Matching Items (1,105)
Filtering by
- Creators: Department of Psychology
Description
This thesis analyzes how NRATV, the media platform of the National Rifle Association, rhetorically defends Stand Your Ground (SYG) laws, focusing on its framing of the laws as beneficial for groups such as Black Americans and women. Through examination of NRATV content, the study reveals that NRATV employs misrepresentations and emotional appeals to reframe SYG laws as narrow, just, and beneficial policy shifts. However, current research into SYG contradicts these claims, showing that SYG laws disproportionately harm minorities and women while failing to deter crime. The thesis highlights how NRATV employs persuasive visual strategies and rhetoric that appeals to emotion and justice to make a case for SYG laws.
ContributorsFletcher, Alysa (Author) / Foy, Joseph (Thesis director) / Young, Alexander (Thesis director) / Light, Caroline (Committee member) / Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor) / School of Social Transformation (Contributor) / Department of Psychology (Contributor)
Created2025-05
Description
This thesis examines the correlation between social media use and the development of self-esteem, body image, and disordered eating issues in college-age women. In an environment where online content shapes identity and self-worth, social media companies like TikTok and Instagram become places where unrealistic beauty standards are pushed through edited photos, misleading health advice, and emotionally manipulative algorithms. This thesis analyzes different types of online content that reinforce unattainable standards, such as edited photos and “what I eat in a day” videos. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is also analyzed in terms of its contribution to social media usage and reliance. In addition, it argues that social media platforms profit off of users’ insecurities, prioritizing monetization nd engagement over user wellbeing. Along with the analysis, this thesis includes a creative writing portion that examines the perspectives of users and content creators online and how each of them is impacted by the negative aspects of social media.
ContributorsHorlick, Megan (Author) / Barca, Lisa (Thesis director) / Sinner, Kristine (Committee member) / Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor) / Department of Psychology (Contributor) / School of Life Sciences (Contributor)
Created2025-05
Description
Drawing from phenomenological reflection, current research, and personal experience during a study abroad semester in Alicante, Spain, this thesis explores how a country's cultural values can influence quality of life by comparing collectivist and individualist societies, specifically Spain and the United States. Spain's collectivist culture, emphasizing relationships, community, and universal healthcare, contrasts with the United States' individualistic values of self-reliance, achievement, and financial success. Through a review of literature, cultural history, and interviews captured in an accompanying podcast, this research argues societies that emphasize collective values over individualist values tend to lead to a better quality of life for its members due to greater access to social support in their everyday lives, cultivating a sense of belonging and stability.
ContributorsLewis, Haley (Author) / Short, Robert (Thesis director) / Young, Alex (Committee member) / Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor) / School of International Letters and Cultures (Contributor) / Department of Psychology (Contributor)
Created2025-05
Description
This thesis explores how social-emotional learning (SEL) can be integrated into early elementary classrooms to foster a stronger sense of belonging and community. Research shows that students who feel connected and valued in their school environment are more likely to succeed academically and emotionally. However, many educators face barriers such as time constraints and lack of training when implementing SEL. To address this gap, a four-week SEL unit was developed, designed specifically for second-grade classrooms. The unit emphasizes self-awareness, emotional regulation, empathy, and conflict resolution through brief, daily lessons that are adaptable and easily embedded into classroom routines. Drawing from other SEL frameworks, this project aims to support students' emotional growth while offering practical strategies for educators. The findings highlight the positive impact of daily SEL practices on classroom climate, student engagement, and teacher-student relationships, emphasizing that SEL can be both effective and manageable when aligned with real classroom needs.
ContributorsWasson, Brenna (Author) / Soares, Rebecca (Thesis director) / Stapley, Jennifer (Committee member) / Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor) / Department of Psychology (Contributor) / Division of Teacher Preparation (Contributor) / School of Public Affairs (Contributor)
Created2025-05
Description
RQ: How do periods of prolonged intermittent fasting impact cognitive functioning and behavior; with a minor focus on brain health and preventatives towards disease?
Objectives:
Implement a Randomized Control Trial (RCT) to guarantee the randomness and impartiality of both the intervention and control groups
Monitor participant's behaviors, energy levels, and sleep patterns throughout an 8-week duration
Document observed changes and collect data to conclude the impact of nightly Intermittent Fasting on cognitive health
ContributorsKantor, Jayda (Author) / Chelberg, Paige (Co-author) / James, Dara (Thesis director) / N/A, N/A (Committee member) / Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor) / School of Life Sciences (Contributor) / Department of Psychology (Contributor)
Created2025-05