Human Development and Family Science

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/10342/35

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The Relationally-Centered Integrated Behavioral Health Model: Exploring Holistic Patient Health Outcomes
(East Carolina University, May 2025) Hellstern, Rylan
Integrated Primary Care (IPC) is a system that relies on the biopsychosocial (BPS) framework to provide holistic care to patients by organizing collaborative teams of biomedical and psychosocial health services. Due to the diversity of patient needs, many IPC models have been created with varying methods of organizational structure and foci. This dissertation explores the physical and mental health outcomes of the Relationally-Centered Integrated Behavioral Health Model (RCIBH), an IPC model that strives to provide all patients and their families with behavioral health services, regardless of the presenting problem. The following document is divided into six manuscripts: (a) an introduction to the dissertation and a narrative history of IPC models from around the globe, (b) a systematic review of the holistic outcomes of IPC models, (c) an introduction to the RCIBH model and its comparison to other prominent models, (d) a chapter outlining the methodology for the original research study, (e) an empirical research study utilizing machine learning techniques to explore the factors contributing to biological and psychological outcomes of the RCIBH model, and (e) a perspective piece calling for Medical Family Therapists (MedFTs) to engage with Electronic Health Record (EHR) data and further establish their role in the healthcare system.
Open Access
ASSESSING NORTH CAROLINA PRE-K TEACHERS’ KNOWLEDGE, CONFIDENCE, AND EXPERIENCE ON TRAUMA INFORMED CARE
(East Carolina University, July 2025) Barrow, Chalyne
The purpose of this study was to assess the knowledge, confidence teachers have in their actions with their students who have experienced trauma, and training received and wanted by NC Pre-K teachers on trauma-informed care. Quantitative data was collected utilizing a standardized Primary Early Childhood Educators Trauma-Informed Care Survey for Knowledge, Confidence, and Relationship Building scale (PECE-TICKCR, 2017). All participating NC Pre-K teachers (n=68) were females and had a 4-year degree in early childhood or other related field. Teachers’ knowledge related to trauma and their confidence in their own actions were highly correlated. However, teachers showcased they were most knowledgeable about the impact trauma has on students behavior with a mean of (3.93), compared to three other items on knowledge such as resources available to students and families who have experienced trauma (M=3.15), steps to take once a student is identified as experiencing trauma (M= 3.28), and steps to take if a student is suspected has experienced trauma (M=3.32). Similarly, observed means on the confidence scale revealed that teachers felt most confident in their ability to be positive with their students (M=4.31), compared to three other items on confidence like taking appropriate steps if a student is suspected of experiencing trauma (M=3.53), making behavioral observations when interacting with students (M=3.59), and taking steps to support students who have experienced a traumatic event (M=3.59). Further teachers who have experience working with children of trauma were more knowledgeable about TIC and also more confident in their actions as they worked with students on a daily basis compared to teachers who have never worked with children who are experiencing or have experienced trauma. Teachers continue to express interest in receiving more training on topics related to TIC. The study findings have implications for both, teacher preparation programs and teacher professional development and training, both at the pre-service and in-service training levels.
Open Access
EXPERIENCES OF SEXUAL VICTIMIZATION AMONG SEXUAL MINORITY WOMEN: AN EXPLORATION OF MICROAGRESSION AND EMOTIONAL DIFFERENTIATION
(East Carolina University, May 2025) Anderson, Grace Katherine
The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between Differentiation of Self (DOS), Microaggressions (MA) and Sexual Victimization (SV) among Sexual Orientation Minority Women (SMW). SMW are sexually victimized, and revictimized at higher rates than their heterosexual counterparts. Relationships among variables were analyzed via regression analysis to determine if a significant relationship existed between DOS, and SV. Data was also generated to understand the effects of MA on both DOS and SV. Data was collected via a cross-sectional Qualtrics Survey. Out of 66 survey responses, 48 completed all required components of the survey. Participants completed a demographics questionnaire, the Sex and Gender Microaggressions Scale, The Differentiation of Self Inventory-Revised, and the Sexual Experiences Survey Short Form-Victimization. Results indicated that DOS, and its subcategories had moderately strong regression relationships with SV. Implications for findings are discussed in theoretical and clinical applications.
Open Access
COPING TENDENCIES AND ATTACHMENT BEHAVIORS IN LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS’ RELATIONSHIPS WITH THEIR PARTNERS
(East Carolina University, May 2025) Williamson, Naomi
Law enforcement officers and their partners cope with occupational stressors that can have an impact on their relationship. The use of adaptive coping strategies has been shown to produce positive outcomes for individuals. Using dyadic data gathered in a previous study from 54 officers and their partners, a series of factor analyses and APIMs were conducted to analyze the relationship between coping styles and officers’ and partners' views of attachment security within their relationship. Main findings suggest that the use of negative coping strategies is associated with less self-reported attachment behavior for heterosexual officer/partner dyads. Negative coping by the male partner was linked with lower self-reported attachment behavior, with the view of their partner’s attachment behavior, and with the female partner’s view of the male’s attachment behavior. Female partner negative coping was negatively linked with how each partner rated their own attachment behavior but did not appear to influence how they rated each other’s behavior. There were not as many significant relationships when considering positive coping. There were no significant associations when measuring male positive coping, and positive coping of the female partner was not associated with male-reported attachment behavior, but positive coping was linked to how the female partner viewed her own attachment behavior and the behavior of her partner. Recommendations and future implications for research and clinical work are included.
Open Access
INTEGRATING THE VOICE OF THE DYAD: LISTENING TO THE BIRTH STORIES OF BOTH PARENTS
(East Carolina University, May 2025) Billings, Annelise
This study explores how partners make the transition to parenthood together. Men’s and women’s experiences were examined, as well as the couple together. Using a grounded theory approach, the research aims to elevate men's voices while considering the couple as a dyad. Participants were eight heterosexual couples who had a baby in the last year. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with each individual and the partnership for a total of 24 interviews. Although societal narratives emphasize women’s roles in pregnancy and childbirth, men’s participation in childbirth has been shown to strengthen family bonds and contribute to positive outcomes for all members of the new family. By applying grounded theory, this study develops a framework that incorporates both parents' experiences, highlighting the differences in how men and women process childbirth and its impact on the couple’s dynamic. The study emphasizes the importance of considering both partners' attachment needs during this transition. It underscores the significance of supporting both mothers and fathers, the latter whose needs are often overlooked. The findings offer clinical implications for therapists and medical providers to improve support for both parents and the dyad during childbirth.
Open Access
When Life Gives You Herpes: An Exploration of How Herpes Simplex Stigma on Social Media Impacts Patients and Their Relationships With Providers
(East Carolina University, May 2025) Bruhn, Alexis
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a prevalent and chronic sexually transmitted infection (STI) that is heavily stigmatized, rendering discussion of STIs between clinicians, patients, and sexual partners, more difficult. How an STI like HSV is discussed on social media sites, which have grown in prevalence and popularity, exemplifies societal beliefs related to STI stigma. The purpose of this study is to explore the intersection of HSV stigma, social media, and the patient-provider relationship. Specifically, the goal is to understand how HSV related social media content is interpreted in the context of stigma, whether interpretations differ depending on contextual factors (i.e. demographics, experiences with STIs, sexual education), and to understand the lived experiences of stigma and social media for those living as HSV positive.
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FROM SCARS TO STRENGTH: UNVEILING THE INTERSECTION OF ACES, SOCIAL DETERMINANTS, AND RESILIENCE IN ADULT INPATIENT REHABILITATION
(East Carolina University, December 2024) Kucukardali Cansever, Betul
This dissertation explores the complex relationship between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), protective and compensatory experiences (PACEs), and their influence on resilience in primary care contexts and among adult inpatient rehabilitation patients. While ACEs are known to be linked with negative health outcomes, little attention has been given to the care for patients following a screening of ACEs in primary care, and protective factors are rarely if ever, considered in healthcare contexts. Furthermore, the role of ACEs, PACEs, social determinants of health (SDoH), and resilience in adult inpatient rehabilitation contexts are relatively unknown. The primary objective of this research is to deepen the scientific understanding of how ACEs, PACEs, and SDoH interact to shape resilience when individuals face medical conditions requiring inpatient rehabilitation. By examining this dynamic, this dissertation investigates clinical practices, research methodologies, and health equity policies, ultimately enhancing strategies for screening, triage, and intervention in rehabilitation units. The dissertation employs a dual approach, combining systematic reviews with original quantitative empirical analysis. It is organized into six chapters: the first chapter introduces the concept of resilience in rehabilitation and its relationship to ACEs and PACEs. The second chapter provides a systematic review of ACE screening practices in adult primary care settings, focusing on the types of clinical responses (e.g., resources, referrals, interventions) that follow positive ACE screenings. The third chapter systematically investigates additional psychosocial factors, both protective and adverse, that are assessed alongside ACE screenings in primary care, framed through a socio-ecological resilience model. The fourth chapter details the methodology of the original quantitative research. The fifth chapter presents the results of the empirical study, which examines the interaction between SDoH, protective factors, resilience, and behavioral health in adult inpatient rehabilitation patients with a history of ACEs; and the sixth chapter synthesizes the key findings and their contributions to the field, focusing on the integration of protective experiences in ACE screening interventions. It employs data visualization techniques to analyze health disparities across North Carolina counties based on the study participants' sample, offering recommendations for improving patient care and health equity. The research ultimately advances an understanding of the interplay between childhood adversity, protective factors, and health outcomes, offering strategies for improving resilience and health equity in diverse inpatient rehabilitation populations.
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Exploring Systemic Medical Traumatic Stress In Historically Marginalized Patients
(East Carolina University, December 2024) Brown, Frandrea Latrice
Historically marginalized patients are at an increased risk for healthcare experiences that increase their risk for adverse health events, adverse health outcomes, and psychological distress related to medical trauma. These factors are exacerbated by experiences of structural violence through discrimination and microaggressions. However, research that describes the unique distress historically marginalized patients’ experience related to medical trauma, adverse health events, adverse health outcomes, and structural violence is sparse in healthcare literature. This study seeks to bridge this gap by exploring the interplay between factors and how they each contribute to patients’ experiences. This research is informed by the biopsychosocial-spiritual framework (BPSS) and historical trauma theory, which considers how collective trauma shared by historically marginalized patients spans multiple generations, affects the biopsychosocial-spiritual health of the group, and may result in trauma-related symptoms. Medical trauma, resulting from adverse health events and adverse health outcomes, is a critical yet understudied aspect of healthcare experiences, particularly among historically marginalized populations. This quantitative research, with a national sample, sheds light on the complexities of the relationship between the psychological distress resulting from medical trauma among such groups while recognizing the profound implications in shaping their healthcare. Through a comprehensive examination of the interplay between adverse health events, adverse health outcomes, social determinants of health, structural violence, internal stress, health care policies, practices and procedures, and medical trauma this study elucidates the mechanisms underlying a new concept explored within this dissertation described as systemic medical traumatic stress and its role within historically marginalized communities.
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EXAMINING THE LIVED EXPERIENCES OF AFRICAN AMERICAN AND SOUTH ASIAN PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES
(East Carolina University, December 2024) Pearce, Chrishay Yanise
This study aimed to understand the lived experiences of African American and Asian Indian parents of children with disabilities in North Carolina. Using qualitative research, interviews were conducted online via Zoom to understand their experiences taking care of their children with disabilities. Parents had to be either African American or Asian Indian living in North Carolina with a child between the ages of 5-8 with a diagnosed disability to participate in the study. All participants were African American parents from eight North Carolina counties. Eight participants were female, and four were male. Their ages ranged between 25-33 years. The data were analyzed using content analysis, which revealed four major themes with subthemes. The four themes were (1) Lived Experiences as an African American Parent, (2) The Frustrations of Barriers, and (3) Much Needed Familial and Systematic Support. Implications and directions for future research are provided at the end.
Open Access
Exploring Black Women's Experiences with Perinatal Loss, Grief, and Coping
(East Carolina University, July 2024) Saufley, Annagrace
This study's purpose is to better understand the lived experiences of Black women who have experienced perinatal loss using Stroebe and Schut’s (1999) Dual Process Model of Coping with Bereavement as a guiding framework. A descriptive phenomenological design was used to conduct semi-structured one-on-one interviews with a purposive recruited sample. The sample consisted of five Black mothers who had experienced a perinatal loss between 20 and 36 weeks gestation within the past five years. Colaizzi’s (1978) framework was used to conduct data analysis. Each woman’s unique story is detailed, following a description of the three emergent themes and seven theme clusters. The three emergent themes found were medical negligence, social relationships, and transformation. These findings build upon existing literature and offer implications for healthcare and research professionals. Future research directions are also explored.
Open Access
UNVEILING MICROAGGRESSIONS ON CAMPUS: LGBTQ COLLEGE STUDENTS' PERSPECTIVES AND RESPONSES
(East Carolina University, July 2024) Hice, Haiden
Previous research has emphasized how addressing microaggressions on college campuses significantly impacts individuals' collegiate experiences, highlighting the negative effects these microaggressions have on mental health. There is a notable gap in understanding how these factors intersect specifically for LGBTQ college students. This study seeks to bridge this gap, guided by Minority Stress Theory (Meyer, 2003) and the Students with Minority Identities in Campus Contexts Model (Vaccaro, 2015), by exploring LGBTQ microaggressions and campus climate perception, investigating their influence on stress, depression, and anxiety levels among LGBTQ students. The findings suggest there is a relationship between negative campus climate perceptions and mental health issues, in addition to experiencing harmful microaggressions, which is indicative of a persistent challenge for LGBTQ students within collegiate environments. Our study aligns with existing literature, emphasizing the need for college officials to prioritize measures aimed at mitigating microaggressions to foster inclusive and supportive campus environments.
Open Access
Relational Biofeedback: Exploring the Role of Social Support in the Practice of Biofeedback
(East Carolina University, July 2024) Knauss, Adrian Weldon
Biofeedback is a health intervention that trains people to exert control over physiological processes through real-time monitoring and feedback mechanisms (Schwartz et al., 2016). The practice promotes self-regulation and can be used to improve physical and mental health (Tan et al., 2016). However, biofeedback interventions are often conducted individually and practitioners rarely utilize the patient’s social network to assist in the development of self-regulation skills (Frank et al., 2010; Schwartz et al., 2016). This is a notable omission since research has established that social systems impact patients’ psychophysiology (Kleinbub, 2017). Therefore, the purpose of this dissertation is to explore how social support persons can be utilized in biofeedback. This concept, which the authors refer to as relational biofeedback, is an underdeveloped, but promising future direction in biofeedback. The dissertation is comprised of six chapters: (a) an introduction to the dissertation, (b) a literature review on the practice and psychophysiological underpinnings of relational biofeedback, with a special emphasis on heart rate variability biofeedback, (c) a systematic review of the literature to identify attempts to use relational biofeedback interventions to date, (d) proposed methodology for an original research study, (e) the results of the mixed-methods research study comparing individual to relational approaches to heart rate variability biofeedback with romantic partners (N = 12), and (f) a series of recommendations for clinicians and researchers, with an focus on the role medical family therapists can play in the advocacy and advancement of relational biofeedback.
Open Access
IMPACTS OF PARENTAL INSECURE ATTACHMENT AND WEIGHT TALK ON CHILD INSECURE ATTACHMENT AND BODY WEIGHT PERCEPTION
(East Carolina University, 2023-05-04) Osterbauer, Monica
The impact of obesity is studied amongst health professionals and researchers over the past few decades. Mitigating the negative health effects of obesity is explored in a variety of populations. Conversations about weight has emerged within society as a prevalent topic between social influencers, professionals, and families. Researchers have identified a connection between parental insecure attachment behaviors and emotional feeding and overeating with their children has been identified. Some parents experience pressure to control their children's weight due to the influence of societal messages and health professionals. Due to this pressure, parents who exhibit attachment anxiety or avoidant behaviors may engage in increased or decreased weight talk through the forms of encouragement to diet, teasing their child about their weight, or dieting to lose weight. This study explored the connections between parents' insecure attachment behaviors and weight talk and whether this impacts their child's attachment style and body weight perception.
Open Access
EXAMINING LINKS AMONG ATTACHMENT, COMMITMENT, RELATIONSHIP WORK, AND SATISFACTION IN YOUNG ADULT COUPLES
(East Carolina University, 2023-05-01) Hampton, Taylor
Using dyadic data, this study explored the relationships between attachment, commitment, relationship work (RW) and satisfaction within young adult couples (n=71). RW is operationalized as discussing romantic challenges with partners and friends (Jensen & Rauer, 2014). Research suggests that an individual's attachment is one of the most fundamental ways people form secure bonds with others (Bello et al., 2008). Attachment has been linked to several relationship outcomes (Feeney, 2016). While many studies have found individual links between attachment and our variables of interest, few have examined them simultaneously using dyadic data. Given the nature of these variables, and the connections between them, we expected that considering them simultaneously would deepen our understanding of these relational interactions. Our Actor-partner interdependence model (APIM) considered actor and partner effects of attachment on commitment, RW, and relationship satisfaction. Findings suggested important gender differences for both partners. These findings not only provide recommendations that will be beneficial for future research, but also provide clinicians important insights when working with couples.
Open Access
Attachment styles of emerging adults and parents, BMI, encouragement to diet, and emerging adults emotional over-eating or emotional-undereating response
(East Carolina University, 2023-05-04) Koppelmann, Caleigh
The purpose of this study is to determine the impact of attachment on parents' and students' BMI, encouragement to diet on their emerging adult children and if this relationship impacts the emotional over-eating or under-eating response. Existing literature indicates that secure attachment styles foster a strong sense of individual self that can serve as protective factors against external stimuli. Insecure attachment styles (anxious and avoidant) require individuals to rely on external regulation strategies due to negative views of self. Not studied is how parents' attachment style impacts their BMI and conversations surrounding weight related topics such as encouragement to diet as well as the impact this conversation has on emotional over-eating or under-eating behaviors employed by their children past childhood into adolescence. To address this gap in the literature, the researcher used a path analysis of regressions to determine the interaction between secure attachment styles of the mother and father on their BMI and dieting behaviors individually, and the impact of this relationship on each parents' encouragement to diet. From here, the impact this relationship had on emerging adults when looking at the emotional over-eating or emotional-undereating outcomes.
Open Access
Utilization of EHR to Improve Support Person Engagement in Health Care for Patients With Chronic Conditions
(2022) Hodgson, Jennifer; Tucker, Emily; Forbes, Thompson; Welch, Melissa; Pye, Joseph
Open Access
Family‑Centered Primary Care for Older Adults with Cognitive Impairment
(2022) Welch, Melissa L.; Hodgson, Jennifer L.; Didericksen, Katharine W.; Lamson, Angela L.; Forbes, Thompson
Open Access
MedFTs’ Role in the Recruitment and Retention of a Diverse Physician Population: A Conceptual Model
(2022-01-06) Davis, Corin E.; Lamson, Angela L.; Black, Kristin Z.
Open Access
Medical Family Therapy in Rural Community Health: A Longitudinal “Peek” into Integrated Care Successes
(2022-01-09) Lamson, Angela L.; Hodgson, Jennifer L.; Limon, Francisco; Feng, Cheng
Open Access
Together We Can: Increase Couple Functioning for Low-SES Families
(2021-04) Baugh, Eboni; Mallette, Jacquelyn; Harcourt-Medina, Kate Taylor; Almond, Lindsey

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