National University System Repository
Not a member yet
5119 research outputs found
Sort by
Towards Recognition: The Case for Including Exercise Addiction in the DSM-5-TR
Get PDFExercise addiction (EA) is a complex and often overlooked condition characterized by compulsive engagement in physical activity despite adverse physical and psychological effects. This capstone explores the need for EA's inclusion in the DSM-5-TR, drawing from existing literature on behavioural addictions and the unique pressures faced by elite athletes. Through a comprehensive literature review and analysis of the current diagnostic frameworks, this study argues for the formal recognition of EA as a behavioural addiction. The study highlights the psychological, physiological, and social consequences of EA, particularly among elite athletes, and suggests specific diagnostic criteria to facilitate its inclusion in future DSM editions. The implications for clinical practice, particularly for psychologists working with athletes, are discussed, emphasizing the need for early diagnosis and targeted interventions. Future research directions are proposed to address existing gaps, including longitudinal studies, cross-cultural research, and the development of standardized assessment tools
Peer Relationships of Adolescent Females With ADHD: Challenges and Counselling Implications
No full textAttention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), prevalent worldwide, remains underrecognized and undertreated in females, particularly during critical developmental stages such as adolescence (APA, 2022; Morley & Tyrrell, 2023; Mowlem et al., 2019). Females often experience the inattentive subtype of ADHD, which manifests in less overt symptoms that can go unnoticed, contributing to underdiagnosis (Castle et al., 2007; Derks et al., 2007; Kok et al., 2016; Quinn & Madhoo, 2014; Quinn & Wigal, 2004). This often results in difficulties with peer interactions, as the symptoms—such as inattentiveness and challenges with emotional regulation—impact social skills and peer relationships (Becker et al., 2012; Beristain & Wiener, 2020; Cardoos & Hinshaw, 2011; Gardner & Gerdes, 2015; Hoza et al., 2005; Kok et al., 2016; Lee et al., 2021; Marton et al., 2015; Mikami, 2010; Quinn & Madhoo, 2014; Sciberras et al., 2012; Sibley et al., 2010; Spender et al., 2023). These peer difficulties can lead to a range of negative outcomes, including academic struggles, mental health issues, and an increased risk of social rejection (Becker et al., 2012; Beristain & Wiener, 2020; Cardoos & Hinshaw, 2011; Gardner & Gerdes, 2015; Marton et al., 2015; Mikami, 2010; Quinn & Madhoo, 2014; Sciberras et al., 2012; Spender et al., 2023). The adolescent period, characterized by a shift towards more emotionally intimate friendships, presents additional challenges for females with ADHD (Cardoos & Hinshaw, 2011; Rokeach & Weiner, 2020). Despite efforts, existing psychosocial treatments for peer-related issues in ADHD have shown limited effectiveness (Antshel et al., 2014; Becker et al., 2012; Gardner & Gerdes, 2015; Hoza, 2007; Mikami & Hinshaw, 2006; Mikami et al., 2020; Sibley et al., 2016). This paper investigates the peer relationships of female adolescents with ADHD and examines the implications for counselling. It addresses the research question: what are the relevant factors that counselling psychologists should consider across all modalities of treatment when working with female adolescents with ADHD? Findings suggest counselling professionals to enhance their understanding of how ADHD affects peer relationships in females and to develop more targeted interventions. This includes raising awareness among caregivers and educators about the specific social challenges faced by these individuals and customizing psychosocial approaches to address executive functioning deficits, incorporating strategies such as novelty and rewards to improve peer interactions and overall functioning
Cultural Perspectives on ADHD Diagnosis in Adolescents from Immigrant Families in North America: Impact on Recognition, Treatment, and Management
No full textThis capstone project investigates Cultural Perspectives on ADHD Diagnosis in Adolescents from Immigrant Families in Canada to address a significant gap in understanding how cultural factors impact the recognition, treatment, and management of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Recent studies by Dong et al. (2020) and Koschorke et al. (2017) highlight the need for culturally sensitive assessment tools and the impact of cultural stigma on the acceptance of the universality of stigma related to mental illness (Anglin et al., 2020). Guided by a theoretical framework, the capstone research questions focus on understanding how cultural perspectives influence the recognition of ADHD symptoms, choice of treatment modalities, and adherence to treatment plans. The hypothesis is that cultural factors significantly shape these aspects, contributing to unique challenges and opportunities within immigrant families. This capstone project aims to contribute valuable insights into the cultural perspectives on ADHD within immigrant families in Canada or North America. Shedding light on these dynamics has the potential to inform the development of more inclusive and practical approaches to diagnosing and managing ADHD, fostering culturally competent healthcare practices
Menstruation, Mental Health, and Wellness
No full textThis paper responds to the problem of menstruating students feeling unsupported in schools in their physical, social, and psychological wellbeing. This developmentally sensitive lens takes into account the intersection between all aspects of a menstruators life that construct overall wellness. The question "How can menstruators be supported by providing safe environments, and educational information to help them be successful in school and beyond?" is addressed in a literature review spanning the biological, and psychological experiences of menstruators, and the supports menstruators are offered through education. Some of the experiences of menstruators include dysmenorrhea, PMS, PMDD, and Menarche. The implications of this research are that many menstruation related disorders both psychological and physical go unreported and undiagnosed as period pain is either normalized or silenced, therefore, leaving menstruators unaware of the differences between typical and atypical menstrual cycles. This shame and culture of marginalization has a negative impact on menstruators body confidence and overall ability to take risks and succeed in schools. Recommendations include ways schools can foster a culture of openness, accommodate for, and support young menstruators through this period of
transition
Functional Neurological Disorder: Trauma, Emotional Dysregulation, and Treatment with Emotion-Focused Psychotherapies
No full textFunctional neurological disorder (FND) is a complex, stigmatized, and often disabling condition that is presently under-researched compared to other neurological disorders. It is the product of biological, psychological, and social factors, and reflects the interrelated quality of the mind and body. Previously characterized as "psychogenic", in recent decades this view has been challenged by more biological explanations and a strong focus on neuroimaging. However, evidence remains substantial for the relevance of social and psychological factors, particularly trauma and its resulting emotional dysregulation, as well as the personality trait of neuroticism/negative affect. While the most-researched treatment for FND is CBT, its effects are generally small. Given the relevance of emotional factors in FND, emotion-focused treatments should be explored, and there is promising initial evidence supporting their use
Impact of Social Media Usage on Adolescents
Get PDFSocial media platforms have become heavily ingrained in the lives of adolescents, with the number of adolescent users on these platforms rapidly increasing. The content shared by users on these platforms is often heavily edited through tools and filters found on the apps. This represents a concern for how social media influences the development and perception of body image in adolescents. Thus, this capstone aims to investigate the impact of social media use on adolescent mental health and development, particularly in relation to body dissatisfaction. A two-day workshop for parents is proposed to increase their knowledge of social media platforms, adolescent vulnerabilities due to their developmental stage, and parental strategies to mitigate potential negative impacts
Reproductive Loss in the Age of Neoliberalism
No full textReproductive loss (RL) is common; in Canada 15.7% of couples experience infertility, 15-25% of pregnancies end in miscarriage, 8.1 of 1000 total births end in stillbirth, and 5.4 of 1000 live births end in post-natal (infant) death in the first year (Canada, 2020). Despite its frequency and increasing public visibility, RL remains a complex experience that can include feelings of sadness, grief, guilt, shame, and stress and can lead to more serious mental health complications such as post traumatic stress disorder and prolonged grief disorder. Neoliberalism, as a political philosophy valuing freedom, equal opportunity, and resistance to socialism, constructs ideological conditions that complicate the RL experience. These conditions include pronatalism, meritocracy, and essentialism. I review several forms popular discourse relevant to these conditions and the experience of RL including celebrity news articles about RL, Hulu's The Handmaid's Tale, and the post Roe v. Wade debate over fetal life. Using primarily feminist and
social constructionist research, I examine how current popular social discourse reinforces neoliberal ideologies that complicate the RL experience. I review several established and emerging counselling approaches and consider how well they address this contemporary neoliberal socio-political-cultural context of RL. I conclude with recommendations for counselling practice, including recognizing RL as potential trauma, assessing for coping and despair, assessing for discrimination, deconstructing neoliberal ideologies, and constructing meaning and agency within loss
Shame and Relational Trauma: Healing with Somatic Therapies
No full textThis capstone explores the intricate relationship between shame, relational trauma, and somatic therapies, with a focus on how these therapies can specifically target the physiological and neurological mechanisms underlying shame. While much research has been conducted on the experience of shame and its impacts, there remains a significant gap in understanding how somatic therapies can effectively address these deeply rooted emotional and physical responses. This capstone reviews existing literature on shame, highlighting how early relational trauma can lead to self-alienation, disconnection, and chronic emotional distress. It then identifies key gaps in current therapeutic approaches, particularly in targeting the amygdala and other physiological responses associated with shame. Through a detailed analysis, this work proposes an eight-week group therapy intervention. The proposed intervention is designed to support and regulate the autonomic nervous system, promote interoceptive awareness, and facilitate the safe processing of traumatic memories. By bridging these gaps, this capstone aims to contribute to the development of more effective, evidence-based practices for healing shame and relational trauma through somatic therapies
From Sorrow to Growth: Investigating the Role of Crying in Therapy
Get PDFCrying is a complex behavior that can serve several different purposes. While it is mostly used as a way to express emotions, the Biopsychosocial model of crying suggests that there is more to it than that. Gender, age, personality traits, cultural norms, past experiences with trauma and even biological factors such as hormone production can help explain why we cry the way we do. The purpose of this capstone project is to help therapists better understand the different contexts in which crying occurs, as well as how to evaluate a patient's crying and how to respond to it in a way that is helpful. For that purpose, the research on crying from years past has been comprehensively analyzed and summarized in this capstone project. This paper seeks to provide therapists with a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted nature of crying and its potential as a therapeutic tool
Where There is Tinder, There is Fire: Understanding Attachment Styles and Online Applications
No full textThe capstone project explores the intersection between attachment theory, feminist theory, and modern dating app usage, and examines how different attachment styles influence user experiences and behaviors on online dating platforms. While dating apps have experienced a surge in popularity over the recent past, they contribute to significant psychological effects and risks that warrant further investigation. This research uses a qualitative approach to analyze the existing literature on attachment and feminist theories, online dating and associated psychological issues. The findings reveal that various attachment styles tend to manifest in unique patterns of self-disclosure, match selection, and level of commitment to dating apps. The study identified the impact of patriarchal systems and gender norms on user experiences and safety. Based on these findings, the study made several recommendations including fostering healthy interactions through self-awareness, developing an attachment-style self-awareness tool, implementing attachment-informed matchmaking algorithms, and creating a support group curriculum for women. The recommendations seek to empower online dating app users to make informed decisions, set healthy boundaries, and navigate dating apps more safely. The capstone project contributes to the literature on technology-mediated relationships and offers practical implications for mental health professionals and dating app developers