Education, Faculty of

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Browsing Education, Faculty of by Author "Bernes, Kerry B."

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    Athletic career transition and transferable skills
    (Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 2007, 2007) McKnight, Kerbi; University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education; Bernes, Kerry B.
    This study investigated how active female hockey players at the high school, university/college, and national/elite levels perceive that the skills acquired in sport transfer to another career or other facets of their lives. One hundred and seventeen athletes were surveyed. The Transferable Skills Survey was comprised of four parts. Athletes provided responses that included general information, identity, career transition, and transferable skills. The findings indicate that there is a need for psychologists to be involved in the athletic career transition and that the best way to help female hockey players represented in this study may be to teach their parents the skills to assist their daughters through the career transition. Further, the findings reveal that transferable skills aid in successful career transition out of sport.
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    The evaluation of school-based community conferences
    (Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 2007, 2007) Englot Stusick, Erib B.; University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education; Bernes, Kerry B.
    This study evaluated the effectiveness of a school-based Community Conferencing program utilized in response to student acts of misconduct or violence. The satisfaction levels of the various participants involved, the effects on suspension and expulsion rates, the rates of recidivism, the types and follow through of restoration agreements made, and the offences that respond best to Community Conferences were examined. Role-specific surveys were administered to the various participants in 12 Community Conferences with 105 surveys completed immediately following the Conference and 70 surveys completed via telephone four weeks after the completion of the Conference. Data were analyzed using descriptive, qualitative, and chi-square methods of analyses. This study provides evidence for the success and satisfaction of incorporating this type of restorative programming into current philosophies and policies within school divisions as an alternative to zero tolerance policies. Participants in various roles reported satisfaction with several aspects of the Conference and its outcome, positive personal changes resulting from the Conference, and positive experiences overall regarding participation. Additionally, a potential decrease in the use of suspension and expulsion, provides further support for its use. The findings of this study provide a baseline for satisfaction levels, types of restoration agreements made, and rates of recidivism regarding school-based Community Conferences. Results can aid in the process of decision-making for those considering the use of restorative programming in schools. Due to the high rates of overall satisfaction, the model used in this research by the Edmonton Public School Division, along with the suggestions made by the researcher, can provide a representation upon which others can base implementation of a similar program.
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    An examination of the male experience of legal aggression as a form of intimate partner violence in Canada
    (Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 2021) Ingram, M Kate; University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education; Bernes, Kerry B.
    There is a paucity of literature exploring the male-victim experience of intimate partner violence (IPV). The current study contributes to the body of literature that explores male-victimization IPV typologies by employing a novel measure of IPV (Legal and Administrative Aggression [LA]) to a Canadian sample, including mental health correlates (anxiety, depression, and alcohol misuse) from the female-focused IPV literature, and assessing the factor structure of the LA using exploratory factor analysis and exploratory structural equation modelling. Our data suggested that legal aggression may be an important facet of male-victimization. Additionally, the mental health concerns evidenced in female-victims were generally mirrored in male-victims. Factor analysis further lent support that legal and administrative aggression and control may be a unique factor that belongs with the accepted typologies of IPV. Given the concerning outcomes of IPV, there is a sense of urgency to expand knowledge of this health crisis to drive social support.
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    Exploring Canadian undergraduate students' mental health literacy and its influence on psychological distress and help-seeking behaviour
    (Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 2023) Horne, Karissa L.; University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education; Bernes, Kerry B.
    Despite having mental health literacy (MHL), the prevalence of psychological distress (PD) among university students continues to remain an area of concern. Understanding the relationship between MHL attributes and PD and Help-Seeking Behaviour (HSB) can offer further insight into what knowledge is important for undergraduate students to possess to have a positive impact on their mental health. While many studies have reported a relationship between MHL and help-seeking behaviour, there were mixed findings between MHL and PD. Thus, the current study aimed to explore the extent to which Canadian undergraduate students demonstrate MHL, and its influence on their levels of PD and HSB. A total of 335 participants completed an online survey. Over half of the students demonstrated heightened symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. The results indicated that Canadian undergraduate students demonstrate a relatively high level of MHL. Moreover, the findings suggested that some attributes of MHL have a significant relationship with PD and HSB, while others do not. Further research is warranted to better understand the influence of MHL on PD and HSB.
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    Investigating individuals' motivations to comment on social media news
    (Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 2021) Esselmont, Sydney; University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education; Bernes, Kerry B.
    The present thesis takes an exploratory approach to examine the ways individuals use social media to access news, their perceptions about the quality or homogeneity of their news exposures, and how their exposure to online news and news comments influences their beliefs on a topic. Moreover, this thesis sought to expand on presently available research in this area by examining various motivations to participate in online discussions of news. 520 individuals participated in an online survey. The findings suggest that cognitive factors such as educating others and simplifying complex information to be highly motivating, as well as the presence of controversy in the story or comments. The findings also suggest that the strength of one’s position on a topic can be impacted by their exposure to news, and online platforms such as Facebook can create homogeneous news environments that perpetuate this pattern and increase users motivations to participate.
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    Investigating the race-based experiences of ethnic minority law enforcement officers with members of the public
    (Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 2023) Fedynets, Bozhena; University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education; Bernes, Kerry B.
    Only 8% of police officers in Canada identify as people of colour, while approximately 26.5% of Canada’s general population identify as people of colour. Law enforcers do not currently mirror the demographics of the populations they serve, as agencies report difficulty recruiting ethnic minority officers who then also have higher resignation rates than their White counterparts. Many studies explore the intraorganizational discrimination and unique challenges faced by ethnic minority officers. However, there is currently no research addressing the public race-based experiences of officers of colour with civilians in the field. This study identifies the types and frequencies of race-based interactions experienced by ethnic minority officers in the field and how these interactions impact officers’ job satisfaction, professional identity, and in turn, intention to resign. Second, this study gathers officers’ suggestions regarding improvements in current policy, recruitment practices, officer training, and available support, as related to officers of colour. This mixed-methods research addresses a major gap in the current literature that supports people of colour entering and maintaining more positive law enforcement careers. Written responses from 49 officers provide insight into the unique challenges faced by ethnic minority officers in the field and the organizational and clinical implications of those events.
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    An investigation of junior high and senior high school students perception of the terms "career" and "occupation"
    (Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 2002, 2002) Pyne, Deena Patricia; University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education; Bernes, Kerry B.
    A Comprehensive Career Needs Survey was designed to assess the career needs of junior high and senior high school students. The survey consisted of questions regarding students, teachers, parents, counselors and administrators evaluation of career education and support needs in Southern Alberta. Due to the recent research that suggests that adolescent perceptions of their needs, often differ from teacher or parent perceptions, it was important to examine how adolescents perceive "career" and "occupation" and how this perception evolves overtime and through developmental stages. Quantitative results show that the themes of "occupation" and "career" do not differ significantly across grade level, nor are there any prevalent themes within grade levels. However, the results of the qualitative research suggest that the way in which individuals think about these themes does evolve throughout developmental stages. Based on this research, it is suggested the Career Education begin earlier, be more integrated and comprehensive. In addition, increased adolescent involvement in future needs assessments is also recommended. Implications for teachers and counselors will be discussed.
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    Muscle dysmorphia and attachment styles in men
    (Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 2022) Varsaneux, Alexandre; University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education; Bernes, Kerry B.
    The concept of masculinity is slowly being redefined. One trait of masculinity that has proven to be inextricable is muscularity. A belief that one is insufficiently muscular is an emblematic trait of muscle dysmorphia. The etiology of this disorder is currently poorly understood. This study seeks to expand on previous research on muscle dysmorphia and attachment styles by expanding the scope to a wider population and considering domains of attachment. Statistical analysis of participants of this study (N = 265) demonstrated that there were significant correlations for body image concerns, but not behaviors, related to muscle dysmorphia and nearly all domains of attachment styles. Additionally, romantic relationship status, age, exercise frequency and intent to enter bodybuilding competitions all influenced the number of correlations to attachment domains. In conclusion, there may be a subset of individuals who do not have muscle dysmorphic behaviors that have been overlooked in the literature.
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    Partnerships in mental health : effective referral and collaboration between family physicians and psychologists
    (Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 2003, 2003) Witko, Kim; University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education; Bernes, Kerry B.
    This study looked at physicians' perceptions of the existing process of referral and collaboration between themselves and psychologists. Specifically, this study sought to identify the barriers to referral and collaboration in an effort to improve referral and collaboration between these two fields. A total of nine family physicians were interviewed. Overall, the barriers that were identified by physicians included a lack of feedback provided by psychologists, a low level of collaboration with psychologists, physicians' perception of the financial inaccessibility of psychological care, the lack of information that physicians have on psychologists, and physicians not knowing the resources that were available. Addressing these barriers appears to involve some combination of improving psychologists' feedback and collaboration with physicians, providing physicians with information and education on psychologists and their services, and improving the financial accessibility for patients to receive psychological services.
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    Partnerships in mental health : effective referral and collaboration between financial professionals and psychologists
    (Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 2004, 2004) Taylor, Terra D.; University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education; Bernes, Kerry B.
    Financial professionals are advocating a personal counselling framework to deal with financial issues. Many popular magazines are discussing this new persective on financial planning and services offered to clients. This new spin on financial advising finds financial personnel going beyond money and including personal counselling content. Articles from both academic and popular journals support the basis for this new awareness. They point to the fact that financial health and psychological health are connected and interrelated. The problem with traditional financial counselling is that financial personnel are trained to deal with numbers and money, and are not trained to counsel personal issues. Therefore, considering the potential ramifications, it is imperative that financial and psychological professionals work effectively together. The goal of addressing the issue, found within this study, is to increase service delivery to clients, both from financial as well as psychological perspectives. Ultimately, this research aims to determine how to improve, and thus increase the level of referral and collaboration between these two fields. Thirty interviews were conducted with financial personnel currently working in Western Canada. The interview population consisted of Chartered Accountants, and Certified Financial Planners and Advisors. The Financial Personnel Interview was used to collect data and explore the perceptions of the existing processes of referral and collaboration between themselves and psychologists. The interview covered an array of topics including eight parts: Demographic Information, Recognizing and Defining Personal and Psychological Issues, Addressing Personal and Psychological Issues, Roles of Financial Personnel, Referral, Collaboration, Concluding Thoughts and the Client Problem Table. Extreme viewpoints emerged from the data. One is that these worlds are too different, personal counselling is not their responsiblity and there is no need for referral and collaboration. However, the majority of financial personnel believe there is a lack of understanding between the professions, the two worlds overlap and there is a need for referral and collaboration. In order to make referral and collaboration happen, it will have to start with baby steps; it will also take willingness, time and education to move from an unknown territory to a place where clients benefit from both professions.
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    Partnerships in performance : effective referral and collaboration between hockey coaches and psychologists
    (Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 2003, 2003) Robinson, Derek; University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education; Bernes, Kerry B.
    This study investigated the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL) coaches' perceptions of the existing process of referral and collaboration between themselves and psychologists, as well as ways to improve this process. Thirteen of the 15 head coaches were interviewed. The Coach Interview Questionnair provided the framework for the semi-structured interviews. Participants provided responses which included demographic information, information regarding the current referral process, their current level of collaboration, their satisfaction, attitudes and beliefs about referral and collaboration, as well as what player problems require referrals. The findings indicated that there is a substantial need for psychologists to be involved with junior "A" hockey players. A comprehensive guidance and counselling program is recommended to the AJHL in response to the expressed needs for psychological services.
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    Psychopathological correlates of risk for adolescents in secure treatment
    (Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 2005, 2005) McCulloch, Ariana; University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education; Bernes, Kerry B.
    This research utilized data concerning adolescents at imminent risk for harm confined to the Edmonton and Lethbridge secure treatment centres in Alberta. Once screened for inclusion criteria in a single stage, non-random convenience sampling protocol, 210 files were included in the study. From these files, the adolescents' psychopathological diagnoses, Suicide Probability Scale (SPS) scores as well as other demographic data (including age, gender, ethnicity and previous suicide attempts) were recorded. This research was designed to delineate the characteristics of adolescents admitted to secure treatment, examine the overall suicide risk in this sample, investigate the relationship between study variables via crosstabulation and chi-square analysis, and to determine which independent variable/s best predicted suicide risk via ANOVA and multiple lineear regression analysis. Analysis results indicated that the sample was predominantly comprised of female adolescents, Caucasian ethnicity and was aged between 13 and 15 years. The majority of adolescents with suicide history information available in their file had previously attempted suicide. Youth demonstrated an average of 2.7 psychopathological diagnoses, the most frequent of which were conduct disorder, substance abuse, depression, adjustment disorder and parent child relational disorder. The majority of youth were in the moderate suicide risk category from SPS scores. Multiple linear regression analysis determined that the diagnoses of adjustment disorder and depression were found to be predictive of increased suicide risk scores, as was gender (females had higher risk scores), age (younger adolescents had higher risk scores) and previous suicide attempts. Those in the "other" ethnicity category demonstrated lower suicide risk scores.
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    Selective avoidance on social media amidst the global pandemic of COVID-19
    (Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 2021) Brown, Kristen Danielle; University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education; Bernes, Kerry B.
    Given the turmoil associated with COVID-19 and the increasing prevalence of social media users, it is important to understand how people react to and handle information about the pandemic on social media networking sites. In the context of crisis situations, previous research has suggested that individuals tend to avoid information about the crisis that does not adhere to their beliefs and even see them as a threat. The present study will be researching selective avoidance through unfollowing/unfriending, blocking, and muting/‘taking a break’ behaviours on social media amidst COVID-19. To extend this research further, the study will identify if people experience a perceived threat when they consume information that does not agree with their beliefs.
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    The shift from normal sibling rivalry to emotional maltreatment and Its impact on later psychological wellbeing
    (Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 2021) Lupo, Francesca; University of Education. Faculty of Education; Bernes, Kerry B.
    While sibling abuse is a predominant form of family conflict, discussion of severe sibling rivalry representing a form of emotional maltreatment has not received the attention it warrants. This thesis examines the nature of sibling rivalry, severe rivalry as a form of emotional maltreatment, the developmental shift from normal to abusive rivalry, and its consequent psychological effects as perceived by emerging adults (n = 414). The findings suggest age, gender, living in separate homes, parental differential treatment, athletic ability, and academic success, influence perceived sibling rivalry. Statistical analysis reveals that severe sibling rivalry significantly resembles emotional maltreatment and is related to decreased psychological wellbeing. Also, the developmental stage where the shift from normal to abusive rivalry exists was not identified. In conclusion, severe sibling rivalry resembles sibling abuse and should be taken seriously, where if it goes unnoticed it is suggested to negatively affect self-esteem and self-concept.
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    Social support and quality of life in adults with severe and persistent mental illness
    (Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 2008, 2008) Pasmeny, Gloria A; University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education; Bernes, Kerry B.
    The current study investigated the relationship between social support and quality of life (QoL) as well as social support and community functioning among persons with severe and persistent mental illness (SPMI). Empirical data from Phase II of the Continuity of Mental Health Services (COMHS) Study of Alberta (Adair, Wild, Joyce, McDougall, Gordon, et al., 2003) were used to comprehensively examine these variables among a broad-based sample of 301 people with SPMI receiving a mix of inpatient, outpatient, and community services. Multiple measures administered in Phase II of the COMHS research program provided comprehensive data on QoL (i.e., disease-specific and generic QoL), functioning (i.e., community ability), and objective (OSS) and subjective (SSS) measures of social support. Higher ratings of both OSS and SSS were associated with better QoL and functioning at outcome. Participant ratings of objective dimensions of their own social support were shown to be most important in determining life quality and functioning at outcome. Of the two SSS variables, the one most predictive of life quality was the participants’ sense of the provision and receipt of social support. Clinician-rated OSS was a significant predictor of QoL only for participants who rated social support availability as poor. The results of this study may inform policy development, planning, and resource allocation for community treatment programs in Alberta and elsewhere, as there is widespread support both provincially and nationally for increasing community support services and decreasing the number and length of inpatient admissions (Kirby & Keon, 2006). A better understanding of the relative impact of social support variables is essential for further development of effective psychosocial rehabilitation programming.
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    Teaching for the future : evaluating intern teachers' career education projects
    (Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 2015-07-16) Welde, Annelise; University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education; Bernes, Kerry B.
    A teacher-training program was introduced to enable intern teachers to integrate career education projects into their mainstream Grade 1 through Grade 12 courses. This non-experimental study used quantitative and qualitative content analysis to examine the effectiveness of 46 career education projects and their corresponding 75 types of career education interventions that were implemented by 46 intern teachers. Forty-six project reports and 1034 student evaluation surveys were examined to determine general trends in project strengths, challenges, and recommendations for future career education projects. The results of this investigation corroborated extant research, as students benefited from engaging in a variety of developmentally appropriate learning experiences that allowed them to engage in self-exploration and identify potential careers of interest. Implications for future research and practice are provided.
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    What they need : delivery of career development to grade twelve students
    (Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 2003, 2003) Bloxom, Joan; University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education; Bernes, Kerry B.
    Rapidly changing social and economic conditions can impart significant challenges to high school career decisions. Recent career education initiatives have been structured to support this school-to-work and school-to-post-secondary education transition. The student needs assessment focus of study allows a unique insight into the availability, delivery, and effectiveness of high school career programs. This research provides data from a nineteen-item Comprehensive Career Needs Survey, administered to 888, Southern Alberta grade 12 students. The results profile the student responses to questions on career plans after high school the meaning of occupation and career, career choice, reasons for career choice the importance of career planning, factors of encouragement and discouragement in career plans, and what would be most helpful in career plans. Questions on career hlep included the availability, use, and helpfulness of high school services, curriculum and resources, the peple helpful to career, the confidence in career plans after high school and the preferred work location. The results of this study suggest grade 12 students value career plans and the resources both people and informational, to support transitions. These students voice the need to have passion for career, and report a wide range of occupational choices. The large majority who plan post-secondary education or training expressed the need for diverse but specific career development services to support success in career. High school career development resources are available but the efficacy data suggest their under utilization or reports of not being fully helpful to career plans. An important finding is that career resources are used in the school setting but not the community. The results of this study have implications for the delivery of high school career programs and the development of the public policy on career services.
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    What's the mindset? : an investigation of junior hockey players' attitudes toward sport psychology
    (Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education, 2018) Shaw, Andrew Robert; University of Lethbridge. Faculty of Education; Bernes, Kerry B.
    In this study, 114 Canadian junior hockey players’ attitudes toward sport psychology were investigated. Participants provided demographic information and completed two questionnaires. Results indicate that Canadian junior hockey players are willing to utilize sport psychology services, prefer sport psychologists as opposed to other psychological professionals, do not express stigma toward sport psychologists, and are confident in the efficacy of sport psychology; however, express an unwillingness to disclose personal information. Participants identified strongly with a growth mindset, and a positive correlational relationship was found between a growth mindset and confidence in the efficacy of sport psychology. Participants did not identify strongly with a fixed mindset; however, increased identification with a fixed mindset is associated with increased stigma, decreased personal openness, and decreased confidence in sport psychology. Ultimately, Canadian junior hockey players hold positive attitudes toward sport psychology and express interest in using sport psychology services to optimize performance and mental health.