Faculty Development Projects

The Role of Operant Contingencies and Environmental Stressors in an Animal Model (2009 - Present)

Investigator:  Christopher Bloom, Providence College
Mentor:  Matthew Nock, Harvard University 

Abstract:  The term non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) has been applied to a wide range of behaviors that result in the damage of one’s own body tissue in the absence of intent to die. Populations comprised of those suffering from genetic syndromes, such as Prader-Willi, and psychological disorders such as autism and normative populations have all demonstrated NSSI (Kies & Devine, 2004). More

Student Training Projects

An Experimental Test of the Intergroup Relations Model: Understanding the Origins of Intergroup Conflict  (2009 - Present)

Investigator:  Thomas Malloy, Rhode Island College
Mentor:  David Kenny, University of Connecticut 

Abstract:  Intergroup conflict is a leading cause of death, injury, and illness worldwide.  If the origins of intergroup conflict can be understood and prevented, human health and welfare will be enhanced worldwide.  Proposed are two experiments designed to test a theoretical model of intergroup relations that will provide intensive research training for undergraduate students. More

Internet-Based Addiction Counselor Education Study (2009 - Present)

Investigator:  Robin Montvilo, Rhode Island College
Mentor:  Kat Quina, University of Rhode Island 

Abstract:  Rhode Island College students and faculty within the Chemical Dependency & Addiction Studies (CDAS) Program will partner to conduct an investigation of an Internet-based preparatory training modality for addictions counselors. Despite government initiatives to translate evidence based research to substance abuse treatment context^4,8,17, the transmission of research to practicing behavioral health professionals has been limited^25,30. More

The Comparison of Three Behavioral Therapy Approaches for Children with Autism in Terms of the Acquisition (2009 - Present)

Investigator:  Sheila Quinn, Salve Regina University
Mentor:  Stephen Sheinkopf, Brown University

Abstract:  While the effectiveness of therapy techniques based on applied behavior analysis (ABA) has been empirically verified¹ the relative effectiveness of different varieties of discrete trial training has not been established. More

Student Training Pilot Projects

Perceptions of Multiply Stigmatized Individuals (2009 - Present)

Investigator:  Kelly Brooks, Roger Williams University
 

Abstract:  The majority of research on prejudice and stereotyping addresses stigmatized statuses singly. That is, separate theories and bodies of research address prejudice associated with race, gender, and sexual orientation (Fukuyama & Ferguson, 2000; Greene, 2000; Stanley, 2004). By focusing on one type of prejudice at a time, such approaches tend to assume majority group status on other identities, representing, for example, the experiences of lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) persons who are White or African Americans who are heterosexual. As a result, prejudice directed toward people of color who are sexual minorities is neglected (Greene, 1994). More

The Effectiveness of Undergraduates as Trained Listeners for the Bereaved: A Pilot Study of Impact on Symptoms and Cognitions (2009 - Present)

Co-Investigator:  Bonita Cade, Roger Williams University
Co-Investigator:  Kim Knight, Roger Williams University 

Abstract:  This project is designed to train students to be effective but "non-intervening" listeners to those experiencing uncomplicated grief  in reaction to the loss of a loved one within the current year. This is a pilot study to determine the impact, if any,  on the negative cognitions related to grief and the self reported physical responses of having three sessions with a listener who allows the bereaved to talk about their loss as they are experiencing it without guidance, intervention or judgment. More