Social and Behavioral Sciences
Rock On: The Effect of Digital and Analog Recordings of Music on Autonomic Nervous System Activity
Author(s): Madison M. Ward, Adam Jones
Entertainment, Racism, and the Mormon Experience: Salt Lake City’s 1903 “Tom Show”
Author(s): Ethan Hatch
Rock On: The Effect of Digital and Analog Recordings of Music on EEG Asymmetry
Author(s): Damian V. Jesus, Jordanelle A. Caldwell, Sam Webster, Alexis Downey, Mason Huff, Paige Kennedy, Pengcheng Li, Kaden Gardner
Queer Faith Transitions: The interplay of loneliness and social support
Author(s): Samantha Bateman
Parenting: Understanding its Impact on Intrapersonal Success
Author(s): Kaylee Rushton
The Multidimensionality of Infant Prosocial Behavior: An Investigation of Type, Target, and Emergence
Peter J. Reschke, Laura M. Padilla-Walker, Laura A. Stockdale, Chicago Kylin Cox, Hailey Holmgren, Jeffrey L. Hurst, Kjersti Summers, Sarah M. Coyne, Gyuyi Kang (Brigham Young University)
Faculty Advisor: Reschke, Peter (Family, Home, and Social Science; Family Life)
After the first birthday, infants begin to help and share (Dunfield, 2014). However, there is little known about infants' selectivity in helping and sharing and whether these behaviors emerge due to socialization influence or natural tendencies. In this study, 230 infants (109 female, Mage= 1.47 years, SD =.27. Range = .95 years to 2.19 years) were randomly assigned to one of two conditions: (1) Instrumental helping (caregiver) and sharing (experimenter) or (2) instrumental helping (experimenter) and sharing (caregiver). Infants observed a target person (caregiver or experimenter) demonstrate a need (dropped pen = instrumental need; lack of sticker = material desire). Infants were given 60 seconds to respond and their prosocial behaviors (e.g. returning the pen, sharing stickers) were coded using a 5-point scale (see Vaish et al., 2009). Infants engaged in significantly more instrumental helping behaviors (M = 3.37) than sharing behaviors (M = 2.23) t(144) = 7.85, p < .001, 95% CI [0.85, 1.42], d = .87. Infants were also significantly more prosocial toward caregivers (M = 3 .22) than strangers (M = 2 .38). Infants helped the caregiver (M = 4.09) significantly more than the stranger (M = 2.65), t(310) = 7.49, p <.001, 95% CI [1.06, 1.81], d = 1.17. However, infants' sharing towards the caregiver (M = 2.35) and stranger (M = 2.11) did not differ, p =.32, 95% CI [-0.23, 0.71], d = .16. These results suggest that infants are selective in their helping behaviors but not their sharing behaviors in the second year of life. A multidimensional framework of prosocial development will be discussed.
Faculty Advisor: Reschke, Peter (Family, Home, and Social Science; Family Life)
After the first birthday, infants begin to help and share (Dunfield, 2014). However, there is little known about infants' selectivity in helping and sharing and whether these behaviors emerge due to socialization influence or natural tendencies. In this study, 230 infants (109 female, Mage= 1.47 years, SD =.27. Range = .95 years to 2.19 years) were randomly assigned to one of two conditions: (1) Instrumental helping (caregiver) and sharing (experimenter) or (2) instrumental helping (experimenter) and sharing (caregiver). Infants observed a target person (caregiver or experimenter) demonstrate a need (dropped pen = instrumental need; lack of sticker = material desire). Infants were given 60 seconds to respond and their prosocial behaviors (e.g. returning the pen, sharing stickers) were coded using a 5-point scale (see Vaish et al., 2009). Infants engaged in significantly more instrumental helping behaviors (M = 3.37) than sharing behaviors (M = 2.23) t(144) = 7.85, p < .001, 95% CI [0.85, 1.42], d = .87. Infants were also significantly more prosocial toward caregivers (M = 3 .22) than strangers (M = 2 .38). Infants helped the caregiver (M = 4.09) significantly more than the stranger (M = 2.65), t(310) = 7.49, p <.001, 95% CI [1.06, 1.81], d = 1.17. However, infants' sharing towards the caregiver (M = 2.35) and stranger (M = 2.11) did not differ, p =.32, 95% CI [-0.23, 0.71], d = .16. These results suggest that infants are selective in their helping behaviors but not their sharing behaviors in the second year of life. A multidimensional framework of prosocial development will be discussed.
Variations in Paint on San Juan Painted Red Ware
Greaves, Aspen ; Allison, Jim (Brigham Young University)
Faculty Advisor: Allison, Jim (Family, Home, and Social Sciences; Anthropology)
Portable x-ray fluorescence (PXRF) analysis is a quantitative measure of the presence of an element. Elements from painted red ware sherds from the San Juan region were measured on painted and non-painted portions of the sherds, demonstrating the presence of elements in the paint as opposed to the paste. In particular, manganese, lead, and copper, along with a more ubiquitous iron, were found in the paint. The presences of manganese indicates the intention for the paint to be black when fired, a useful tool in identifying sherds. At Site 13 (42sa13) for example, which was burned, the sherds can appear to be Abajo red-on-orange when they may better be described as Bluff black-on-red. Lead and copper are a bit less straight-forward. Lead appears rarely, and may have no purpose, or could be an intentional sourcing choice. Another question comes from the presence of copper, which may have created a turquoise paint pre- firing. Turquoise is an important color in Pueblo color theory, and so if copper does create a turquoise paint, the presence of copper may be deliberate. Variation in paint, particularly crossed with neutron activation data, leads to a firmer understanding of decisions inherent in the ceramic creation process.
Faculty Advisor: Allison, Jim (Family, Home, and Social Sciences; Anthropology)
Portable x-ray fluorescence (PXRF) analysis is a quantitative measure of the presence of an element. Elements from painted red ware sherds from the San Juan region were measured on painted and non-painted portions of the sherds, demonstrating the presence of elements in the paint as opposed to the paste. In particular, manganese, lead, and copper, along with a more ubiquitous iron, were found in the paint. The presences of manganese indicates the intention for the paint to be black when fired, a useful tool in identifying sherds. At Site 13 (42sa13) for example, which was burned, the sherds can appear to be Abajo red-on-orange when they may better be described as Bluff black-on-red. Lead and copper are a bit less straight-forward. Lead appears rarely, and may have no purpose, or could be an intentional sourcing choice. Another question comes from the presence of copper, which may have created a turquoise paint pre- firing. Turquoise is an important color in Pueblo color theory, and so if copper does create a turquoise paint, the presence of copper may be deliberate. Variation in paint, particularly crossed with neutron activation data, leads to a firmer understanding of decisions inherent in the ceramic creation process.
Younger Service Members and Veterans at Higher Risk of Coercive Sexual Assault
Christensen, Kate L.; Hinkson Jr, Kent D.; Brooks Malisa M.; Bryan, Craig J.� (Utah Valley University)
Faculty Advisor: Hinkson Jr, Kent (Utah Valley University and University of Utah, Psychology); Brooks, Malisa (University of Utah, Psychology)
Among the staggering rates of sexual assault, little attention has been directed towards the specific risk factors involved with coercive sexual assault. The few studies that have been conducted focus solely on college campuses. Studies have found that the potential risk factors between forced sexual assault and coercive sexual assault are fundamentally different. While forced sexual assault is associated with environmental risk factors such as alcohol, coercive assault risk factors have a stronger relationship with the victim's level of depression and self-esteem. Though depression and low self-esteem can affect people for a variety of different reasons, age tends to be a reliable predictor of both of these risk factors. Depression and low self-esteem have some of the highest rates among teens and young adults. When focusing on the Military, we see depression rates higher than that of the general public, with similar patterns of teenagers and young adults (18 to 25) being the most affected. With the knowledge that depression and low self-esteem are risk factors in coercive sexual assault and knowing an age group that is more likely to be depressed and struggle with esteem, we should expect to see a relationship between age and being a victim of coercive sexual assault. In a survey consisting of veterans, age had a mild relationship with coercive rape, with younger people being more susceptible and their older counterparts holding less risk. When focusing on other distinctions of sexual crimes such as harassment, assault, and rape, age was not found to be a risk factor. Knowledge of the relationship between coercive sexual assault and age carries important implications, particularly in the form of education and support. Leaders armed with this data can inform young people of this potential risk, provide preventative strategies, and recommend therapy or support groups when necessary.
Faculty Advisor: Hinkson Jr, Kent (Utah Valley University and University of Utah, Psychology); Brooks, Malisa (University of Utah, Psychology)
Among the staggering rates of sexual assault, little attention has been directed towards the specific risk factors involved with coercive sexual assault. The few studies that have been conducted focus solely on college campuses. Studies have found that the potential risk factors between forced sexual assault and coercive sexual assault are fundamentally different. While forced sexual assault is associated with environmental risk factors such as alcohol, coercive assault risk factors have a stronger relationship with the victim's level of depression and self-esteem. Though depression and low self-esteem can affect people for a variety of different reasons, age tends to be a reliable predictor of both of these risk factors. Depression and low self-esteem have some of the highest rates among teens and young adults. When focusing on the Military, we see depression rates higher than that of the general public, with similar patterns of teenagers and young adults (18 to 25) being the most affected. With the knowledge that depression and low self-esteem are risk factors in coercive sexual assault and knowing an age group that is more likely to be depressed and struggle with esteem, we should expect to see a relationship between age and being a victim of coercive sexual assault. In a survey consisting of veterans, age had a mild relationship with coercive rape, with younger people being more susceptible and their older counterparts holding less risk. When focusing on other distinctions of sexual crimes such as harassment, assault, and rape, age was not found to be a risk factor. Knowledge of the relationship between coercive sexual assault and age carries important implications, particularly in the form of education and support. Leaders armed with this data can inform young people of this potential risk, provide preventative strategies, and recommend therapy or support groups when necessary.
The Relationships Between Emotional Regulation and PTSD Criterion D
Davis, Justin; Hinkson, Kent; Brooks, Malisa; Bryan, Craig (University of Utah)
Faculty Advisor: Hinkson, Kent (University of Utah, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences)
Emotion Regulation is broadly defined as a person's ability to modulate or maintain emotional states in order to achieve a goal. Evidence is mounting that among veterans, emotional regulation is a critical and core component directly related to veterans' abilities to work through clinical protocols for PTSD and suicidality, transition to civilian populations, reintegrate with families, and to experience overall well-being. Several academic, research, and governmental organizations have undertaken the tasks associated with understanding causal and correlative factors associated veteran suicide, and in the milieu this endeavor has shed light on suicidal phenomena more broadly applicable to general populations. As such, clinicians, researchers, and the general public have a stake in understanding emotion regulation in ways that inform development of normative mental health and various etiologies and courses of psychopathology. More specifically, among student veterans with PTSD, emotional dysregulation has been associated with greater psychological distress and higher rates of health-risk behaviors such as binge-drinking, drinking and driving, and physical aggression. Current research shows a moderate inverse relationship between the experience and expression of joy and Criterion D (negative alterations in cognitions and mood) of PTSD such that positive affective experiences may be suppressed or attenuated in those student veterans who endorse moderate to severe symptoms. This emotional reticence, whether personal or public, is likely to reinforce avoidant behavioral schemas, contributing to and maintaining the emotional dysregulation sequelae of PTSD well after military service and into the future across many contexts. The main aim of this study was to better understand and conceptualize the relationship between negative alterations in cognition and mood and emotion regulation among trauma-exposed veterans. This understanding will help support future research, screening, and prevention programs for PTSD and suicide along with conceptualization and application of emotion regulation intervention protocols in clinical veteran populations.
Faculty Advisor: Hinkson, Kent (University of Utah, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences)
Emotion Regulation is broadly defined as a person's ability to modulate or maintain emotional states in order to achieve a goal. Evidence is mounting that among veterans, emotional regulation is a critical and core component directly related to veterans' abilities to work through clinical protocols for PTSD and suicidality, transition to civilian populations, reintegrate with families, and to experience overall well-being. Several academic, research, and governmental organizations have undertaken the tasks associated with understanding causal and correlative factors associated veteran suicide, and in the milieu this endeavor has shed light on suicidal phenomena more broadly applicable to general populations. As such, clinicians, researchers, and the general public have a stake in understanding emotion regulation in ways that inform development of normative mental health and various etiologies and courses of psychopathology. More specifically, among student veterans with PTSD, emotional dysregulation has been associated with greater psychological distress and higher rates of health-risk behaviors such as binge-drinking, drinking and driving, and physical aggression. Current research shows a moderate inverse relationship between the experience and expression of joy and Criterion D (negative alterations in cognitions and mood) of PTSD such that positive affective experiences may be suppressed or attenuated in those student veterans who endorse moderate to severe symptoms. This emotional reticence, whether personal or public, is likely to reinforce avoidant behavioral schemas, contributing to and maintaining the emotional dysregulation sequelae of PTSD well after military service and into the future across many contexts. The main aim of this study was to better understand and conceptualize the relationship between negative alterations in cognition and mood and emotion regulation among trauma-exposed veterans. This understanding will help support future research, screening, and prevention programs for PTSD and suicide along with conceptualization and application of emotion regulation intervention protocols in clinical veteran populations.
Voluntary or Not, Still No Equilibrium Play in the Ultimatum Game: A Failed Replication
Brooksby, Austin; Meyer, Jake; Rentschler, Lucas; Spofford, Robbie (Utah State University)
Faculty Advisor: Rentschler, Lucas (Jon M. Huntsman School of Business, Economics and Finance Department)
The ultimatum game is a common experimental economics game done in pairs in which one person chooses a way of dividing a sum of money, and then proposes that split as an ultimatum to the other: Either accept it, or we both walk away with nothing. In theory, equilibrium play would indicate everyone should accept any split they're offered-regardless of the equity-but the experimental economics literature robustly rejects that theory. Smith and Wilson's 2017 paper "Equilibrium Play in Voluntary Ultimatum Games: Beneficence Cannot Be Extorted" produced results different from the vast literature, by making game participation voluntary within the lab. We attempted to replicate Smith and Wilson's results, but failed to do so. The most notable difference between our experiments was our subject pool, so we ran additional trials of the standard ultimatum game and confirmed our subject pool was not significantly different than the general literature. Our paper provides a great example of the importance of replicating results in the social sciences, in addition to a specific contribution to the ultimatum game literature.
Faculty Advisor: Rentschler, Lucas (Jon M. Huntsman School of Business, Economics and Finance Department)
The ultimatum game is a common experimental economics game done in pairs in which one person chooses a way of dividing a sum of money, and then proposes that split as an ultimatum to the other: Either accept it, or we both walk away with nothing. In theory, equilibrium play would indicate everyone should accept any split they're offered-regardless of the equity-but the experimental economics literature robustly rejects that theory. Smith and Wilson's 2017 paper "Equilibrium Play in Voluntary Ultimatum Games: Beneficence Cannot Be Extorted" produced results different from the vast literature, by making game participation voluntary within the lab. We attempted to replicate Smith and Wilson's results, but failed to do so. The most notable difference between our experiments was our subject pool, so we ran additional trials of the standard ultimatum game and confirmed our subject pool was not significantly different than the general literature. Our paper provides a great example of the importance of replicating results in the social sciences, in addition to a specific contribution to the ultimatum game literature.
Wituk and Manduru: The Transformative and Redemptive Power of Quichua Women in Ecuador
Maw, Madison (Brigham Young University)
Faculty Advisor: Nuckols, Janis (Brigham Young University, Linguistics); Thompson, Gregory (Brigham Young University, Anthropology)
In Ecuadorian Quichua culture people do what they can do to avoid being described as quilla—a behavior encapsulating both laziness and sexual promiscuity. Many of their myths revolve an individual who encapsulates one or both parts of quilla, the tale of Wituk and Manduru included. These behaviors are ones that estrange an individual from their family ties, which is a keystone motor of Quichua society. These myths, being origin stories, always end up with the person transforming into a part of nature, usually an animal or plant.
Wituk and Manduru's tale is one of the longer myths as well as one of the only that demonstrates both aspects of quilla so clearly. However, while it depicts what is considered the worst traits, it also demonstrates how to redeem oneself. At the end of the story the sisters transform themselves into trees that produce pods that when mashed create red or black paint. The girls use this to paint the men who they interacted with in their journey into more productive animals.
This paper will explore the implications this story has in modern life for the Quichua people, women in particular. The paint of these trees is highly important in all realms over which women preside, including pottery, beauty, and maintaining the chagra (in simplistic terms, a garden). The paint is used in a transformative and representative way, making the ritual plant grow stronger and allowing women to harness the power of animals around them, just to name a few. Women are able to use this plant to transform themselves and those around them in order to make a better society overall.
Faculty Advisor: Nuckols, Janis (Brigham Young University, Linguistics); Thompson, Gregory (Brigham Young University, Anthropology)
In Ecuadorian Quichua culture people do what they can do to avoid being described as quilla—a behavior encapsulating both laziness and sexual promiscuity. Many of their myths revolve an individual who encapsulates one or both parts of quilla, the tale of Wituk and Manduru included. These behaviors are ones that estrange an individual from their family ties, which is a keystone motor of Quichua society. These myths, being origin stories, always end up with the person transforming into a part of nature, usually an animal or plant.
Wituk and Manduru's tale is one of the longer myths as well as one of the only that demonstrates both aspects of quilla so clearly. However, while it depicts what is considered the worst traits, it also demonstrates how to redeem oneself. At the end of the story the sisters transform themselves into trees that produce pods that when mashed create red or black paint. The girls use this to paint the men who they interacted with in their journey into more productive animals.
This paper will explore the implications this story has in modern life for the Quichua people, women in particular. The paint of these trees is highly important in all realms over which women preside, including pottery, beauty, and maintaining the chagra (in simplistic terms, a garden). The paint is used in a transformative and representative way, making the ritual plant grow stronger and allowing women to harness the power of animals around them, just to name a few. Women are able to use this plant to transform themselves and those around them in order to make a better society overall.
True Prophylactic Treatment effect in a Rat PTSD Model on Synaptic Plasticity in Ventral Hippocampal and Lateral Amygdala
Miller, Roxanne; Winzenried, Eric; Everett, Anna; Edwards, Jeffrey (Brigham Young University)
Faculty Advisor: Edwards, Jeffrey (Life Sciences, Physiology and Developmental Biology)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a complex anxiety/depression disorder that affects about 1 out of 4 individuals after a stressful/traumatic experience. One common model to induce PTSD is social defeat (SD) combined with chronic light exposure in rats. First, more naturally anxious rats were selected based on results of an open field test where cat fur and fox urine were placed in one quadrant. Rats were classified as anxious if they avoided that quadrant, froze for long periods of time, did not rear, and frequently urinated or defecated. The naturally anxious rats were used in the SD protocol. Next, the elevated plus maze (EPM) and light-dark transition (LDT) tests were used to detect anxious behavior at the conclusion of SD. The SD protocol caused significant anxious behavior when compared to controls. Next, we performed LTP field electrophysiology experiments in brain slices of ventral hippocampus and basolateral amygdala, regions known to have altered plasticity in PTSD. SD caused a significant increase in long-term potentiation (LTP) in the ventral hippocampus and basolateral amygdala. To determine whether a prophylactic treatment could prevent the physiological changes of PTSD, propranolol and mifepristone were simultaneously administered at 10 mg/kg doses by intraperitoneal (IP) injection one week prior and during the entire duration of SD. These drugs significantly decreased LTP in the VH and BLA back to near-control levels while SD rats with vehicle injections still had elevated LTP.
Faculty Advisor: Edwards, Jeffrey (Life Sciences, Physiology and Developmental Biology)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a complex anxiety/depression disorder that affects about 1 out of 4 individuals after a stressful/traumatic experience. One common model to induce PTSD is social defeat (SD) combined with chronic light exposure in rats. First, more naturally anxious rats were selected based on results of an open field test where cat fur and fox urine were placed in one quadrant. Rats were classified as anxious if they avoided that quadrant, froze for long periods of time, did not rear, and frequently urinated or defecated. The naturally anxious rats were used in the SD protocol. Next, the elevated plus maze (EPM) and light-dark transition (LDT) tests were used to detect anxious behavior at the conclusion of SD. The SD protocol caused significant anxious behavior when compared to controls. Next, we performed LTP field electrophysiology experiments in brain slices of ventral hippocampus and basolateral amygdala, regions known to have altered plasticity in PTSD. SD caused a significant increase in long-term potentiation (LTP) in the ventral hippocampus and basolateral amygdala. To determine whether a prophylactic treatment could prevent the physiological changes of PTSD, propranolol and mifepristone were simultaneously administered at 10 mg/kg doses by intraperitoneal (IP) injection one week prior and during the entire duration of SD. These drugs significantly decreased LTP in the VH and BLA back to near-control levels while SD rats with vehicle injections still had elevated LTP.
The Importance of Instructor Playfulness for Identity Development and Flow in Higher Education Online Classes
Sanders, Hannah; Graul, Antje; Lavoie, Raymond (Utah State University)
Faculty Advisor: Graul, Antje (Jon M. Huntsman School of Business, Marketing and Strategy Department)
It is imperative for institutions of higher-education to understand and meet the needs of their students when teaching in an online environment, specifically, how their enjoyment, attitude and learning outcomes derived from an online class can be predicted. Our research demonstrates the importance of instructor playfulness--defined as the level of which an instructor is gregarious, uninhibited, comedic and dynamic in class--in an online class environment. We suggest that instructor playfulness significantly positively correlates with students' perception of enjoyment, attitude and learning outcomes in an online class.
To test these predictions, we conducted a quantitative study with college students in order to gain insights into their experiences and perceptions of instructor playfulness in online classes and surveyed related student outcomes. Our results suggest that the positive effects of instructor playfulness in an online class are drawn by the extent to which students develop a subject-related identity and improved flow of the online class. Based on our findings, we conclude specific methods and teaching techniques that can be incorporated by online instructors to design their online classes in higher education more successfully.
Together, our research advances the existing stream of literature by examining the concept of instructor playfulness in an online context. We contribute to practical implications by offering guidance for online instructors in higher education.
Faculty Advisor: Graul, Antje (Jon M. Huntsman School of Business, Marketing and Strategy Department)
It is imperative for institutions of higher-education to understand and meet the needs of their students when teaching in an online environment, specifically, how their enjoyment, attitude and learning outcomes derived from an online class can be predicted. Our research demonstrates the importance of instructor playfulness--defined as the level of which an instructor is gregarious, uninhibited, comedic and dynamic in class--in an online class environment. We suggest that instructor playfulness significantly positively correlates with students' perception of enjoyment, attitude and learning outcomes in an online class.
To test these predictions, we conducted a quantitative study with college students in order to gain insights into their experiences and perceptions of instructor playfulness in online classes and surveyed related student outcomes. Our results suggest that the positive effects of instructor playfulness in an online class are drawn by the extent to which students develop a subject-related identity and improved flow of the online class. Based on our findings, we conclude specific methods and teaching techniques that can be incorporated by online instructors to design their online classes in higher education more successfully.
Together, our research advances the existing stream of literature by examining the concept of instructor playfulness in an online context. We contribute to practical implications by offering guidance for online instructors in higher education.
The Influence of Social Media on Impulsive Emotional Responses
Bergman, Kyle (Utah Valley University)
Faculty Advisor: Smith-Johnson, Amber (Utah Valley University, English)
The number of social media users has risen dramatically over the past few years; since 2008, the number of monthly users of social media has risen from 222 million to 2.24 billion. Studies have recently suggested that a correlation exists between this dramatic increase in electronic social behavior and impulsivity. Research suggests that the concept of "Fear of Missing Out" and the desensitizing of exciting behaviors are both possible causes (Baumgartner et al). In addition to the rise in impulsive behaviors, there have been a host of other studies that have shown how social media exposure is affecting the cognitive capacities of developing minds. Among their findings assert that behaviors such as Increased anxiety, depression, narcolepsy, anger, agitation, and internet addiction are increasing at an alarming rate (Bilgin, Tas). I want to take this research further and study how social media usage can cause impulsive views of self-value and worth. To conduct this experiment, I will create a survey designed to measure the impulsive, instinctive responses of college aged students to certain situations that would be commonly found online or actuality. I predict that because social media platforms often contain incomplete information about a post, the questions from the survey that will contribute to either jealousy or lower self-worth will be ones similar to what they would find on these platforms. I hope that these findings will help parents understand the impulsive influences that social media can have on their children.
Faculty Advisor: Smith-Johnson, Amber (Utah Valley University, English)
The number of social media users has risen dramatically over the past few years; since 2008, the number of monthly users of social media has risen from 222 million to 2.24 billion. Studies have recently suggested that a correlation exists between this dramatic increase in electronic social behavior and impulsivity. Research suggests that the concept of "Fear of Missing Out" and the desensitizing of exciting behaviors are both possible causes (Baumgartner et al). In addition to the rise in impulsive behaviors, there have been a host of other studies that have shown how social media exposure is affecting the cognitive capacities of developing minds. Among their findings assert that behaviors such as Increased anxiety, depression, narcolepsy, anger, agitation, and internet addiction are increasing at an alarming rate (Bilgin, Tas). I want to take this research further and study how social media usage can cause impulsive views of self-value and worth. To conduct this experiment, I will create a survey designed to measure the impulsive, instinctive responses of college aged students to certain situations that would be commonly found online or actuality. I predict that because social media platforms often contain incomplete information about a post, the questions from the survey that will contribute to either jealousy or lower self-worth will be ones similar to what they would find on these platforms. I hope that these findings will help parents understand the impulsive influences that social media can have on their children.
Why Say No, When You Could Say Yes? A survey of the why, the how, and the emotions of sexually abstinent adults.
Hale, Kaysi; Anderson, Chris (Utah Valley University)
Faculty Advisor: Anderson, Chris (Utah Valley University, Psychology)
While there is significant data on adolescent sexual activity, education, and attitudes, there is little research done on adults who choose to stay abstinent, especially in the United States. Religiosity plays a significant role in reducing sexual behaviors before marriage. Many Christian faiths teach that sex should only be engaged in after marriage, so many followers choose to stay abstinent until marriage. Education about sex contributes to individuals choosing to stay abstinent and/or choosing to use safe-sex practices. Gender is not a large factor when considering reasons why individuals choose to stay abstinent; women have slightly lower rates of pre-marital sex at 94%; men at 96%. Sexual health and sexual well-being are difficult to define, but especially challenging when trying to define it for those choosing to stay abstinent into adulthood. The proposed study will sample an anticipated 200 self-reported abstinent undergraduates at Utah Valley University. This university has a high proportion of Christian students who are predominantly members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Data will be collected about why the students report they are remaining sexually abstinent as well as their sexual attitudes, beliefs, behaviors, and feelings about their own sexuality. Correlations can be drawn between religiosity, gender, age, perceived healthy attitudes towards individual sexuality, feelings about sexual stimulating behavior, among other factors. This paper will contribute to the standing data about religiosity and sexuality. It will enhance the literature about how abstinent adults feel about their own sexuality.
Faculty Advisor: Anderson, Chris (Utah Valley University, Psychology)
While there is significant data on adolescent sexual activity, education, and attitudes, there is little research done on adults who choose to stay abstinent, especially in the United States. Religiosity plays a significant role in reducing sexual behaviors before marriage. Many Christian faiths teach that sex should only be engaged in after marriage, so many followers choose to stay abstinent until marriage. Education about sex contributes to individuals choosing to stay abstinent and/or choosing to use safe-sex practices. Gender is not a large factor when considering reasons why individuals choose to stay abstinent; women have slightly lower rates of pre-marital sex at 94%; men at 96%. Sexual health and sexual well-being are difficult to define, but especially challenging when trying to define it for those choosing to stay abstinent into adulthood. The proposed study will sample an anticipated 200 self-reported abstinent undergraduates at Utah Valley University. This university has a high proportion of Christian students who are predominantly members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Data will be collected about why the students report they are remaining sexually abstinent as well as their sexual attitudes, beliefs, behaviors, and feelings about their own sexuality. Correlations can be drawn between religiosity, gender, age, perceived healthy attitudes towards individual sexuality, feelings about sexual stimulating behavior, among other factors. This paper will contribute to the standing data about religiosity and sexuality. It will enhance the literature about how abstinent adults feel about their own sexuality.
The Safeguarding Effect of Social Support and Religious Activity Against Trauma Symptoms
Fox, Kirsti; Solomino, Lauralee; Baird, Todd. (Weber State University)
Faculty Advisor: Baird, Todd (Weber State University: College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Psychology)
Trauma can have a lasting impact on emotional and physical health, but relief is possible. It is important to study which factors of everyday life can alleviate this pain and suffering. Research suggests that social support and resilience both play an important role in helping relieve symptoms of traumatic stress. Each of these can be broken down into sub-subjects and measured to determine the types of resilience and social support provide the most relief. One type of social support that has not been studied in regard to resilience and trauma is religious activity. However, it has been found that religious activity can provide a unique and strong social support system. The present study looks at religious activity, social support, and resilience all in regard to trauma. There are some limitations in the present study that resulted in insufficient data to accurately test the hypotheses. Future directions that control for the limitations may have more reliable results, therefore providing more accurate information on which of these factors helps to best relieve trauma symptoms.
Keywords: trauma, resilience, religion, social support
Faculty Advisor: Baird, Todd (Weber State University: College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Psychology)
Trauma can have a lasting impact on emotional and physical health, but relief is possible. It is important to study which factors of everyday life can alleviate this pain and suffering. Research suggests that social support and resilience both play an important role in helping relieve symptoms of traumatic stress. Each of these can be broken down into sub-subjects and measured to determine the types of resilience and social support provide the most relief. One type of social support that has not been studied in regard to resilience and trauma is religious activity. However, it has been found that religious activity can provide a unique and strong social support system. The present study looks at religious activity, social support, and resilience all in regard to trauma. There are some limitations in the present study that resulted in insufficient data to accurately test the hypotheses. Future directions that control for the limitations may have more reliable results, therefore providing more accurate information on which of these factors helps to best relieve trauma symptoms.
Keywords: trauma, resilience, religion, social support
Unwanted Sexual Experiences and Suicide Ideology among Student Veterans
Hendrickson, Kaden; Hinkson, Kent; Brooks, Malisa; Bryan, Craig (Utah Valley University)
Faculty Advisor: Hinkson, Kent (Utah Valley University, Social and Behavioral Sciences)
Suicide rates over the last several years have been on the incline, many calling it a new epidemic. There are many known factors of suicide ideology and causality such as depression, anxiety, other mental illness, bullying, sleep disorders, victims of crimes, and many more. Sexual or physical assault are often found to correlate with suicide ideation and behaviors, especially among college-age persons. With veterans exposed to a wide variety of potentially traumatic events in service and because of the high number of sexual assault (both reported and unreported) on college campuses, this study seeks to examine if there if there is an association between suicide ideology and behaviors with type of assault among student veterans. A nationwide sample of 487 students were given a questionnaire that asked the student veterans about their experiences with trauma, as well as measuring their suicide ideation and behaviors. . Findings suggest student veterans tended to have less suicidal ideation and behaviors when assaulted with a weapon compared to other interpersonal traumas. Victims of unwanted or uncomfortable sexual experiences showed higher levels on average of suicidal ideation and behavior. Thus, victims of unwanted sexual experiences may be at higher risk of suicidal tendencies. With suicide rates increasing and the higher risk of suicidal tendencies amongst veterans, these findings can assist educators, administrators, professors, staff, and students in better understanding suicide risk by veterans on campus; additionally, this knowledge can promote the acquisition of better resources to assist those who are in need of help and to find ways to make reporting these cases (and seeking assistance) easier.
Faculty Advisor: Hinkson, Kent (Utah Valley University, Social and Behavioral Sciences)
Suicide rates over the last several years have been on the incline, many calling it a new epidemic. There are many known factors of suicide ideology and causality such as depression, anxiety, other mental illness, bullying, sleep disorders, victims of crimes, and many more. Sexual or physical assault are often found to correlate with suicide ideation and behaviors, especially among college-age persons. With veterans exposed to a wide variety of potentially traumatic events in service and because of the high number of sexual assault (both reported and unreported) on college campuses, this study seeks to examine if there if there is an association between suicide ideology and behaviors with type of assault among student veterans. A nationwide sample of 487 students were given a questionnaire that asked the student veterans about their experiences with trauma, as well as measuring their suicide ideation and behaviors. . Findings suggest student veterans tended to have less suicidal ideation and behaviors when assaulted with a weapon compared to other interpersonal traumas. Victims of unwanted or uncomfortable sexual experiences showed higher levels on average of suicidal ideation and behavior. Thus, victims of unwanted sexual experiences may be at higher risk of suicidal tendencies. With suicide rates increasing and the higher risk of suicidal tendencies amongst veterans, these findings can assist educators, administrators, professors, staff, and students in better understanding suicide risk by veterans on campus; additionally, this knowledge can promote the acquisition of better resources to assist those who are in need of help and to find ways to make reporting these cases (and seeking assistance) easier.
Where The Primates Are: Location of Primates for Sale in the United States
Seaboch, Melissa (University of Utah)
Faculty Advisor: Seaboch, Melissa (University of Utah, Anthropology)
Primates do not make good pets because they are highly social animals that require members of their own species, large amounts of space, and specific diets to maintain positive psychological well-being. Additionally primates can also be aggressive toward their owners and they can transmit diseases (e.g. Salmonella, parasites, etc.) to their owners. Even so, there are over 15,000 pet primates in the United States. Regulations for owning a primate vary from state to state from a complete ban (19 states) to no restrictions (17 states). The goal of this project is to understand the pet primate trade and ownership in the United States, specifically, in which states they are for sale. Data (type of primate for sale and location) were collected bimonthly for five months from six online exotic pet trade websites. We found that 311 primates were offered for sale in 11 states with Florida having the most primates for sale (62%, n=195) followed by Tennessee (8.6%, n=27), and Texas (8%, n=25). The number of primates for sale in Florida is surprising since Florida requires permits from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission while there are no regulations for owning monkeys in Texas, or Tennessee. The Captive Primate Safety Act currently before Congress would prohibit the sale of all nonhuman primates by including them as "prohibited wildlife species" and would greatly reduce the ownership of primates as pets, though we note that a similar bill failed in 2007.
Faculty Advisor: Seaboch, Melissa (University of Utah, Anthropology)
Primates do not make good pets because they are highly social animals that require members of their own species, large amounts of space, and specific diets to maintain positive psychological well-being. Additionally primates can also be aggressive toward their owners and they can transmit diseases (e.g. Salmonella, parasites, etc.) to their owners. Even so, there are over 15,000 pet primates in the United States. Regulations for owning a primate vary from state to state from a complete ban (19 states) to no restrictions (17 states). The goal of this project is to understand the pet primate trade and ownership in the United States, specifically, in which states they are for sale. Data (type of primate for sale and location) were collected bimonthly for five months from six online exotic pet trade websites. We found that 311 primates were offered for sale in 11 states with Florida having the most primates for sale (62%, n=195) followed by Tennessee (8.6%, n=27), and Texas (8%, n=25). The number of primates for sale in Florida is surprising since Florida requires permits from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission while there are no regulations for owning monkeys in Texas, or Tennessee. The Captive Primate Safety Act currently before Congress would prohibit the sale of all nonhuman primates by including them as "prohibited wildlife species" and would greatly reduce the ownership of primates as pets, though we note that a similar bill failed in 2007.
Visual Scanning of Emotions in Context
Reschke, Peter; Cooper, Alexandra; Clayton, Colter K. (Brigham Young University)
Faculty Advisor: Reschke, Peter (Family, Home, and Social Sciences; Family Life)
Research has demonstrated that context plays a significant role in emotion perception (Reschke et al., 2018). However, it is unclear whether context produces differences in visual scanning of facial expressions of emotion. The present study explored whether variability within facial expressions differentially interacts with posture context to produce changes in emotion perception.
Participants (N = 86) viewed 96 images comprised of "open" (i.e., scrunched nose, open mouth, protruding tongue) and "closed" (i.e., scrunched nose, closed mouth) versions of disgust faces photoshopped onto postural expressions of emotion (disgust, anger, fear, sadness, joy, neutral). Subjects saw each image for 5000 ms while their eye movements were recorded by an eye tracker and were then asked to categorize the emotion in the facial expression.
The results support prior research demonstrating that contextual influence (i.e., categorizations matching the context) differed significantly within emotion contexts as a function of face type, F(3, 5436) = 29.65, p < .001 (Reschke et al., 2019). Specifically, contextual influence increased significantly for closed and open disgust facial expressions in anger and sadness contexts (ps < .001) and decreased significantly in fear contexts (p < .001). However, these differences in behavioral responses were not reflected in participants' visual scanning behaviors. Specifically, subjects fixated significantly more in the lower face region (M = 3.29) than the upper face region (M = .76), t(2268) = 37.56, p < .001, regardless of face type. Additionally, participants took significantly more time to fixate on the upper face region (M = 1046.77) than the lower face region (M = 580.07), t(1652) = 10.59, p < .001, also regardless of face type.
These findings suggest that behavioral differences in context-dependent emotion categorization are not due to reliable differences in visual scanning. Future directions and alternative explanations will be discussed.
Faculty Advisor: Reschke, Peter (Family, Home, and Social Sciences; Family Life)
Research has demonstrated that context plays a significant role in emotion perception (Reschke et al., 2018). However, it is unclear whether context produces differences in visual scanning of facial expressions of emotion. The present study explored whether variability within facial expressions differentially interacts with posture context to produce changes in emotion perception.
Participants (N = 86) viewed 96 images comprised of "open" (i.e., scrunched nose, open mouth, protruding tongue) and "closed" (i.e., scrunched nose, closed mouth) versions of disgust faces photoshopped onto postural expressions of emotion (disgust, anger, fear, sadness, joy, neutral). Subjects saw each image for 5000 ms while their eye movements were recorded by an eye tracker and were then asked to categorize the emotion in the facial expression.
The results support prior research demonstrating that contextual influence (i.e., categorizations matching the context) differed significantly within emotion contexts as a function of face type, F(3, 5436) = 29.65, p < .001 (Reschke et al., 2019). Specifically, contextual influence increased significantly for closed and open disgust facial expressions in anger and sadness contexts (ps < .001) and decreased significantly in fear contexts (p < .001). However, these differences in behavioral responses were not reflected in participants' visual scanning behaviors. Specifically, subjects fixated significantly more in the lower face region (M = 3.29) than the upper face region (M = .76), t(2268) = 37.56, p < .001, regardless of face type. Additionally, participants took significantly more time to fixate on the upper face region (M = 1046.77) than the lower face region (M = 580.07), t(1652) = 10.59, p < .001, also regardless of face type.
These findings suggest that behavioral differences in context-dependent emotion categorization are not due to reliable differences in visual scanning. Future directions and alternative explanations will be discussed.
PTSD Levels and Trauma Type Differences between Genders in Veterans Enrolled in Postsecondary Education
Chevrier, Amy; Hinkson, Kent; Brooks, Malisa; Bryan, Craig (Utah Valley University)
Faculty Advisor: Hinkson, Kent (Utah Valley University, Behavioral Science)
According to the National Center for PTSD, approximately 8% of the US population will experience PTSD in their lives. An average of 10% of women, compared to 4% of men, will suffer from PTSD in their lifetime. Those struggling with PTSD have difficulty sleeping, irritability, trauma-related nightmares, often avoid leaving their house, and several other adverse symptoms. Certain populations appear to experience more trauma, and thus endorse higher rates of PTSD. Among veterans, the rates of PTSD are significantly higher, with upwards of 18-30% of veterans meeting criteria for PTSD. Some studies have found more than 45% of student veterans with likely PTSD. While research has shown that there is a relationship between trauma type and prevalence of PTSD, as well as shown differences between men and women, this information is not available for student veterans. This study sought to answer if there is a difference in the severity level of PTSD and the type of trauma a person experienced and their gender. Student veterans (n=348) from across the country participated in this study. The results generally showed no significant difference in the severity or prevalence scores across trauma types. However, among those who experienced sexual assault, there were some interesting findings across genders. Men who reported being sexually assaulted endorsed more intrusion symptoms than women, along with more severe alterations to cognition and mood, while 57.14% percent of women (36.14% of men) endorsed full PTSD symptoms after a sexual assault. However, more men (96.39%) screened like for major depressive disorder after a sexual assault than women (73.68%). These results illustrate differences across gender in processing sexual assault and provide insight into potential considerations for treatment.
Faculty Advisor: Hinkson, Kent (Utah Valley University, Behavioral Science)
According to the National Center for PTSD, approximately 8% of the US population will experience PTSD in their lives. An average of 10% of women, compared to 4% of men, will suffer from PTSD in their lifetime. Those struggling with PTSD have difficulty sleeping, irritability, trauma-related nightmares, often avoid leaving their house, and several other adverse symptoms. Certain populations appear to experience more trauma, and thus endorse higher rates of PTSD. Among veterans, the rates of PTSD are significantly higher, with upwards of 18-30% of veterans meeting criteria for PTSD. Some studies have found more than 45% of student veterans with likely PTSD. While research has shown that there is a relationship between trauma type and prevalence of PTSD, as well as shown differences between men and women, this information is not available for student veterans. This study sought to answer if there is a difference in the severity level of PTSD and the type of trauma a person experienced and their gender. Student veterans (n=348) from across the country participated in this study. The results generally showed no significant difference in the severity or prevalence scores across trauma types. However, among those who experienced sexual assault, there were some interesting findings across genders. Men who reported being sexually assaulted endorsed more intrusion symptoms than women, along with more severe alterations to cognition and mood, while 57.14% percent of women (36.14% of men) endorsed full PTSD symptoms after a sexual assault. However, more men (96.39%) screened like for major depressive disorder after a sexual assault than women (73.68%). These results illustrate differences across gender in processing sexual assault and provide insight into potential considerations for treatment.
Perceived Barriers of LGBTQ College Students Achieving their Career Goals
Harley Cragun, Kacy Craig, Josh Parmenter, Renee Galliher, Ryan Berke (Utah State University)
Faculty Advisor: Berke, Ryan (College of Engineering, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department); Galliher, Renee (Emma Eccles Jones College of Education & Human Services, Psychology Department)
LGBTQ+ college students are a minority group of people who face the emerging challenges of adulthood and career decision making, as well as the unique challenge of navigating a minority sexual or gender identity. To fill the gaps in literature about the relationship between career development and decision making and identity development, over 400 LGBTQ+ college students of all disciplines from across the United States were surveyed. As part of a larger survey, students provided responses to the following open-ended question — "Please describe any barriers you perceive that might prevent you from achieving your career goals." Engineering has historically been dominated by white, heterosexual males, possibly leading to unique sexual identity and career development experiences of LGBTQ Engineering students. Initial analysis identified 5 main themes of all responses, including health, discrimination, resources, technical skills and emotional ability. Further analysis will be done to compare the reported barriers of Engineering majors to all majors. (We are recruiting for a second round of surveys. If you are an LGBTQ Engineering student, please visit www.berkelab.com/lgbtq.)
Faculty Advisor: Berke, Ryan (College of Engineering, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department); Galliher, Renee (Emma Eccles Jones College of Education & Human Services, Psychology Department)
LGBTQ+ college students are a minority group of people who face the emerging challenges of adulthood and career decision making, as well as the unique challenge of navigating a minority sexual or gender identity. To fill the gaps in literature about the relationship between career development and decision making and identity development, over 400 LGBTQ+ college students of all disciplines from across the United States were surveyed. As part of a larger survey, students provided responses to the following open-ended question — "Please describe any barriers you perceive that might prevent you from achieving your career goals." Engineering has historically been dominated by white, heterosexual males, possibly leading to unique sexual identity and career development experiences of LGBTQ Engineering students. Initial analysis identified 5 main themes of all responses, including health, discrimination, resources, technical skills and emotional ability. Further analysis will be done to compare the reported barriers of Engineering majors to all majors. (We are recruiting for a second round of surveys. If you are an LGBTQ Engineering student, please visit www.berkelab.com/lgbtq.)
OHVs and Salmon Streams: Identifying beliefs and behaviors of Riders in the Mat-Su Valley
Gottschalk, Jake; Miller, Zachary; Liebich, Katrina (Utah State University)
Faculty Advisor: Miller, Zachary (S.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Environment and Society Department)
Salmonid populations are an important cultural, recreational, and economic resource throughout Alaska that are threatened by multiple sources. One often-overlooked source is damage to streambeds from recreation, especially from motorized recreation. OHV (off-highway vehicle) use can increase turbidity, nutrient loads, and erosion in these streams, which is harmful for juvenile salmonids. Stream crossings are common in the Mat-Su borough of Alaska, and enforcement for approved low-impact crossings is almost nonexistent. This study focused on developing a model, based on interviews and survey data, that explained OHV user's motive-driven stream crossings. Preliminary randomized interviews were conducted to focus survey questions, which revealed that approximately 90% of OHV users didn't know about approved crossings. Interview results showed strong motive for crossings that had low environmental impact and even stronger motive for crossings focused on safety. These interviews lead to refinements in the survey instrument, which focused on the importance of specific motives such as safety, environmental impacts, congestion, etc. and support for possible management actions, loosely based on the theory of planned behavior. Reliability analyses were conducted on the factors for the generalized linear model (GLM) to simplify the model and reduce collinearity. The model showed that safety and environmental responses were the most important predictors of crossing best practice behaviors. Signage and other indirect management methods were favored over direct management methods by survey respondents at this site. Signage focused on safety in conjunction with low-impact crossing locations was suggested to management as the best course of action. The results from this study will help inform managers in designing stream crossings and their supporting signage as OHV use continues to increase.
Faculty Advisor: Miller, Zachary (S.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Environment and Society Department)
Salmonid populations are an important cultural, recreational, and economic resource throughout Alaska that are threatened by multiple sources. One often-overlooked source is damage to streambeds from recreation, especially from motorized recreation. OHV (off-highway vehicle) use can increase turbidity, nutrient loads, and erosion in these streams, which is harmful for juvenile salmonids. Stream crossings are common in the Mat-Su borough of Alaska, and enforcement for approved low-impact crossings is almost nonexistent. This study focused on developing a model, based on interviews and survey data, that explained OHV user's motive-driven stream crossings. Preliminary randomized interviews were conducted to focus survey questions, which revealed that approximately 90% of OHV users didn't know about approved crossings. Interview results showed strong motive for crossings that had low environmental impact and even stronger motive for crossings focused on safety. These interviews lead to refinements in the survey instrument, which focused on the importance of specific motives such as safety, environmental impacts, congestion, etc. and support for possible management actions, loosely based on the theory of planned behavior. Reliability analyses were conducted on the factors for the generalized linear model (GLM) to simplify the model and reduce collinearity. The model showed that safety and environmental responses were the most important predictors of crossing best practice behaviors. Signage and other indirect management methods were favored over direct management methods by survey respondents at this site. Signage focused on safety in conjunction with low-impact crossing locations was suggested to management as the best course of action. The results from this study will help inform managers in designing stream crossings and their supporting signage as OHV use continues to increase.
Perception of Stakeholder on Impacts of Oil and Gas Industry in Ute Tribe
Tapoof, Koralene; Soyer, Mehmet (Utah State University)
Faculty Advisor: Soyer, Mehmet (College of Humanities and Social Sciences; Sociology, Social Work, and Anthropology Department)
With the increased development of natural gas in the United States, the northeastern part of Utah lies an area called the "Energy Hub" of the Uintah Basin. The estimated acreage is about five million acres, which 53 percent is controlled by the federal government. It is rich in tight sands and shale gas and has brought about recent gas exploration and development making this area in the Uintah and Duchesne counties of the Uintah Basin the largest oil and natural gas producing in the state of Utah. The purpose of this research is to examine how residents perceive the impacts of Oil and Gas developments in Ute Tribe Reservation. This proposed research will fill the gap in the literature regarding residents' perceptions on the impacts of hydraulic fracturing in Native Indian Reservation. We also explore the perceptions of Ute Tribe members on social, environmental, and health impacts of Oil and Gas Industry. Participants will be a minimum of 20 individuals who live in Ute Tribe Reservation, Fort Duchesne. The interviews will be in-depth and semi-structured. This study will be qualitative and exploratory. NVIVO 12 Qualitative software will be used to analyze collected data.
Faculty Advisor: Soyer, Mehmet (College of Humanities and Social Sciences; Sociology, Social Work, and Anthropology Department)
With the increased development of natural gas in the United States, the northeastern part of Utah lies an area called the "Energy Hub" of the Uintah Basin. The estimated acreage is about five million acres, which 53 percent is controlled by the federal government. It is rich in tight sands and shale gas and has brought about recent gas exploration and development making this area in the Uintah and Duchesne counties of the Uintah Basin the largest oil and natural gas producing in the state of Utah. The purpose of this research is to examine how residents perceive the impacts of Oil and Gas developments in Ute Tribe Reservation. This proposed research will fill the gap in the literature regarding residents' perceptions on the impacts of hydraulic fracturing in Native Indian Reservation. We also explore the perceptions of Ute Tribe members on social, environmental, and health impacts of Oil and Gas Industry. Participants will be a minimum of 20 individuals who live in Ute Tribe Reservation, Fort Duchesne. The interviews will be in-depth and semi-structured. This study will be qualitative and exploratory. NVIVO 12 Qualitative software will be used to analyze collected data.
Sex & Gender Attributes in Rock Art in Six Counties in Utah
Shipley, Samantha (Weber State University)
Faculty Advisor: Stevenson, Dr. Mark (Social & Behavioral Sciences, Sociology & Anthropology); Arkush, Dr. Brooke (Social & Behavioral Sciences, Sociology & Anthropology); Yoder, Dr. David (Social & Behavioral Sciences, Sociology & Anthropology)
This study evaluates the ways that gender and women's roles are interpreted in Utah rock art. Over 750 rock art images in the following six counties in Utah were evaluated: Box Elder (47 images), Carbon (488 images), Juab (16 images), Millard (100 images), Tooele (33 images), and Utah (73 images). Along with a review of relevant literature, the study drew on rock art site forms to review any indication of sex/gender attributes. Though some rock art can be more easily interpreted, most is open to interpretation and requires extensive knowledge on the culture and ethnographic analysis. There were not many panels that displayed gender attributes. However, we cannot be sure that anthropomorphic figures did not represent both males and females. Though some rock art motifs can be more easily interpreted, most require extensive knowledge on the culture and ethnographic analysis to reach a probable conclusion. Identifying sex and gender within rock art motifs can be difficult without understanding the cultural construction as we oftentimes have biases and cultural assumptions of our own. Understanding social roles in native Utahn populations is beneficial for furthering anthropological research in the area.
Faculty Advisor: Stevenson, Dr. Mark (Social & Behavioral Sciences, Sociology & Anthropology); Arkush, Dr. Brooke (Social & Behavioral Sciences, Sociology & Anthropology); Yoder, Dr. David (Social & Behavioral Sciences, Sociology & Anthropology)
This study evaluates the ways that gender and women's roles are interpreted in Utah rock art. Over 750 rock art images in the following six counties in Utah were evaluated: Box Elder (47 images), Carbon (488 images), Juab (16 images), Millard (100 images), Tooele (33 images), and Utah (73 images). Along with a review of relevant literature, the study drew on rock art site forms to review any indication of sex/gender attributes. Though some rock art can be more easily interpreted, most is open to interpretation and requires extensive knowledge on the culture and ethnographic analysis. There were not many panels that displayed gender attributes. However, we cannot be sure that anthropomorphic figures did not represent both males and females. Though some rock art motifs can be more easily interpreted, most require extensive knowledge on the culture and ethnographic analysis to reach a probable conclusion. Identifying sex and gender within rock art motifs can be difficult without understanding the cultural construction as we oftentimes have biases and cultural assumptions of our own. Understanding social roles in native Utahn populations is beneficial for furthering anthropological research in the area.
Perceived Academic Self-Efficacy and Language
Chavez Marin, Yazmin; Ellis, Lesa (Westminster College)
Faculty Advisor: Ellis, Lesa (Westminster College, Neuroscience)
Several schools and workplaces have implemented a "speak-English-only" policy that tends to develop into a hostile environment. At times these policies involve students or workers being disciplined for speaking just a few words in a non-English language while at work or during personal time. In short, these policies tend to create an environment that involves publicly commenting on a person's use of their primary language in a negative way. Keeping in mind that language aids in connecting and solidifying elements of identity and social connections, I ask how bilinguals in these situations view themselves when they are speaking in English, or a non-English language (Spanish-speakers in particular). In this experiment, we analyzed if bilingual (English and Spanish) have an internalize biased depending on what language they are using in academic settings. In this experiment, we will be testing what implicit biases people have when they are presented with words in Spanish or in English through an Implicit Association Test that looks at how participants pair words, positive or negative, with themselves or with others. We expect to find that people tend to respond faster when they pair Spanish words with themselves, and slower when they pair English words with themselves. This research can help expand the knowledge of how bilinguals, or multilinguals interact with their environment, and how language impacts thoughts.
Faculty Advisor: Ellis, Lesa (Westminster College, Neuroscience)
Several schools and workplaces have implemented a "speak-English-only" policy that tends to develop into a hostile environment. At times these policies involve students or workers being disciplined for speaking just a few words in a non-English language while at work or during personal time. In short, these policies tend to create an environment that involves publicly commenting on a person's use of their primary language in a negative way. Keeping in mind that language aids in connecting and solidifying elements of identity and social connections, I ask how bilinguals in these situations view themselves when they are speaking in English, or a non-English language (Spanish-speakers in particular). In this experiment, we analyzed if bilingual (English and Spanish) have an internalize biased depending on what language they are using in academic settings. In this experiment, we will be testing what implicit biases people have when they are presented with words in Spanish or in English through an Implicit Association Test that looks at how participants pair words, positive or negative, with themselves or with others. We expect to find that people tend to respond faster when they pair Spanish words with themselves, and slower when they pair English words with themselves. This research can help expand the knowledge of how bilinguals, or multilinguals interact with their environment, and how language impacts thoughts.
Reeducation or Genocide? The Hidden Torture of Millions of Chinese Citizens
Abdulla, Munawwar; Bovingdon, Gardner; Brophy, David; Cabras, Giulia; Dillon, Michael; Friedrichs, Jorg; Hess, Steve; Holdstock, Nick; Ingram, Ruth; Langfitt, Frank; Roberts, Sean; Schluessel, Eric; Shapiro, Ari; Smith-Finley, Joanne; Torrey, Zachary; Veselic, Maja; Yuan, Zhenjie; Zang, Xiaowei; Zhang, Shawn (Brigham Young University)
Faculty Advisor: Larsen, Kirk (Family, Home, and Social Sciences; History); Schill, Steve (Family, Home, and Social Sciences; Geography)
The westernmost Chinese province of Xinjiang has in recent years become a hotbed of turmoil. The largest ethnic group in the region, the ethnically-Turkic Uyghur people, has been facing a systematic persecution by the Chinese government; most notably, this includes their forcible placement into "reeducation camps" across the province. Out of the more than eleven million Uyghurs in Xinjiang, it is estimated that up to a million are currently interned in one of these camps ("China's repression", 2018). One especially defining feature of the Uyghur people is their practice of Islam; it is said that they have traditionally practiced Islam since the 15th century, and mosques are prevalent across the cities of Xinjiang (Veselic, 2011; "Authorities in Xinjiang", 2017). The Uyghurs and religion of Islam are tied in such a tight ethnoreligious way that in this review the term Uyghur may generally be used to refer to a Uyghur Muslim in specific (Veselic, 2011). Islam, along with other defining characteristics, set the Uyghurs apart in stark contrast from the Han Chinese majority that makes up over 91% of China's total population (Zang, 2015; Roberts, 2018). In this presentation, I will look at a variety of factors that the Chinese government uses to justify the internment of the Uyghur people. I will also use ArcGIS Pro technology to examine satellite images and camp records to map the current extent of the reeducation camps, in an effort to follow what has already taken place and what the future will have in store for the Uyghur people.
Faculty Advisor: Larsen, Kirk (Family, Home, and Social Sciences; History); Schill, Steve (Family, Home, and Social Sciences; Geography)
The westernmost Chinese province of Xinjiang has in recent years become a hotbed of turmoil. The largest ethnic group in the region, the ethnically-Turkic Uyghur people, has been facing a systematic persecution by the Chinese government; most notably, this includes their forcible placement into "reeducation camps" across the province. Out of the more than eleven million Uyghurs in Xinjiang, it is estimated that up to a million are currently interned in one of these camps ("China's repression", 2018). One especially defining feature of the Uyghur people is their practice of Islam; it is said that they have traditionally practiced Islam since the 15th century, and mosques are prevalent across the cities of Xinjiang (Veselic, 2011; "Authorities in Xinjiang", 2017). The Uyghurs and religion of Islam are tied in such a tight ethnoreligious way that in this review the term Uyghur may generally be used to refer to a Uyghur Muslim in specific (Veselic, 2011). Islam, along with other defining characteristics, set the Uyghurs apart in stark contrast from the Han Chinese majority that makes up over 91% of China's total population (Zang, 2015; Roberts, 2018). In this presentation, I will look at a variety of factors that the Chinese government uses to justify the internment of the Uyghur people. I will also use ArcGIS Pro technology to examine satellite images and camp records to map the current extent of the reeducation camps, in an effort to follow what has already taken place and what the future will have in store for the Uyghur people.
Saddam Hussein's Use of Memorialism to Build Iraqi Nationalism: A Case Study on Dictatorial Regime Behavior
Allred, Madison; Otterstrom, Samuel (Brigham Young University)
Faculty Advisor: Otterstrom, Samuel(Brigham Young University, Family, Home and Social Sciences, Geography)
Over the past 20 years the behavior of dictatorial regimes have been studied in various social science fields, but so far the extension of analysis into the field of Geography has been minimal. I show that not only can Geography shed valuable light onto these issues, but it is essential to incorporate geographical findings into the global discussion of protecting the sanctity of life and promoting peace.
I aim to show how dictators use the geographic principle of memorialism and change the urban and human landscape to build nationalism in fractured states. I have narrowed the scope of my research by using the reign of Saddam Hussein as a case study. He is the perfect focus for this case study because his reign had a definitive beginning and end, his works are relatively well documented and his name is well known in academic communities as well as by the general populus. Since I want my research to make an impact and grab the attention of academia as well as policy makers, choosing a person that held the fascination of the American public for years was critical.
By examining the available data and utilizing GIS, we are able to come to conclusions of Saddam Hussein's behavior and find correlations only observable by mapping and spatially analyzing the data. My research is relevant not only to the field of Geography, but can be useful to decisions on US Foreign Policy. If it can be proven that Saddam Hussein and other similar dictators utilize memorialism, can evidence of memorialism be used as a key indicator in various foreign policy decisions? If dictators use memorialism to build nationalism, can memorialism be used preventatively in fractured states to prevent the rise of potentially bloody dictatorial regimes? The results of my research call for further action and analysis to be taken by academics and subsequent political action based upon their findings.
Faculty Advisor: Otterstrom, Samuel(Brigham Young University, Family, Home and Social Sciences, Geography)
Over the past 20 years the behavior of dictatorial regimes have been studied in various social science fields, but so far the extension of analysis into the field of Geography has been minimal. I show that not only can Geography shed valuable light onto these issues, but it is essential to incorporate geographical findings into the global discussion of protecting the sanctity of life and promoting peace.
I aim to show how dictators use the geographic principle of memorialism and change the urban and human landscape to build nationalism in fractured states. I have narrowed the scope of my research by using the reign of Saddam Hussein as a case study. He is the perfect focus for this case study because his reign had a definitive beginning and end, his works are relatively well documented and his name is well known in academic communities as well as by the general populus. Since I want my research to make an impact and grab the attention of academia as well as policy makers, choosing a person that held the fascination of the American public for years was critical.
By examining the available data and utilizing GIS, we are able to come to conclusions of Saddam Hussein's behavior and find correlations only observable by mapping and spatially analyzing the data. My research is relevant not only to the field of Geography, but can be useful to decisions on US Foreign Policy. If it can be proven that Saddam Hussein and other similar dictators utilize memorialism, can evidence of memorialism be used as a key indicator in various foreign policy decisions? If dictators use memorialism to build nationalism, can memorialism be used preventatively in fractured states to prevent the rise of potentially bloody dictatorial regimes? The results of my research call for further action and analysis to be taken by academics and subsequent political action based upon their findings.
Optimism in the Face of Transition: Scouting in Utah County
McFarlane, Amanda (Brigham Young University)
Faculty Advisor: Haug, Jordan (Brigham Young University, Anthropology); Thompson, Greg (Brigham Young University, Anthropology)
The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the Church) have been partners for over hundred years, with the Church chartering Cub Scout and Boy Scout troops in each of its American congregations for their boys ages 8-11 and 12-18 respectively. Within the Utah National Parks Council (UNPC) of the BSA, the high concentration of members of the Church has led to the BSA being thought of synonymously with the Church and its involvement. In May of 2018, however, the Church announced that, starting January 1, 2020, they would no longer be chartering troops through the BSA for their male youth, leading to confusion about the role of Scouting in Utah and how it would change or if it would continue. The analysis of this ethnographic data, gathered at BSA events across Utah County and Camp Maple Dell in Payson, seeks to address the ways that Scouting has been influenced by its close relationship with the Church in the UNPC, the benefits and challenges it has presented, and how those that are highly involved in Scouting (employed by the UNPC) have been dealing with the impending transition and their optimism about having a better environment for Scouting without the direct influence of the Church.
Faculty Advisor: Haug, Jordan (Brigham Young University, Anthropology); Thompson, Greg (Brigham Young University, Anthropology)
The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the Church) have been partners for over hundred years, with the Church chartering Cub Scout and Boy Scout troops in each of its American congregations for their boys ages 8-11 and 12-18 respectively. Within the Utah National Parks Council (UNPC) of the BSA, the high concentration of members of the Church has led to the BSA being thought of synonymously with the Church and its involvement. In May of 2018, however, the Church announced that, starting January 1, 2020, they would no longer be chartering troops through the BSA for their male youth, leading to confusion about the role of Scouting in Utah and how it would change or if it would continue. The analysis of this ethnographic data, gathered at BSA events across Utah County and Camp Maple Dell in Payson, seeks to address the ways that Scouting has been influenced by its close relationship with the Church in the UNPC, the benefits and challenges it has presented, and how those that are highly involved in Scouting (employed by the UNPC) have been dealing with the impending transition and their optimism about having a better environment for Scouting without the direct influence of the Church.
Patient autonomy among patients utilizing free clinic services in Utah
Alvord, Margaret; Dinehart, Claire; Holdeman, Alexis (University of Utah)
Faculty Advisor: Kamimua, Akiko (College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Sociology)
The purpose of this project is to evaluate the factors that affect levels of patient perspectives of autonomy in clinical decision making among uninsured patients utilizing a free clinic. Patient autonomy in clinical settings is important because it can lead to more successful outcomes as well as an overall increase in patient satisfaction with their health care. Uninsured primary care patients tend to experience barriers to autonomy in clinical decision making due to limited choices of health care facilities and low health literacy. However, patient autonomy among underserved populations is an under-studied topic because ensuring access to care is usually the top priority for the populations. This proposed study will fill the gap and contribute to reducing disparities in health care. Data has been collected from patients of the Maliheh Free Clinic in Salt Lake City using a self-administered survey in fall 2019. Patients who are aged 18 or older and speak English or Spanish are eligible to participate in this study. As of October 29, 2019, 254 patients participated in the survey. Preliminary results suggest that older patients and non-US born patients were more likely to believe that providers should decide (less patient autonomy). Older patients were more likely to believe that they should be informed of potential risks in treatment. These results have potential applications for free-clinics to increase patient satisfaction and informed health care decision making. Informing patients of their right to autonomy can also lead to more trusting physician-patient relationships and therefore better health care.
Faculty Advisor: Kamimua, Akiko (College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Sociology)
The purpose of this project is to evaluate the factors that affect levels of patient perspectives of autonomy in clinical decision making among uninsured patients utilizing a free clinic. Patient autonomy in clinical settings is important because it can lead to more successful outcomes as well as an overall increase in patient satisfaction with their health care. Uninsured primary care patients tend to experience barriers to autonomy in clinical decision making due to limited choices of health care facilities and low health literacy. However, patient autonomy among underserved populations is an under-studied topic because ensuring access to care is usually the top priority for the populations. This proposed study will fill the gap and contribute to reducing disparities in health care. Data has been collected from patients of the Maliheh Free Clinic in Salt Lake City using a self-administered survey in fall 2019. Patients who are aged 18 or older and speak English or Spanish are eligible to participate in this study. As of October 29, 2019, 254 patients participated in the survey. Preliminary results suggest that older patients and non-US born patients were more likely to believe that providers should decide (less patient autonomy). Older patients were more likely to believe that they should be informed of potential risks in treatment. These results have potential applications for free-clinics to increase patient satisfaction and informed health care decision making. Informing patients of their right to autonomy can also lead to more trusting physician-patient relationships and therefore better health care.
Prenatal Maternal Chronic Cortisol Concentrations and the Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Nervous System Activation as Predictors of Newborn Neurobehavior
Brewster, Melissa; Conradt, Elisabeth. (University of Utah)
Faculty Advisor: Conradt, Elisabeth (University of Utah, Psychology)
Stress exposure in the early years of life is a public health concern since this exposure can lead to a variety of illnesses ranging from diabetes to depression. More specifically, previous research has emphasized the importance of understanding the impact of stress exposure on an infant. However, there is limited research linking in utero stress exposure to later infant development, more specifically, on newborn self-regulation and neurobehavior. We examined whether newborn neurobehavior was associated with prenatal maternal psychophysiological signs of stress. Pregnant women (N=162) during their third trimester were invited to the child adaptation and neurodevelopment (CAN) laboratory to acquire hair cortisol concentrations, baseline heart rate (HR), baseline respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), and baseline electrodermal activity (EDA) parameters: skin conductance response (SCR) and skin conductance levels (SCL). Subsequent to this visit was the hospital visit. We assessed newborns between twenty-four hours and two months of age using the NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale (NNNS) which measures the dimensions of attention and arousal. We conducted correlations and ordinary least squares regression analyses. Maternal hair cortisol levels were not significantly associated with newborn attention (r= -.026, p=.77) and arousal (r= -.077, p= .382). However, exploratory analyses demonstrated that hair hygiene may affect these results. Baseline HR was not associated with attention (r= .012, p=.879) and arousal (r= -.002, p=.979). Baseline RSA was also not associated with attention (r= -.106, p=.192) and arousal (r= .071, p= .381). Lastly, baseline SCR and SCL were not associated to newborn attention (r=-.094, p=.247; r=-.013, p=.874) and arousal (r=-.077, p=.342; r=-.12, p=.138), respectively. These results suggest that having naturally high or low psychophysiological measurements has little-to-no impact on infant well-being, as opposed to stress reactivity.
Faculty Advisor: Conradt, Elisabeth (University of Utah, Psychology)
Stress exposure in the early years of life is a public health concern since this exposure can lead to a variety of illnesses ranging from diabetes to depression. More specifically, previous research has emphasized the importance of understanding the impact of stress exposure on an infant. However, there is limited research linking in utero stress exposure to later infant development, more specifically, on newborn self-regulation and neurobehavior. We examined whether newborn neurobehavior was associated with prenatal maternal psychophysiological signs of stress. Pregnant women (N=162) during their third trimester were invited to the child adaptation and neurodevelopment (CAN) laboratory to acquire hair cortisol concentrations, baseline heart rate (HR), baseline respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), and baseline electrodermal activity (EDA) parameters: skin conductance response (SCR) and skin conductance levels (SCL). Subsequent to this visit was the hospital visit. We assessed newborns between twenty-four hours and two months of age using the NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale (NNNS) which measures the dimensions of attention and arousal. We conducted correlations and ordinary least squares regression analyses. Maternal hair cortisol levels were not significantly associated with newborn attention (r= -.026, p=.77) and arousal (r= -.077, p= .382). However, exploratory analyses demonstrated that hair hygiene may affect these results. Baseline HR was not associated with attention (r= .012, p=.879) and arousal (r= -.002, p=.979). Baseline RSA was also not associated with attention (r= -.106, p=.192) and arousal (r= .071, p= .381). Lastly, baseline SCR and SCL were not associated to newborn attention (r=-.094, p=.247; r=-.013, p=.874) and arousal (r=-.077, p=.342; r=-.12, p=.138), respectively. These results suggest that having naturally high or low psychophysiological measurements has little-to-no impact on infant well-being, as opposed to stress reactivity.
Opioid Use and Abuse Among Utah Women
Bradee Goepper (Weber State University)
Faculty Advisor: Lancaster, Alexander (Weber State University, Communications)
This study is a collaboration between Ogden Civic Action Network (CAN) and the Weber State University CCEL Community Research Team, investigating opioid addiction within the Weber State community. Weber Morgan Health Department reports an increased rate of opioid overdoses within Weber County. The purpose of this study is to examine religious beliefs, mental health, and the subgroup of women ages 24-44, in terms of reported opioid use and abuse. According to data from the Weber County Health Department, the specific demographic of women ages 24-44, exhibits a higher rate of opioid abuse when compared to other demographic groups. Current research also indicates that the Utah women's opioid death rate is four points higher than the national average (Weber County Opioid Death Statistics). We can expect that the results from this study will support these previously reported trends.
"Weber County Opioid Death Statistics." LiveStories, https://www.livestories.com/statistics/utah/weber-county-opioids-deaths-mortality.
Faculty Advisor: Lancaster, Alexander (Weber State University, Communications)
This study is a collaboration between Ogden Civic Action Network (CAN) and the Weber State University CCEL Community Research Team, investigating opioid addiction within the Weber State community. Weber Morgan Health Department reports an increased rate of opioid overdoses within Weber County. The purpose of this study is to examine religious beliefs, mental health, and the subgroup of women ages 24-44, in terms of reported opioid use and abuse. According to data from the Weber County Health Department, the specific demographic of women ages 24-44, exhibits a higher rate of opioid abuse when compared to other demographic groups. Current research also indicates that the Utah women's opioid death rate is four points higher than the national average (Weber County Opioid Death Statistics). We can expect that the results from this study will support these previously reported trends.
"Weber County Opioid Death Statistics." LiveStories, https://www.livestories.com/statistics/utah/weber-county-opioids-deaths-mortality.
Sex comparisons in C57BL/6 mice for assays of pain-stimulated and pain-depressed behaviors.
Patrick I. Garrett, Andrew N. Maloy, Allyson G Barraza, Braxton Tonks, Ashley M. Peterson, Sarah C. Honeycutt, Todd M. Hillhouse (Weber State University)
Current opioid drug treatments for acute and chronic pain have problematic side effects (e.g. addiction and respiratory depression). In general, preclinical studies use assays of pain-stimulated behaviors, which are defined as behaviors that increase in frequency, rate or intensity after delivery of a noxious stimulus. However, pain-stimulated behaviors can be reduced by drugs that suppress motor activity but lack analgesic properties. Novel assays of pain-depressed behaviors are defined as a decrease in frequency, rate or intensity after delivery of a noxious stimulus. Pain-depressed behaviors are used in complement to pain-stimulated behaviors because drugs that suppress motor activity will not produce analgesic properties in these assays. The present study sought to evaluate sex differences in C57BL/6 mice in assays of pain-stimulated (i.e. hot plate and acid-induced stretching) and pain-depressed behaviors (nesting, rearing, and locomotor activity). No sex differences were found in the hot plate test, or acid-induced stretching, as the noxious stimulus increased behavior in both sexes. During control conditions, male mice exhibited greater nesting behavior and rearing activity. However, treatment with 0.32% and 0.56% lactic acid depressed nesting, rearing, and locomotor activity to the same degree in male and female mice. These results suggest that some pain-depressed assays, such as nesting and rearing, might be more sensitive to sex difference; however, these sex differences are not expressed in pain-stimulated behaviors. In recent years the National Institute of Health (NIH) required the use of male and female animals in all studies. This study provides evidence on which pain assays will require separate groups to address behavioral sex differences.
Current opioid drug treatments for acute and chronic pain have problematic side effects (e.g. addiction and respiratory depression). In general, preclinical studies use assays of pain-stimulated behaviors, which are defined as behaviors that increase in frequency, rate or intensity after delivery of a noxious stimulus. However, pain-stimulated behaviors can be reduced by drugs that suppress motor activity but lack analgesic properties. Novel assays of pain-depressed behaviors are defined as a decrease in frequency, rate or intensity after delivery of a noxious stimulus. Pain-depressed behaviors are used in complement to pain-stimulated behaviors because drugs that suppress motor activity will not produce analgesic properties in these assays. The present study sought to evaluate sex differences in C57BL/6 mice in assays of pain-stimulated (i.e. hot plate and acid-induced stretching) and pain-depressed behaviors (nesting, rearing, and locomotor activity). No sex differences were found in the hot plate test, or acid-induced stretching, as the noxious stimulus increased behavior in both sexes. During control conditions, male mice exhibited greater nesting behavior and rearing activity. However, treatment with 0.32% and 0.56% lactic acid depressed nesting, rearing, and locomotor activity to the same degree in male and female mice. These results suggest that some pain-depressed assays, such as nesting and rearing, might be more sensitive to sex difference; however, these sex differences are not expressed in pain-stimulated behaviors. In recent years the National Institute of Health (NIH) required the use of male and female animals in all studies. This study provides evidence on which pain assays will require separate groups to address behavioral sex differences.
Searching for the Fountain of Ute: Birthplace and Longevity in Utah
Kristianna J. Radley - Department of Psychology, University of Utah. u1119263@utah.edu. Rebecca R. Steed - Population Science, Huntsman Cancer Institute; Department of Geography, University of Utah. Dr. Huong Meeks - Population Science, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah. Dr. Ken R. Smith - Utah Population Database, Population Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute; Department of Family and Consumer Studies, University of Utah. (University of Utah)
Faculty Advisor: Smith, Ken (University of Utah, Department of Family and Consumer Studies)
How is your risk of mortality as an adult affected by your living circumstances, your family and your neighborhood that existed earlier? In the state of Utah, we have a historical collection of data on individual circumstances early in life and death records for the entire population through the Utah Population Database (UPDB). This work began by creating geographical representations of the longevity in Utah by neighborhoods based on residential location in 1940 to determine if certain areas are associated with higher, or possibly lower, adult mortality rates. The 1940 census was used because it represents the most recent census year where specific identifiers are available that allows us to follow individuals until their deaths or their current age. We found that mortality risks vary based on an individual's location residence in 1940, specifically adults living in urban areas. This research is being extended by exploring individual characteristics that may explain these spatial longevity differentials. For this work, it will also be important to explore how individual and neighborhood characteristics may interact, where certain combinations serve to either increase or decrease the risk of adult mortality. We are continuing this research by adding a third level of analysis by including a familial component in relation to mortality risk. This additional component allows us to determine if family members share a risk of mortality which might be associated with neighborhood clustering (since family members may be more likely to live near one another) or because of shared genetics. By studying all three levels of mortality risk, this research will lead to a more comprehensive assessment of the social and geographic origins of mortality risk (at the level of the individual, family, and community). This work may have the ability to identify community characteristics that will promote healthier and longer lives.
Faculty Advisor: Smith, Ken (University of Utah, Department of Family and Consumer Studies)
How is your risk of mortality as an adult affected by your living circumstances, your family and your neighborhood that existed earlier? In the state of Utah, we have a historical collection of data on individual circumstances early in life and death records for the entire population through the Utah Population Database (UPDB). This work began by creating geographical representations of the longevity in Utah by neighborhoods based on residential location in 1940 to determine if certain areas are associated with higher, or possibly lower, adult mortality rates. The 1940 census was used because it represents the most recent census year where specific identifiers are available that allows us to follow individuals until their deaths or their current age. We found that mortality risks vary based on an individual's location residence in 1940, specifically adults living in urban areas. This research is being extended by exploring individual characteristics that may explain these spatial longevity differentials. For this work, it will also be important to explore how individual and neighborhood characteristics may interact, where certain combinations serve to either increase or decrease the risk of adult mortality. We are continuing this research by adding a third level of analysis by including a familial component in relation to mortality risk. This additional component allows us to determine if family members share a risk of mortality which might be associated with neighborhood clustering (since family members may be more likely to live near one another) or because of shared genetics. By studying all three levels of mortality risk, this research will lead to a more comprehensive assessment of the social and geographic origins of mortality risk (at the level of the individual, family, and community). This work may have the ability to identify community characteristics that will promote healthier and longer lives.
Research on Burnout in college students
Mattei, Dustin; Angell, Emma; Truman, Savanah; Wood, Kyle; Holiday, Pam; Gonzales, Veronica; Price, Ashton (Dixie State University)
Faculty Advisor: Oxley, Robert (Dixie State University, Applied Sociology)
Burnout, defined by the World Health Organization as "a syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed," is the Quality of Life research topic for the Institute of Social Research Team Fall 2019. A literature review of past research regarding the topic burnout has been conducted to understand the effects it has on society. The effect of burnout on college students is a subtopic of the research by the ISR Team. The research team has a survey developed and disbursed to students of Dixie State University (DSU) to gather burnout indicators among college students. The data will show how burnout affects students of different backgrounds, and if they see burnout as a normal part of their college experience. People are socialized into norms and values that represent a quality life. College students are subconsciously taught that burnout is accepted as a societal norm. Though burnout is a popular topic to discuss there are questions that remain. Does it affect aspects of their social, academic, and career life? After the survey data is gathered, sociological theories will be applied to answer the question and to gain a better understanding of burnout among DSU college students.
Faculty Advisor: Oxley, Robert (Dixie State University, Applied Sociology)
Burnout, defined by the World Health Organization as "a syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed," is the Quality of Life research topic for the Institute of Social Research Team Fall 2019. A literature review of past research regarding the topic burnout has been conducted to understand the effects it has on society. The effect of burnout on college students is a subtopic of the research by the ISR Team. The research team has a survey developed and disbursed to students of Dixie State University (DSU) to gather burnout indicators among college students. The data will show how burnout affects students of different backgrounds, and if they see burnout as a normal part of their college experience. People are socialized into norms and values that represent a quality life. College students are subconsciously taught that burnout is accepted as a societal norm. Though burnout is a popular topic to discuss there are questions that remain. Does it affect aspects of their social, academic, and career life? After the survey data is gathered, sociological theories will be applied to answer the question and to gain a better understanding of burnout among DSU college students.
Relationships Between Reflexive and Sustained Attention
Farstead, Brian; Williford, Tanner; Schow, Hunter; Muldowney, John; Stewart, Victoria (Brigham Young University)
Faculty Advisor: Lundwall, Rebecca (Brigham Young university, Psychology, Cognitive and Behavioral Nueroscience)
Reflexive and sustained attention are important components of daily functioning, and those who exhibit attention deficits typically have problems in school, work, and relationships. Previous studies have measured sustained and reflexive attention using different tasks with disparate stimuli. Because the stimuli are different, it is unclear how reflexive and sustained attention are related. There are some indications in the literature that individuals tend to be better at one or the other type of task.
We measured reflexive and sustained attention in a sample (N=185) of children who completed two computer tasks that recorded response time and accuracy. We developed the two tasks so that all stimuli were identical, but the reflexive attention task used peripheral stimuli and the sustained attention task used central stimuli. Parents also completed questionnaires reporting demographics (e.g., age and sex) and the child's usual sleep habits, behavior at home, and behavior at school. Asking about sleep, home behavior, and school behavior allows us to identify predictors of individual variability in computer-task scores.
We anticipated that children who have a better reflexive attention (lower response times and higher accuracy) would score lower on sustained attention. Furthermore, we expect the relationship between reflexive and sustained attention would be moderated by aspects of behavior related to sleep, home-life, and school. Determining the relationship between different components of attention is important because it will help us to understand the underlying factors that contribute to different deficits in attention. Furthermore, it is important to understand how these different components of attention manifest by age, sex, behaviors at home and behaviors in school. Understanding the relationship between reflexive and sustained attention and their association with child characteristics could potentially contribute to interventions in individuals who have symptoms of attentional deficits.
Faculty Advisor: Lundwall, Rebecca (Brigham Young university, Psychology, Cognitive and Behavioral Nueroscience)
Reflexive and sustained attention are important components of daily functioning, and those who exhibit attention deficits typically have problems in school, work, and relationships. Previous studies have measured sustained and reflexive attention using different tasks with disparate stimuli. Because the stimuli are different, it is unclear how reflexive and sustained attention are related. There are some indications in the literature that individuals tend to be better at one or the other type of task.
We measured reflexive and sustained attention in a sample (N=185) of children who completed two computer tasks that recorded response time and accuracy. We developed the two tasks so that all stimuli were identical, but the reflexive attention task used peripheral stimuli and the sustained attention task used central stimuli. Parents also completed questionnaires reporting demographics (e.g., age and sex) and the child's usual sleep habits, behavior at home, and behavior at school. Asking about sleep, home behavior, and school behavior allows us to identify predictors of individual variability in computer-task scores.
We anticipated that children who have a better reflexive attention (lower response times and higher accuracy) would score lower on sustained attention. Furthermore, we expect the relationship between reflexive and sustained attention would be moderated by aspects of behavior related to sleep, home-life, and school. Determining the relationship between different components of attention is important because it will help us to understand the underlying factors that contribute to different deficits in attention. Furthermore, it is important to understand how these different components of attention manifest by age, sex, behaviors at home and behaviors in school. Understanding the relationship between reflexive and sustained attention and their association with child characteristics could potentially contribute to interventions in individuals who have symptoms of attentional deficits.
Opioid Narratives
Hamilton, Emily; Voss, Maren Wright; Swenson, Kira; Lichfield, Lana (Utah State University)
Faculty Advisor: Voss, Maren (Emma Eccles Jones College of Education & Human Services, Kinesiology and Health Science Department)
We interviewed rural individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) to get a better handle on opioid misuse disorders causes and solutions.
To minimize bias in the conducting of interviews, we followed a community engagement model of training community members to interview participants. Two community members were recruited from the recovery community to receive training as a community scholar. Each community scholar completed CITI training which meets National Institutes of Health standards for the Responsible Conduct of Research for human subjects. Each community scholar completed two additional sessions of training on qualitative data collection and interviewing skills. Interviews were scheduled and participants were provided with an Institutional Review Board-approved informed consent form. Given the sensitive nature of the topic, the consent form stressed the option to use a pseudonym and the opportunity to withdraw participation and interview content at any time. The participant was also informed of community resources if at any time during the interview they should become distressed. The community scholar conducted interviews using semi-structured interview prompts, with the freedom to ask clarifying or exploratory questions at will. A member of the IRB approved research team served as the recorder for each interview to ensure sound quality, ethics and safety.
The interviews collected by community scholars provide insight into the unique elements of dealing with an opioid addiction in rural Utah. Themes identified include the tendency toward isolation, the strength of the addiction and fear of withdrawals, and the utility of the criminal justice system as a pathway to recover. Interviews have been extended to an open forum of community conversations, to discuss difficult subject matter in a constructive way. The goal is to reduce stigma and engage community partners to collaborate on bringing in more available resources to help those who struggle.
Faculty Advisor: Voss, Maren (Emma Eccles Jones College of Education & Human Services, Kinesiology and Health Science Department)
We interviewed rural individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) to get a better handle on opioid misuse disorders causes and solutions.
To minimize bias in the conducting of interviews, we followed a community engagement model of training community members to interview participants. Two community members were recruited from the recovery community to receive training as a community scholar. Each community scholar completed CITI training which meets National Institutes of Health standards for the Responsible Conduct of Research for human subjects. Each community scholar completed two additional sessions of training on qualitative data collection and interviewing skills. Interviews were scheduled and participants were provided with an Institutional Review Board-approved informed consent form. Given the sensitive nature of the topic, the consent form stressed the option to use a pseudonym and the opportunity to withdraw participation and interview content at any time. The participant was also informed of community resources if at any time during the interview they should become distressed. The community scholar conducted interviews using semi-structured interview prompts, with the freedom to ask clarifying or exploratory questions at will. A member of the IRB approved research team served as the recorder for each interview to ensure sound quality, ethics and safety.
The interviews collected by community scholars provide insight into the unique elements of dealing with an opioid addiction in rural Utah. Themes identified include the tendency toward isolation, the strength of the addiction and fear of withdrawals, and the utility of the criminal justice system as a pathway to recover. Interviews have been extended to an open forum of community conversations, to discuss difficult subject matter in a constructive way. The goal is to reduce stigma and engage community partners to collaborate on bringing in more available resources to help those who struggle.
Relationship Efficacy as a Mediator Between Stress and Communication within Romantic Relationships.
Hansen, Rebecca; Spencer, Todd; Brosi, Matt; Hubler, Daniel (Utah Valley University)
Faculty Advisor: Spencer, Todd (Utah Valley University, Behavioral Science)
There has been a wealth of research examining the negative influence of stress on relationship outcomes. Additionally, research indicates the quality of communication between couples strongly influences their overall satisfaction in marriage (Fletcher, 2002). While stress has been associated with poorer communication quality among romantic partners (Bodenmann, 1997), little is known how relationship efficacy modifies that relationship. The purpose of the present study is to examine the extent relationship efficacy mediates the association between stress and communication quality. Our sample consists of 939 individuals who are between 18-70 years old and currently in a romantic relationship. Participants completed the Perceived Stress Scale - short form (PSS-4; Cohen, Kamarck, & Mermelstein, 1983), Active-Empathetic Listening Scale (AELS; Bodie, 2011), and Relationship Efficacy Measure (REM; Fincham, Harold, & Gano-Phillips, 2000). Following the mediation analysis outlined by Baron and Kenny (1981), we found that relationship efficacy did mediate the relationship between stress and communication quality, F (2,901) = 111.39, p=<.001. Results provide empirical support for the potential relationship efficacy holds to ameliorate the detrimental effects of stress on communication quality among romantic partners.
Faculty Advisor: Spencer, Todd (Utah Valley University, Behavioral Science)
There has been a wealth of research examining the negative influence of stress on relationship outcomes. Additionally, research indicates the quality of communication between couples strongly influences their overall satisfaction in marriage (Fletcher, 2002). While stress has been associated with poorer communication quality among romantic partners (Bodenmann, 1997), little is known how relationship efficacy modifies that relationship. The purpose of the present study is to examine the extent relationship efficacy mediates the association between stress and communication quality. Our sample consists of 939 individuals who are between 18-70 years old and currently in a romantic relationship. Participants completed the Perceived Stress Scale - short form (PSS-4; Cohen, Kamarck, & Mermelstein, 1983), Active-Empathetic Listening Scale (AELS; Bodie, 2011), and Relationship Efficacy Measure (REM; Fincham, Harold, & Gano-Phillips, 2000). Following the mediation analysis outlined by Baron and Kenny (1981), we found that relationship efficacy did mediate the relationship between stress and communication quality, F (2,901) = 111.39, p=<.001. Results provide empirical support for the potential relationship efficacy holds to ameliorate the detrimental effects of stress on communication quality among romantic partners.
Real-time storybook comprehension processes in preschoolers with high and low language skills: Evidence from eye-tracking
Loveless, Emily; Mack, Brittney; Squire, Jenna; Turner, Haylee; Nicholls, Emily; Luke, Steven; Cabbage, Kathryn (Brigham Young University)
Faculty Advisor: Luke, Steven (College of Family Home and Social Sciences, Psychology); Cabbage, Kathryn (McKay School of Education, Communication Disorders)
Language impairment affects approximately 7-9% of all children and puts children at risk for long-term negative impacts on academic performance, development of social relationships, and even vocational outcomes in adulthood (Clegg, Hollis, Mawhood, & Rutter, 2005). Preschoolers with language impairment have reduced vocabulary, use less complex oral language structures, have difficulty comprehending grammatical structures in spoken language, and poor social communication (Paul & Norbury, 2018). At present, a common recommendation to improve literacy skills in typically developing children emphasizes exposing children to stories through shared book reading from a young age. When being read a storybook, preschoolers without language impairment are more likely to focus their attention on the objects and people specifically mentioned in the text (Luke & Asplund, 2018), suggesting that they are connecting storybook images with oral language comprehension. It is unknown, however, whether children with language impairment benefit in the same way from recommended exposure to shared book reading to improve language and literacy outcomes. Prior research with older children with language impairment has shown that these children initially attend to the appropriate object or person in the text but do not sustain their attention to items that are relevant to what they're hearing (Nation, Marshall, & Altmann, 2004), suggesting they may need support learning what to attend to when integrating oral language with visual images. In this study, we aim to see if a similar pattern emerges for preschool-aged children with language impairment. This study has a strong potential to significantly improve our understanding of how to support language development processes during storybook reading, specifically with children with language impairment.
Faculty Advisor: Luke, Steven (College of Family Home and Social Sciences, Psychology); Cabbage, Kathryn (McKay School of Education, Communication Disorders)
Language impairment affects approximately 7-9% of all children and puts children at risk for long-term negative impacts on academic performance, development of social relationships, and even vocational outcomes in adulthood (Clegg, Hollis, Mawhood, & Rutter, 2005). Preschoolers with language impairment have reduced vocabulary, use less complex oral language structures, have difficulty comprehending grammatical structures in spoken language, and poor social communication (Paul & Norbury, 2018). At present, a common recommendation to improve literacy skills in typically developing children emphasizes exposing children to stories through shared book reading from a young age. When being read a storybook, preschoolers without language impairment are more likely to focus their attention on the objects and people specifically mentioned in the text (Luke & Asplund, 2018), suggesting that they are connecting storybook images with oral language comprehension. It is unknown, however, whether children with language impairment benefit in the same way from recommended exposure to shared book reading to improve language and literacy outcomes. Prior research with older children with language impairment has shown that these children initially attend to the appropriate object or person in the text but do not sustain their attention to items that are relevant to what they're hearing (Nation, Marshall, & Altmann, 2004), suggesting they may need support learning what to attend to when integrating oral language with visual images. In this study, we aim to see if a similar pattern emerges for preschool-aged children with language impairment. This study has a strong potential to significantly improve our understanding of how to support language development processes during storybook reading, specifically with children with language impairment.
Poverty, Malnutrition, and Food Pantry Satisfaction
Buchanan, Shayne; Estevez, Angel (Weber State University)
Faculty Advisor: Chapman, Heather (Weber State University, Psychology)
Abstract:
Poverty is a major epidemic throughout the world. Being in an impoverished state is extremely difficult as it makes living that much more stressful. Those lacking the ability to attain basic needs such as food are at high risk of suffering physical and mental complications, along with environmental and social issues.
One of the biggest issues regarding poverty is the problem malnutrition presents. Among many complications that malnutrition creates, the most concerning is impairments in cognitive development. This can lead to children performing poorly in school. While malnutrition is a problem among those suffering from impoverished circumstances, there are organizations that provide some relief.
Foundations and organizations that provide such assistance include food banks, charities, and churches, etc. This alleviates some of the difficulties surrounding a life in poverty. If participants are not willing to return or do not continue receiving support for various reasons, poverty will persist. One of these reasons may be user satisfaction.
It can be difficult to know how parents and families feel about the satisfaction of certain aspects these foundations provide. Families receiving assistance from food pantries may discontinue participation if they feel their needs are not met. Satisfaction of various aspects of food is an important determinant in regards to overall usage for food banks. To identify levels of satisfaction from assistance programs, we set up a user satisfaction survey for participants to complete in order to measure their overall satisfaction. To be specific, we are measuring satisfaction of the quality, quantity, and ease of process in acquiring food from Granite Education Foundation food banks.
Faculty Advisor: Chapman, Heather (Weber State University, Psychology)
Abstract:
Poverty is a major epidemic throughout the world. Being in an impoverished state is extremely difficult as it makes living that much more stressful. Those lacking the ability to attain basic needs such as food are at high risk of suffering physical and mental complications, along with environmental and social issues.
One of the biggest issues regarding poverty is the problem malnutrition presents. Among many complications that malnutrition creates, the most concerning is impairments in cognitive development. This can lead to children performing poorly in school. While malnutrition is a problem among those suffering from impoverished circumstances, there are organizations that provide some relief.
Foundations and organizations that provide such assistance include food banks, charities, and churches, etc. This alleviates some of the difficulties surrounding a life in poverty. If participants are not willing to return or do not continue receiving support for various reasons, poverty will persist. One of these reasons may be user satisfaction.
It can be difficult to know how parents and families feel about the satisfaction of certain aspects these foundations provide. Families receiving assistance from food pantries may discontinue participation if they feel their needs are not met. Satisfaction of various aspects of food is an important determinant in regards to overall usage for food banks. To identify levels of satisfaction from assistance programs, we set up a user satisfaction survey for participants to complete in order to measure their overall satisfaction. To be specific, we are measuring satisfaction of the quality, quantity, and ease of process in acquiring food from Granite Education Foundation food banks.
Structural Violence Against the Black Motherhood
Bostick, Aubrey; Hill, Huiying (Weber State University)
Faculty Advisor: Hill, Huiying (Weber State University, Sociology and Anthropology)
Infant mortality rates for black women are significantly higher than white women. More specifically, during high risk pregnancies. These include pregnancies for women before the age of 20, and between the ages of 40-54. Through quantitative and qualitative secondary analysis utilizing conflict theory, the research indicates environmental and socioeconomic impacts derived from eugenicist practices that uniquely impact black pregnant women. Eugenicist practices are at the root of infant mortality rates for pregnant black women as a consequence of exploitation that formulates modern reproductive care. First, environmental factors to be explored include food deserts, gentrification, geographic location to healthcare centers, and pollution. These factors are essential to explore because they directly create internal factors. Which is why the second area of exploration is the stress of being a pregnant black woman. These factors include societal pressure, medical pressure, and a lack of preventative reproductive and post pregnancy care. Both environmental and internal factors stem from cyclical poverty, and produce chronic healthcare conditions that yield infant mortality. This research offers the unique consideration of diet, and disproportionate access to medical care while encompassing the history of modern reproductive care. This research has the capacity to create a dynamic approach to reducing infant mortality rates specifically for at-risk pregnant black women.
Faculty Advisor: Hill, Huiying (Weber State University, Sociology and Anthropology)
Infant mortality rates for black women are significantly higher than white women. More specifically, during high risk pregnancies. These include pregnancies for women before the age of 20, and between the ages of 40-54. Through quantitative and qualitative secondary analysis utilizing conflict theory, the research indicates environmental and socioeconomic impacts derived from eugenicist practices that uniquely impact black pregnant women. Eugenicist practices are at the root of infant mortality rates for pregnant black women as a consequence of exploitation that formulates modern reproductive care. First, environmental factors to be explored include food deserts, gentrification, geographic location to healthcare centers, and pollution. These factors are essential to explore because they directly create internal factors. Which is why the second area of exploration is the stress of being a pregnant black woman. These factors include societal pressure, medical pressure, and a lack of preventative reproductive and post pregnancy care. Both environmental and internal factors stem from cyclical poverty, and produce chronic healthcare conditions that yield infant mortality. This research offers the unique consideration of diet, and disproportionate access to medical care while encompassing the history of modern reproductive care. This research has the capacity to create a dynamic approach to reducing infant mortality rates specifically for at-risk pregnant black women.
The Effects of Sex, Appropriateness, and Relevance of Instructor Self-Disclosure on Perceived Credibility
Dahl, AnnElise; Rich, Emily; Marchant, Amy; Baird, Todd (Weber State University)
Faculty Advisor: Baird, Todd (College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Psychology Department)
The present research examines the effects of content relevance and appropriateness of instructor self-disclosure as well as the sex of the professor and the sex of the student on students' perceptions of instructor credibility (competence, goodwill, and trustworthiness). Participants, consisting of approximately 150 college students, filled out a survey which measured each of these variables. As data collection is in its preliminary stages, results are forthcoming. When gathered, the data are expected to be consistent with previous research in the field which show that appropriateness of instructor disclosure will be positively correlated with instructor credibility. Previous research has suggested that content relevance will be positively correlated with instructor credibility, that content relevance will be positively correlated with appropriateness of instructor disclosures, and that male students will perceive instructor disclosure to be more appropriate than female students. In addition, the authors expect male students to rate instructors as more credible than female students. Finally, students are expected to perceive female professors as more appropriate than male professors and to perceive female professors as more credible than male professors.
Faculty Advisor: Baird, Todd (College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Psychology Department)
The present research examines the effects of content relevance and appropriateness of instructor self-disclosure as well as the sex of the professor and the sex of the student on students' perceptions of instructor credibility (competence, goodwill, and trustworthiness). Participants, consisting of approximately 150 college students, filled out a survey which measured each of these variables. As data collection is in its preliminary stages, results are forthcoming. When gathered, the data are expected to be consistent with previous research in the field which show that appropriateness of instructor disclosure will be positively correlated with instructor credibility. Previous research has suggested that content relevance will be positively correlated with instructor credibility, that content relevance will be positively correlated with appropriateness of instructor disclosures, and that male students will perceive instructor disclosure to be more appropriate than female students. In addition, the authors expect male students to rate instructors as more credible than female students. Finally, students are expected to perceive female professors as more appropriate than male professors and to perceive female professors as more credible than male professors.
Taking Breaks: Comparing the Impact of Mindfulness versus Social Media
Lotulelei, Tiffany; Darowski, Emily; Erekson, David (Brigham Young University)
Faculty Advisor: Darowski, Emily (Brigham Young University, Harold B. Lee Library); Erekson, David (Brigham Young University, Counseling and Psychological Services)
Social media is becoming an increasingly popular means of communication and content sharing; this rise is especially prevalent among young adults, including university students. We are not aware of any research that has examined the impact, positive or negative, of using social media during study breaks. Current research has shown that mindfulness - defined as being non-judgmentally aware of the present moment - is negatively associated with social media use and is a common intervention for many of the negative outcomes that are associated with excessive social media use. It remains unknown, however, whether a brief mindfulness practice during a study break impacts university students, and how that effect compares to the effect of other study break activities, including social media use. The purpose of this research project was to compare the effect of three different types of study breaks: using social media, participating in mindfulness meditation, or simply sitting (control group). College students were placed in a setting where they were asked to complete a remote associates task (RAT). In the midst of the difficult task, they were given a break period and, depending on the condition, spent the break either practicing mindfulness, using social media, or simply sitting quietly. Pre/post ratings of mindfulness, stress, and anxiety were gathered along with performance measures on the RAT task. Preliminary data shows that the mindfulness break decreases feelings of stress and anxiety compared to the social media break. RAT performance was not affected, but this may represent a floor effect. These findings suggest that compared to social media, mindfulness is a more effective break in reducing anxiety and stress for university students. Students can use this knowledge to help them engage in more effective study strategies. More research is needed to determine whether using social media or practicing mindfulness impacts one's performance.
Faculty Advisor: Darowski, Emily (Brigham Young University, Harold B. Lee Library); Erekson, David (Brigham Young University, Counseling and Psychological Services)
Social media is becoming an increasingly popular means of communication and content sharing; this rise is especially prevalent among young adults, including university students. We are not aware of any research that has examined the impact, positive or negative, of using social media during study breaks. Current research has shown that mindfulness - defined as being non-judgmentally aware of the present moment - is negatively associated with social media use and is a common intervention for many of the negative outcomes that are associated with excessive social media use. It remains unknown, however, whether a brief mindfulness practice during a study break impacts university students, and how that effect compares to the effect of other study break activities, including social media use. The purpose of this research project was to compare the effect of three different types of study breaks: using social media, participating in mindfulness meditation, or simply sitting (control group). College students were placed in a setting where they were asked to complete a remote associates task (RAT). In the midst of the difficult task, they were given a break period and, depending on the condition, spent the break either practicing mindfulness, using social media, or simply sitting quietly. Pre/post ratings of mindfulness, stress, and anxiety were gathered along with performance measures on the RAT task. Preliminary data shows that the mindfulness break decreases feelings of stress and anxiety compared to the social media break. RAT performance was not affected, but this may represent a floor effect. These findings suggest that compared to social media, mindfulness is a more effective break in reducing anxiety and stress for university students. Students can use this knowledge to help them engage in more effective study strategies. More research is needed to determine whether using social media or practicing mindfulness impacts one's performance.
The Border Wall
Black, Justin (Utah Valley University)
Faculty Advisor: Smith-Johnson, Amber (Utah Valley University, English)
Many American's disagree on immigration policy, especially the southern border. Nobody can agree on what a secure border is, making the task to secure it impossible. When both sides adamantly oppose each other, refusing to compromise, or even listen, it's extremely difficult to compose a solution. Through my research, I hope to provide a realistic method to strengthen the border that would appease the differing views on the subject. The smuggling, human trafficking, and illegal immigration are dire situations that demand action. However, a wall isn't the answer. Esteban Flores breaks down past successful border walls in Egypt, Spain, and Israel, comparing them to the projected wall in America. As proposed, history shows the wall alone will fail. Smugglers have proven capable of getting around the existing border. Whichever means employed, adding more won't deter them. We can learn this from Egypt's wall, which didn't impede contraband at all. Smugglers dug beneath it, until the government added twenty meters underground. Using Spain's wall, we can see that it won't stop those determined to get here. More drastic measures will be taken to bypass the extra security, resulting in an increase of fatalities. Most immigrants now get to America by plane as well. Two-thirds of illegal immigrants residing in America came on a Visa and never left. We don't have the time, nor money, to waste on a wall that history has shown will not work. I propose that we implement technology at the border. Drones, ground sensors, and cameras have the capacity to be more effective and less expensive than a wall. Combining this strategy at the border with new legislation that expands all quotas and caps, illegal immigration will go down, illegal activity at the border will be gridlocked, and lives will be saved.
Faculty Advisor: Smith-Johnson, Amber (Utah Valley University, English)
Many American's disagree on immigration policy, especially the southern border. Nobody can agree on what a secure border is, making the task to secure it impossible. When both sides adamantly oppose each other, refusing to compromise, or even listen, it's extremely difficult to compose a solution. Through my research, I hope to provide a realistic method to strengthen the border that would appease the differing views on the subject. The smuggling, human trafficking, and illegal immigration are dire situations that demand action. However, a wall isn't the answer. Esteban Flores breaks down past successful border walls in Egypt, Spain, and Israel, comparing them to the projected wall in America. As proposed, history shows the wall alone will fail. Smugglers have proven capable of getting around the existing border. Whichever means employed, adding more won't deter them. We can learn this from Egypt's wall, which didn't impede contraband at all. Smugglers dug beneath it, until the government added twenty meters underground. Using Spain's wall, we can see that it won't stop those determined to get here. More drastic measures will be taken to bypass the extra security, resulting in an increase of fatalities. Most immigrants now get to America by plane as well. Two-thirds of illegal immigrants residing in America came on a Visa and never left. We don't have the time, nor money, to waste on a wall that history has shown will not work. I propose that we implement technology at the border. Drones, ground sensors, and cameras have the capacity to be more effective and less expensive than a wall. Combining this strategy at the border with new legislation that expands all quotas and caps, illegal immigration will go down, illegal activity at the border will be gridlocked, and lives will be saved.
Speech perception of various acoustic structures in children with speech delay with and without dyslexia
Ipsen, Melannee; Allen, Audrey; Urness, Katherine; Thacker, Melinda; Cabbage, Kathryn (Brigham Young University)
Faculty Advisor: Cabbage, Kathryn (McKay School of Education, Communication Disorders)
Speech delays affect up to 12% of children and are the most common communication disorder treated by speech-language pathologists (Lewis et al., 2006). Furthermore, approximately 18% of preschool-aged children with speech delay will develop dyslexia or other reading impairments (Lewis et al., 2011).
Current research agrees that both children with SD and those with dyslexia have deficits in phonology---the underlying system responsible for processing and organizing speech sounds (Anthony et al., 2011; Snowling, 2000). Both children with SD and children with dyslexia have specific deficits in speech perception (Lof & Synan, 1997; Rosen, 2003). It is unclear the degree to which these groups differ in underlying aspects of phonology, such as speech perception. Prior research suggests that these children may display distinct speech perception patterns based on their SD or dyslexia status (Cabbage, Hogan, and Carrell, 2016; Johnson et al., 2011). Speech components that cause speech perception difficulties for children with SD may be different from those that cause difficulty for those with dyslexia. Specifically, children with SD have been shown to have more difficulty perceiving the rapid temporal aspects, or spectral structure, of speech (e.g., formant frequency transitions) while those with dyslexia have been shown to have more difficulties perceiving the more global structure of speech (e.g., amplitude envelopes, syllabic cues) (Cabbage, et al., 2016; Goswami, 2011; Johnson et al., 2011).
The current study compares speech perception abilities in children with SD, children with SD+dyslexia, and typical peers in speech modified in spectral and global acoustic structure. We expect children with SD or SD+dyslexia will show poorer perception for spectral speech tasks and only children with SD+dyslexia will show poorer perception for global speech tasks. These findings will be used to help detect which children with SDs are at a higher risk for developing dyslexia.
Faculty Advisor: Cabbage, Kathryn (McKay School of Education, Communication Disorders)
Speech delays affect up to 12% of children and are the most common communication disorder treated by speech-language pathologists (Lewis et al., 2006). Furthermore, approximately 18% of preschool-aged children with speech delay will develop dyslexia or other reading impairments (Lewis et al., 2011).
Current research agrees that both children with SD and those with dyslexia have deficits in phonology---the underlying system responsible for processing and organizing speech sounds (Anthony et al., 2011; Snowling, 2000). Both children with SD and children with dyslexia have specific deficits in speech perception (Lof & Synan, 1997; Rosen, 2003). It is unclear the degree to which these groups differ in underlying aspects of phonology, such as speech perception. Prior research suggests that these children may display distinct speech perception patterns based on their SD or dyslexia status (Cabbage, Hogan, and Carrell, 2016; Johnson et al., 2011). Speech components that cause speech perception difficulties for children with SD may be different from those that cause difficulty for those with dyslexia. Specifically, children with SD have been shown to have more difficulty perceiving the rapid temporal aspects, or spectral structure, of speech (e.g., formant frequency transitions) while those with dyslexia have been shown to have more difficulties perceiving the more global structure of speech (e.g., amplitude envelopes, syllabic cues) (Cabbage, et al., 2016; Goswami, 2011; Johnson et al., 2011).
The current study compares speech perception abilities in children with SD, children with SD+dyslexia, and typical peers in speech modified in spectral and global acoustic structure. We expect children with SD or SD+dyslexia will show poorer perception for spectral speech tasks and only children with SD+dyslexia will show poorer perception for global speech tasks. These findings will be used to help detect which children with SDs are at a higher risk for developing dyslexia.
Teaching and Enforcing Burnout Among Grade School Students
Mattei, Dustin; Angell, Emma; Truman, Savanah; Wood, Kyle; Holiday, Pam; Gonzales, Veronica; Price, Ashton (Dixie State University)
Faculty Advisor: Oxley, Robert (Dixie State university, Applied Sociology)
This presentation analyzes the teaching and acceptance of burnout within the societal contract for children in the Washington County school district in Utah. This study, from the Institute for Social Research (ISR) at Dixie State University, as part of the Quality of Life Initiative, seeks to evaluate burnout among children ages 5-18 in the Washington County School District. Through the literary review, it is suggested that our society creates a culture of burnout, which is taught and accepted at young ages. Such teaching creates a life-long subconscious contract of acceptance of burnout among affected members within our society. Some symptoms of burnout can include; anxiety, depression, headaches, chronic stress, insomnia, forgetfulness, etc. Furthermore, seeking help for burnout symptoms has been frowned upon by society, until recently with the emergence of Wellness Rooms. This response to burnout among children in Washington County School District shows that acceptance has been established. The ISR team has developed a survey instrument currently in circulation at Dixie State University. We expect our data to correlate with the preparatory research conducted by the Institute of Social Research.
Faculty Advisor: Oxley, Robert (Dixie State university, Applied Sociology)
This presentation analyzes the teaching and acceptance of burnout within the societal contract for children in the Washington County school district in Utah. This study, from the Institute for Social Research (ISR) at Dixie State University, as part of the Quality of Life Initiative, seeks to evaluate burnout among children ages 5-18 in the Washington County School District. Through the literary review, it is suggested that our society creates a culture of burnout, which is taught and accepted at young ages. Such teaching creates a life-long subconscious contract of acceptance of burnout among affected members within our society. Some symptoms of burnout can include; anxiety, depression, headaches, chronic stress, insomnia, forgetfulness, etc. Furthermore, seeking help for burnout symptoms has been frowned upon by society, until recently with the emergence of Wellness Rooms. This response to burnout among children in Washington County School District shows that acceptance has been established. The ISR team has developed a survey instrument currently in circulation at Dixie State University. We expect our data to correlate with the preparatory research conducted by the Institute of Social Research.
Surviving Structure: Intersections of USU Administrative Articulations & Campus Sexual Assault Survivor Spaces
Candiloro, Taelor (Utah State University)
Faculty Advisor: Glass-Coffin, Bonnie (College of Humanities and Social Sciences; Sociology, Social Work and Anthropology Department)
Over the past ten years, a growing national discourse about the issue of campus sexual assault has led to an increase in quantitative studies that analyze its prevalence on campus as well as the effectiveness of campus policies that have been institutionalized in order to address the systemic issue. Policies that have emerged to describe sexual assault may use specialized vocabulary that appears distant from the terms used by survivors when self-identifying, which may result in unintended consequences when policies are implemented. Using Utah State University's campus resources as a site of inquiry, this study examines language used by Title IX officers at Utah State University as they describe sexual and interpersonal violence among themselves, when addressing the student body, and among sexual assault survivors. Developed as part of a course in Ethnographic Methods at Utah State University, this qualitative study attempts to provide insight into this dynamic. Through a mixed-methods approach including ethnographic interviews, auto-ethnographic accounts of the author's experiences attending and interacting with various campus institutions, and analyses of contemporary tools of data collection, a network of identity emerges that contributes to a better understanding of how sexual assault policies might be improved to articulate alongside survivor experiences.
Faculty Advisor: Glass-Coffin, Bonnie (College of Humanities and Social Sciences; Sociology, Social Work and Anthropology Department)
Over the past ten years, a growing national discourse about the issue of campus sexual assault has led to an increase in quantitative studies that analyze its prevalence on campus as well as the effectiveness of campus policies that have been institutionalized in order to address the systemic issue. Policies that have emerged to describe sexual assault may use specialized vocabulary that appears distant from the terms used by survivors when self-identifying, which may result in unintended consequences when policies are implemented. Using Utah State University's campus resources as a site of inquiry, this study examines language used by Title IX officers at Utah State University as they describe sexual and interpersonal violence among themselves, when addressing the student body, and among sexual assault survivors. Developed as part of a course in Ethnographic Methods at Utah State University, this qualitative study attempts to provide insight into this dynamic. Through a mixed-methods approach including ethnographic interviews, auto-ethnographic accounts of the author's experiences attending and interacting with various campus institutions, and analyses of contemporary tools of data collection, a network of identity emerges that contributes to a better understanding of how sexual assault policies might be improved to articulate alongside survivor experiences.
Spatial Relationships and Sex in Mantled Howler Monkeys (Alouatta palliata)
Goodrich, Ellie; Seaboch, Melissa (University of Utah)
Faculty Advisor: Seaboch, Melissa (University of Utah, Anthropology)
Alouatta palliata (the mantled howler monkey) form large, cohesive multimale multifemale groups. Within these groups there are prominent male dominance hierarchies and both males and females disperse from natal groups. Although A. palliata groups are cohesive, interactions among individuals are rare. Spatial relationships in primate groups aren't random and are often telling of the underlying social structure within a group. This project compares three adult dyads in the A. palliata groups of La Selva Biological station, Costa Rica, to examine group cohesion and if there is variation in spatial patterns between the dyads. The dyads include male-male, female-female, and male-female. Data were collected from May 11-May 22 , 2017 and May 11- June 19, 2018. Instantaneous scan samples were taken at two-minute intervals, and for each scan the sex of each individual, the nearest neighbor's sex, and proximity to closest neighbor were recorded. Proximities were visually estimated to the nearest half meter and sex was determined by body size and the presence or absence of scrotum. The data showed that males maintained closer distances with females than with other males, and females maintained closer distances with females than males. The average male-male distance was 4.2 meters, female-female 1.51 meters, and male-female 2.68 meters. The results suggest that sex plays a role in the spatial organization of a group. In A. palliata adult males have been found to rarely interact with other males and will often employ avoidance strategies, explaining the distances observed between males in this study. Female-female dyads tend to maintain closer and more affiliative proximities due to the presence of infants and the lack of competition for mating and food resources. There are also more females present in A. palliata troop than males, increasing the likelihood that males would be in proximity to females rather than other males.
Faculty Advisor: Seaboch, Melissa (University of Utah, Anthropology)
Alouatta palliata (the mantled howler monkey) form large, cohesive multimale multifemale groups. Within these groups there are prominent male dominance hierarchies and both males and females disperse from natal groups. Although A. palliata groups are cohesive, interactions among individuals are rare. Spatial relationships in primate groups aren't random and are often telling of the underlying social structure within a group. This project compares three adult dyads in the A. palliata groups of La Selva Biological station, Costa Rica, to examine group cohesion and if there is variation in spatial patterns between the dyads. The dyads include male-male, female-female, and male-female. Data were collected from May 11-May 22 , 2017 and May 11- June 19, 2018. Instantaneous scan samples were taken at two-minute intervals, and for each scan the sex of each individual, the nearest neighbor's sex, and proximity to closest neighbor were recorded. Proximities were visually estimated to the nearest half meter and sex was determined by body size and the presence or absence of scrotum. The data showed that males maintained closer distances with females than with other males, and females maintained closer distances with females than males. The average male-male distance was 4.2 meters, female-female 1.51 meters, and male-female 2.68 meters. The results suggest that sex plays a role in the spatial organization of a group. In A. palliata adult males have been found to rarely interact with other males and will often employ avoidance strategies, explaining the distances observed between males in this study. Female-female dyads tend to maintain closer and more affiliative proximities due to the presence of infants and the lack of competition for mating and food resources. There are also more females present in A. palliata troop than males, increasing the likelihood that males would be in proximity to females rather than other males.
The Collegiate Optimism Orientation Test
Braithwaite, Scott; Bingham, Emilia; Deichman, Conner; Esplin, Charlotte; Evans, Libby; Hileman, Rachel (Brigham Young University)
Faculty Advisor: Braithwaite, Scott (Family, Home, and Social Sciences; Clinical Psychology)
No test has yet been developed to measure academic optimism among college students. This is a critical oversight given the correlation between levels of optimism, mental health, and academic success. In the last 12 months, approximately 40 - 60% of undergraduates have felt anxiety and/or depression to the point of impairment. This distress impacts academic performance, retention, and graduation rates. Students who consider themselves pessimistic are more likely to drop classes. Optimism appears to be protective against the stress of college. Anxiety, depression, and stress have shown negative correlations with optimistic thinking. Measuring academic optimism may bring awareness to students and counselors and be used to determine who may benefit from tertiary interventions.
The Collegiate Optimism Orientation Test (COOT), is a 14-item 4-point Likert scale measure of academic optimism. 437 participants were recruited through a national sample through Mturk.com. Data analysis is pending and will be completed by November 2019. A preliminary analysis of the COOT administered to 142 college students revealed good reliability (α = .85) and two extracted factors (eigenvalues=4.42 and 1.09). In addition to presenting our full findings from our replication of the pilot, we will discuss the potential implications of our measure in clinical settings for college students.
Faculty Advisor: Braithwaite, Scott (Family, Home, and Social Sciences; Clinical Psychology)
No test has yet been developed to measure academic optimism among college students. This is a critical oversight given the correlation between levels of optimism, mental health, and academic success. In the last 12 months, approximately 40 - 60% of undergraduates have felt anxiety and/or depression to the point of impairment. This distress impacts academic performance, retention, and graduation rates. Students who consider themselves pessimistic are more likely to drop classes. Optimism appears to be protective against the stress of college. Anxiety, depression, and stress have shown negative correlations with optimistic thinking. Measuring academic optimism may bring awareness to students and counselors and be used to determine who may benefit from tertiary interventions.
The Collegiate Optimism Orientation Test (COOT), is a 14-item 4-point Likert scale measure of academic optimism. 437 participants were recruited through a national sample through Mturk.com. Data analysis is pending and will be completed by November 2019. A preliminary analysis of the COOT administered to 142 college students revealed good reliability (α = .85) and two extracted factors (eigenvalues=4.42 and 1.09). In addition to presenting our full findings from our replication of the pilot, we will discuss the potential implications of our measure in clinical settings for college students.