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- Title
- SEXUAL OFFENDER TREATMENT: A PARADIGM ANALYSIS OF ACADEMIC JOURNALS.
- Creator
-
Chillar, Vijay, Potter, Roberto, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Many criminologists and psychologists have theorized the possible causes behind an individual who engages in sex offenses; some of which will be reviewed. Through this paradigm analysis, I hope to identify how each discipline addresses the causes of sex offending and what treatments they offer in response to their theories. Additionally, this thesis will examine the Good Lives, Relapse Prevention, and the Risks, Need, Responsivity (RNR) models of treatment. The main objective of this thesis...
Show moreMany criminologists and psychologists have theorized the possible causes behind an individual who engages in sex offenses; some of which will be reviewed. Through this paradigm analysis, I hope to identify how each discipline addresses the causes of sex offending and what treatments they offer in response to their theories. Additionally, this thesis will examine the Good Lives, Relapse Prevention, and the Risks, Need, Responsivity (RNR) models of treatment. The main objective of this thesis is to address the different facets of sex offending, so that the importance of finding an effective treatment model can be understood. By raising awareness to the multiple typologies of sex offenders and differentiating contact and non-contact offenses, this thesis aims to allow for a better understanding of the causes of sexual offending so that we may develop effective treatment options that address such issues.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFH0004543, ucf:45173
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004543
- Title
- CROSSING THE LINE IN CROSS-SEX FRIENDSHIPS: EFFECTS OF PAST SEXUAL CONTACT AND DATING STATUS ON RELATIONAL MAINTENANCE.
- Creator
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Emmett, Melissa, Weger, Jr., Harry, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Given that male-female friendships lack institutional guidelines or scripts to guide everyday interactions, sustaining these relationships can be complicated. Although researchers have recently begun to study relational maintenance patterns in cross-sex friendships, no study has yet to investigate sex's and dating status's direct influences on friendship maintenance. This investigation seeks to add to the field's academic understanding of these personal relationships. Specifically...
Show moreGiven that male-female friendships lack institutional guidelines or scripts to guide everyday interactions, sustaining these relationships can be complicated. Although researchers have recently begun to study relational maintenance patterns in cross-sex friendships, no study has yet to investigate sex's and dating status's direct influences on friendship maintenance. This investigation seeks to add to the field's academic understanding of these personal relationships. Specifically, the researcher sought to uncover the associations between 10 friendship maintenance behaviors, past sexual contact, valence of past sexual contact, and cross-sex friends' dating statuses. Quantitative data were collected from 277 participants at a large Southeastern university using a survey methodology. Overall, results indicate that patterns of relational maintenance do differ as a function of friendship level, past sexual involvement, valence of past sexual involvement, and cross-sex friends' dating statuses. Past sexual involvement associates with higher levels of relationship talk, avoidance of negativity, and flirting. In addition, valence of past sexual activity varies across friendship level and associates with higher levels of positivity and flirting. Lastly, dating status significantly affects 3 of the 10 maintenance behaviors: routine contact and activity, flirting, and humor. Linear, quadratic, and cubic relationships were found for these variables, respectively. Implications of results, limitations, and recommendations for future research are discussed.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2008
- Identifier
- CFE0002070, ucf:47585
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002070
- Title
- SEX TRAFFICKING: FLORIDA'S RESPONSE TO THE INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZED CRIME.
- Creator
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Torres, Candice, Sadri, Dr. Houman, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Florida has the second-highest incidence of human trafficking in the country. Sex trafficking of women into and out of the state of Florida is defined by various terms from international, national and local terms. The United Nations defines sex trafficking in Article 3, paragraph (a) of the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, especially Women and Children, Supplementing the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime as: "Trafficking in persons...
Show moreFlorida has the second-highest incidence of human trafficking in the country. Sex trafficking of women into and out of the state of Florida is defined by various terms from international, national and local terms. The United Nations defines sex trafficking in Article 3, paragraph (a) of the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, especially Women and Children, Supplementing the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime as: "Trafficking in persons: shall mean the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring or receipt of persons, by means of the threat or use of force or other forms of coercion, of abduction, of fraud, of deception, of the abuse of power or of a position of vulnerability or of the giving or receiving of payments or benefits to achieve the consent of a person having control over another person, for the purpose of exploitation". This study explores the experiences of women who have been trafficked as well as the recruitment strategies by which women are trafficked and to what extent their life changes. This study aims to understand the extent to which local nonprofits in the state of Florida have tackled the issue as well as the international, federal and state government laws are enforced. The findings will provide useful guidelines to help nonprofits in the state of Florida work together to combat the issue as well as be used as an informative research proposal for the community to push stronger legislation and raise more awareness.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- CFH0003857, ucf:44688
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0003857
- Title
- SNAGGING THE ONLINE SEXUAL PREDATOR: DESCRIPTIONS OF WHO AND HOW.
- Creator
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Tetzlaff, Melissa, Mustaine, Elizabeth E., University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This study examines law enforcement personnel who work undercover chatting investigations in order to catch online sexual predators. This topic is quite timely, and law enforcement efforts in this area are new. As such, there is a dearth of research concerning the use of the internet as a location for law enforcement investigations, particularly as a setting for undercover work. This research addresses such questions as who are these law enforcement personnel who try to snag online sexual...
Show moreThis study examines law enforcement personnel who work undercover chatting investigations in order to catch online sexual predators. This topic is quite timely, and law enforcement efforts in this area are new. As such, there is a dearth of research concerning the use of the internet as a location for law enforcement investigations, particularly as a setting for undercover work. This research addresses such questions as who are these law enforcement personnel who try to snag online sexual predators, how do they feel about working in the virtual world, what do they think about doing this type of work, how did they get selected for this particular position, how their jobs affect their personal lives outside of work, and what specifically their jobs entail. Twenty law enforcement personnel were interviewed from different parts of the United States. The interview schedule covered six areas: respondentsÂÂ' careers, their home lives, any training they have received that is relevant for their current positions, details about their jobs, the undercover aspects of their jobs, and their demographics. Findings are discussed. This study is important because it offers a closer look at the individuals who put their time and efforts into neutralizing online sexual predators before they can harm additional children. This knowledge will add to the current literature in this area as well as aid policy developers on issues concerning law enforcement organization and personnel.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2010
- Identifier
- CFE0003356, ucf:48462
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003356
- Title
- THE WEAK REGISTRY: THE CONSTITUTIONALITY AND EFFECTIVENESS OF LEGAL RESTRICTIONS ON CONVICTED SEX OFFENDERS.
- Creator
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Medina, Andrea-Li, Cook, Kathy, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Over the last few decades our society has moved towards restricting where sexual offenders can live, work, and overall congregate. This issue has been the focus of great public attention due to the media's role in bringing these offenders to the light. Whether it is through the news, movies, TV series, books, talk shows, newspapers articles, etc., these offenders are constantly being talked about. Every body of government in the United States has moved towards implementing restrictions that...
Show moreOver the last few decades our society has moved towards restricting where sexual offenders can live, work, and overall congregate. This issue has been the focus of great public attention due to the media's role in bringing these offenders to the light. Whether it is through the news, movies, TV series, books, talk shows, newspapers articles, etc., these offenders are constantly being talked about. Every body of government in the United States has moved towards implementing restrictions that are aimed at keeping sex offenders away from places where they are considered a potential danger. However, what it is not talked about is that in efforts to limit where sex offenders can live and work to ensure the safety of our society; we are isolating these offenders and hindering their reintegration into our society. By isolating sexual offenders from our society we are doing more harm than good because we are discriminating and not working to fit the needs of each individual offender. One size does not fit all. The intent of this thesis is to explore sexual offender legal restrictions, treatment, case law, constitutionality of these laws and to compare Florida's approach towards restriction of sexual offenders with other states. Through the analysis of case law and statutes, recidivism rates, and treatment options this thesis will evaluate what different approaches should be taken towards aiding the reintegration of sexual offenders into our society. This thesis will provide background information on sexual offenders, compare legal restrictions among states, give an analysis of sexual offender websites, and provide recommendations to a better approach in treating sexual offenders. By raising awareness to the unfairness of treatment of sexual offenders, this thesis aims to open a new gateway to determine more successful ways to rehabilitate sexual offenders.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2012
- Identifier
- CFH0004175, ucf:44826
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004175
- Title
- RELIGION AND SEX: A LOOK AT SEXUAL FREQUENCYAS IT RELATES TO RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION,RELIGIOUS ATTENDANCE, ANDSUBJECTIVE RELIGIOSITY.
- Creator
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STANLEY, DORIS, GAY, DAVID, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This research addresses the relationship between sexual activity and religion. In particular, the analysis focuses on the impact of religious affiliation, religious public participation and subjective religiosity on the frequency of sexual activity. Religious categories are operationalized as conservative Protestants, moderate Protestants, liberal Protestants, black Protestants, Catholics, Jews, non-affiliates, no religious preference, and other Protestants. The results of the analysis...
Show moreThis research addresses the relationship between sexual activity and religion. In particular, the analysis focuses on the impact of religious affiliation, religious public participation and subjective religiosity on the frequency of sexual activity. Religious categories are operationalized as conservative Protestants, moderate Protestants, liberal Protestants, black Protestants, Catholics, Jews, non-affiliates, no religious preference, and other Protestants. The results of the analysis indicate that conservative Protestants and black Protestants are more sexually active than other religious categories. Attendance at religious services has a negative effect on the frequency of sexual activity. Subjective religiosity is not related to sexual frequency. Conclusions and directions for future research are discussed.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- CFE0003962, ucf:48684
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003962
- Title
- WHAT WOMEN WANT: A STUDY OF COMMUNICATION, SEX AND PERSONALITY.
- Creator
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Morley, Landon C, White, Grace, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Sexual communication is important in overall sexual and relationship satisfaction.Women, in particular, report lower psychological well-being when sexual dysfunction occurs (Davison, Bell, LaChina, Holden and Davis, 2009). This study was designed to uncover precisely how important sexual communication is in relation to sexual satisfaction, whether there are any discrepancies between women's desired sexual acts verses the acts they actively take part in, and to what degree personality has an...
Show moreSexual communication is important in overall sexual and relationship satisfaction.Women, in particular, report lower psychological well-being when sexual dysfunction occurs (Davison, Bell, LaChina, Holden and Davis, 2009). This study was designed to uncover precisely how important sexual communication is in relation to sexual satisfaction, whether there are any discrepancies between women's desired sexual acts verses the acts they actively take part in, and to what degree personality has an effect on sexual communication and activity. Participants were 428 women from the psychology pool at University of Central Florida. The average age of the sample was 20.7 years (SD = 5.24). Approximately 56% of the sample identified as white, 14% as black, 7% as Asian and 10% as other. Communication was positively correlated to sexual satis-faction, there were no found discrepancies between sexual participation and desired sexual acts among the study participants, and personality significantly predicted levels of communication and participation in varying sexual acts, particularly regarding extraversion, agreeableness and conscientiousness. Communication about sex is strongly related to life and health satisfaction and a greater understanding of sexual desires should be continually sought to create harmony within relationships.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFH2000346, ucf:45780
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000346
- Title
- PERCEPTIONS OF SEX OFFENDERS ON COLLEGE CAMPUSES.
- Creator
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Harvey, Dayanne, Donley, Amy, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
As previous research has indicated, it is not a common societal norm that sex offenders generally have a negative connotation associated with them. These types of perceptions are held without considering the varying types of sexual offenders and sexual offenses. The legislation concerning sex offenders is broad, and therefore encompasses a lot of different offenses and people. Notification of these types of offenders varies by state, but all states require sex offenders to register. A number...
Show moreAs previous research has indicated, it is not a common societal norm that sex offenders generally have a negative connotation associated with them. These types of perceptions are held without considering the varying types of sexual offenders and sexual offenses. The legislation concerning sex offenders is broad, and therefore encompasses a lot of different offenses and people. Notification of these types of offenders varies by state, but all states require sex offenders to register. A number of colleges also require sex offenders to register before attending classes. This research focuses on student's perception of sex offenders on college campuses. That is, it questions how a student's awareness of sex offender legislation and presence affect their attitudes and perceptions about sex offenders. This thesis was intended to research the UCF student's awareness of sex offenders (legislation and presence) in relation how it effects their perception of sex offenders. Students were surveyed and asked questions based on their knowledge, awareness, and opinion of sex offenders in general and at the college level. Results collected suggested that informing students does make them more aware of sex offenders. However, the heightened awareness does not improve the negative perception student's held about sex offenders. After conducting the study, it is my hope that it will aid in better understanding student perceptions of sex offenders in terms of how effective notification and awareness are.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFH0004470, ucf:45142
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004470
- Title
- The Invisible Men: Analyzing the Virtual Subculture of England's Punters.
- Creator
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Christensen, Ashley, Huff-Corzine, Lin, Corzine, Harold, Reckdenwald, Amy, Bain, Andrew, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Research on prostitution has flourished over the last few decades with a new emphasis on the online sex market. To study the online market, researchers have utilized qualitative methods to investigate escort review websites. Coding for violent rhetoric and perceived intimacy are two conventional techniques that have been utilized using qualitative methods. Other areas investigated include the overall characteristics of sex buyers, price variation, and socialization of buyers. What has lacked...
Show moreResearch on prostitution has flourished over the last few decades with a new emphasis on the online sex market. To study the online market, researchers have utilized qualitative methods to investigate escort review websites. Coding for violent rhetoric and perceived intimacy are two conventional techniques that have been utilized using qualitative methods. Other areas investigated include the overall characteristics of sex buyers, price variation, and socialization of buyers. What has lacked in current literature has been the use of quantitative methods to study what factors influence the presence of positive reviews. To expand on limited existing literature utilizing quantitative methods, the current study used data from an escort review website titled Punternet.com for the years 2015 through 2017. Punternet is a public website where sex buyers (punters in the UK) can review sex workers and discuss aspects of sex buying culture in community forums. Factors that influence the presence of positive reviews were investigated including various sexual acts (oral, anal, vaginal, manual, group sex), session variables (length, cost, location, climax, condom usage, and intimacy), and a factor related to the type of sex worker (escort). Symbolic interactionism theory was used to explain the presence of intimacy within the reviews. The results from a binary logistic regression indicate that a variety of different factors are significant in regard to influencing the presence of positive reviews. For example, the odds that positive reviews occurred were increased when intimacy, or perceived intimacy, occurred throughout the sessions and whether at least one climax occurred. Future research in this area should continue to use quantitative methods to investigate what factors influence intimacy within the sessions, due to the high significance finding in the present research.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2019
- Identifier
- CFE0007614, ucf:52517
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007614
- Title
- DETERMINING SEX AND ANCESTRY OF THE HYOID FROM THE ROBERT J. TERRY ANATOMICAL COLLECTION.
- Creator
-
Kindschuh, Sarah, Dupras, Tosha, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
One of the basic goals of the physical anthropologist is to create a biological profile, consisting of sex, ancestry, age, and stature, from the skeletal material that they are presented with. This thesis seeks to explore size and shape differences related to sex and ancestry from the hyoid bones of the Robert J. Terry Anatomical Collection in order to gauge its usefulness in the process of developing a biological profile. A series of measurements were taken from 398 hyoids and analysis was...
Show moreOne of the basic goals of the physical anthropologist is to create a biological profile, consisting of sex, ancestry, age, and stature, from the skeletal material that they are presented with. This thesis seeks to explore size and shape differences related to sex and ancestry from the hyoid bones of the Robert J. Terry Anatomical Collection in order to gauge its usefulness in the process of developing a biological profile. A series of measurements were taken from 398 hyoids and analysis was conducted using a number of statistical methods. Independent samples t-tests were used to examine size differences between sexes and ancestries, while linear regression analysis and principle component analysis were used to examine shape differences. Discriminant function analysis was employed to test the ability of the hyoids to be classified by sex or ancestry. The ultimate goal of the thesis is to provide physical anthropologists with a series of discriminant function equations that can be used to estimate the sex and ancestry of a hyoid. Five equations ranging in accuracy from 83-88% were developed to determine sex of a hyoid, while four equations ranging in accuracy from 70-89% can be used to determine ancestry. In addition, the t-tests, regression analyses, and principle component analysis have identified several variations in size and shape between sexes and ancestries. These analyses have provided further knowledge as to the morphological form of the hyoid, as well as a method that can be easily used by physical anthropologists to assess sex and ancestry.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2009
- Identifier
- CFE0002599, ucf:48282
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002599
- Title
- YOUNG ADULTS' ATTITUDES TOWARD SAME-SEX MARRIAGE AND POLYGAMYAS A FUNCTION OF DEMOGRAPHIC, GENDER, AND PERSONALITY VARIABLES.
- Creator
-
Pearte, Catherine, Negy, Charles, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Based on a sample of 814 university students, pro- and anti-same-sex marriage and polygamous marriage groups were established based on students scoring >1 SD above (n = 145; n = 132, respectively) and
Show moreBased on a sample of 814 university students, pro- and anti-same-sex marriage and polygamous marriage groups were established based on students scoring >1 SD above (n = 145; n = 132, respectively) and < 1 SD below the group mean (n = 127; n = 126) on the Attitudes Toward Same-Sex Marriage Scale (ATSSM: Pearl & Paz-Galupo, 2007) and Attitudes Toward Polygamy Scale, which was generated by modifying the ATSSM (ATPM). Compared to pro-same-sex marriage students, anti-same-sex marriage students were significantly more prejudiced against gays and lesbians, authoritarian, religious, and politically conservative. Anti-same-sex marriage students also had less contact with and appreciation for diverse cultural groups, more desire to dominate out-groups, were less autonomous in their thinking, and were more likely to be men. Anti-polygamous students were more strongly opposed same-sex marriage, idealized the traditional family, authoritarian, religious, less autonomous in their thinking, desire to dominate minority groups, and were more likely to be female compared to those who were propolygamous marriage. Results further indicated that, polygamy and same-sex marriage are predicted by different variables, with same-sex marriage being more strongly tied to prejudice against gays and lesbians and polygamous marriage being more strongly tied to beliefs about the inherent morality of conventions surrounding the traditional family. A regression analysis using data from all 814 students yielded almost identical results with regards to identifying variables most predictive of ATSSM. Followup analyses revealed that prejudice against gays and lesbians was the single best predictor of opposition to same-sex marriage and even accounted for the associations between opposition to same-sex marriage and religiosity, political conservatism, and support of traditional marriage and family. With respect to polygamy, data from regression analyses revealed that ATSSM was the best predictor of ATPM. Despite the cultural focus on this variable, however, controlling for ATSSM did not reduce the predictive power of critical variables to a non-significant level. Recommendations for challenging opposition to marriage equality are discussed.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2010
- Identifier
- CFE0003378, ucf:48457
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003378
- Title
- The Relationship of Fear to Success to Management Potential Variables.
- Creator
-
Culbertson, Virginia M., Burrough, Wayne A., Social Sciences
- Abstract / Description
-
University of Central Florida College of Social Sciences Thesis; Early psychological research on achievement motivation has focused on the effects of fear of failure and the wish to succeed as component parts of need for achievement (nAch). Achievement motivation is defined as a need to achieve for its own sake rather than for the benefits of such achievement (Kimble and Garmezy, 1968, p. 691). It is considered to be a fairly stable personality characteristic, not particularly goal specific ...
Show moreUniversity of Central Florida College of Social Sciences Thesis; Early psychological research on achievement motivation has focused on the effects of fear of failure and the wish to succeed as component parts of need for achievement (nAch). Achievement motivation is defined as a need to achieve for its own sake rather than for the benefits of such achievement (Kimble and Garmezy, 1968, p. 691). It is considered to be a fairly stable personality characteristic, not particularly goal specific (Berkowitz, 1972, p. 115), involving two specific aspects--wish (or hope) to succeed and fear of failure. The first is seen as an approach motive which focuses on anticipation of reward. The second, fear of failure, is seen as an avoidance motive involving anticipation of punishment (McClelland, Clark, Roby, and Atkinson, 1958).
Show less - Date Issued
- 1979
- Identifier
- CFR0003519, ucf:52987
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFR0003519
- Title
- Measurement Of Negative Affectivity In Psychometrically Defined Schizotypy Using Facial Electromyography.
- Creator
-
Mitchell, Jonathan, Cassisi, Jeffrey, Bedwell, Jeffrey, Beidel, Deborah, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Schizotypy is a sub-threshold syndrome associated with schizophrenia. Much of the research on schizotypy concerns its component features, one of which being blunted or constricted affect. While several investigations have addressed this common (")negative(") symptom within the context of schizophrenia, few have focused on schizotypy directly, and none have utilized psychophysiological measurement to examine affective constriction. The present investigation uses facial electromyography (EMG)...
Show moreSchizotypy is a sub-threshold syndrome associated with schizophrenia. Much of the research on schizotypy concerns its component features, one of which being blunted or constricted affect. While several investigations have addressed this common (")negative(") symptom within the context of schizophrenia, few have focused on schizotypy directly, and none have utilized psychophysiological measurement to examine affective constriction. The present investigation uses facial electromyography (EMG) to measure patterns of affective expression within a psychometrically defined schizotypal population when presented threatening and distressing pictures from the IAPS. Twenty-eight individuals with elevated schizotypal features and 20 healthy controls were recruited for this investigation. The participants observed the series of pictures and provided self-report ratings of affective valance and arousal while their physiological responses were recorded. The protocol used here closely matched that used by Bradley and Lang (2007) and produced a similar pattern of results across all participants on self-reported ratings and physiological measures. Results further suggest that those with schizotypal features did not differ from control participants in self-reported ratings of negative affect or autonomic arousal. A three-way interaction in facial EMG measurement revealed that while schizotypic males demonstrated the expected pattern of blunted facial affective expression, schizotypic females displayed the opposite pattern. That is, females with psychometrically schizotypy demonstrated significant elevations in negative facial affective expression while viewing distressing pictures. We argue that these findings reflect unidentified sex differences in affective expression in schizotypy, and we discuss implications for assessment and diagnostic procedures among individuals with personality disorders.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFE0004721, ucf:49808
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004721
- Title
- Gender Differences and Fast Food Preferences Among U.S. College Students.
- Creator
-
Persaud, Donald, Matejowsky, Ty, Geiger, Vance, Williams, Lana, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The intent of this research is to examine the relationship of corporate fast food and health within the context of gender. It tests the hypothesis that Western perceptions of masculinity and femininity inform a differentiated pattern of food preference, which will correlate with health as measured by Body Mass Index (BMI). The targeted sample population for the study is the undergraduate community of the University of Central Florida, and fast food is a chosen dietary medium because it is an...
Show moreThe intent of this research is to examine the relationship of corporate fast food and health within the context of gender. It tests the hypothesis that Western perceptions of masculinity and femininity inform a differentiated pattern of food preference, which will correlate with health as measured by Body Mass Index (BMI). The targeted sample population for the study is the undergraduate community of the University of Central Florida, and fast food is a chosen dietary medium because it is an increasingly ubiquitous source of caloric energy in the American foodscape, representative of the mass production model applied to cuisine in Western nations. Data regarding fast food consumption habits were collected via survey producing a sample size of n=165 (n=116 females, n=49 males). Statistical analysis applied to this data yields conflicting results. While no gender based food preference is demonstrated, a correlation between BMI and frequency of consumption can be established. This suggests a gender-differentiated preference for fast food in general, if not for specific food items. From this sample, respondents were interviewed (n=14 females, n=8 males). Analysis of these interviews reveals an acute awareness by females of the connection between diet and health that is not reflected by males. Whether this perceived difference is based on an actual disparity of health education or a willingness to express this knowledge, it indicates a discrepancy which is likely attributable to cultural influences. While this study does not reveal gender-based differences in perception of specific foods, it does suggest disproportionate consumption patterns within genders which reflect distinct and contrasting cultural expectations in the U.S.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFE0005044, ucf:49951
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005044
- Title
- Autobiographical Memory and Theory of Mind in Schizotypy.
- Creator
-
Deptula, Andrew, Bedwell, Jeffrey, Beidel, Deborah, Sims, Valerie, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Individuals with schizophrenia exhibit marked impairments on tasks assessing theory of mind (ToM) and autobiographical memory (AM) qualities, and preliminary research has indicated a positive link between these abilities. This study is the first to systematically explore this relationship in the related personality trait of schizotypy. In a study of 47 undergraduate students (23 males) reporting a wide continuous range of schizotypy, we found that females, but not males, exhibited a negative...
Show moreIndividuals with schizophrenia exhibit marked impairments on tasks assessing theory of mind (ToM) and autobiographical memory (AM) qualities, and preliminary research has indicated a positive link between these abilities. This study is the first to systematically explore this relationship in the related personality trait of schizotypy. In a study of 47 undergraduate students (23 males) reporting a wide continuous range of schizotypy, we found that females, but not males, exhibited a negative correlation between ToM and schizotypy, and an unexpected positive correlation between AM qualities and schizotypy. Factor score analysis within females indicated that disorganized schizotypy was the strongest correlate of both ToM (i.e., affective ToM; ability to infer emotions), and AM qualities (i.e., mental imagery vividness). Finally, independent of schizotypy and sex, ToM was negatively correlated with AM qualities. This negative association between ToM and AM as well as the positive relationship between schizotypy and AM (in females) distinguish findings in schizotypy from those in schizophrenia. Although, the qualities of AM in schizotypy are relatively unexplored in schizotypy, overlapping and AM-related constructs (e.g., mental image vividness, creativity) are enhanced in schizotypy. This phenomenon is theorized to occur due to a reduced latent inhibition process, which also reveals distinct patterns of sexual dimorphism in schizotypy. In sum, the current study found sex to be a critical variable in each hypothesis, demonstrating a unique pattern in females, but not males. It could be that distinct underlying mechanisms account for sex differences on ToM and AM tasks in schizophrenia-related disorders.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFE0004671, ucf:49855
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004671
- Title
- AN EXAMINATION OF THE HISTORY AND EFFECT OF AMERICAN SEX OFFENSE LAWS AND OFFENDER REGISTRATION.
- Creator
-
Shabat-love, David, Milon, Abby, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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America's Sex Offense statutes and cases are some of the most controversial sections of modern law, both for the extreme sensitivity of their subject matter as well as the scope and application of those laws. This thesis is an analysis and overview of both the objective and subjective issues posed by the current state of those very laws: the subjective portion explored the development of current laws and the diverse attendant legal issues such as over-broadness and excessive or misdirected...
Show moreAmerica's Sex Offense statutes and cases are some of the most controversial sections of modern law, both for the extreme sensitivity of their subject matter as well as the scope and application of those laws. This thesis is an analysis and overview of both the objective and subjective issues posed by the current state of those very laws: the subjective portion explored the development of current laws and the diverse attendant legal issues such as over-broadness and excessive or misdirected effect as compared to the Legislative and public intent which directly led to the development of these laws. Additionally a more objective study of their efficacy was conducted through the use of data regarding offense rates by locality. This objective data was procured from both the United States Census and Bureau of Justice statistics, which contained national averages such as the overall violent crime rate, and from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement Statistics and was supplemented with additional data from other academic sources. It is both the subjective conclusion and the interpretation of objective data that while the rate of sex offenses has lowered in recent decades this effect is a part of the overall trend of reduction in all violent offenses, and that the extreme stance of modern sex offense laws have arguably resulted in the net-negative of creating a class of individuals ostracized from all but other sex offenders who are virtually incapable of supporting themselves or at times of even finding legal habitation post-release. With little to no chance of a productive life, there is the strong possibility of recidivism and little incentive to avoid re-offending.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2012
- Identifier
- CFH0004233, ucf:44915
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004233
- Title
- SOCIAL ANXIETY AND SUBTYPES OF EMPATHY: THE MODERATING INFLUENCE OF BIOLOGICAL SEX.
- Creator
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Berg, Samantha K, Bedwell, Jeffrey, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Only a few studies have examined relationships between social anxiety and subtypes of empathy. Findings are mixed. The present study examined social anxiety severity on a continuum and how it related to affective and cognitive empathy in 684 nonpsychiatric adults (77% female). Participants completed an online battery of measures that included: a self-report measure of social anxiety severity (Fear of Negative Evaluation), a self-report measure with subscales for affective and cognitive...
Show moreOnly a few studies have examined relationships between social anxiety and subtypes of empathy. Findings are mixed. The present study examined social anxiety severity on a continuum and how it related to affective and cognitive empathy in 684 nonpsychiatric adults (77% female). Participants completed an online battery of measures that included: a self-report measure of social anxiety severity (Fear of Negative Evaluation), a self-report measure with subscales for affective and cognitive empathy (Interpersonal Reactivity Index), and a behavioral measure of cognitive empathy (Reading the Mind in the Eyes Task; MIE). After statistically covarying for general anxiety severity, biological sex moderated the relationship between social anxiety severity and performance on the MIE task. In women, a higher severity of social anxiety related to better performance on the MIE. This relationship was not statistically significant in men. IRI subscale scores did not show significant main effects or interactions with sex in relation to social anxiety. The findings suggest a possible difference in how each sex experiences and/or develops social anxiety. This has implications for assessment and treatment. Future research should examine these relationships in more diverse psychiatric samples.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFH2000449, ucf:45871
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000449
- Title
- COMPARING SEXUAL COGNITION AND RISK BY GENDER.
- Creator
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Dauk, Jacquelynne, Wright, Chrysalis, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The ways in which sexuality is perceived among members of society has substantial effects in regards to overall health and well-being. The current study investigates not only the nature of sexual cognition but also the differences in cognition in regards to participant genders. More specifically, this study seeks to investigate the differences in sexual attitudes and thoughts among different genders that may lead to different forms of sexual risk. In order to identify these differences,...
Show moreThe ways in which sexuality is perceived among members of society has substantial effects in regards to overall health and well-being. The current study investigates not only the nature of sexual cognition but also the differences in cognition in regards to participant genders. More specifically, this study seeks to investigate the differences in sexual attitudes and thoughts among different genders that may lead to different forms of sexual risk. In order to identify these differences, societal influences such as social roles, parenting styles, and sexual education are all examined in regards to gender. Factors such as age and demographics were also considered. Participants consisted of university students who answered online questionnaires regarding sexuality. Results indicate that there exists a mediational relationship between participant gender, sexual cognition, and sexual risk.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFH2000183, ucf:45967
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000183
- Title
- FEMALE SEXUAL OFFENDERS-AN UNDEREXAMINED POPULATION.
- Creator
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Dunton, Creaig Anthony, Holmes, Stephen T., University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Sex crimes are considered to be among the most damaging and heinous forms of social deviance in existence. Besides the acts perpetrated by the offenders, the social stigma attached to being victimized is often just as injurious to the victim. Society sees males as the sole perpetrators of acts of sexual abuse, but this is not the case. The extant literature shows that women, while fewer in number, also perpetrate acts of sexual abuse and assault against other adults and children.This thesis...
Show moreSex crimes are considered to be among the most damaging and heinous forms of social deviance in existence. Besides the acts perpetrated by the offenders, the social stigma attached to being victimized is often just as injurious to the victim. Society sees males as the sole perpetrators of acts of sexual abuse, but this is not the case. The extant literature shows that women, while fewer in number, also perpetrate acts of sexual abuse and assault against other adults and children.This thesis is a preliminary typology that classifies female sexual offenders based upon the acts perpetrated, using cases presented in the extant literature. The pre-existing typologies that have been developed come largely from the psychiatric community, and therefore are classified on motivation rather than acts.While this is by no means a complete typology, it is an essential first step in learning more about this underexamined population.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2004
- Identifier
- CFE0000030, ucf:46114
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000030
- Title
- AGGRESSION IN LESBIAN AND BISEXUAL RELATIONSHIPS.
- Creator
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Parham, Jennifer Rae, Dietz, Tracy L., University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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For years, researchers, clinicians, and those working with victims/survivors of domestic abuse have overlooked the issue of same-sex partner aggression among lesbians and bisexual women. Through in-depth interviews with 19 women who identify themselves as either lesbian or bisexual, information was documented in this study demonstrating the severity of issues of power and control among some same-sex partners, as well as some if the dynamics that are unique to same-sex abusive relationships....
Show moreFor years, researchers, clinicians, and those working with victims/survivors of domestic abuse have overlooked the issue of same-sex partner aggression among lesbians and bisexual women. Through in-depth interviews with 19 women who identify themselves as either lesbian or bisexual, information was documented in this study demonstrating the severity of issues of power and control among some same-sex partners, as well as some if the dynamics that are unique to same-sex abusive relationships. Patterns of abuse within same-sex relationships often mirror those that are so commonly associated with partner aggression among heterosexual couples, and therefore demonstrate not only the need for further research on the topic of same-sex partner abuse, but also the urgency to provide more assistance to the victims/survivors of domestic violence.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2004
- Identifier
- CFE0000024, ucf:46070
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000024
