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Proceedings for the
International Organization of
Social Sciences and Behavioral Research
Spring 2023
March 22-23, 2023
Renaissance Per Marquette
New Orleans, LA
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 3
Presidential Age Considerations: Constitutional, Cognitive, and Political
William Rosenberg
Drexel University
Consideration of presidential age have received increasing consideration in recent years.
Ronald Reagan in 1980 who was considered by some to be too old to serve when he won
election at the age of 69 years at inauguration, with President Trump who was over 70
and President Biden who was over 78 when inaugurated. This issue is beginning to surface
with possible 2024 presidential rematch of Biden and Trump.
The consideration of age as a factor has a variety of constitutional, cognitive, and political
considerations attached. The US Constitution places age minimums for president and vice
president as 35 but there is no upper age limit. The framers averaged 42 years of age and
life expectancy was at the time of 37. In 2020, life expectancy is now 77.28 years in the
US. Historically the youngest president at 42 was Theodore Roosevelt, with JFK being the
youngest president elected at 43.
Historically, the political effect of the age challenge has occurred in the not so distant past
when George HW Bush campaigned in 1980 as a younger version of Reagan. In 1988, Al
Gore legally meeting the constitutional age requirements, failed to attract enough support
to win. And in a 2020 Democratic Primary Debate, 38 year old Representative Eric
Swalwell challenged Biden “to pass the torch” of party leadership to the next generation.
This call failed to materialize support of Swalwell and Biden won the Democratic
nomination and eventually the presidency.
Age is often considered in terms of several factors including general health, cognitive
abilities, and life experiences. Harada, et al. (2013) discusses brain aging and various
diseases are considered by some. While positive considerations of age include experience,
understanding, and empathy. Perhaps these latter three were important in Biden’s
election over Trump in 2020. Additionally, there is also a rich literature including Hess
((1987) on running for President in terms of a life cycle.
Should voters decide who the president should be regardless of age? Presently there are
only age minimums. To change the constitutional rules, it requires a clear process
including various supra-majorities. With 10,000 amendments proposed, only 27 have
been ratified. Given the polarization and the lack of clear public direction that is needed,
the prospect of a constitutional change is unlikely.
With generally increasing life expectancy since the time of the framers, and a mix of
candidates of different ages and experiences, this issue while discussed seems somewhat
static except as an attack ploy. The public, through the rigorous campaign and debate
systems has been able to make their determination of leaders. While difficult to employ,
an emergency backstop in US has the 25Th amendment can remove a president if they
are unable to serve. In the end, we have seemed to dodge a bullet on this issue historically.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 4
In a democracy, the people can vote who their leaders will be, unlike other systems that
are either autocracies or monarchies.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 5
Liberatory Design: Taking Action to Learn and Liberate
Karen Sarafian
University of the Pacific
Business and technology leaders innovate, prototype and try new products and services
to improve human experiences, yet educational innovation is less common. Applying
similar design principles, educators can innovate to more equitably meet student needs.
Liberatory Design may support innovation in education and assessment and be used as a
foundation for educational liberation. With equity-minded assessment and ungrading
practices gaining momentum, this developing action research study will utilize Liberatory
Design as a framework for innovation in a graduate program. Based on informal survey
data and conversations in the fall of 2022, graduate students report reluctance related to
ungrading practices that encourage risk-taking, ongoing iteration, and substitute
feedback for traditional letter grades. Simultaneously, responding to initial assessment
prototypes, students reported feeling liberated by the opportunity to revise and grow their
work. Findings suggest collaborative engagement in Liberatory Design may support a
shift in mindset and practice to fully embrace equity-minded assessment.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 6
Ignorance Is Hard Work: Defending Institutions through the Production
and Suppression of Knowledge
Kenji Klein
California State University, Long Beach
This paper examines the problem of institutional maintenance, particularly the problem
of how institutions are maintained once they begin to lose their taken for granted status.
I examine the ongoing survival of cannabis prohibition for decades after consensus about
its dangers and its prohibition broke down. I find that supporters of cannabis prohibition
engaged in two types of work to stabilize the cognitive foundations of the institution. First,
they produced a body of scientific discourse that supported the notion of the drug's
dangers as a way to justify ongoing prohibition. Second, they worked to suppress a variety
of discourses that would challenge their framing of the drug. Together these actions have
helped ensure the ongoing survival of the institution despite its loss of taken for
grantedness.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 7
HELP WANTED: Addressing the Teacher Shortage by Revitalizing a Teacher
Education Program
Joanna Greer Koch
North Carolina State University
The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically impacted the United States’ educational
landscape. Specifically, COVID-19 has contributed to the teacher shortage with long-term
serving teachers leaving the profession for other opportunities and teachers retiring from
the profession. For instance, the U.S. Department of Education’s Institute of Education
Sciences (IES), National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports that “nearly half
(44 percent) of public schools currently report full- or part-time teaching vacancies…of
public schools with at least one reported vacancy, 61 percent specifically identified the
COVID-19 pandemic as a cause of increased teaching and non-teaching staff vacancies,”
(NCES, 2022). The resignations from full-time, long-term teachers and teacher
retirements are the main causes for public schools not being able to fill position in primary
and secondary schools. As a result, primary and secondary schools have multiple
vacancies to fill, resulting in non-teaching staff teaching in classrooms and impacting the
overall school operations. With these realities, teacher education programs have had to
rethink, research, and re-engage in actionable steps towards revitalizing teacher
education programs to attract prospective teacher candidates. Also, teacher education
programs are re-evaluating their programmatic policies and procedures to ensure they
are supporting and contributing purposefully to retaining and supporting new teacher
candidates in these new teaching roles while the new teachers obtain their initial teaching
licenses. Therefore, the purpose of this presentation is to explore how a higher education
university in the United States is taking actionable steps towards revitalizing its graduate-
level initial teaching licensure program to ensure more accessibility, affordability,
support, and resources for the prospective teacher candidates.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 8
An Examination of Vygotsky’s ZPD in the Study of Writing
Hunter Stephenson
University of Houston - Clear Lake
This paper argues that many contemporary uses of Vygotsky’s “Zone of Proximal
Development” (ZPD) in writing research fail to attend adequately to the theoretical and
conceptual frameworks which accompanied Vygotsky’s definitions and explanations of
the ZPD. Data were derived by close textual analysis of recent scholarship in which
the ZPD was invoked and/or posited as an explanatory tool for the development or
improvement of various skills associated with the production of written text. Based on
these data, this paper suggests that scholars are often: (1) “materializing” the ZPD; (2)
using the ZPD without the concomitant use of baseline testing; (3) applying the ZPD
generically and broadly; and (4) failing to empirically or theoretically link the ZPD to the
study of writing. These findings—and the claims from which they are drawn—are then
compared to Vygotsky’s descriptions of the ZPD. These comparisons reveal the following
“counter-claims”: (1) the ZPD is a metaphoric “space”; (2) the use of the ZPD requires, at
a minimum, the use of pre-tests which have been normed against or across relevant peer
groups; (3) the ZPD, although normed across populations, is a measurement of the
development of a specific psychological function within a specific individual; and (4)
perhaps most importantly, Vygotsky apparently never applied directly the ZPD to the
study of writing. These “counter-claims” are explored in some depth as they imply that
further research is necessary before Vygotsky’s ZPD can be used appropriately for the
study of writing.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 9
Upending The Status Quo In Professional Education Using Cross-Media
Stories
Randy Testa
Harvard University
Given continuing advances in communications technology, e.g. streaming, ZOOM virtual
classrooms, the latest IPhone, etc. across professions, educators are currently afforded an
expanding menu of ways to use selected stories, both fictional and factual, in their work
with students, perhaps now out of necessity after COVID-19 and classroom life since the
pandemic. At a time when content streaming and movie-viewing at home are at all-time
highs, how can a cross-media approach help educators evaluate and optimize the use of
popular movie adaptations with the books they are drawn from, to promote social,
emotional and academic development with learners? We also ask: what does easy access
for today’s students via digital technology mean for the use of stories about social relations
in educating students/learners? This paper demonstrates the value of using stories that
“cross” from one media format or content platform to another –using the two as equal
partners. We highlight cross-media methodology with a story that “crosses” from a play
–Bashir Lazhar, by Evelyne de Cheneliere—to the Academy Award-nominated film
adaptation Monsieur Lazhar written and directed by Philippe Falardeau --two tellings of
the uplifting story of a French-Canadian elementary school reeling from a beloved
teacher’s death, and a substitute teacher’s effort to put shattered classroom lives back
together. Our thought is to first build the case for teachers’ use of cross-media
methodology in their own professional development in order for them to then value and
use cross-media methodology with and on behalf of their students.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 10
Emerging Vocational Rehabilitation Strategies for People with Diabetes
Mellitus
Phillip D. Rumrill, Jr.
University of Kentucky
Beatrice Lee
Michigan State University
Deborah Minton
University of Kentucky
Malachy L. Bishop
University of Wisconsin – Madison
Lynn C. Koch
University of Arkansas
Cassidy Pittman
University of Kentucky
Sandy Conder
University of Kentucky
People with diabetes mellitus constitute an emerging vocational rehabilitation (VR)
consumer population. Method: Following an overview of the etiology, incidence,
prevalence, and impact of this high incidence endocrinological disease, the authors
present strategies to meet the service and support needs of Americans with diabetes
mellitus across the phases of the VR process. Results: The importance of individualized
case planning, employer consultation, workplace accommodations, interface with
medical and mental health professionals, and adherence to self-care and symptom
management regimens is emphasized throughout the article. Conclusions: Diabetes
mellitus is an emerging disability that can affect people of any age, one that
disproportionally affects people of color and people who live in poverty. Rehabilitation
professionals must be prepared to meet the service needs of this growing clientele.
Author Note
The contents of this article were developed, in part, under a grant, the Vocational
Rehabilitation Technical Assistance Center for Quality Employment, H264K200003,
from the U.S. Department of Education. However, the contents do not necessarily
represent the policy of the U.S. Department of Education, and you should not assume
endorsement by the Federal government.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 11
Sociology of Radicalization: Key Elements
Huseyin Cinoglu
Texas A&M International University
Helen Potts
University of North Texas
Radicalization is an identity formation process. Like with any other identity formation
processes it cannot occur overnight. Although its highly case-specific, radicalization is a
gradual process with a timetable of its own. Radicalization consists of stages and stations
that could be identified and used for interventions. At its core, it is a journey in which a
person becomes more acceptable of extreme and violent worldviews. In its extreme forms,
that individual does not stop at mere acknowledgement of extreme and violent ideologies
but engages in them as well.
There is a vast literature on radicalization. In this paper, authors will focus on four key
sociological concepts that play crucial roles in any radicalization journey: prior traumas
or existing grievances, social networks, extreme or violent worldviews/ideologies, a
supporting environment. This presentation will briefly explain these elements from a
sociological perspective. Understanding the relevance and importance of them is also
crucial in creating and implementing viable policies which plays a pivotal role in any
prevention and intervention effort.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 12
Acceptance of Disability: Scoping Review and Implications for Disability
Research and Rehabilitation Practice
Malachy Bishop
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Phillip Rumrill
University of Kentucky
Acceptance of disability (AOD) is a complex and evolving construct in disability studies
and rehabilitation psychology and counseling, and a critical component of psychosocial
adaptation to chronic illness and disability. We present the results of a scoping review to
delineate and classify current definitions and measures in the rehabilitation and
psychosocial adaptation research literature. Growing recognition of the importance of
disability acceptance is underscored by research suggesting its association with multiple
rehabilitation outcomes. Acceptance has been defined in rehabilitation counseling
primarily in terms of the value change model (Dembo et al., 1956; Wright, 1983) but
additional models, definitions, and approaches to understanding and applying
acceptance have evolved, particularly in the context of disability identity. Understanding
this construct in its disability-specific and more general psychological contexts, and being
able to promote disability acceptance with clients, depends on having an understanding
of the different approaches to defining and measuring acceptance. The purpose of the
research we will present was to promote clarity and understanding of AOD and its
measurement and use in practice. We completed a scoping review addressing the
following research questions: (1) How has AOD been defined in the psychosocial
adaptation to chronic illness and disability (PACID) literature? Specifically, (a) what
related constructs (e.g., acknowledgement, disability affirmation, etc.) have been
associated with acceptance? (b) What models of AOD (or inclusive of AOD) have been
proposed in the PACID research literature? (2) What chronic illnesses and disabilities
have been most frequently studied in the AOD research literature? (3) What instruments
or measures have been developed and used to measure acceptance in the PACID research
literature? (4) What interventions to promote or accommodate AOD have been evaluated
in the PACID research literature?
We will summarize the results of our analysis of 65 extracted studies for inclusion from
19 countries, primarily addressing physical and sensory conditions. We will describe the
significant degree to which AOD is shown to be a key variable in PACID but also in broader
rehabilitation and disability outcomes. AOD is evolving rapidly, and we will explore how
disability identity and changing perceptions of disability are modifying the definitions.
We will describe important limitations in the existing research, including in terms of
conceptualization and measurement and the impact of overuse of traditional models in
terms of conclusions about AOD and the experiences of people with disabilities. Finally,
we will explore with the participants the implications for disability and rehabilitation
research and practice.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 13
Consumer-Centered Vocational Rehabilitation Strategies for Stroke
Survivors: Implications for the Coronavirus Era
Phillip D. Rumrill
University of Kentucky
Malachy Bishop
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Lynn C. Koch
University of Arkansas
Walt Bower
Amy E. Rumrill
University of Kentucky
Sandy Conder
University of Kentucky
In this article, we describe stroke survivors as an emerging vocational rehabilitation (VR)
clientele. Following an overview of the incidence, prevalence, and impact of stroke, the
authors present strategies to meet the service and support needs of Americans with stroke
across the phases of the VR process. The importance of individualized case planning,
employer consultation, workplace accommodations, interface with medical and mental
health professionals, and implications of the Coronavirus pandemic is emphasized
throughout the article.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 14
Cultural Influences of Leadership Curriculum: A Literature Analysis
Between Western and Eastern Leadership Curriculum
Siyuan (Diana) Chen
University of Southern California
Zhi Yin
Pepperdine University
Tianshi Hao
Pepperdine University
Anshu Lal
Pepperdine University
Jesse Llamas
Pepperdine University
Michael Llamas
Pepperdine University
This literature review seeks to determine how Western and Eastern cultures influence
leadership training and curriculum design. According to research, cultural differences
may make it difficult to develop a universal leadership curriculum. Due to cultural
variations, establishing a universal leadership curriculum might be difficult, and it is most
ideal to create a leadership curriculum that fits a specific culture to maximize the
efficiency of a leader. Cultural factors such as society structure and dispute resolution
continue to influence the desired leadership curriculum and training in target regions.
Western leadership has been impacted by growth mentality, emotional intelligence, and
conflict resolution, while Eastern leadership is typically connected with Confucianism and
collectivism.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 15
Video Games as a Way to Facilitate Leadership Skills and Competency
Development
Tianshi Hao
Pepperdine University
Siyuan (Diana) Chen
University of Southern California
Jesse Llamas
Pepperdine University
Michael Llamas
Pepperdine University
Gabriella Miramontes
Pepperdine University
This scoping review examines recent literature on video games and leadership
competency development to assess whether gaming can foster leadership development.
The study discovered that the popularity of video games has increased and that they have
the ability to enhance player leadership and real-world leadership skills. Video games can
increase management, social, and creative skills, and their increasing complexity makes
them beneficial for the study of leadership. There are existing structures in place for
leadership development in the military and in the civilian sector, despite the fact that
some studies have demonstrated their potential. This topic is relevant because the
COVID-19 epidemic has enhanced the requirement for leadership in virtual workplaces.
The conclusion of the study examines how video games might enhance leadership
abilities.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 16
Gamification as an Effective Method in Developing Leadership Skills and
Competencies
Tianshi Hao
Pepperdine University
Siyuan (Diana) Chen
University of Southern California
Jesse Llamas
Pepperdine University
Michael Llamas
Pepperdine University
Gabriella Miramontes
Pepperdine University
Gamification, the incorporation of game design features into non-game environments,
has been implemented in a variety of disciplines, including education, sustainability,
language learning, and workplace transformation. According to research, workplace
gamification enhances employee engagement and productivity. The gaming business has
leveraged incentives and motivation to drive behavior and participation. This literature
study assesses gamification's potential as a technique for leadership development and
competency building. Leadership is characterized by a combination of personality
characteristics, knowledge, abilities, and behaviors. Existing leadership competency
analysis frameworks include emotional intelligence and taxonomies such as Gallup's
"Strengths Finder." Through points, levels, and leaderboards, gamification has been
found to boost student motivation and behavior in leadership training. However, it is
noticed a clear scarcity in using gamification as a technique for leadership development.
This review suggests that additional research is required to establish the usefulness of
gamification in strengthening individual and organizational leadership competencies.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 17
The Impact of Societal Stigma on General Self-Efficacy: A Serial Mediation
Analysis
Deyu Pan
Pennsylvania State University
Sang Qin
University of Wisconsin Madison
Xin Zou
People with psychiatric disabilities are often troubled by societal stigma and subsequent
processes, including internalized stigma and lowered self-efficacy. This study aimed to
examine symptom severity and self-stigma as potential mediating factors between
societal stigma and general self-efficacy among people with psychiatric disabilities. Three
hundred individuals with psychiatric disabilities were recruited to complete a Qualtrics
survey. Correlational analyses and serial mediation analysis were used to examine the
relationship. The result suggests that symptom severity and self-stigma fully mediate the
relationship between societal stigma and general self-efficacy. Implications for practice
and research were discussed.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 18
Self-Stigma of Incarceration and its Impact on Health and Community
Integration
Chelsea Brehmer
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Sang Qin
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Incarceration can have lasting impacts on health and reintegration back into the
community upon release. Individuals with criminal backgrounds are also subject to
pervasive public stigma regarding their background status in community integrations
settings including education, housing, and employment. These public attitudes fuel
stigma and are understood as culminating from the larger community. Self-stigma, then,
occurs when these public attitudes are internalized by an individual and have negative
consequences. The purpose of this study was to better understand the health implications
of self-stigma of incarceration and their impact on community integration. The study
began with validating the four-stage model of self-stigma in individuals with prior
incarceration experience (n=129), and then explored relationships between self-stigma,
physical and mental health, and community integration. Results provided support for a
progressive model of self-stigma among this population. Self-stigma negatively impacts
health and community integration and the relationship between self-stigma and
community integration is mediated by mental health. Implications and future directions
will be discussed.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 19
Exploring the Relationship Between Critical Thinking Dispositions and
Cognitive Styles
Christopher C. Garland
Northeastern State University
James R. May
Oklahoma State University, Retired
Significant literature exists discussing critical thinking and there is broad consensus that
critical thinking may be thought of as existing among two related but distinct dimensions:
skills and dispositions. Among these two dimensions there is particularly little consensus
on the identification of, or even number of, elements that constitute the disposition to
think critically. Dispositions to think critical are crucial as without it one does not think
critically even if the skills to do so are present. Instruments currently available with which
to measure critical thinking dispositions remain limited, one of the most recent of which,
the Critical Thinking Disposition Scale was developed in 2013. As critical thinking
involves cognitive functions such as judgment, reflection and evaluation of the quality of
information among others, it seems fitting to explore if there is a link between critical
thinking dispositions and cognitive styles. Cognitive styles, measured by the Cognitive
Style Index, are compared with critical thinking dispositions as measured by the Critical
Thinking Disposition Scale for exploration into possible relationships. The Critical
Thinking Disposition Scale CTDS and the Cognitive Style Inventory CSI were
administered to 107 undergraduate students at a large Midwestern American university.
A cross-correlational analysis was performed between the Critical Thinking Disposition
Scale and the Cognitive Style Inventory. Each factor of the CTDS was correlated with the
CSI scores to evaluate a possible relationship between the cognitive styles of the subjects
and their Critical Openness and Reflective Skepticism. Results of this study suggest a
mildly positive relationship between cognitive style and the Reflective Skepticism factor
on the CTDS.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 20
Just Calm Down! The Emotional Dynamics on Twitter
Stephen Dipple
Carnegie Mellon University
Kathleen Carley
Carnegie Mellon University
Emotions are critical to human behavior and greatly impact decision making process and
communication patterns. Many models of emotion exist that describe emotional valence,
the strength with which a person experiences an emotion, and how they affect their
behavior [1-4], but these models are complex and have difficulty with scaling. Our goal is
to better understand the emotional dynamics in social media and how they affect
behavior. To achieve this we propose a simple, accurate, and scalable model of emotions
and how they impact communication on social media.
To validate this model, a Twitter dataset was collected based on the #boycottfrance
hashtag that was prevalent in Oct. 2020 and contains about 200,000 unique users and
600,000 tweets, retweets, quotes, and replies. Using a natural language processing tool
called NetMapper which incorporates a LIWC dictionary extension[5], Sentiword a
Lexicon for Sentiment Analysis[6], Vader a sentiment analysis model[7], and a dictionary
of affect in language[8], we were able to identify emotional cues and their strength
contained within individual tweets. We focus on a set of primary emotions, anger, fear,
sadness, happiness, disgust, and surprise. Not all tweets contain information for each of
these emotions and some tweets do not contain any emotional information.
Finally, we examine the link between the emotional valences in the population and their
activity levels. Using our emotional valence model, we were able to estimate the various
factors that impact a Twitter user’s emotional state. We also examine the correlation
between each of the emotions and the amount of tweet creation activity to study how these
changes in emotion affect their real-world behavior.
1. Brian G Milnes, Garrett Pelton, Robert Doorenbos, Mike H Laird, Paul Rosenbloom, and
Allen Newell: A specification of the soar cognitive architecture in z. (1992)
2. John R Anderson: The Adaptive Character of Thought (1990)
3. Uma Ramamurthy, Bernard J Baars, Sidney K. D’Mello, and Stan Franklin: LIDA: A
Working Model of Cognition. (2006)
4. Ron Sun: The importance of cognitive architectures: an analysis based on clarion. (2007)
5. James W. Pennebaker, Roger J. Booth, Ryan L. Boyd, and Martha E. Francis: Linguistic
Inquiry and Word Count: LIWC2015 (2015)
6. Lorenzo Gatti, Marco Guerini, and Marco Turchi. SentiWords: Deriving a High Precision
and High Coverage Lexicon for Sentiment Analysis (2015)
7. C.J. Hutto and Eric Gilbert. VADER: A Parsimonious Rule-based Model for Sentiment
Analysis of Social Media Text (2014)
8. Cynthia M. Whissell. The Dictionary of Affect in Language
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-558704-4.50011-6
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 21
Creating Authentic Knowledge Construction Through Values-Based
Decision Making in the Classroom
Alisha Milam
Mississippi State University- Meridian
Matt Blackwell
Mississippi State University- Meridian
While it is well known that learning is a process unique to each individual, Robert Stahl
and associates felt that the current curriculum used within schools’ social studies
classrooms across the United States was not an effective tool for learning in the classroom.
Students were the object of content transmission; they could not access higher-order
thinking skills foundational to the construction of knowledge. This led to the creation of
a decision-based content-centered curriculum. Robert Stahl created this value system of
decision-making material based on both the strengths and weaknesses of previous
curriculum with an aim to critically support a classroom where students and teachers are
encouraged to analyze topics in social studies critically. This value system of decision-
making material fosters and nurtures cognition and the construction of knowledge within
students. This proposal sets forth research completed by Robert Stahl and his
contemporaries that address cognition as a construct of the mind that depends on a solid
foundation of background knowledge and information. Therefore, the decision-based
content-centered curriculum is intended to add to any existing curriculum for maximum
classroom growth. Learning and knowledge retention require a higher-level of thinking
processes, which is supported by the decision-making materials. According to Robert
Stahl (1976), the content centered learning approach created by Casteel and Stahl offers
classroom teachers the opportunity to "carefully plan for, develop, implement, monitor,
and assess instructional activities" (p.7) in order to meet their personal in-class objectives
which supports the overall goal of the school and school district. By integrating this new
curriculum created by Stahl and associates, students possess the ability to be equipped as
knowledgeable decision-makers. They have the opportunity to engage in the learning
process actively, thereby empowering students with genuine knowledge construction and
enhancing the classroom experience. The following sections address Robert Stahl’s theory
of content centered learning specifically addressing key and critical elements of cognitive
psychology, affective domain, cooperative learning, and valuation.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 22
Women’s Political Representation and Global Democratic Peace a
Transdisciplinary Analysis of the Role Women Play as Peace Makers
Veronica-Victoria N. Onochie
Claremont Graduate University
Contrary to empirical studies, it is quite evident that societies that have experienced civil
wars still discriminate against women. The existing literature on civil war concentrates
heavily on the role of democracy, religion, ethnicity, economic inequality, rebellion and
territorial disputes as causes of civil war (Collier & Hoeffler, 2004). It especially
emphasizes good governance and democracy as essential components for peace (Fearon
& Laitin, 2003). However, it is important to note that gender equality can also influence
the level of utility, cultural, socio-political and economic development in a state, not just
good governance. Thus, in order to account for such factors, this dissertation measures
the effect of gender inequality on post-civil war societies by analyzing the role of women
in politics in societies that have experienced civil wars in developing countries. There are
some indications that women political participations enhances the overall level of
economic growth, education among youths, democracy and equality.
Developing countries are often described as trapped in a poverty cycle, with many
eleborate plans to reform their states. These states attempt to revitalize their economies,
however, economic growth and prosperity are stalled due to endogenous and exogenous
factors which include limited access to capital, poor infrastructure, low levels of
educations, corruption and gender inequality. This dissertation will identify various
factors that contribute to territorial disputes and how women's participation in politics
reduces the level of gender inequality thereby creating an equilibrum in public
administration. Following the critical mass theory, passage of 2 legislature indicates that
there are higher levels of economic prosperity and democracy as more groups within a
system collaborate (Childs & Krook, 2008).
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 23
Undergraduate Students' Awareness and Utilization of University Mental
Health Services and Programs for Depression: A Case Study
Calvin Odhiambo
University of South Carolina
Depression among young adults is a common health problem and a growing public health
concern. Of the young adult population, college students are particularly vulnerable to
depression as they find themselves grappling with the stress and anxiety of college life
while at the same time navigating the demands of separation and independence from
familial ties. To deal with the resultant mental health challenges affecting this population,
most colleges offer counseling services to their student population. What is not known,
however, is the extent to which students are aware of or even utilize such mental health
services. Our study set out to assess the level of student awareness and utilization of
counseling services and programs at a southeastern regional comprehensive state
university in the United States. Data were collected through self-administered
questionnaires administered to a convenience sample of 508 undergraduate students
voluntarily recruited from 38 classes representing five colleges. Data analysis was done
using the Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Results showed that
even though a majority of students were aware of the mental health services offered by
the University, an overwhelming majority of these students did not utilize any of these
services or participate in any mental health programs offered by the University.
Significant gender and racial differences were observed. Reasons for the lack of awareness
and utilization of mental health services are explored. Recommendations are made on
how to increase student awareness and utilization of mental health services, and the
implications of the findings are discussed. Findings of this study help to fill an academic
lacuna on this issue and provides an important basis for developing policies to help
mitigate the growing problem of depression and attendant mental health problems
among undergraduate students.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 24
Teaching Implicit Bias (IB) in graduate-level Multicultural Counseling
Courses: Framework, Tools, and Limitations
Sheri Atwater
Loyola Marymount University
Enabling counselor trainees to recognize their own implicit bias (IB) and its impact on
potential counselor-client interactions is an essential part of every multicultural
counseling curriculum. This teaching practice brief describes the research and rationale
for incorporating IB into training programs, as well as evidence-based IB tools,
techniques and activities that align with the Multicultural and Social Justice Counseling
Competency (MSJCC) Framework (Ratts, Singh, Nassar-McMillan, Butler, &
McCullough, 2015) and are used in a graduate-level multicultural counseling course.
Benefits and challenges for faculty and students are reviewed, with sample IB worksheets
and activities shared.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 25
The Glocalization of HIV/AIDS: An Explication of the Diffusion of
Innovations Theory in Managing the Epidemic in Uganda
George Musambira
University of Central Florida
Samuel Muwanguzi
University of North Texas
This study examined the role of communication in the glocalization and diffusion of
innovations regarding the anti-HIV/AIDS struggle as perceived by a section of sexually
active Ugandans then living in Rakai and Kampala districts during the advent of the
epidemic in 1982. Sixty-four women and men participated in ten focus group discussions
in Rakai and Kampala districts. Four themes emerged from the data highlighting how
individuals and communities localized the global epidemic and made sense of the
HIV/AIDS. The research highlights the paradoxical extent to which the constructs of
glocalization and diffusion of innovations can account for the cohort experiences within
the historical framework of the fight against HIV/AIDS in Uganda. A set of scaffolding
themes characterizing the campaign includes (1) dissemination and sensitization, (2)
enlightenment and adaptation, (3) transformation and integration, and (4)
institutionalization and backlash.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 26
Overcoming Trauma through Art? A Case Study: Ceija Stojka's Work
Remembering the Nazi Genocide of the Romanies
Michaela Grobbel
Sonoma State University
This visual presentation focuses on Ceija Stojka's art as a vehicle to remember the history
of the Romani Nazi genocide. Ceija Stojka (1933-2013) survived three Nazi concentration
camps and became a unique artist expressing her memory of a history that is not widely
known. Stojka's visual historiography reveals her art as a memory space displaying critical
links between past and present, which also makes the unspeakable trauma visible.
Stojka’s work, augmented through interviews with the author, reveals the powerful
potential of art as self-exploration, healing, witnessing, and a political form of
remembrance and resistance against all forms of violence.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 27
Interpreting School Neuropsychology Assessment Reports for Teachers
Robert H. Martin
Azusa Pacific University
School neuropsychology is a field of study that is seeing rapid growth in institutions of
higher learning, and subsequently in public and private schools. School neuropsychology
assessments are substantially more extensive than traditional psychoeducational
assessments reports. The reports are discussed at the student’s Individual Educational
Plan (IEP) meeting and school educators need to be present at the meeting. Teachers have
often expressed that it is extremely difficult to understand the complicated reports. It is
often viewed as too complex to grasp and too overwhelming. The purposes of this paper
are to help teachers understand and interpret the information that comes from a school
neuropsychology assessment report, and to apply that knowledge to assist in planning
appropriate supports for the student.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 28
Evolving Cybersecurity Landscape for Luxury and Fashion Houses: A
Proactive Approach to Protecting Digital Assets and Gaining Competitive
Advantage
George Antoniou
Lynn University
Andrew Burnstine
Lynn University
This research paper aims to explore the specific challenges that luxury and fashion houses
face in protecting their digital assets and safeguarding their intellectual property in the
evolving cybersecurity landscape. The paper proposes a proactive approach to navigating
the cybersecurity landscape and gaining a competitive advantage in the marketplace. The
research will identify the security challenges, recommend solutions, and discuss
regulations that luxury and fashion houses must adhere to. The paper concludes that by
implementing robust cybersecurity measures, building a cybersecurity culture,
collaborating with experts, and staying abreast of evolving threats, luxury and fashion
houses can protect their digital assets and gain a competitive advantage in the
marketplace.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 29
Female Leadership Development: From a Non-Western Perspective
Mira Fadel
Pepperdine University
Siyuan (Diana) Chen
University of Southern California
Tianshi Hao
Pepperdine University
Jesse Llamas
Pepperdine University
Michael Llamas
Pepperdine University
Gabriella Miramontes
Pepperdine University
This study intends to compare the evolution of female leadership in the Middle East and
North Africa (MENA) area, Asia, and the Western countries. According to data from the
International Labour Organization, the COVID-19 epidemic has significantly impacted
women's labor force participation globally and expanded the gender gap, with the MENA
area being the most affected. There is a well-established global trend of rising female
leadership; yet, there are still disparities in the gender composition of leadership between
Western countries and other areas, with Western countries having a greater share of
female leaders. In the MENA area and Asia, imposed gender norms and cultural elements,
such as the conventional patriarchal system and collectivism, play a key role in limiting
female leadership. The study relies on secondary data to analyze how social principles
such as gender norms and adversity influence the emergence of female leaders in non-
Western societies.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 30
Building Pathways for Female Leaders’ Economic Empowerment
Mira Fadel
Pepperdine University
Tianshi Hao
Pepperdine University
Jesse Llamas
Pepperdine University
Michael Llamas
Pepperdine University
Gabriella Miramontes
Pepperdine University
This study reviews current literature on the barriers women face in leadership
development and economic empowerment, comparing non-Western countries to
developed nations. The review highlights unpaid work and gender harassment as
significant obstacles to women's leadership and economic development, but also
identifies mentoring as a positive factor for women's leadership and economic
empowerment. The study further explores the influence of the economic environment and
different economic systems on female leadership and economic empowerment, with a
focus on the impact of political and corporate activity on non-Western nations. The study
finds that despite progress, women remain underrepresented in leadership positions. The
findings can inform policies and practices to promote women's leadership and economic
empowerment globally. Understanding the barriers that women face is crucial for
creating effective policies to address these obstacles and promote gender equality. This
study's findings can help policymakers and researchers design interventions that enhance
women's leadership development and economic empowerment across cultures and
countries.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 31
Lingering Effects of the Class Ceiling on Leadership Development
Mira Fadel
Pepperdine University
Siyuan (Diana) Chen
University of Southern California
Tianshi Hao
Pepperdine University
Jesse Llamas
Pepperdine University
Michael Llamas
Pepperdine University
Gabriella Miramontes
Pepperdine University
This study examines the influence of social standing, affluence, and privilege on the
formation of leaders. The review of literature synthesizes research including individuals
from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds and factors that may influence leadership
development. Previous research indicates that family socioeconomic situations influence
the learning of leadership knowledge, the building of a leadership attitude, and the
practice of leadership skills during adolescence, hence influencing the likelihood of
becoming an outstanding leader. High-status persons possess leadership-enhancing
benefits, such as social capital and privileged knowledge. Nonetheless, relationships,
social identity, and congruence also influence the efficacy of leaders. The study concludes
that parental socioeconomic status affects more than simply an individual's leadership
development and that social status is a significant aspect in leadership development.
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 32
Name
Affiliation
Page
Antoniou, George
Lynn University
28
Atwater, Sheri
Loyola Marymount University
24
Bishop, Malachy L.
University of Wisconsin - Madison
10, 12, 13
Blackwell, Matt
University of Mississippi- Meridian
21
Bower, Walt
13
Brehmer, Chelsea
University of Wisconsin-Madison
18
Burnstine, Andrew
Lynn University
28
Carley, Kathleen
Carnegie Mellon University
20
Chen, Siyuan (Diana)
University of Southern California
14, 15, 16, 29, 31
Cinoglu, Huseyin
Texas A&M International University
11
Conder, Sandy
University of Kentucky
10, 13
Dipple, Stephen
Carnegie Mellon University
20
Fadel, Mira
Pepperdine University
29, 30, 31
Garland, Christopher
Northeastern State University
19
Grobbel, Michaela
Sonoma State University
26
Hao, Tianshi
Pepperdine University
14, 15, 16, 29, 30, 31
Klein, Kenji
California State University, Long Beach
6
Koch, Joanna Greer
North Carolina State University
7
Koch, Lynn C.
University of Arkansas
10, 13
Lal, Anshu
Pepperdine University
14,
Lee, Beatrice
Michigan State University
10
Llamas, Jesse
Pepperdine University
14, 15, 16, 29, 30, 31
Llamas, Michael
Pepperdine University
14, 15, 16, 29, 30, 31
Martin, Robert H.
Azusa Pacific University
27
May, James R.
Oklahoma State University, Retired
19
Milam, Alisha
Mississippi State University- Meridian
21
Minton, Deborah
University of Kentucky
10
Miramontes, Gabriella
Pepperdine University
15, 16, 29, 30, 31
Musambira, George
University of Central Florida
25
Muwanguzi, Samuel
University of North Texas
25
Odhiambo, Calvin
University of South Carolina
23
Onochie, Veronica-Victoria N.
Claremont Graduate University
22
Pan, Deyu
Pennsylvania State University
17
Pittman, Cassidy
University of Kentucky
10
Potts, Helen
University of North Texas
11
Qin, Sang
University of Wisconsin Madison
17, 18
Rosenberg, William
Drexel University
3
Rumrill, Amy E.
University of Kentucky
13
Rumrill, Phillip
University of Kentucky
10, 12, 13
International Organization of Social Spring 2023 Conference Proceedings
Sciences and Behavioral Research – New Orleans, LA
Page 33
Sarafian, Karen
University of the Pacific
5
Stephenson, Hunter
University of Houston - Clear Lake
8
Testa, Randy
Harvard University
9
Yin, Zhi
Pepperdine University
14
Zou, Xin
17
