All the World’s a Stage: The Implementation of Creative Arts Therapy Utilizing Psychodrama in Prison Populations

Incarceration rates continue to increase in the United States every year. Federally, the FIRST STEP ACT was passed to assist in rehabilitative programming and to reduce recidivism rates. Psychology programs intervene in areas such as trauma, a highly prevalent concern amongst adults in custody, and utilize evidence-based recidivism programming. Creative Arts Therapies (CATs) have been implemented in prisons in the United States, while Psychodrama is a psychotherapeutic technique generally utilized in European and Asian countries. The World’s Stage (TWS) is a treatment modality that provides psychoeducation on trauma and trauma responses in a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy format and integrates the use of Psychodrama and Creative Arts for group and individual processing. By utilizing psychoeducation and Psychodrama in six initial sessions, creative arts therapy is implemented in the final four sessions for additional trauma processing with progress being observed, monitored, and recorded using the Ryff’s Psychological Wellbeing Scale and the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory. Potential implications for TWS are improved psychological well-being, increased knowledge pertaining to trauma, providing a safe and supportive environment for inmates, posttraumatic growth, and reduction of recidivism

Play’s the Thing: How do Occupational Therapy Programs Teach about the Occupation of Play?

Engaging in play constitutes a fundamental theoretical concept and skill set emphasized in occupational therapy (OT) education. According to the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), play is a key occupation and a core context for development and learning. However, there is a paucity of evidence about if and how entry-level OT programs are effectively teaching students about play as a central occupation, and the demands of OT education can make it difficult for OT students to observe children in real life play during their didactic coursework, particularly in unstructured play environments. This pilot descriptive study surveyed 59 pediatric faculty, program directors, and chairs from United States-based entry-level OT programs to explore how and when OT programs teach about childhood play as a central occupation, including play assessments taught, what active approaches are used, and in what settings OT students observe children at play. Findings reveal that OT programs recognize the value of play both as an essential occupation and as a tool for understanding various performance skills crucial to child development. The curricula incorporated a blend of lectures, active learning strategies, and real-world observations of children during both didactic coursework and fieldwork placements. These approaches allowed students to explore the nature of play, learn how to assess and evaluate it both formally and informally, and develop play-based interventions. Further research with a larger sample of United States-based programs and practicing OT professionals is needed to better understand how play is assessed and utilized as an occupation in clinical practice

Bridging Technology and Fieldwork Education: Developing an Electronic Medical Record for a Simulated Level I Experience

This study explores the development and implementation of a custom-designed simulated Electronic Medical Record (sEMR) system integrated into a simulation-based Level I occupational therapy fieldwork experience. The sEMR was collaboratively developed by the Occupational Therapy Department and the University Learning Design Team to provide occupational therapy students with realistic exposure to electronic medical record navigation and documentation. First-year Doctor of Occupational Therapy students engaged in eight patient scenarios that simulated real-world settings—two of which utilized the sEMR for chart review and documentation while the remaining six used paper-based documentation. At the conclusion of the simulation, sixty-five students completed a modified Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) questionnaire to assess their perceptions of the system’s ease of use, usefulness, and their acceptance and applicability to future use of EMRs in practice. The results indicated that students found the sEMR useful, relevant to their learning, and beneficial in preparing them for future Level II fieldwork and professional practice. Although most students reported positive experiences, some challenges were noted regarding the system’s ease of use and navigation. This study underscores the value of incorporating sEMRs into occupational therapy curricula to help bridge the gap between academic learning and the pragmatic demands of modern-day practice, ultimately better preparing students for the transition to Level II fieldwork

Redefining Beauty and Boundaries: The Evolution of MAC Viva Glam’s PR Campaign as a Case Study in Shaping DEI Discourse Amid a Changing Political Landscape

The relationship between diversity, equality, and inclusion (DEI) in the beauty industry and the emergence of anti-DEI laws nationwide is examined in this thesis. Using MAC Cosmetics\u27 Viva Glam campaign as a case study, this research highlights how public relations tactics in the beauty industry have traditionally supported inclusive values, embracing representation across lines of color, gender, sexual orientation, and health. On the other hand, new legislative initiatives in states like Florida, Texas, and Kentucky demonstrate a burgeoning political movement that seeks to eliminate DEI initiatives in public institutions and education. This thesis examines the ramifications of such through a comparative analysis and emphasizes the critical role that public relations plays in reflecting and influencing cultural ideals. This research argues that PR is in a unique position to mitigate the impacts of anti-DEI backlash through purposeful, open, and values-driven communication, drawing on academic sources, legislative records, and cultural opinion. The conversation urges institutions and practitioners to see DEI as a professional and moral necessity rather than a business fad, particularly during periods of political opposition. In the end, this thesis provides a critical analysis of public relations\u27 ability and duty to maintain equity in a divisive cultural environment

Play with Purpose? Examining How Structured and Unstructured Play Shape Learning and Behavior in Elementary School

This study explores various factors that impact elementary students\u27 academic performance and behavior in Kentucky classrooms, with an emphasis on the effects of structured and unstructured breaks. This research analyzes key challenges and opportunities within the state\u27s education system by examining the influence of physical activity, different types of play in classroom environments, structured/unstructured activity procedures, and instructional methods and perspectives on student outcomes. Surveys were distributed to educators from urban, suburban, and rural schools across Kentucky. Educators shared their perspectives on student engagement, classroom behavior, academic achievement, and the effectiveness of different instructional strategies through structured and unstructured play. Additionally, scholarly sources were reviewed to support the study’s claims and provide a broader educational framework. Preliminary findings suggest that structured and unstructured breaks affect student behavior and academic performance in distinct ways. Structured breaks, such as guided movement, and mindfulness exercises enhance focus and minimize behavioral disruptions. Unstructured breaks, including free play and social interactions, foster creativity and peer relationships. However, the impact of each approach likely varies based on factors such as classroom dynamics, student needs, and instructional objectives. This study offers insights on balancing different types of breaks optimizing both behavioral and academic outcomes in Kentucky’s elementary schools

Impact of an Educational Workshop on Occupational Therapy Student Perceptions of People with Justice System Involvement

The United States has the highest number of people per capita in detention centers when compared to all other nations in the world. Stigma exists against people with justice system involvement, resulting in discrimination by healthcare providers and students and ultimately health inequities. This convergent mixed-methods study aimed to impact occupational therapy students’ (N=25) knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about the criminal justice system and people with justice system involvement. The workshop included education, a panel of people with lived experience, and an occupational therapist with experiences in the criminal justice system. Significant changes were seen in the number of correct responses to 10 out of 14 knowledge questions and changes in 13 out of 20 statements related to beliefs and attitudes. Qualitative themes included: shifts in perspectives influenced by stigma, power of lived experience, and need for responsive curriculum. Findings indicate that students are impacted by stigma about people with justice system involvement but that they are receptive to learning and reconsidering beliefs, especially when exposed to people with lived experience. This has the potential to apply to other historically marginalized populations, which may enhance student empathy and encourage interest in emerging practice areas

What Does ChatGPT Have to Say About It? Integrating ChatGPT Into Classroom Discussions

Generative artificial intelligence tools, such as ChatGPT, can yield new content, setting it apart from traditional expert systems that primarily process existing data. This article discusses how ChatGPT was integrated into class discussions so that students can observe how information is generated and determine whether the information should be used

How Sports Injuries Influence Mental Health in Ongoing Participation

Physical activity and sports are essential for maintaining both physical and mental health. Research indicates that physical activity and sports engagement have numerous mental health benefits, such as improved mood and reduced anxiety. However, regardless of the sport you play or the way you choose to stay active, encountering mental barriers at some point is inevitable. These challenges may manifest as anxiety, body dysmorphia, injuries, substance abuse, sleep disorders, or stress. However, when an injury occurs, these benefits may be overshadowed by the negative psychological effects that follow (Congsheng et al., 2022). Injuries often disrupt daily routines, limit mobility, and affect an individual\u27s sense of identity, particularly for student-athletes who rely heavily on their physical capabilities. In such cases, mental health issues like anxiety and depression may emerge, exacerbating the recovery process. In addition, involuntary retirement from sports due to injuries has been linked to severe mental health consequences, including feelings of loss, frustration, and isolation, this can be especially pronounced in athletes who view sports as a core part of their identity (Kerr et al., 2014; Furie et al., 2023). This study aims to explore how the mental health of athletic students is affected by injuries and the subsequent physical adjustments required during recovery, such as wearing orthotic devices. Based on the findings of existing literature, it is hypothesized that physically active individuals and athletes who experience injuries are more likely to face increased levels of anxiety and depression. This psychological impact can further affect their overall motivation, psychological health, and capacity to return to their previous level of activity (Jakum, 2023). The insights gained from this study aim to provide a better understanding of the intricate relationship between physical injuries and mental health, ultimately contributing to more effective support systems for injured athletes

The Implications of Artificial Intelligence in Parks and Recreation

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being integrated into parks and recreation management, offering both opportunities and challenges. AI-powered tools, such as chatbots for visitor assistance, predictive analytics for trail and facility maintenance, and drone surveillance for wildlife monitoring, can improve efficiency and sustainability in park operations. However, the adoption of AI also raises concerns regarding data privacy, job displacement, and the potential loss of human-centered engagement in recreational spaces. By examining case studies and emerging technologies, the benefits and limitations of AI in parks and recreation become clear. Understanding these implications is crucial for balancing technological advancements with the core values of accessibility, environmental stewardship, and community engagement in outdoor spaces

The Impacts of Maternal Mental Health on Fetal Development

Depression and anxiety are among the most prevelent mental health disorders affecting women during the perinatal period. While often diagnosed postpartum, conditions such as postpartum depression and generalized anxiety disorder originate during pregnancy, affecting fetal brain and body development. This liturature review explores the distinct and combined impacts of prenatal anxiety and depression, highlighting the need for early detection and comprehensive care. It also examines predisposing factors, diagnostic tools, and interventions used to manage these conditions. Furthermore, the review considers how intersecting social factors- such as race, low socioeconomic status, education, culture, and barriers to healthcare- contribute to disparities in mental health outcomes. To address these issues, this project devises a culturally competent educational pamphlet to promote awareness, early intervention, accessible care and layers a foundation for future creation of a educational video. This paper not only reviews existing research but also creates a foundation for future studies aimed at improving maternal and fetal outcomes