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Self-Understanding of Executive Functions in Individuals With Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum
No full textResearchers have associated agenesis of the corpus callosum (ACC) with a range of mild cognitive deficits, especially involving higher order executive functions. In this study, I investigated the self-understanding of executive functions in individuals with ACC by comparing laboratory-controlled, self-report, and observer-report measures. I achieved this by gathering self- and observer-reported data of executive functions and comparing these data to each other and to a normative distribution. I also examined how strongly observer-perceptions of executive functions correlate with laboratory measurement. My results indicated (a) individuals with ACC self-report fewer problems with executive functions in their daily life than observers on the Behavioral Rating Inventory of Executive Function–Adult Version (BRIEF-A), (b) several significant correlations exist between observer ratings on the BRIEF-A Metacognition Index and the performance of individuals with ACC on aspects of the Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System (D-KEFS), and (c) the BRIEF-A appears to demonstrate greater sensitivity for poor executive functions associated with complex novel problems than the D-KEFS. These findings raise questions about the ecological validity of executive function instruments used for clinical assessment in the ACC population, provide evidence for a lack of self-understanding or insight in individuals with ACC, and support previous research demonstrating higher-order cognitive deficits in the clinical profile of ACC
Alone Together: An Empirical Study of Relational Mindfulness
No full textIn mindfulness research, much focus has been put on outcome measures without teasing out the factors involved. Many theorists (such as R. A. Baer, S. R. Bishop, K. W. Brown, E. J. Langer, and S. L. Shapiro) suggested various definitions of the construct, but mostly from Western approaches. As Frijda and Sundararajan (2007) pointed out, “Mindfulness is more of an ideal in Buddhist and Taoist traditions than it is in the West” (p. 238). The present study, Alone Together, was a replication of the research based on the model of mindfulness suggested by Sundararajan and Fatemi (2016b). The present study referred to the same theoretical framework but was repeated with subjects in a cultural background (Western) different from the previous study (Non-Western). The present study captured two important elements of mindfulness: (a) Alone, or solitude caught the attention element of mindfulness; (b) Together, caught the intention of mindfulness. The findings supported that intention—relating to nature in a symmetrical or asymmetrical manner—had far reaching ramifications for psychological well-being, as measured by mood states and solitude scales
Clinging Cross, Coins, and Comfort: Small Group Action Plan at Burke Community Church
Get PDFThe purpose of this doctoral project is to design a small group action plan that equips the attendees at Burke Community Church in their walk with God as they journey or go with group members through pain and suffering. Small groups are the main place of fellowship and connection. It is the most intimate place for a person in the church to receive care. The church has been in existence for forty years and has recently experienced high growth in attendance.
The project is centered on devotional reflections featuring physical objects to remind the group members of the pain that a person in the group was experiencing. Once a need arose within a group, the person struggling received a clinging cross and the rest of the group received a coin. The group read and reflected on a forty-day devotional that lead them into a deeper understanding of the work and presence of God in pain and suffering. The physical objects were carried to remind them of their commitment to God and each other through the trial.
The leadership of the small groups and the group themselves will reflect theologically on pain and suffering. The groups will focus on the crucifixion as a framework for coping in difficulties of life. The expectation of blessing in the midst of spiritual warfare will be meditated upon to gain a better perspective. Pain and suffering are a foundation by which the church was built and must continue to grow. God is not absent from trials but most present even when silent.
The project is not meant to be a solution or remedy for someone to overcome a problem. The project is giving the group reorientation about the expectation of the children of God who are called to follow a crucified Savior
Hearing the Call Afresh: A Guide for Military Chaplains Facing Retirement
Get PDFMilitary chaplains are both clergy persons and officers in the armed services who minister to the members of the military and their families. The military is a unique subculture with its own geography, customs, traditions, and even clothing and hairstyles. Chaplains become a part of this subculture, serve under the same requirements and limitations as any other service member, and enjoy the same benefits, which include a very generous retirement package. When the time comes to transition out of this subculture, retiring chaplains face unique challenges. This dissertation will identify and examine the challenges facing retiring chaplains, the unique gifts and abilities these chaplains have to offer the church, and some of the negative stereotypes they will have to overcome.
This study will look at the underlying biblical and theological issues involved in the retirement of military chaplains. Relevant literature and biblical passages will be reviewed in an effort to develop an understanding of clergy retirement. This work looks carefully at the meaning of ordination as a life-long state and at the concept of vocation or calling as it relates to clergy, with a special focus on retired clergy.
This dissertation argues that to successfully transition to civilian life, retiring military chaplains need to go through a period of liminality, a time where the chaplain examines his or her life journey thus far and listens for God’s leading for the future. The study offers some concrete suggestions of ways chaplains can find healing for the spiritual and psychological wounds they may have received during their time in the military. Finally, this study will give some concrete ways that retiring military chaplains can discern God’s call for the next phase of their lives