Date of Completion

Spring 4-29-2020

Thesis Advisor(s)

Beth Russell

Honors Major

Human Development and Family Studies

Disciplines

Behavior and Behavior Mechanisms | Child Psychology | Cognitive Behavioral Therapy | Cognitive Psychology | Counseling | Counseling Psychology | Inequality and Stratification | Mental and Social Health | Mental Disorders | Psychiatric and Mental Health | Psychiatry and Psychology | Psychology | Rehabilitation and Therapy | Social and Behavioral Sciences | Trauma

Abstract

PRISM (Promoting Resilience in Self-Management) is a mindfulness-based intervention that aims to strengthen emotion regulation skills among individuals by employing cognitive behavioral therapy components. The purpose of the current study is to identify the relationship between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and depression, as well as to examine the changes in emotion regulation strategies of participants by comparing pre and post test data. The participants were voluntarily recruited from the Cornerstone Foundation, a homeless shelter, food pantry, and community center in Vernon, CT. The 13 participants completed PRISM through four weeks of two-hour workshop sessions in a small-group format. Results indicate a significant relationship between ACEs and depression (r = .618, p < .01). Results also indicate a significant reduction in mean ratings of Clinical Depression symptoms (t = 2.887, p < .05); further, 50% fewer met the clinical cut-off for moderate depression after participating in PRISM. Findings from the current study highlight the value of offering mental health support at places of vulnerable populations.

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