Proposed Research Projects
I have an interest in pursuing the following areas of interest based on my previous research into the self. If you share an interest in any of these three proposed projects, please feel free to contact me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Transitional Effects of Occupational Stress Injuries on the Selves of First Responders: a retrospective analysis
This proposed area of research would involve mapping the selves of first responders who have experienced occupational stress injuries. The self is defined here as a culturally mediated mental representation embedded in a larger totality including physical, biological, psychological, and social characteristics. It is suggested that these mental representations may be affected by occupational stress injuries. This research will explore how workers in potentially high risk occupations such as police, firefighters, paramedics, nurses, military personnel, correctional workers and security officers differentially represent experienced occupational stress injuries in their self representations. For the purpose of this research occupational stress injuries include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), acute stress disorder (ASD), major depressive disorder (MDD), panic disorder, and substance use disorders along with stress related injuries not formally represented in diagnostic manuals. More information on this proposed area of research can be found here: Occupational Stress
Mapping the Self Representations of Men who have Experienced Intimate Partner Violence
Family abuse and intimate partner violence (IPV) impacts men, women, and children leading to have negative self-construal. Such self-construal may affect future decision making and family interaction. While the effects of domestic violence on women and children have been recognized, the effects on fathers who have been victims of IPV have been understudied.
This research explores how male self-construal is impacted by IPV using the concept of the self. The self, as define here, is influenced by biological, psychological, and cultural factors, and it is hypothesized that negative self-construal resulting from IPV can lead to extreme behaviors and diminished self-efficacy. This research will provide insights into the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral impacts of IPV. More information on this proposed area of research can be found here: Abused Self
A survey of lateral violence impacting individuals of North American aboriginal ancestry in Canada
Lateral violence is defined here as including gossip, shaming, blaming, backstabbing, family feuds and attempts to induce social isolation in intended victims by community or work peers. While it is a topic of concern discussed within the aboriginal community, there has been a paucity of academic research qualitatively or quantitatively describing the experience and its effect on health. This research may be seen as the beginning of an academic discourse regarding a discussion that has been occurring in many aboriginal communities. Such research would have application to counselling psychology, social work, and community development with implications for building healthy and empowered communities. More information on this proposed project may be found here: Lateral Violence
