Social Work, 2010

GLBT Adoption Laws and Policies: Fostering Families
Rachel Adkins
Mentor: Carla Carpenter

Controversy continues to exist regarding gay and lesbian parenting abilities and GBLT adoption rights. However, children raised by gay and lesbian parents thrive and have positive experiences. Gay and lesbian individuals are just as worthy to be parents and all children deserve to be in loving, caring, forever-homes with families. GLBT adoption laws are ambiguous in many states, and policies that prohibit these individuals from adopting are discriminatory and allow more children to remain at risk by keeping them in the foster care system instead of placing them with permanent families. I examined research on adoption laws, GLBT parenting abilities, and outcomes for children support acceptance of GLBT adoption rights. Foster care systems create barriers to success for youth who are caught in the cycle of multiple placements. Gay and lesbian parenting is no more likely to cause negative experiences for children, and GLBT parents may have unique qualities that make them more effective parents. With the immense number of children lacking permanent families, it is critical that a greater awareness and understanding is established regarding GLBT parenting abilities and the needs of children. Policies should create more positive outcomes for children and not hinder their placement with supportive families.

Working with Foster Boys and Girls: Understanding the Difference
Lisa Bailey
Mentor: Pamela Ellwanger-Schmidt

Caregivers need to be educated about the differences between males and females and how the differences lead to the need for different care giving strategies. Knowing how to nurture and care for adolescents to enhance their development and attachment, and help them feel secure in the care-giving home, are powerful tools. My approach has been to research the value of teaching caregivers various tools, and to be able to work with adolescents of both sexes. An adolescent girl’s core emotional need is unconditional admiration and acceptance, with her greatest core fear being rejection. An adolescent boy’s core emotional need is being recognized for what they do, with his greatest core fear being failure. A caregiver can support an adolescent with affirmation in the way that they approach the positive core desires of the child and by respecting the fear that the adolescent is experiencing. This presentation identifies the core needs of the male and female adolescent, and the way that caregivers can meet these needs.

Suboxone Helps Treat Opiate Addicts
Jill Becker
Mentor: Pamela Ellwanger-Schmidt

Opiate addiction is affecting more and more young adults each year. Addicts that receive counseling and take Suboxone have better success and are less likely to use opiates again or to drop out of treatment. This study focused on the success rate of substance abuse clients that are taking Suboxone. Suboxone is a prescription drug that is monitored by a physician and it works by acting on the brain’s opiate receptors to relieve withdrawal symptoms. This research explores opiate addicted clients that have been addicted for over a year, are going through treatments, and are taking Suboxone. The study presents findings and conclusions regarding the success of using Suboxone in treating opiate addiction.

Using Moral Reconation Therapy to Alter Criminal Behavior
Josseph R. Camp
Mentor: Pamela Ellwanger-Schmidt

Facing budgetary cuts and reduction in funding seems to be the reality of all public and private entities. The Department of Corrections is no exception to this rule. Finding the most efficient treatment model for the incarcerated population has become the predominant concern of the industry. Research continues to point towards cognitive behavioral interventions as the most effective method of curbing criminal behavior and reducing recidivism. This project examines the effectiveness of one specific cognitive behavioral program, Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT). Developed by Little and Robinson (1985), MRT attempts to improve an individual’s ability to make socially acceptable decisions and significantly reduce the recidivism rate of inmates who have completed the program. Using pre- and post-testing, this study presents the conclusions of an outcome analysis of 100 MRT participants. Results are consistent with previous studies, demonstrating that MRT is effective in modifying criminal behaviors. Therefore, MRT should continue to be used by the Ohio Department of Correction.

HIV is On the Rise Among our Youth Population
Brenda Diewald
Mentor: Pamela Ellwanger-Schmidt

It is estimated that 25-50% of newly diagnosed HIV cases are occurring to our youth aged from 13-24. There are several myths about HIV. Now that many who are HIV positive are living a longer, higher quality of life, often adolescents and adults believe it is not occurring as much. It is imperative that we mandate education on HIV/STD prevention along with risk-reducing behaviors within our school system. I researched data from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, evidence-based interventions, personal interviews, the Ohio Department of Health, and from the Columbus AIDS Task Force to support my thesis. Through my research I discovered that with education and providing risk-reduction behavioral tools, our youth demonstrated more self-care and confidence about protecting themselves against HIV and STD’s. My research showed that silence or only talking about abstinence is not the answer to prevention of HIV or STD’s. It is crucial to educate our youth so they may have the tools and confidence to protect themselves.

Overcoming Language Barriers with the Mexican Indigenous Culture
Jessica Evans, Kelli Skaggs
Mentor: Panela Ellwanger-Schmidt

The indigenous Mexicans suffer from a language barrier with their surrounding communities. It is important for people working with indigenous populations to understand the language to help us better serve their needs. Even though we are not able communicate with indigenous Mexicans using a structured form of language, we are still able to communicate with one another and understand the needs they have. Investigation of the topic began with a service learning trip to Ensenada, Mexico in February, 2010. Our experience inspired us learn more about the community we served. With further literature review about the culture combined with our personal experience, we expect to find various ways of communication besides a formal language.

Alcohol and Substance-Related Disorders in the Elderly is on the Rise
Cathy Grace
Mentor: Pamela Ellwanger-Schmidt

Alcohol and substance-related disorders in the elderly are on the rise and the consequences can be deadly. Substance-related disorders in the elderly remain overlooked and misdiagnosed. At least 16% of the elderly have an alcohol use disorder. Americans aged 65 and older are the fastest growing segment of our population today and alcohol and substance-related disorders are becoming increasingly important. I address the issues of alcoholism in the elderly and identify the two typical drinking patterns seen in the elderly. The focus is on the acute and chronic consequences of alcohol consumption on the older adult.

The Negative Consequences of Drinking for College Students
Ethelyn D. Green
Mentor: Pamela Ellwanger-Schmidt

Alcohol on college campuses is a growing problem for students 18-24 years old. The purpose of this poster presentation is to present knowledge on the various consequences of excessive alcohol use for younger users. The particular focus of this paper is on sexual abuse on campuses while under the influence of alcohol. Risky behaviors, along with various interventions, both proposed and in use, are reviewed with conclusions given.

Gangs: The Bloods and Crips in America
Dakia Horsley
Mentor: Pamela Ellwanger-Schmidt

This paper introduces the two most popular gangs in the United States; the Bloods and Crips. It discusses the history of the Bloods and the Crips, their places of origin, the individuals responsible for their beginnings, and the consequent organization development. Their migration across our nation and the states that are excessively affected by their migration, are also identified. The purpose is to educate parents about the warning signs of gang activity, and bring light to these bloody organizations. This presentation shows that these gangs are not just a West coast issue, but a national issue, one that needs to be discussed and dealt with by our government.

Domestic Violence
Heidi Mazgay
Mentor: Pamela Ellwanger-Schmidt

This poster defines domestic violence and its many forms. Those affected include men, women, children and adolescents. Further, heterosexual or homosexual relationships may be affected. Domestic violence can include one or multiple cases of physical violence, verbal, emotional, mental, psychological, and sexual abuse. More recent exploration of financial and spiritual abuse, and more chronic problems such as stalking are addressed. Overview and discussion of interventions provide insight about how to target change.

Drug and Alcohol Use among Pregnant Women
Antionette Merriman
Mentor: Pamela Ellwanger-Schmidt

Pregnant women who engage in destructive behaviors such as drug and alcohol abuse are likely to negatively affect the fetus, often with pervasive consequences. Drug and alcohol use among pregnant women is considered fetal abuse among experts. This poster addresses factors related to prevalence of use. Geographical and demographic information is provided. Problems at birth and during later infant development are considered. Legal issues that involve the role of child protective services are an integral part of this presentation. Recommendations are made for possible interventions, and maternal consequences of these interventions are outlined.

Human Trafficking in the United States, Specifically Ohio
Megan Neubauer, Samantha Hudson
Mentor: Pamela Ellwanger-Schmidt

Human trafficking is a gross violation of human rights and affects the justice system and greater community in which it occurs. There are many reasons for human trafficking but the most prevalent are labor and sex trades. The focus of this research is to look at the prevalence and effect of international and domestic human trafficking in the United States, specifically Ohio. Information is gathered from published articles, case studies, and compiled statistics. This study anticipates finding human trafficking for labor and the sex trade throughout many communities in Ohio. Throughout these communities, many are likely to be unaware of the problem of human trafficking unless the justice system is involved in the situation. This study is designed to raise awareness among communities and promote action to prevent further cases of human trafficking in Ohio.

College Binge Drinking
Christiana Olagbenro
Mentor: Pamela Ellwanger-Schmidt

Alcohol abuse has been a problem on the American’s campuses since the first colleges were chartered in colonial days. Until recently, heavy college drinking has been largely ignored, tolerated, or winked at (Wechsler, 1999). Despite public efforts to reduce this behavior, little has been achieved (Johnston et al., 2005). Numerous problems associated with binge drinking and the damage to the quality of life of innocent students by other binge drinkers make it important for colleges and other stakeholders to act. This social problem has been identified as an important health concern. The United States Surgeon General has included among the nation’s health goals a 50% reduction in college binge drinking by the year 2010 (Wechsler, 1999). Several surveys and research studies have helped to gain insights into the harmful nature of binge drinking and solutions suggested (Cranford et al., 2006), but still it remains a problem on the nation’s campuses. The problems associated with binge drinking are too harmful to ignore and, therefore, this paper highlights the dangers of binge drinking and suggests ways to combat it.

Adventure Therapy
William O’Ryan
Mentor: Pamela Ellwanger-Schmidt

Adventure therapy is a powerful and effective treatment modality in the field of social work. This poster gives an overview of adventure therapy in social work. Its history, along with the definitions of adventure therapy and similar related modalities such as therapeutic adventure, wilderness therapy, activity therapy, and traditional therapy, are presented. It includes a discussion of the effectiveness and outcomes of adventure based programming. Finally a sample application of adventure therapy is presented along with conclusions about the use of it in social work.

An Analysis of Current Social Policy and People with Addictions: Are Benefits Really Beneficial?
Rachel Rankin
Mentor: Saleem Mohammad

Prior research studies suggest that politicians and the public viewed people suffering from additions as undeserving of welfare benefits because their substance abuse is self-inflicted. This conceptual paper presents a qualitative review of literature to explore a social policy perspective on people with substance use disorders (SUDs) that are not covered by Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Disability Insurance (DI). Most recent findings reveal that people with SUDs have increased rates of homelessness, unemployment, mental health problems, and jail time and more reliance on the government for income supplements. Therefore, an analysis of current social policy related to SUDs, under the Social Security Act (Title XIV:SSI-DI), might help policy makers and other professionals to recognize the nature of problem and become fully aware of the connection between disabilities and addictions. Implications for social work practice are discussed and address the need for better services for clients with addictions.

Raising Suicide Awareness in Springfield, Ohio
Keith A. Robinson
Mentor: Pamela Ellwanger-Schmidt

This paper focuses on the serious public health problem of suicide, a preventable occurrence. Risk factors, warning signs, and protective buffering factors are discussed in the context of the city of Springfield, Ohio which is embedded in Clark County. The paper concludes with suggestions of programs for families to seek assistance to stop and prevent suicide.

The Correlation Between Children Who Have Been Sexually Abused Who Have Acted Out Sexually
Shelby Steinmetz
Mentor: Pamela Ellwanger-Schmidt

What is the relationship between being sexually abused in childhood and acting out sexually. The purpose of this paper is to find an in-depth understanding of children who have been sexually abused and have acted out on themselves or other children. The information from this study was collected through different sources including scientific journals, and interviews from children services workers. Children who have been sexually abused can develop special behavioral problems. They may act out sexually. Acting out might consist of excessive and public masturbation and sexual behaviors. Counseling is needed for a child who is acting out sexually with another child.

Human Trafficking: Slavery in the 21st Century
Ann-Marie Weaver
Mentor: Pamela Ellwanger-Schmidt

Human trafficking has been around for centuries. Due to ever growing stories in the media, trafficking is now in the forefront of national attention. This poster explores the phenomenon of human trafficking. Specifically, a literature search and interviews provide information to increase awareness of human trafficking as a growing problem. I explore the background and history of trafficking, provide an operational definition, prevalence rates, and reveal information about the victims, including age, sex, and how and why they are targeted. I show the effects on trafficking victims and communities. A brief discussion explores the measures used to target this crisis.