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Exploring the correlation between migration and spousal relationships within the first ten years of immigration in Ontario: An exploratory descriptive qualitative narrative and phenomenological review study
Spousal challenges, divorce and migration are big life events that can substantially impact individuals and their families. Spousal challenges, divorce and migration have a profound impact on the lives of individuals and couples (Hyman et al., 2008). These events frequently interact in complicated manners, influencing the people involved and broader societal dynamics. Understanding the relationship between spousal relationships, divorce and migration is critical for policymakers, social scientists, and practitioners to address the particular challenges and opportunities that arise when these two life events co-occur. -
Are the "quality of interpersonal relationships" within shared households both a determinant of mental health and a barrier to recovery in adults over the age of 18, if so? An exploration of literature analyzed through a Qualitative Health Promotion lens
The objective of this study was to explore experiences in shared housing and to identify determinants of satisfaction as a mechanism for understanding how interpersonal dynamics affect mental health recovery. Additionally, it aims to understand these concepts within a health promotion framework. Using a thematic analysis approach, research narratives were examined descriptively and interpretively. The study offers a unique perspective that moves past the focus of the built environment as a social determinant of health and considers the inequities that exist within the social aspects of living conditions. Key findings were that there are 4 determinants of interpersonal relationship satisfaction within living environments. A conceptual model was then devised to explore the possible relationship between these determinants and mental health outcomes. The study refrains from making causal assumptions but suggests further investigation into autonomy and unity as potential mediators of mental health recovery. Additionally, it highlights the complexity of the social context which can affect these determinants of satisfaction. Ultimately, it concludes that more in-depth studies are necessary, and to directly compare mental health outcomes using interpersonal relationship quality as a variable. -
Exploring the impact of exposure to social media on adolescents' mental health: a descriptive qualitative narrative literature review
Adolescent’s mental health is a critical concern as a significant percentage worldwide experience mental health problems (Vidal et al., 2020). Given the central role of social media in adolescents' lives, understanding the correlation between social media use and mental health is crucial. This study aims to investigate the impact of exposure to social media may have on adolescents' mental health. In this narrative review, the researchers reported on studies that investigated the impact exposure to social media may have on adolescents' mental health by primarily searching the Seneca Polytechnic Libraries database. The research collected was published in the timeframe of 2014 and 2023 and were articles about the impact exposure to social media may have on adolescents' mental health. The Literature review showed that there is a positive correlation between social media use and mental health issues in adolescents with increased use resulting in elevated anxiety or depression. The outcomes of this study can inform interventions, promote education and awareness about healthy social media use and potential risks, and create supportive environments where adolescents feel comfortable discussing their mental health concerns related to social media. -
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Ageism and dementia treatment: a qualitative narrative review study
The purpose of this research project is to determine whether or not ageism, the discrimination against people due to their age, is responsible for the creation of barriers that prevent the discussion and deliverance of proper dementia care. Due to an increasing number of individuals with dementia it is important that the existing reports regarding the mistreatment of dementia clients be examined so that action can be taken to prevent further mistreatment of dementia clients (Banerjee et al., 2021). In order to do this, it is necessary to determine the cause of dementia mistreatment and the unwillingness to discuss it, so it is therefore necessary to determine whether ageism is one of the causes of the mistreatment of people with dementia. The existing body of literature that this research study builds upon suggest that ageism is responsible for the prevention of proper discussion and deliverance of dementia care. This indicates that ageism must be publicly identified as the cause of poor dementia care and publicly disproven as a viable philosophy (Williams et al., 2017). -
An exploration of the impacts of digital media on mental health among adolescents in Canada: An exploratory descriptive qualitative narrative review study
This study is an exploratory descriptive qualitative narrative review that aims to investigate the complex impacts of digital media on the mental health of adolescents in Canada. With the widespread use of digital media platforms among adolescents, concerns have been raised about their potential effects on mental well-being (Gupta, Jogdand, & Kumar, 2022). This study aims to provide a comprehensive review of existing literature to shed light on how digital media usage influences various aspects of adolescent mental health outcomes. The review synthesizes qualitative narratives from diverse sources to provide a thorough understanding of the subject matter. Key themes identified include the role of social media in shaping self-esteem and body image, the impact of online bullying and cyberbullying on mental health, and the potential benefits and drawbacks of digital mental health interventions. By exploring these themes, this study contributes to the growing body of literature on digital media and adolescent mental health, providing insights for policymakers, educators, mental health professionals, and parents. -
Increasing substance dependency in Canada and the role of healthcare facilities in rehabilitating the patients: An explanatory descriptive qualitative narrative literature review study, with an institutional ethnography lens
The study explores the phenomenon of substance dependency in Canada and investigates the role played by healthcare facilities in rehabilitating patients affected by substance abuse. It provides an explanatory view of the factors contributing to the increasing rates of substance dependency in Canada. This study concluded some key findings ranging from: Managed Alcohol Programs (MAPs) reduce harms associated with severe alcohol use among individuals with unstable housing and severe alcohol dependence; Clinical Pharmacy Specialist (CPS) providers in the Veterans’ Health Administration (VHA) are transformative in improving medication safety and patient care, with evidence of positive economic impact; stigma interventions for providers treating substance use disorders (SUDs) have shown promise in reducing clinician stigma toward patients with SUDs (Bardolia et al., 2020); substance use during pregnancy is met with significant stigma, impacting the care of substance-using pregnant individuals; quality assessment in mental health services is essential for improving clinical practice, with systematic measurement and monitoring of quality indicators advocated for evidence-based policy improvements; community-managed alcohol programs offer a range of services aimed at addressing substance abuse issues, including residential and day programs (Barnett et al., 2018). Additionally, this study has made a number of recommendations ranging from: increase funding and support for Managed Alcohol Programs to expand their reach and impact in addressing severe alcohol use; further integrate Clinical Pharmacy Specialist providers into healthcare teams to optimize medication management and patient care outcomes (Barrett & Lines, 2023); implement stigma reduction interventions across healthcare settings to improve access to care for individuals with substance use disorders; develop and implement trauma-informed care approaches in healthcare settings to address the unique needs of substance-using pregnant individuals; enhance quality assessment mechanisms in mental health services to ensure evidence-based improvements in clinical practice (Biancarelli et al., 2019). -
The effects of social media platforms on the mental well-being of youth: An exploratory descriptive qualitative secondary data analysis study
The research project aimed to investigate the alarming increase in mental health issues among young people today, which is linked to their exposure to technology, particularly digital platforms. It has been noted that longer periods of social media usage are associated with higher rates of anxiety, despair, loneliness, and low self-esteem (Zafar, 2023; Weigle, 2024). These effects can be made worse by peer pressure, cyberbullying, and exposure to unattainable beauty standards. Using a variety of approaches is crucial to properly addressing this problem. These consist of putting in place comprehensive digital literacy programs, regulating digital usage, and implementing educational programs. Furthermore, for prompt intervention and support, it is essential to cultivate open channels of communication between young people and reliable adults, such as parents, teachers, and mental health specialists. Through tackling the intricate relationship between excessive screen time and digital engagement, stakeholders should and may work towards preserving the psychological well-being of young people worldwide. -
Examining the connection between exposure to war in Syria and the refugee seeking process in Ontario for older Syrian refugee seeking women: A descriptive qualitative narrative review study
The purpose of this descriptive qualitative narrative review study is to examine the connection between exposure to war in Syria and the refugee-seeking process in Ontario for older Syrian refugee-seeking women. This study attempts to disseminate valuable knowledge regarding the implications of refugee-seeking and the need for adequate mental health support for older immigrant women. These women represent a vulnerable group due to both the aging process and relocation. Data analyzed from all articles selected for this review shed important light on this phenomenon. The outcomes of this study can provide valuable insights for focused interventions, enhancement of supportive health systems and producing policy recommendations. The ultimate goal would be to enhance mental health care services and promote the overall well-being of this marginalized population in Canada. -
Understanding the barriers and specifically help-seeking attitudes of Black newcomers accessing mental health services in Ontario: A descriptive qualitative narrative literature review study
This study aims to explore the barriers and help-seeking attitudes of Black newcomers accessing mental health services in Ontario. Research focusing on Black arrivals' experiences in seeking mental health support is still lacking, despite the increasing awareness of the inequities in mental health among immigrant populations. To learn more about the difficulties Black immigrants encounter and their perspectives on obtaining mental health care, a descriptive qualitative secondary data analysis method was used to examine qualitative data sources. To pinpoint the main obstacles and enablers affecting help-seeking behaviors in the contexts of culture, society, economy, and institutions, thematic and content analysis were utilized. The results show that many different kinds of hurdles prevent people from accessing mental health care. These barriers include structural injustices, cultural differences, language barriers, stigma, and stressors associated with immigration. Additionally, diverse viewpoints on Black immigrants' views toward obtaining treatment have surfaced, illustrating the intricate interplay among personal convictions, social conventions, and attitudes toward mental health services. The implications of these findings underscore the importance of culturally sensitive and accessible mental health services tailored to the needs of Black newcomers in Ontario. Addressing these barriers and fostering positive help-seeking attitudes are critical steps towards promoting equitable mental health outcomes for this population. This study contributes valuable insights to inform policy, practice, and future research aimed at improving mental health services for Black newcomers in Ontario and similar contexts. -
The social determinants of health in Canadian men and fentanyl addiction: An analytical qualitative health promotion secondary data analysis study
“The opioid toxicity crisis in Canada has evolved. The current crisis is influenced by several factors, including genetics, adverse childhood experiences, trauma, mental health, poverty, lack of secure housing and other social determinants of health” (Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, 2023). The intention of this research is to analyze how the social determinants of health affect Canadian men who are addicted to fentanyl opioid. It will delve into the motivation and source for fentanyl use, and the necessities required to recover and create a healthy and stable plan to recover from fentanyl addiction. The limitation of this research is that there is no control over the accuracy of the information found in the articles; and the objectives of this research may not be the primary objective of the articles being used. -
What are the mental health challenges experienced by international students in Canada? An explanatory descriptive qualitative existential study
The current research project aims to analyze the various magnitudes of stressors and challenges that contribute to international students’ mental health status. To seek answers towards this question, we analyzed the findings by exploring previous academic and gray literature as well as outside sources such as blogs and social media posts. Furthermore, some of the main key themes that were mentioned in the paper were financial issues, lack of socializing and culture, and employment. To handle the situation, there was little support for international students to help themselves while living in Canada. The goal for this report is to identify key factors towards mental health issues for international students and different kinds of coping mechanisms and support systems that can benefit and optimize their well-being. -
The effect of refugee seeking on Turkish women's mental health in Ontario: An explanatory qualitative descriptive systematic narrative review study
This systematic narrative review and secondary data analysis study examine the effect of refugee seeking on the mental health of Turkish women in Ontario, Canada (Radford & Connor, 2019). Drawing from a comprehensive literature review and analysis of existing data, the study explores the intricate relationship between refugee status, mental health outcomes, and the efficacy of support systems. The findings reveal a significant association between refugee seeking status and adverse mental health outcomes among Turkish women, with factors such as visa insecurity, prolonged asylum processes, and post-migration stressors exacerbating psychological distress (Mahajan et al., 2022). While social networks and community-based resources can mitigate these challenges, structural barriers and cultural insensitivity often impede access to essential services (Government of Canada, 2022). The study underscores the need for timely and culturally sensitive interventions, interdisciplinary collaboration, and policy reforms to address the mental health needs of Turkish refugee women in Ontario effectively. Limitations include reliance on secondary data sources and the need for further research to enhance understanding and inform targeted interventions (Mahajan & Meyer, 2019). Overall, this study contributes to the growing body of literature on refugee mental health and underscores the importance of holistic, culturally responsive approaches to support refugee women in their resettlement journey. -
The effects Covid-19 had on social anxiety disorder in college students: an exploratory descriptive qualitative secondary Reddit analysis study
COVID-19 caused post secondary institutions to close their doors and teach classes online. This created a huge adjustment for their students. Many people with social anxiety disorders were affected by this transition. The study focuses on the areas most affected in post secondary students’ social anxiety. A secondary data narrative thematic analysis was used from 50 Reddit posts from the subreddit form specifically for social anxiety. Key themes were found from each post and collected in order to create statistics. Through the data collected, it was found that during and post-COVID-19 post secondary students had a hard time with regulating their social skills/aspects and emotions. -
Revenge porn: an exploratory descriptive qualitative secondary data analysis study
The research project aimed to examine the impact of revenge pornography on female victims in Canada, particularly focusing on the mental health repercussions stemming from their experiences. It was observed that many women refrain from coming forward due to a lack of supportive policies and societal stigma associated with such incidents. The study revealed that female victims commonly experience anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, reluctance to leave their homes, and feelings of hopelessness. Moreover, societal factors such as shaming, victim blaming, difficulties in establishing new relationships, challenges in finding employment, and erosion of trust were identified during the research process. To address these issues, recommendations include the establishment of policies and laws aimed at safeguarding the rights of revenge porn victims and ensuring accountability for perpetrators. Additionally, there is a need for the implementation of support systems, including community groups, workplace initiatives, and school resources. Furthermore, addressing the social stigma surrounding sexuality and sex is essential for creating an environment where victims feel comfortable seeking help and where such incidents are not normalized. These recommendations collectively aim to provide comprehensive support for female victims of revenge pornography and foster a more understanding and supportive society. -
The impact of bullying on the mental health and well-being of black youth in Ontario: An exploratory descrpitive qualitative systematic narrative review study
The purpose of this Exploratory Descriptive Qualitative Systematic Narrative Review Study is to explore the impact of bullying on the mental health and well-being of Black youth in Ontario. This study attempts to disseminate valuable knowledge regarding implications of bullying and the need for adequate mental health supports for Black youth in Ontario. These youths represent a vulnerable group due to both their race and culture, a phenomenon otherwise known as Double Jeopardy (Millar and Brookes, 2021). Data was rigorously gathered using a descriptive qualitative systematic tool to explore the mental health presentations and the frequency with which Black youth encounter bullying as reflected in peer-reviewed articles. The outcomes of this study have the capacity to provide valuable insights for focused interventions, enhancement of supportive health systems and producing policy recommendations. The ultimate goal would be to enhance mental health care services and promote overall well-being of this marginalized population in Ontario. -
Does post-secondary education influence the mental health status of students in Canada? A systematic narrative review secondary data analysis study
The transition to post-secondary education is a pivotal phase in individuals' lives, presenting both challenges and opportunities. Recent data indicates a concerning increase in mental health issues among students, including stress, anxiety, and depression. The study investigates the impact of post-secondary education on the mental health status of Canadian post-secondary students (PSS). By analyzing prevalence and estimations of various mental health outcomes, the research aims to discern trends and identify factors influencing mental health (Jung et al., 2017) The objective is to synthesize existing knowledge and provide a comprehensive understanding of how post-secondary education impacts mental health. Through thematic analysis, key insights are extracted from scholarly articles, illuminating the complex interplay between post-secondary education and mental health. Academic pressure emerges as a prominent stressor, alongside challenges in adapting to the demands of higher education. Social dynamics and lifestyle changes also contribute significantly to mental health challenges among students (Johnson et al., 2022; Wiens et al., 2019). In addressing these challenges, considerations from the Okanagan Charter's principles are paramount, advocating for holistic approaches to student wellbeing within educational institutions. This framework emphasizes the importance of fostering supportive environments that prioritize mental health alongside academic achievement, thus providing a counterbalance to institutional pressures and learning outcomes expectations. This study underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of the relationship between post-secondary education and mental health. By identifying stressors, exploring influencing factors, and examining interventions, the research seeks to inform initiatives that promote student well-being within the post-secondary education system. The findings underscore a notable rise in specific mental health conditions among students, with a particularly pronounced trend among females. However, it's noteworthy that the likelihood of experiencing most mental health outcomes was comparatively lower among students than among their non-student counterparts (Pascoe et al., 2019; Wiens et al., 2019). Such insights prompt a critical examination of the prevailing narrative surrounding a supposed mental health crisis within post-secondary institutions, urging a more nuanced exploration that encompasses broader contextual factors. This nuanced approach is essential for conducting accurate and comprehensive mental health assessments within the student population, ultimately guiding more effective intervention strategies. -
Can Ontario summer camps serve as hubs for promoting youth employees' leadership building capacity? A mental health exploratory descriptive qualitative narrative review study
Images of Ontario summer camps are often held up as bastions of Canadian identity. This industry has traditionally operated under the radar of public knowledge, since for much of its existence, it was the refuge of the upper, then upper-middle, classes (Baker, 2019). Due to remote locations, high cost, and lack of cultural diversity within the industry, the elements of successful camp structures are often passed down quietly within employment legacies of private institutions (Tessman et al., 2012). There is little research done on summer camps, compared with other facets of childhood like school or organized sports, and what exists tends to focus on camp as a care provider for children. There has been little research done into the summer camp, or outdoor education facility, as a workplace. This is considered a significant gap considering that for many young people, summer camp employment is one of their first experiences with a workplace (Enbridge, 2023). This study provides evidence of the positive effect summer camp employment has on perceived mental health and wellness by staff and furthers the discussion on the ways this sector influences future work beyond the industry. The key findings of this study include the potential summer camp employment has to set people up for success within the modern employment landscape, the ways in which Ontario summer camp employment supports key social determinants of health, and the opportunities to support youth wellness through camp work. This study also includes a discussion around potential within the industry as related to future academic research and government advocacy. -
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Understanding the Impact of COVID-19 Restrictions on Anxiety Among Students
The experience of COVID-19 had youth attending school online and in-person several times with the changing rules and restrictions as a result of the pandemic. Throughout this period of restrictions, youths' experiences with anxiety during their years in high school have been significantly impacted. Billions of students had their typical school life altered as a result of the COVID-19 restrictions being imposed, and only a fraction of students reported experiencing no increased anxiety as a result of these restrictions. With consideration of this vast number and the presence of anxiety among youth in high school during COVID-19, researchers want to understand, what is the relationship between COVID-19 and anxiety among students aged 14-17? To begin exploring and understanding this relationship, researchers will conduct a qualitative analysis of videos posted on Tik-Tok publicly by students aged 14-17, detailing their experiences with anxiety during COVID-19. This process will use Tik-Tok’s search engine to search specific hashtags, including “#covid19andanxiety” and “#highschoolanxiety” to search and discover a total of twenty available Tik-Toks exploring youths’ experiences. This study yielded results that fell into five distinct themes, concluding that COVID-19 restrictions negatively impacted high school students' anxiety with a high amount of mental health symptoms due to lockdown restrictions, challenges with online learning, the lack of support available, the sudden increase of independent learning and responsibilities, and finally, an increase in isolation. While youth are in vulnerable stages of development, the possible long-term impacts of these experiences are critical to explore. -
A Look Inside the Justice System: An Explanatory Qualitative Study
This research paper examines evidence-based interventions that support the recovery and rehabilitation of individuals in forensic criminal justice facilities. While the priority of forensic psychiatric care is public safety, it must also prioritize restoring mental well-being and reducing recidivism. By reviewing existing literature and analyzing patient experiences, this study highlights the need for effective interventions that support individualized recovery processes. Thematic analysis of 12 peer-reviewed articles revealed four recurring themes: patient empowerment, meaningful relationships, personal development, and trust and communication. The study found that patient empowerment and meaningful relationships are especially crucial in the recovery of patients in a forensic facility. Although limited in scope, this study provides valuable insights into patients' experiences within the forensic criminal justice system and aims to improve the quality of care and support, reducing hospitalization and criminal justice system involvement. -
The Effects of Post Incarceration on the Mental Health of Black Men: A Qualitative Study
Black men experience identifiable pathways that leads them to criminal injustices due to increased levels of discrimination and stigma. This results in them being involved with the criminal legal system leading to incarceration. This literature review examines the effects of post incarceration on the mental health of Black men, with a focus on Canada and the United States of America. The authors highlight the negative impacts experienced by Black men re-entering the community such as challenges and barriers, stress, exposure to infectious diseases, and lack of healthcare service of incarceration. The study aims to fill gaps in the literature by examining how former incarceration affects the mental health of Black men upon re-entering society using a qualitative narrative method and secondary data from peer-reviewed journals and articles. Four key themes were identified: 1)Unemployment/Difficulty in finding sustainable employment, 2)High mortality/low life expectancy, 3)Challenges to Healthcare Engagement and 4)Gender disparity and Racial discrimination. Findings from the study suggest that more attention and resources are needed to support this population and reduce the negative impact of incarceration on their lives. The authors call for more research on the health disparities caused by incarceration and the provision of mental healthcare resources for formerly incarcerated Black men. The study emphasizes the importance of policymakers and practitioners in addressing the challenges faced by this population and working towards a society that provides equal opportunities and support for all individuals, regardless of race. -
The Impact of Environmental Racism on Mental Health of Minority People in North America
Environmental Racism (ER), a pervasive occurrence among minority populations, has been historically associated with declining general health outcomes in North America. This study was done using a descriptive research design. The method of inquiry was thematic analysis and secondary qualitative research by coding 10 peer-reviewed articles with ER as the main subject. The mentioned articles yielded significant bases to conclude ER realities are indeed also prevalent in causing mental health disturbances in areas experiencing diminishing green spaces as an amenity or within close proximity to industrialized communities dealing with disproportionate levels of air, water or land contamination. Minorities in this context refer to Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) who most often reside in red-lined neighborhoods and close to polluted areas that affect overall health indicators. The combination of hazards created by living with unfavorable housing conditions due to lower socioeconomic indicators in society and toxic environments are likewise closely linked to intensified chronic stresses attributed as an aggravating factor of mental health related issues. Five (5) manifestations of psychological impact were found as evident among minorities in the United States of America and Canada directly dealing with ER, namely: 1) Higher susceptibility to emotional distress; 2) Magnified feelings of helplessness and stress exacerbation; 3) Racial oppression as a key factor in trauma responses; 4) Increased risk of anxiety and depression and; 5) Increased risk of aggression and disruptive behavior. The effects of ER on mental health are also found to be cumulative and are felt from conception, childhood and carry over into adulthood. -
Not Just Harmless Fun: The Long-Term Effects of Early Pornography Exposure on the Sexual Health of Male Adults aged 18 to 65.
This research study seeks to understand the relationship between early pornography exposure and negative sexual health development in adult men aged 18 to 65 through a qualitative content analysis of secondary sources from social media posts. These posts were sourced through support groups on Reddit. Posts were searched using keyword filters to limit results to relevant posts. With these filters in place, 55 social media posts were selected. Information on the posts were recorded and analyzed. Data tabulation led to the creation of codes and themes based on common trends in the social media posts. Themes selected for analysis were physical side effects, psychological side effects, social side effects, and hypersexual activity. Results showed a clear correlation between early pornography exposure and several secondary conditions such as malformed relationships, failure to launch, and sexual dysfunctions. These stemmed from several sources, such as invasive negative or violent thoughts, inability to experience intimacy, and lack of motivation to seek out relationships. Early pornography exposure results in higher risk of hypersexuality or other poorly formed sexual traits in adulthood. The link between pornography consumption and hypersexuality is established, however, this paper shows a direct link between early pornography exposure and development of hypersexuality in adulthood. Pornography usage must be understood to promote healthy usage. Pornography can be accessed by any internet capable device, and thus education on it must commence as soon as individuals are given these devices. This can help individuals to understand the risks of excessive consumption and increase protective factors. -
Effective Treatment Options for Postpartum Depression: A Narrative Literature Review
Postpartum depression is a very serious mental health concern affecting new parents, but in most cases, specifically mothers. Statistics collected from within Canada show that 14% of new parents experience some form of perinatal depression or mood disorders post-delivery. The aim of this study is to examine the effective treatment options for postpartum depression. In this narrative review, the researchers reported about studies that investigated treatment options for postpartum depression by searching databases, including Seneca Library and Google Scholar. The research collected was published in the timeframe of 2010 2022 and were articles about the treatments associated with postpartum depression. All research was assessed in English. The search strategy included a combination of keywords including postpartum depression and treatment options. Literature review showed that the effective treatment options for postpartum depression can be seen through encompassing social support, cognitive-behavioral therapy, pharmacological treatment, paternal involvement, and non-pharmacological modalities. The data from this study can be used for offering effective treatment options for parents who might be experiencing postpartum depression. -
Understanding the Relationship Between Seneca College BCMH Students’ Substance Use and Academic Performance
Substance use among college students is no secret and may negatively affect academic performance. The present study experimentally investigated the relationship between Seneca Honours Bachelor of Community Mental Health (BCMH) college students’ substance use (i.e., alcohol, illicit, legal, and non-medical prescription drugs) and academic performance. The ‘Google Forms’ platform was used to create a survey, with a series of questions to assess whether BCMH college students’ substance use affected their academic performance. The participants were recruited via email, as well as a class announcement made by two of the BCMH professors to their classes. The sample included participants ranging from various BCMH cohorts. A total of 41 participants completed the study. Participants were asked to remain anonymous throughout the experiment process. Research on this topic demonstrated that college students are using substances. Past literature shows results of high dropout rate, failing courses, and missed assignments. The results of this study indicated that BCMH students are using different substances, however, they are maintaining a passing grade. The implications of the findings suggest future research focus on illicit drug use that is becoming increasingly popular and the need for substance use resources on school campuses. -
Exploring the Factors of Inflation Impacting the Mental Health of Post-Secondary Canadian Students
This research study aims to investigate the distinct factors associated with the rising cost of living that most impact the mental health of post-secondary students in Canada. A thematic analysis was conducted through the social media platform Twitter, with a total of 51 tweets included in the analysis. Tweets were sourced by searching key words such as: mental health, anxiety, and depression, as well as finances, cost-of-living, and inflation, and were manually assessed by the researchers for relatability to the initial research question. Our analysis shows that post-secondary students’ mental health is impacted by several factors pertaining to inflation. Students are most concerned with affording basic needs, with other notable concerns being a lack of available supports, repayment of student loans, balancing work and life, and the impact financial stress has on academic performance. We conclude the relationship between inflation and mental health is nuanced, and it is necessary to understand the exact concerns of post secondary students when it comes to their mental health and finances, to develop and implement programs and services that meet the needs of this population. -
Experiences of mental health practitioners with mental health issues: A secondary Reddit analysis
Ample primary research to date confirms the prevalence of lived experience of mental health issues among mental health service provider populations. Existing research suggests that service providers with lived mental health experience face a range of barriers to integrating their experience into their practice. However, these findings are highly prone to response bias due to methodologies used. This study therefore employed secondary research methods to answer the question “what are the experiences of mental health providers with lived experience of mental health issues?” A sample of 50 Reddit posts was generated by searching the subreddits r/therapists and r/socialwork for terms related to lived experience of mental health issues; search result content was reviewed, and posts alluding to both professional practice and lived experience were included in the sample. Inductive thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006) identified four themes across two domains: within the domain of practical experience, (1) navigating disclosure and (2) managing own mental health needs; within the domain of internal experience, (3) feeling like a good mental health worker and (4) feeling like a bad mental health worker. Sub-themes were identified and discussed in relation to themes. Results indicate that the lived experiences of the study population are highly variable. Moreover, Reddit posts contained themes not previously identified by primary research methods. These results support the development of more nuanced and pertinent guidance for professionals around use of one’s lived experience in practice, as well as further research using secondary data sourced from professional peer support spaces. -
The Perceived Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Students Well-Being
Globally, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on education, with many students engaging in extended durations of online learning. This research study is aimed to investigate the perceived impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on students' well-being, specifically focusing on mental stress, physical activity/health, academic performance, and student-professor relationships among students who experienced different periods of online learning in Seneca. The hypothesis proposed that students who spent more time online would exhibit higher levels of mental stress, poorer levels of physical activity/health, decreased academic achievement, and a stronger negative effect on their relationships with their professors. Data for the study were collected via a survey approach, and a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). According to the ANOVA results, there was not a significant difference between the online learning periods and students' physical health, academic performance, mental stress, or relationships with professors. These results indicate that students' well-being, as determined by the variables of mental stress, physical activity/health, academic performance, and student-professor relationships may not be significantly impacted by the length of online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. To investigate additional variables that can affect students' well-being during online learning periods, more research may be required. However, these findings may also guide future initiatives that enhance student health and academic success in situations like these. -
Safe and Supportive Spaces for Adolescent Mothers to Breastfeed
The purpose of this integrative review was to portray the factors that influence the adolescent mothers willingness to breastfeed as well as how they define a safe and supportive space to breastfeed their children. Five articles met the inclusion criteria. Findings show that most adolescent mothers considered to breastfeed their children. But the factors that influenced these mothers regarding a safe and supportive space to breastfeed are social support, judgement free zone, a place that is private and welcoming, and encouragement from the professionals. Nurses, lactation consultants and other professionals who work with adolescent mothers play a critical role in these mothers willingness to breastfeed. Support from family, friends and partners were important part of a successful breastfeeding environment. Public approval and social norms also led to positive attitudes towards looking for a safe and supportive space to breastfeed. -
Finding Recruiting Strategies and Initiatives for the Increase of Representation Among Commercial Pilots
The purpose of this research is to explore recruiting strategies in order to identify which ones are more effective at recruiting women. Despite the continued growth of the commercial aviation industry and the looming spectre of a pilot shortage, the aviation industry has continued to struggle to recruit more female pilots. With little change in the percentage of qualified female pilots over the last 10 years, it’s clear that there is a fundamental problem limiting the effectiveness of various institutions' recruiting practices. Qualitative interviews with various Canadian aviation institutions were requested. The questions asked pertained to differences between male and female pilots and the effectiveness of the institution's recruiting strategies. The aim was to identify which strategies worked the best to recruit women and then analyze these to determine how to improve them. However, very few institutions were willing to speak about this issue, so extensive secondary research was conducted, which would later make up the bulk of this paper. Most secondary research illuminated problems consistent with those that affected STEM occupations years ago. How WISEST programs managed to overcome these challenges and increase recruitment is of particular interest to this paper. This paper's findings were the result of an analysis of secondary research combined with the limited qualitative data obtained through interviews. This research offers some recommendations on how changes in the way the aviation industry recruits pilots will lead to an increase in the recruitment of female pilots. -
Safety Aspects of Automation in Aviation
With the introduction of automation into aviation, the safety of flying was improved alongside efficiency and easing pilot workloads. Now, when these automated systems fail, the safety of the flight is now threatened due to the deep integration of computers and automated routines within key aircraft sub-systems. The purpose of this report is to determine the effects of automation and automated systems on the aviation industry in the modern era. It is hypothesized that modern pilots are becoming too reliant on automated systems and are losing their fundamental hand-flying skills. To prove the validity of this claim, research was conducted first through the evaluation of multiple secondary sources obtained from Seneca Libraries and online news articles/papers. A literature review was conducted to highlight key secondary research materials while utilizing the CRAAP method to analyze our sources. Through this method, we have been able to evaluate the contributions of these sources to our work. A survey of pilots and air traffic controllers was then conducted to obtain data regarding automation-induced effects on aviation currently, which was then used in conjunction with our prior research to formulate conclusions and recommendations to resolve this growing problem. It was determined that pilot performance had indeed been affected by automation dependency, and as such, poses a safety risk to current commercial operations. As such, we recommend that greater emphasis be placed on the early prevention of automation dependency through continuous reinforcement of hand-flying skills. These teachings must also follow pilots from the school to the airline, and initiative must be taken to ensure skill-fade does not occur (increased hand-flown approach quota). The creation of an internationally recognized standard of training is proposed to ensure pilots of any nationality are trained to the same standards as all other nations, improving safety while operating in foreign airspace. Recommendations are also provided for air traffic controllers, with monitoring of controller performance in the presence of automated control systems to ensure cognitive skills do not fade with reductions in workload. With these recommendations in place, automation may continue to evolve and improve both the efficiency and safety of the aviation industry. -
From Pistons and Props to Titanium and Turbines: An Analysis of Aviation Engine Developments
It is to no surprise that with an increasing global population, carbon emissions from the transportation industry are on the rise, including the aviation industry. To combat this, many aerospace companies are actively seeking new technologies with an end goal of eliminating carbon emissions. To gather our research, multiple major aero engine manufacturers were contacted to participate in interviews however no replies were received. As a result, our research was based primarily on secondary sources. Our findings revealed that many companies are testing the use of alternative fuels such as hydrogen or biofuels to replace traditional kerosene-based fuels. Other methods such as electric technology and improved engine core design are also being considered as sustainable alternatives to traditional jet engines. These new discoveries all share the same focus; to achieve a sustainable future for the aviation industry by reducing carbon emissions. -
Decolonization of the K-8 Public School Curriculum
The Ontario Curriculum has recently undergone reform to address the recommendations within Calls to Action that were presented in the Truth and Reconciliation Final Report (TRC, 2015). The purpose of this study is to evaluate what changes have been made to the social science curriculum for grades K-8, and if they are meaningfully aligned to the TRC calls to action regarding education. Content analysis was used to analyze key words and phrases that were extracted from the TRC (2015), through manifest and latent coding charts. Results showed that while some changes have been made to the K-8 social science curriculum, the open-ended wording leaves the content open a variety of interpretations. Additionally, the mention of residential schools and treaties were not found until the junior years and were still limited in content and open to differing perspectives. The intergrades in which learning outcomes are covered is also considered. -
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Self-regulation and the Impact of Online Learning
With the worldwide pandemic, the balance of everyday life has impacted a number of individuals. In specific, young children where their well-being, state of health and overall, their education has been negatively affected in terms of their abilities to self-regulate, sustain attention, ability to be mindful, having self-control as well as effects with their social capabilities. More often than not, the COVID-19 pandemic has placed several children as well as parents/caregivers of children in distress and discomfort. As researchers, we have uncovered the reality of what online learning does for children by retrieving responses that are conversed with self-regulation and online learning from participants. With the research we have conducted, we received 165 participants who took part in our research on self-regulation during online learning. The participants in this study included 165 students between the ages of 5 to 8 years. There were a total of 77 boys and 87 girls as well as 1 who identified as other gender. As many as 98% of the participants identified as the primary caregivers for their children, while 2% of participants were not the primary caregivers for their children. Within the field of early childhood, there are numerous presumptions that are made in connection to children’s self-regulation, attention regulation, engagement and the sense of knowledge in certain areas of learning. Based on participants responses, 64% of the caregivers identified having other children within their household partaking in online learning. While 36% of participants identified not having other children partaking in online learning within their household. Pearson correlations were run to examine the relationship between self-regulation of attention, distractions at home, and engagement in learning. Inspection of the correlation matrix reveals that most items had correlation coefficients equal to or greater than 0.3, indicating a weak to moderate positive and negative relationship, depending on the variable. Next, a regression was run to investigate the p value and determine statistical significance for all variables, reaching 0.00 for all regression analyses. -
International Students' Process of Adaptation and Support Systems
There are a growing number of international students worldwide. Existing support systems are insufficient and need to be strengthened to address the needs of these students, especially regarding their academics, cultural shock and homesickness. This study is designed to focus on how international students react to living abroad, coping and adapting to their new environments and what support systems may be necessary to help with these processes. This study will use the autoethnography approach and analyze reflective journals which highlight my experiences as an international student. In addition, the Schartner & Young model for international students’ adjustment and adaptation will be demonstrated through my experiences. In particular, the psychological, sociocultural and academic adjustments and adaptations of the model will be discussed. This article also focuses on the institutional support systems that can help ov -
Parental Experience and Advocacy for Children's Disability Empowerment
For years the disabled community has been marginalized and segregated by society. Critical Disability Theory (CDT) reveals factors that leave disabled people at a constant disadvantage, ableism shows the superiority of able-bodied people, and the history of disability terminology is slowly uncovering the changes being made in disability language and how people are now referring to themselves and others. There is a gap in the literature; parents of disabled children are understudied regarding the promotion of positive disability identity in their children. Our current study uses qualitative research methods to conduct interviews with four parents of disabled children. Through coding the data from interviews four themes emerged from parents discussing their lived experiences with their children’s disability identity. Theme 1, Perception of Parents, focuses on parents' experience with how other people perceived who they were as a parent, and how their child was perceived and compared to other children. Theme 2, Parent Advocacy, focuses on how parents have fought to get their child the support and different services they need. Theme 3, Child Advocacy, involves parents describing moments when their children stood up and used their voice to advocate for their own disability identity. Theme 4, Stigmatization, describes times that parents felt they needed to identify their child having a disability, and times their child had been excluded from activities. This research study addresses a large gap in research regarding disability identity, and why it is important to promote within the disabled community. This study was limited by our participant recruitment process, the sample size, and time constraints. Recommendations for future research include triangulating the data and searching for parents with children in a similar age range for better comparison. We hope this research brings greater focus on how we can promote disability identity in everyday life, to create a society where our disabled community is no longer marginalized and oppressed.