Human Development / Développement humain - Master's Theses

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://laurentian.scholaris.ca/handle/10219/2022

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Examining daily quantitative electroencephalographic (qEEG), psychophysical and antropometric measures over a one week period.
(2015-06-17) Lapointe, Andrew P.
The consequences of concussive injuries have been considered reversible, trivial, or permanent depending upon the perspective of the professional and the precision of the measurement tool. Saturated (daily) quantitative electroencephalographic (qEEG) measurements for 7 days after a sports-related concussive injury and for 7 days about 8 months later revealed conspicuous changes in power measurements in specific frequency bands over the impact site as well as within specific, likely contrecoup, areas. The fluctuations with time may accommodate the contradiction of results for concussive-EEG effects within the medical and scientific literature. Normative qEEG profiles for 20 normal participants collected daily for 7 days indicated extraordinarily strong intra-individual consistencies in power metrics and suggest that variability from easily established normative quantifications of topographic EEG activity could differentially discern concussive effects. The concordance of shifts in mood states with the power for relevant frequencies over expected regions of the cerebrum classically associated with different moods supports the validity of the subjective experience-brain location coupling and the direct contribution of subtle alterations in EEG power within certain frequency bands and cerebral regions to the types of mood.
Free will vs determinism: reconstructing the model for understanding space-time dynamics and the role of consciousness within the universe
(Laurentian University of Sudbury, 2015-07-08) Juden-Kelly, Lyndon
The thrust of this thesis was to approach the historical question of whether or not “thought” or “mind” can affect physical processes from a different perspective. Alterations in generate random numbers from PN junction which are synapse-like interfaces mediating electron movement were assessed when people intended upon altering these fluctuations while being exposed to weak magnetic fields that could affect intention. The results indicated that specific physiological patterns of transcerebral magnetic fields interacted with intention to alter random fluctuation. Paired exposure of two random number devices at non-traditional distances to these patterned magnetic fields with changing angular velocities demonstrated clear evidence of classic excess correlation or “entanglement”. As the random variation drifted in one direction for one device the variation drifted in the other direction for the other device but only when the magnetic fields were operating. Quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) correlates of the multiple subscales of a questionnaire by which “imaginative absorption” is inferred, indicated surprisingly strong associations between scores for specific subscales coupled to successful intention-related deviation of random numbers and low frequency power (theta-alpha range) within the right temporal lobe. However many other strong correlations were also observed. These results suggest that intention, an important traditional associate of “free will”, can affect random variations of electron-tunnelling processes but this coupling can be enhanced by externally originating pattern magnetic fields. These same fields when applied to two different spaces produce changes in random fluctuations that success excess correlation. One conclusion is that external forces that synchronize local spaces also occupied by brains could be a recondite determinant of the ultimate activity in electron movement in tissue whose correlative experience is the sense of “free will”.
A comparative analysis of positive psychology and clinical psychology assessments
(Laurentian University of Sudbury, 2015-05-27) Moss, Lynda Mary
This study examines whether the 24 strengths on the Values in Action Classification of Strengths (VIA-CS) correlate with the 10 Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI- 168) scales. The VIA-CS attempts to capture one’s positive values and virtues, while the MMPI- 168 attempts to measure maladaptive personality characteristics. This research also investigates the differences and similarities between the VIA-CS scores obtained by the research group - twenty-six (26) inmates at the Sudbury District Jail and the control group - seventy-two (72) volunteer participants, who are students recruited from the Laurentian University student population. Canonical Correlation was used to assess the relationship between the two sets of variables. In addition a MANOVA of the MMPI-168 scales by population group was conducted to measure if there were differences between the two groups. The findings reveal very little meaningful information connecting the tests. One test cannot predict the other. The results suggest that the VIA-CS assessment method can add value to the clinical assessment process. In practical application, balancing potentially negative clinical findings with the positive strengths of the VIA-CS may promote better outcomes in the therapeutic experience.
Minority stress: intergroup contact and the minority experience
(Laurentian University of Sudbury, 2014-10-16) John, Genelle C.
The Oelwein method: a strength-based reading instruction method for individuals with severe autism
(Laurentian University of Sudbury, 2014-06-25) Van Geene, Michael
The purpose of this paper is to examine a strength-based reading instruction method for individuals severely affected by autism who do not respond well to typical literacy instruction methods, called the Oelwein Method (OM). Due to the unique learning profile of strengths and weaknesses in individuals with severe autism, they often do not respond well to typical literacy instruction models. This paper examines the unique learning profile of individuals with autism and why the OM is an effective literacy instruction model for this population of learners. Phonics-based and sight word-based approaches are compared, with a focus on the effectiveness of these approaches for individuals with autism. The materials and instructional process of the OM are explained, including empirical evidence that supports the different instructional components used in the OM. The Ontario Ministry of Education’s policies are reviewed, along with how the OM satisfies these policies. Methods to improve the OM are explored as well as directions for future research that would need to occur before widespread implementation could take place.
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder and inappropriate sexual behaviour
(Laurentian University of Sudbury, 2014-06-12) Graham, Holly Louise
Previous research on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) has identified common physical and behavioural characteristics associated with children who were prenatally exposed to alcohol. The research suggests that many individuals with FASD have experienced involvement with the law, and engaged in inappropriate sexual behaviour. However, there would appear to be a scarcity of research that identifies the life histories of individuals with FASD who have engaged in inappropriate sexual behaviour. Identifying risk and protective factors towards positive outcomes for people with FASD has both individual and societal importance. In order to better understand individuals with FASD, this research paper explores the common characteristics of FASD which may lead to inappropriate sexual behaviour, such as deficits in social skills, self-regulation, and executive functioning. Another important characteristic that is explored in the research paper is how FASD can present as an invisible disability, and the risk associated with treatment of individuals who may not be identified as having organic brain damage, specifically in the criminal justice system. As the research on FASD is limited, this paper also explores the characteristics associated with the general population of people who have engaged in inappropriate sexual behaviour, and people with disabilities who have displayed challenging sexual behaviour. The comparison of populations of people engaging in inappropriate sexual behaviour highlights the importance of the responsivity of interventions. Despite the diagnostic label of “paraphilia” attributed to those who have been convicted of sexual crimes, each individual is a complex being. Responsivity indicates each individual must be holistically understood in order to design services that encourage individual change.
The potential role of consciousness in the collapse of random physical systems: a quantitative biophysical investigation of cognitive intention
(Laurentian University of Sudbury, 2014-05-20) Caswell, Joseph M.
Decades of research into the anomalous phenomenon of consciousness-correlated collapse of random systems has supported the contention that human intention appears capable of eliciting significant deviations within these external systems. The following series of experiments was conducted in order to identify potential physical factors which might play a role in the consciousness-correlated effects on a random event generator device. Transcerebral application of a specific physiologically-patterned electromagnetic field was found to enhance the occurrence of this consciousness-mediated interaction. Furthermore, immersing the test area in electromagnetic ‘noise’ appears to interfere with the apparent effects of intention. Subsequent analyses were conducted in order to examine the potential contributions of gravitational sources on this phenomenon. Cerebral biophoton emission was also examined which determined that biophotons are related to the output of a proximal random event generator within both time and frequency domains. This initial series of experiments revealed a seemingly integral temporal component in this form of experiment which occurs at approximately 2 minutes into the test phase. Finally, space weather factors were examined for potential associations with the random event generator phenomenon which revealed a number of significant relationships that may contribute to this process. An artificial neural network was then constructed in order to predict values of geomagnetic activity for future experiments. These results may be among the first to quantitatively identify the probable energies and physical parameters associated with successful consciousness-mediated non-local interaction with an external system.
The implication of repeated readings of ingredient lists of food labels on food safety judgements
(Laurentian University of Sudbury, 2014-05-16) Gardiner, Jessica Joyce
The purpose of this thesis was to establish the importance of cognitive factors in the ability to follow therapeutic diets by examining participants’ reading behaviours when shown food labels. In two laboratory experiments, 64 undergraduate students were asked to repeatedly make decisions about the safety of foods that did or did not contain specified allergen targets. Mock food labels were presented in randomized and intermixed orders, with each of 30 products being presented 15 times. At each presentation students were able to make their safety judgement with or without consulting the food ingredient list on the label. With repetition of products, participants traded the certainty of verification for the facility of using memory. Mean target accuracy did not reach 100% implying limitations to people’s reading accuracy, learning, and judgements about that learning. The findings from this study suggest that people probably choose not to read food labels as often as they should and miss seeing target ingredients when they are consulting the label.
Le rôle du raisonnement contrefactuel dans la compréhension de la dissimulation des émotions chez les enfants d’âge scolaire
(Laurentian University of Sudbury, 2014-03-19) Legault-Vanderlinden, Christiane
L’objectif de ce projet est d’étudier la compréhension de la dissimulation des enfants d’âge scolaire et le rôle du raisonnement contrefactuel dans cette compréhension. De façon secondaire, l’effet de la valence de l’émotion et du sexe a été examiné. Le niveau de langage réceptif a aussi été pris en considération dans les analyses. Sur le plan méthodologique, des histoires dans lesquelles un personnage dissimule une émotion sont lues aux enfants et ils doivent ensuite identifier l’émotion du personnage et répondre à une série de questions. Les résultats indiquent qu’il n’y a pas de différence significative entre les deux groupes d’âges. En somme, dès l’âge de 6 ans les enfants sont capable de raisonner de façon contrefactuelle par rapport à la dissimulation et cette compréhension n’est pas influencée par le sexe de l’enfant ou la valence de l’émotion qui est dissimulée.
An evaluation of several measures of attention and inhibition in ten year old children
(Laurentian University of Sudbury, 2014-03-19) Pasquali, Bernadette
Due to numerous definitions for attention and inhibition, it is very difficult to operationalize and measure these constructs (Barkley, 1996). The primary purpose of this study was to determine whether there is evidence for independence between attention and inhibition constructs using measures from the TEA-ch, Gordon CPT, Stroop Task, WISC- Digit Span and Go-No-Go Tasks and tasks of inhibition. Each of 140 students were evaluated on all measures and scores were correlated. In addition, Teacher Ratings and scores from the OLSAT were also correlated with attention and inhibition scores. Gender differences between all scores were also examined. Overall, measures did not correlate as expected. Results showed that there were significant but weak correlations among the sustained and selective attention variables. Similarly, when all inhibition variables were correlated only four significant but weak correlations were found. The lack of convergent validity and low correlations among these measures suggest that attention and inhibition constructs may be multi-dimensional. Intercorrelations between attention and inhibition variables were also weak. Relationships between OLSAT scores, Teachers Ratings and attention and inhibition variables showed that as scores that reflect reasoning skills and Teacher Ratings increased, the ability to attend and inhibit also increased. Gender differences in attention and inhibition scores were also examined and showed that girls were better at paying attention to stimuli and inhibiting impulsive responses than boys.
Étude qualitative sur les facteurs de risques d’obésité infantile ; le role des perceptions, des connaissances et des attitudes des parents sur l’alimentation, le poids et l’activité physique
(Laurentian University of Sudbury, 2014-03-19) Cimon-Lambert, Krystel
L’objectif de cette thèse était de déterminer les valeurs, les attitudes et les perceptions des mères francophones ayant des enfants d’âge préscolaire. En tout 11 mères ont été recrutées afin de participer à des groupes de discussions qui abordaient les thèmes de la problématique de l’obésité infantile, de l’image corporelle, de l’alimentation et de l’activité physique. Les résultats démontrent que les parents ont comme valeurs d’être en famille, de fournir une alimentation santé pour leur enfant et d’être de bons modèles d’habitudes de vie saines. Les mères de nos groupes avaient en général une très bonne connaissance de l’alimentation et des bienfaits de l’activité physique. Elles ont aussi fait preuve d’une grande sensibilité à l’égard de l’obésité et de l’image corporelle. Cette étude a aussi éclairci quelques perceptions parentales pouvant influencer des pratiques favorisant l’acquisition d’un surpoids chez les jeunes enfants (p. ex. : les enfants sont actifs naturellement). Les résultats de cette étude ont soulevé les valeurs et les perceptions des parents pour qu’elles servent de composantes centrales aux futurs programmes de prévention et d’intervention dans la problématique de l’obésité infantile.
Exploring the complexity of the primary health care transition of youth and young adults with cerebral palsy living in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario: a mixed methods study
(Laurentian University of Sudbury, 2014-01-27) Seguin, Chelsea L.
The vast majority of children with cerebral palsy (CP) are surviving into adulthood due to improved surgical and health care practice. Thus, the expiration of paediatric services means that a new population of adults with CP has emerged that must transition into an ill-equipped adultoriented system. Informed by the perspective of complexity theory, this case study used both quantitative and qualitative data to examine the primary healthcare transition of youth with CP living in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Analysis of Ontario Health Insurance Program claims showed service use changes due to both the expiration of paediatric services and the changing health needs of individuals with CP as they age. Physicians commented on challenges due to the complexity of the CP disease process and the benefits of shared care and teamwork in discussing transition. Future research and clinical practice designed to address transition barriers need to be informed by complexity theory.
The beautiful challenge: families raising children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder in Ontario
(Laurentian University of Sudbury, 2013-10-10) Coons, Kelly D.
The current document is a paper-based thesis investigating the lived experiences of parents raising children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) in Ontario, Canada. Historically, researchers have approached the exploration of families with the notion that families of children with a developmental disability would present with a pathological profile. However, a recent paradigm shift has transitioned the focus from deficit-based outcomes to those that highlight positive outcomes. Therefore, the first paper included is a qualitative analysis of factors that facilitate family adaptation. Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) was used to analyze semi-structured interviews with parents of children with FASD. Parents utilize a number of coping strategies, supports, and transformational outcomes that enable them to adapt to raising their child with FASD. The second paper included is also a qualitative analysis examining demands that hinder family adaptation. Parents discussed five stressors that hinder successful family adaptation. Recommendations from parents of children with FASD and implications for increasing knowledge and awareness of the disability are discussed.
The challenge of meeting the health care needs of older adults: a retrospective chart review.
(Laurentian University of Sudbury, 2013-10-08) John, Victoria Emilia
As the older adults of Ontario go through the phases of aging, some might experience functional deficiency and loss of independence in Activities of Daily Living (ADL). With rehabilitation and facilitation of essential health services, older adults will have tremendous opportunities in the pursuit of self-sufficiency and functional independence. The current study focused on detailing a quick-paced rehabilitation program provided to older adults in northeastern Ontario. The program of interest was the Assess-Restore program provided by the St. Joseph’s Continuing Care Centre (SJCCC) in Sudbury, Ontario. The study involved a retrospective chart review of 144 patients treated in the past four years, which facilitated the examination of patient charts, as well as the extraction and analysis of their functional status and capabilities prior to admission (PTA) and at discharge. Data were extracted from the Resident Assessment Instrument-Minimum Data Set Version 2.0 (RAI-MDS), which is part of the “PointClickCare” system. Although the study did not find significant changes in the level of functionality and self-sufficiency, it succeeded in effectively promoting functional restoration allowing the majority of patients to return to a level of independence in the community and avert subsequent need for residential care rather than risk further functional deterioration.
L'éducation physique et santé après la 9e annnée du secondaire en Ontario : le problème de la participation effective des élèves.
(Laurentian University of Sudbury, 2013-10-02) Dagostino, Chantal
Ce mémoire fait un survol du problème de la non-participation effective des élèves aux cours d’Éducation Physique et Santé (ÉP.S) après la neuvième année du niveau secondaire en Ontario. Il est composé de cinq chapitres. Le premier chapitre de ce mémoire présente la nature de l’ÉP.S, son importance dans chaque province et territoire du Canada, et le programme-cadre de l’ÉP.S. en Ontario. Il termine par l’énonciation de la préoccupation des enseignantes et des enseignants d’ÉP.S au regard de la non-participation des élèves aux cours d’ÉP.S après la classe de 9e année du secondaire. Le deuxième chapitre, quant à lui, synthétise le cadre théorique explicatif du phénomène de la non-participation des élèves aux cours d’ÉP.S après la classe de 9e année du secondaire. Il présente la théorie de la motivation. Le chapitre trois expose les principaux facteurs inhibiteurs et motivationnels à la participation des élèves aux cours d’éducation physique et santé, et ce, tels que ces facteurs se présentent dans la recherche. Le chapitre quatre est relatif aux suggestions à l’endroit du personnel politique des curriculums et des enseignants en vue d’espérer voir s’augmenter la participation des élèves aux cours d’éducation physique et santé. Enfin, le chapitre cinq qui conclue le travail reprend les grandes lignes de la recherche et énonce des pistes de recherche pour le futur.
Absenteeism in a health care setting
(Laurentian University of Sudbury, 2013-09-12) Sherrington, Steven
Not provided
Examining the Geriatric Content of Canada’s Newest Undergraduate Medical Program: Are Graduates of the Northern Ontario School of Medicine Acquiring the Basic Competencies to Care for an Increasingly Aging Population?
(Laurentian University of Sudbury, 2013-07-31) Leclair Smider, Karen
Inadequate numbers of physicians skilled at providing specialized care of the elderly, has initiated inquiry as to how medical schools will ensure tomorrow’s physicians are capable of providing the most appropriate care for Canada’s growing population of aging seniors. The Canadian Geriatrics Society has responded to such concerns with the establishment of recommended geriatric learning objectives. This thesis examined the geriatric content of the undergraduate curriculum of Canada’s newest medical school, the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, and compared these findings to the Canadian Geriatrics Society’s recommended ‘Core Competencies in the Care of Older Persons for Canadian Medical Students’. While there was a respectful compliance with the recommendations, findings reveal that five of the twenty recommended competencies were absent in the curriculum objectives. Further, present competencies were found to be unequally distributed across the curriculum in relation to both the year and the teaching setting. The results suggest areas for improvement as recommended competencies are intended as a minimum standard for performance in caring for the elderly.

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