAL ABUSE.
Creator: Foster, Jennifer, Hagedorn, W. Bryce, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Child sexual abuse (CSA) is estimated to affect 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys before the age of 18 (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2005). Despite the prevalence of sexual abuse and frequent negative outcomes for child victims as well as adult survivors, little is known about CSA from the perspective of the child. To date, the vast majority of research has targeted adults. Studies conducted on children are mostly quantitative and have explored the effectiveness of various treatment...
Show moreChild sexual abuse (CSA) is estimated to affect 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys before the age of 18 (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2005). Despite the prevalence of sexual abuse and frequent negative outcomes for child victims as well as adult survivors, little is known about CSA from the perspective of the child. To date, the vast majority of research has targeted adults. Studies conducted on children are mostly quantitative and have explored the effectiveness of various treatment interventions. To address the gap in the research literature, the present study investigated the perspectives of children on sexual abuse through thematic analysis of trauma narratives, which were written by children as a therapeutic intervention and described life prior to, during, and following sexual abuse. Analysis of 21 trauma narratives selected through purposive sampling revealed one meta-theme, which was titled Fear and Safety. Children's descriptions of past and current fears as well as concerns about their safety and the safety of others were evident throughout all sections of the narratives. Three themes also emerged from the analysis: (1) Memories of the Abuse, (2) The Disclosure and Subsequent Events, and (3) The Healing Journey. The first theme, Memories of the Abuse, included three subthemes: descriptions of the sexual abuse, details about the perpetrators, and children's thoughts and feelings about the abuse. The second theme, The Disclosure and Subsequent Events, included three subthemes: perceptions of the abuse disclosure, experiences during the investigation, and experiences with the justice system. The third theme, The Healing Journey, also resulted in three subthemes: experiences in counseling, how life had changed, and future hopes and dreams. The themes are discussed, and ramifications for prevention efforts, treatment of child victims of sexual abuse, and counselor preparation are explored. Additionally, implications of the present study for counselors and community members are delineated. Finally, recommendations are made for future research with child victims of sexual abuse.
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Date Issued: 2011
Identifier: CFE0003748, ucf:48788
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003748

Title: Extracurricular Activities and Substance Use Among Adolescents: A Test of Social Control and Social Learning Theory.
Creator: Coto, Lynnette, Ford, Jason, Corzine, Harold, Reckdenwald, Amy, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The current research examines correlates of adolescent substance use with a focus on extracurricular activities. Given that marijuana is the most widely used illicit drug, and binge drinking can have an early onset the examinations of these two substances were important. Many studies have researched the correlation between substance use and sports, but have not included other extracurricular activities such as academic and fine art clubs. The current research fills this gap in the literature...
Show moreThe current research examines correlates of adolescent substance use with a focus on extracurricular activities. Given that marijuana is the most widely used illicit drug, and binge drinking can have an early onset the examinations of these two substances were important. Many studies have researched the correlation between substance use and sports, but have not included other extracurricular activities such as academic and fine art clubs. The current research fills this gap in the literature by using the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health) and by testing Hirschi's (1969) Social Control Theory and Aker's (1985) Social Learning Theory. The current research identified fine art and academic clubs as protective factors for adolescent substance use. There is limited research on the link between adolescent substance use and extracurricular activities and based on my findings that academic and fine arts clubs can decrease the likelihood of substance use, continued research is needed to better identify users, causes for risk and preventative factors, short and long term ramifications, and the theoretical correlations of use.
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Date Issued: 2016
Identifier: CFE0006287, ucf:51607
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006287

Title: Exploring Repurposing Across Contexts: How Adolescents' New Literacies Practices Can Inform Understandings about Writing-Related Transfer.
Creator: Mitchell, Cynthia, Wardle, Elizabeth, Rounsaville, Angela, Vie, Stephanie, Scanlon, Elizabeth, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This project examines how middle school students engage in new literacies practices and how they repurpose across contexts. With the use of screencast software and interviews, this project analyzes six case study participants' new literacies practices and the way they use and change ideas and strategies across physical and digital contexts.Drawing from transfer methodology, this project looks at how broadening conceptions of transfer and contexts to include repurposing increases the...
Show moreThis project examines how middle school students engage in new literacies practices and how they repurpose across contexts. With the use of screencast software and interviews, this project analyzes six case study participants' new literacies practices and the way they use and change ideas and strategies across physical and digital contexts.Drawing from transfer methodology, this project looks at how broadening conceptions of transfer and contexts to include repurposing increases the possibilities for finding transfer in literacies practices. Applying new literacies theory, this project explores how literacies practices that are chronologically and ontologically new (Lankshear (&) Knobel, 2006) are often repurposed across contexts. In addition, employing rhetorical invention and arrangement theories, this project examines how contemporary invention is repurposing and how arrangement aids in meaning making in new literacies practices. It also explores concerns over increased repurposing across collapsed contexts for literacies.
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Date Issued: 2016
Identifier: CFE0006145, ucf:51160
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006145

Title: Perceived readiness to transition to adult health care for youth with cystic fibrosis and congruence with their caregivers' views.
Creator: Lapp, Valerie, Chase, Susan, Aroian, Karen, Weiss, Josie, Yan, Xin, Robinson, Patricia, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Youth with cystic fibrosis must gradually assume considerable self-care management skills in order to optimize longevity and quality of life, and healthcare providers and caregivers play a role in youth gradually assuming these skills. The purpose of this study was to determine how youth with cystic fibrosis perceive their self-care management skills required for transition to adult healthcare, the relationship between age and skill acquisition, youth and caregiver congruence on perceived...
Show moreYouth with cystic fibrosis must gradually assume considerable self-care management skills in order to optimize longevity and quality of life, and healthcare providers and caregivers play a role in youth gradually assuming these skills. The purpose of this study was to determine how youth with cystic fibrosis perceive their self-care management skills required for transition to adult healthcare, the relationship between age and skill acquisition, youth and caregiver congruence on perceived transition readiness, and frequency of transition discussion with provider. In this descriptive, correlational, cross-sectional design, 58 youth ages 14-22 rated their skill ability in managing cystic fibrosis using the Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire (TRAQ) during visits to the cystic fibrosis clinic. Using an adapted version of the questionnaire, the TRAQ-C, 52 caregivers also rated youth readiness to transition to determine congruence in self-care management ability. Five simple regressions were calculated to determine age effects for the self-care management skills. Independent t-tests were used to compare mean scores of youth and caregiver perceptions of self-care management skills. Age predicted youth perception of readiness for self-care management skills. Youth scored significantly higher than their caregivers did in perception of self-care skill management. Study findings suggest that preparation for transition to adult care should begin at an earlier age to prepare youth to assume self-care. Including transition discussion with youth and caregiver assessments using questionnaires such as the TRAQ and TRAQ-C may guide learning of skills and timing of transition to adult health care.
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Date Issued: 2016
Identifier: CFE0006133, ucf:51185
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006133

Title: Psychopathology and Functional Impairment in Adolescents with Social Anxiety Disorder.
Creator: Mesa, Franklin, Beidel, Deborah, Cassisi, Jeffrey, Neer, Sandra, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Although social anxiety disorder is most often diagnosed during adolescence, few investigations have examined the clinical presentation of this disorder exclusively in adolescents. Prior studies have demonstrated that some clinical features of SAD in adolescents are unique relative to younger children with the condition. Furthermore, the extant literature on daily functional impairment in this population is limited. In this investigation, multiple areas of functioning were examined in...
Show moreAlthough social anxiety disorder is most often diagnosed during adolescence, few investigations have examined the clinical presentation of this disorder exclusively in adolescents. Prior studies have demonstrated that some clinical features of SAD in adolescents are unique relative to younger children with the condition. Furthermore, the extant literature on daily functional impairment in this population is limited. In this investigation, multiple areas of functioning were examined in adolescents with SAD (n = 16) and normal control adolescents (n = 14): specific social skills, subjective distress and physiological reactivity during one speech performance task and one social interaction task; alcohol use and expectancies; subjective and objective quality of sleep; and daily distressing social activities. No differences were observed in sleep actigraphy, self-reported sleep difficulties, alcohol use, or alcohol expectancies. Adolescents with SAD reported greater distress during both analogue tasks relative to NC adolescents. During the speech task, adolescents with SAD exhibited significantly greater speech latency (4.42 seconds vs. 1.75 seconds) and spoke significantly less (83.09 seconds vs. 167.75 seconds) than NC adolescents. Additionally, SAD participants manifested greater skin conductance during the speech task. During the social interaction, adolescents with SAD asked significantly fewer questions (2.20 vs. 7.07) and required significantly more confederate prompts (2.33 vs. 1.14) to stimulate interaction. Finally, adolescents with SAD reported more frequent anxiety-provoking situations in their daily lives and greater avoidance of these situations, including answering questions in class, assertive communication, and interacting with a group. The findings are discussed with respect to the current understanding of alcohol use, quality of sleep, and social functioning in adolescents with SAD.
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Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: CFE0004891, ucf:49648
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004891

Title: Repro, But Make It Fashion: Discourses on Sex, Sexuality, and Reproduction in Teen Vogue Magazine.
Creator: Londono, Estefany, Carter, Shannon, Armato, Michael, Donley, Amy, Bubriski, Anne, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: There are many possible sources for youth to become educated about sexuality and reproduction, however the media are cited as particularly powerful and prominent sources of information (Jaworski, 2009). Particularly in an era in which abstinence-only messaging dominates sex education, media become a source to which young people turn and where they receive much of their sex-based messaging. Due to backlash over problematic content that perpetuates gender stereotypes and relays harmful messages...
Show moreThere are many possible sources for youth to become educated about sexuality and reproduction, however the media are cited as particularly powerful and prominent sources of information (Jaworski, 2009). Particularly in an era in which abstinence-only messaging dominates sex education, media become a source to which young people turn and where they receive much of their sex-based messaging. Due to backlash over problematic content that perpetuates gender stereotypes and relays harmful messages about sex and sexuality, some magazines, including Teen Vogue, have attempted to shift towards more feminist-minded content (Keller, 2011, Milkie, 2002). This study is a qualitative critical feminist media analysis that examined the framing of sex, sexuality, and reproduction content in a sample of 60 Teen Vogue articles, an online publication that targets adolescents and young adults. The analysis revealed that overall, articles conveyed positive representations of sexuality, advocating for affirming and evidence-based sex education, self-empowerment through knowledge, and comprehensive reproductive healthcare for all. However, contradictory frames of sex stigmatization and a reproductive rights framework that advocates primarily for abortion rights were still highly prevalent in the data. Considering media is a significant component of the sexual socialization of youth, Sex Positive framing of sexuality which prioritizes pleasure, healthy relationships and sexual dynamics, and inclusive and affirmative sex education helps to create new narratives in media concerning how sex is viewed. These messages may have positive impacts by creating healthier sexual scripts and becoming dominant narratives in the future. However, articles in the data also utilized fear-mongering tactics that are notoriously used in abstinence-only sex education. These messages aid in further stigmatizing young people not only for having sex but also for not being informed of the potential associated risks, creating a harmful paradox that may counteract the goals of sexual health and sex positivity. Additionally, reproductive rights and reproductive justice messaging and the presentation of policy updates relevant to young readers has the potential to inform and socialize young people to be better informed about sex and sexuality, which may, in turn, lead to greater sexual empowerment. Such messaging may also empower youth activists in a time of political turmoil, connecting teen readers to what is going on around them, and providing concrete actions they can take to create political change. ?
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Date Issued: 2019
Identifier: CFE0007832, ucf:52815
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007832

Title: ADOLESCENT MOTHERS IN AN INTERVENTION STUDY: A QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS OF VARIABLES RELATING TO THEIR TEACHING INTERACTIONS WITH THEIR INFANTS.
Creator: Guzman, Janisse, Culp, Anne, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The intent of this thesis was to study, in depth, the experiences of four adolescent mothers who underwent a home intervention program. I studied two mothers who did well with teaching their 12-month old children during play, and two mothers who did not do as well. All four mothers received weekly intervention from the time of their child's birth through 12-months of age. I studied the following variables: 1) how much time the home visitors spent on selected child development and parenting...
Show moreThe intent of this thesis was to study, in depth, the experiences of four adolescent mothers who underwent a home intervention program. I studied two mothers who did well with teaching their 12-month old children during play, and two mothers who did not do as well. All four mothers received weekly intervention from the time of their child's birth through 12-months of age. I studied the following variables: 1) how much time the home visitors spent on selected child development and parenting topics; 2) the mother's perceived social support; 3) how many community resources the mother used; and 4) if the infant was healthy and within normal developmental range. All of the mothers struggled in their lives, yet varied in the quality and time of most of the variables. It was striking how different each one was from the other. The implications of the study are important for child development specialists who can use the qualitative data within this document to better understand first time adolescent mothers in order to improve the outcomes of the home visitation services that they provide to mothers and infants. After spending time studying these four adolescent mothers, I would recommend that adolescent women not get pregnant. Adolescence is a time that is meant for experiences and self-discovery and should be spent free from a dependent child who critically needs them. Future research and funding should be spent on preventing adolescent pregnancy and ensuring that flexible curriculum be utilized by the home visitors in order to meet the varying needs of adolescent mothers.
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Date Issued: 2012
Identifier: CFH0004251, ucf:44934
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004251

Title: TRAUMA-FOCUSED MODELS FOR CAREGIVERS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF EMPIRICAL RESEARCH.
Creator: Paul, Wesley, Lawrence, Shawn, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Child and Adolescent caregivers are rarely the focus of research and/or trauma-focused or informed models when working with traumatized children (Baynard, Englund, & Rozelle, 2001; Chapman, Dube, & Anda, 2007). It has been shown that use of caregivers in the treatment of children who have suffered trauma can have a significant impact on not only the child, but also reduce the trauma symptoms of the caregivers themselves (Cohen, Mannarino, & Staron, 2006). The purpose of this study is to...
Show moreChild and Adolescent caregivers are rarely the focus of research and/or trauma-focused or informed models when working with traumatized children (Baynard, Englund, & Rozelle, 2001; Chapman, Dube, & Anda, 2007). It has been shown that use of caregivers in the treatment of children who have suffered trauma can have a significant impact on not only the child, but also reduce the trauma symptoms of the caregivers themselves (Cohen, Mannarino, & Staron, 2006). The purpose of this study is to critically review the empirical research of trauma-focused and trauma-informed trainings and treatment models for children who have suffered some form of trauma and whose caregiver is included in the treatment. The outcomes of trauma-focused models will be examined in terms of its purpose, intervention, facilitation, adaptability and modification. Implications for further research and application are drawn.
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Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: CFH0004369, ucf:45026
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004369

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