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Title: Improving parent collaboration at IEP meetings
Abstract: An Individual Education Program (IEP) is a critical document that drives decisions about educational support and services for students with a disability. It is imperative that parents have a role in the development of their child’s IEP through a collaborative process...
Show moreAn Individual Education Program (IEP) is a critical document that drives decisions about educational support and services for students with a disability. It is imperative that parents have a role in the development of their child’s IEP through a collaborative process. This study examines the correlations between various subgroups and the level of satisfaction of a collaborative IEP meeting. In this qualitative study, a digital survey is used to gain feedback from 29 parents of students from preschool through twelfth grade receiving special education services. Findings reveal that parents expressed overall satisfaction with the level of collaboration at IEP meetings with relatively positive satisfactory ratings consistent through each survey question. Survey data was then correlated with four subgroups; grade level, disability category, number of IEP meetings attended, and race/ethnicity. Themes emerged from synthesizing the data specific to four subgroups that included variations in the data. As part of the study, participants provided suggestions for improving collaboration at IEP meetings. Parents expressed a desire for improved communication, opportunity to provide feedback, and improved agenda for IEP meetings. In contrast, some challenges were noted by some parents that limit parental engagement. The importance of this data can potentially impact the effectiveness of IEP meetings and improve student outcomes. A consideration for future research could explore the impact of the recommended interventions, change of district policies, and generalization across other school districts.
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Year Issued: 2024

Author: Michaelson, Jill
Sub-title: The correlation to various subgroups

Title: Recognizing and navigating dynamics of power in the therapeutic relationship
Abstract: This critical thematic analysis study aims to explore how music therapists identify and navigate the complex dynamics of power in therapeutic relationships. Current literature illustrates how various theoretical lens’ view and address power structures in therapy, poi...
Show moreThis critical thematic analysis study aims to explore how music therapists identify and navigate the complex dynamics of power in therapeutic relationships. Current literature illustrates how various theoretical lens’ view and address power structures in therapy, pointing to a multifaceted understanding of power in therapy. Participants (n=6) were selected purposively to represent music therapists who had access to varying degrees of power in the therapeutic context as a result of their identity markers. They each completed a 45-60 minute interview that included questions related to sociocultural identity, understanding of power, dynamics of power in music therapy, how they navigate power dynamics, and reflexive practice. The interviews were coded and analyzed, then grouped into themes. Six themes and 36 sub themes emerged in the data: dynamics of power (inherent, multifaceted, intersectional and contextual, reciprocal, relational, omnipresent, systemic, privilege, access), associations with power (negative, neutral, positive), therapist responsibilities (safety of client, supervision and accountability, reflexivity, acuity, humility, curiosity, supportive, music as container, honesty), external expectations (therapist as expert, parent and guardian expectations, pressure to comply, loss of power, idealization of therapist), missed opportunities (advocacy, connection, humanizing therapist), and strategies of navigating power (challenging ideology, contesting hegemony, unmasking power, overcoming alienation, learning liberation, reclaiming epistemic agency, practicing democracy). From the findings, it is evident that music therapists may hold largely negative perceptions of power and could benefit from a more nuanced understanding as they address power imbalances in therapeutic contexts.
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Year Issued: 2024

Author: O'Sullivan, Emily
Sub-title: Music therapists’ perspectives

Title: K-12 General educator and special educator knowledge and preparedness in special education law
Year Issued: 2024

Abstract: Together, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act protect students with disabilities from discrimination and ensure that services are received in order to access the general education curriculum. K-12 general educatio...
Show moreTogether, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act protect students with disabilities from discrimination and ensure that services are received in order to access the general education curriculum. K-12 general education teachers and special education teachers are among the most critical individuals in implementing the federal laws that protect students with disabilities in the school setting. Despite the shift to inclusive practices that is safeguarded by extensive procedures subject to litigation, past research has revealed a gap between educator knowledge and preparedness to implement special education law in the classroom. The purpose of the research was to answer the research questions, “What undergraduate preparation and professional development training do K-12 general educators and special educators receive regarding IDEA and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, in one public school district?” and “To what extent are K-12 general education and special education teachers familiar with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, in one public school district?” To obtain this information, a qualitative study was conducted consisting of a 10-question open-ended survey which was distributed to 10 general education teachers and 10 special education teachers in one public school district. Survey data was analyzed using an open-coding method. Three major findings emerged from the data and were categorized into themes. Theme one concluded that educator’s obtain knowledge of IDEA and Section 504 mainly by means of professional development and through a district administrator. Secondly, educators identify the main components of IDEA as being FAPE, LRE, IEPs, and parental involvement. The tertiary theme revealed educator’s identify the main component of Section 504 to be protection from discrimination for students with disabilities. Findings suggest that teachers may receive more training and coursework geared towards The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act when compared to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Additionally, years of experience seemed to have little impact on knowledge and preparedness pertaining to special education federal law.
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Author: McBroom, Kelley

Title: Understanding safety in music therapy
Year Issued: 2024

Abstract: Although there is a growing emphasis on trauma-informed care in music therapy clinical practice, research specifically addressing the concept of safety—particularly psychological and physical safety—remains limited. Therefore, this thesis aimed to understand the conc...
Show moreAlthough there is a growing emphasis on trauma-informed care in music therapy clinical practice, research specifically addressing the concept of safety—particularly psychological and physical safety—remains limited. Therefore, this thesis aimed to understand the concept of safety in the field of music therapy and how it informs practice, education, and professional interactions. Given the limited existing research on this topic, a grounded theory methodology was employed to generate a deeper understanding of how safety is conceptualized in the field based on the lived experiences and insights of practitioners. The primary researcher conducted semi-structured interviews with a total of 11 participants. The interviews were recorded and transcribed, and the transcripts were analyzed and coded using ATLAS.ti. The findings proposed the following theory: Within music therapy contexts, safety is a dynamic experience that is constantly negotiated and co-constructed by participants through prioritizing care and well-being in the relationship and conditions for safety, including trust, are present. Interpretations of findings, implications for music therapy practice, and recommendations for future research were included.
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Author: Hales, Grant

Title: Let's talk about sex and IDD
Abstract: Adolescents with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) tend to receive inadequate comprehensive sex education (CSE). This problem could be addressed by providing sex education taught by general education health teachers to students with IDD in high school...
Show moreAdolescents with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) tend to receive inadequate comprehensive sex education (CSE). This problem could be addressed by providing sex education taught by general education health teachers to students with IDD in high school, a cost-effective yet underutilized and under researched service model. This qualitative study sought to determine the types of support health teachers need to effectively teach CSE to adolescents with IDD and to identify any misconceptions they have about the sexuality of individuals with IDD. Nine health teachers from 3 public school districts in Northeastern Pennsylvania were studied using a revised version of the Attitudes to Sexuality Questionnaire – Individuals with an Intellectual Disability (ASQ-ID) and semi-structured interviews. Data was analyzed by cross-case pattern analysis to generate a list of recommendations for local districts on how best to support their existing health teachers in the implementation of formal CSE for young adults with IDD. The three primary supports participants need are (1) support from special education staff, (2) assistance in developing the curriculum and adapting instruction, and (3) additional training. With these supports, general education health teachers can provide effective CSE to adolescents with IDD so they can be equipped with the relationship and sexuality knowledge and skills necessary to lead safe, fulfilling lives.
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Year Issued: 2024

Author: Baton, Jessica
Sub-title: a qualitative analysis of the perspectives of secondary general education health teachers on necessary supports for teaching sex education to young adults with intellectual and developmental disability

Title: Accuracy of the autism spectrum screening questionnaire -- GIRL in identifying females with autism spectrum disorder
Year Issued: 2024

Abstract: Females with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is an emerging research topic in the field of special education. Identification of ASD begins with the use of screening tools. This study utilized the Autism Spectrum Screening Questionnaire – Revised Extended Version (ASSQ...
Show moreFemales with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is an emerging research topic in the field of special education. Identification of ASD begins with the use of screening tools. This study utilized the Autism Spectrum Screening Questionnaire – Revised Extended Version (ASSQ-REV) to (1) evaluate the accuracy of the Autism Spectrum Screening Questionnaire (ASSQ) in identifying males and females with ASD and (2) evaluate the accuracy of the Autism Spectrum Screening Questionnaire – GIRL (ASSQ-GIRL) questions in distinguishing between the female and male phenotypes of ASD. Two hypotheses were proposed: (1) males will more accurately be identified than females as having ASD using the ASSQ and (2) the ASSQ-GIRL will identify the female phenotype of ASD at a greater rate than the male phenotype of ASD. Heterogenous convenience sampling was utilized to recruit 49 participants. Responses were analyzed through quantitative analysis using the McNemar’s test. Results showed no statistically significant difference for both hypotheses thus disproving both proposed hypotheses. Further research should focus on the inclusion of characteristics of females with ASD into ASD screening tools. This research has the potential to lead to earlier ages of diagnosis for females with ASD thus resulting in increased access to needed interventions and supports.
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Author: Castonguay, Sydney

Title: The effects of cooking independence on high school life skill students
Year Issued: 2024

Abstract: Funding for schools is historically always an issue. It is increasingly such an issue that schools have been taking away funding for practical arts classes such as cooking classes and allotting the money towards other academic areas. That change in funding ends up sh...
Show moreFunding for schools is historically always an issue. It is increasingly such an issue that schools have been taking away funding for practical arts classes such as cooking classes and allotting the money towards other academic areas. That change in funding ends up shutting down practical arts classes causing a loss of skills that students need to know for adulthood. Practical Arts classes specifically cooking classes can be beneficial for students placed in the life skills classroom because it allows them to increase their functional academics, and social interactions. These classes help build their self-esteem while integrating sensory skills as well as teaching health and nutrition, and the ever most important transition to adulthood skills also known as independence. It is imperative that practical arts classes are fully funded to not only meet the needs of students while in class but to but to increase their skills for independence and daily living.
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Author: Capuano, Meredith

Title: Exploring music therapists' engagement in personal musicking
Year Issued: 2024

Abstract: This study explores music therapists’ experiences of personal musicking. The research question is: What role does personal musicking play in the music therapist’s life? Data was collected using individual, semi-structured interviews with five music therapists in the ...
Show moreThis study explores music therapists’ experiences of personal musicking. The research question is: What role does personal musicking play in the music therapist’s life? Data was collected using individual, semi-structured interviews with five music therapists in the United States. Interviews were transcribed and coded for themes using reflexive thematic analysis. Seven themes emerged from the participant transcripts, which were (1) facets of positive musical relationship; (2) personal and professional connections; (3) ways of musicking; (4) music aspirations; (5) hindrances to musical relationship; (6) emotions; and (7) barriers to musicking. Within each theme, three to six subthemes were also identified, totaling 30 subthemes. Participants described a variety of music experiences which contribute to a positive musical relationship though many internal and external factors inhibited their actual ability to engage in musicking as much as they would like or desire. Participants compared their experiences of musicking in clinical spaces with that of their personal musicking, and the boundaries drawn between clinical and personal music were unique to each participant. Implications for the music therapy profession include: considerations of thinking styles and values around different types of musicking; a call for curricula adaptation in music therapy training to encourage musical identity formation via many ways of musicking; and encouragement for practicing clinicians to continue exploring their sense of musicianship to maintain ethical practice and recognize the ways that musicking influences their own health and wellness.
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Author: McLean, Sarah

Title: Effectiveness of inclusion in K-12 schools on students' academic performance
Abstract: Students with disabilities are entitled to free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment. With this mandate inclusionary practices are expected to be implemented into school districts nationwide. Inclusion is defined in many ways making it di...
Show moreStudents with disabilities are entitled to free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment. With this mandate inclusionary practices are expected to be implemented into school districts nationwide. Inclusion is defined in many ways making it difficult for educators to effectively educated diverse students. The purpose of this qualitative descriptive study sought to understand how inclusion impacts the learning of all students. Twelve participants were used in this study that included general education teachers, special education teachers, and administrators. Semi-structured interviews were conducted which each participant. The results of this study conclude that many educators feel unprepared to educate diverse classrooms and uneducated on special education regulations. A recommendation for future research is to evaluate the effectiveness of teacher preparation programs. Finally, there is a need for more professional development and training in the area of special education for educators.
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Year Issued: 2023

Author: Confair, Angela
Sub-title: a qualitative study

Title: The effects of an interactive online learning platform on second-grade students' mathematics performance
Year Issued: 2023

Abstract: As the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to surface, educational deficits are the main concern for many educators across the United States. Research has spelled out various effects the global pandemic and remote learning has had on families, especially childr...
Show moreAs the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to surface, educational deficits are the main concern for many educators across the United States. Research has spelled out various effects the global pandemic and remote learning has had on families, especially children and their academic progress. Regardless of the cause, educators are planning their approach on how to fill the educational gaps presented to them to ensure all students achieve academic success. While utilizing a single subject criterion changing quantitative methodology, the purpose of this study was to identify whether IXL Learning was a successful intervention for second-grade students demonstrating a need for remediation of place value skills, as measured by researcher-created, curriculum-based weekly assessments. Data shows a slight increase in weekly researcher-created, curriculum-based assessments centering around place value skills, a large number of exposed place value questions for each student, and a slight increase in place value scores. However, a general pattern of criterion shifting was not found while utilizing IXL Learning as an interventional practice. It is recommended that a blended educational approach with various components be utilized for instructing place value concepts at the second-grade level.
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Author: Swartzfager, Alyssa

Title: Imagining a post–intentional phenomenology of cisnormativity
Abstract: My original plan for this thesis project was to conduct a phenomenological study that focuses on how cisnormativity influences and emerges through a clinician’s development of micro-skills, especially those who are transgender, Two Spirit, and Intersex or otherwise n...
Show moreMy original plan for this thesis project was to conduct a phenomenological study that focuses on how cisnormativity influences and emerges through a clinician’s development of micro-skills, especially those who are transgender, Two Spirit, and Intersex or otherwise non-conforming to the colonial gender paradigm (TTSI+) (Lugones, 2007). However, I struggled to find any phenomenological or clinical consideration of cisnormativity as a phenomenon, and it is rarely articulated as a system immersed in white supremacist bio-essentialism. So, this thesis is a philosophical inquiry that is grounded in Vagle’s post-intentional phenomenological (PIP) paradigm (2018). This inquiry details: 1) how the PIP paradigm may nurture more nuanced investigation of bio-essentialist systems of oppression, 2) how critical phenomenological and post-structural concepts in may be utilized to attend to cisnormativity as a phenomenon that is a part of the imperialist white supremacist capitalist cisheteropatriarchy (hooks, 1997; Yancy & hooks, 2015), 3) the productions and provocations of cisnormativity that emerged through my research process, 4) how these findings connect to current music therapy and related care work literature, and 5) what research project ideas have emerged for future study. Overall, I assert cisnormativity affects everyone, not just TTSI+ people. It is urgently important to slow down and open up to ways cisheteropatriarchy emerges through our habits, through text, and through theoretical frameworks, and to ways we may retroactively and proactively shift these dynamics. I hope my work enables all to nurture their reflexivity and resistance to bio-essentialist oppression through attending to relationships and holding consideration for the more-than-visual.
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Year Issued: 2023

Author: Inmon, Braedyn D'mitri
Sub-title: A philosophical inquiry

Title: Language discourse in music therapy
Abstract: The following thesis is a culmination of an interpretative phenomenological analysis research study seeking to understand music therapists’ experiences of delivering music therapy services with a language interpreter. The purpose of this study has four main tenets: 1...
Show moreThe following thesis is a culmination of an interpretative phenomenological analysis research study seeking to understand music therapists’ experiences of delivering music therapy services with a language interpreter. The purpose of this study has four main tenets: 1) To understand the therapists’ experiences of delivering music therapy services with interpreters, 2) To fill the gap in the music therapy literature on working with interpreters, 3) To serve as a resource for music therapists delivering music therapy services with interpreters, and 4) To combat the systemic issues of access and equity within the music therapy field. Data was collected through one-on-one semi-structured interviews with 5 music therapists. Data was then transcribed, coded, and thematized, resulting in 40 themes and seven domains: 1) Ways of working with interpreters, 2) Benefits of working with interpreters, 3) Drawbacks of working with interpreters, 4) Music therapists’ feelings when working with interpreters, 5) Potential reasons for not working with interpreters, 6) Dangers of not working with interpreters, and 7) Considerations for music therapists working with interpreters. The findings indicate areas of growth and the need for increased education for music therapists when working with interpreters. Music therapists are also challenged to confront their own privileged stances on the issues of language and linguistic privilege within the U.S., as related to working with patients with limited English proficiency and from historically marginalized communities within music therapy.
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Year Issued: 2023

Author: Obermeier, Victoria
Sub-title: Therapists' experiences of delivering music therapy services with interpreters

Title: Group music therapy for LGBTQIA+ parents experiencing postpartum depression and anxiety
Abstract: A mixed methods research study involving an eight-week music therapy group was facilitated virtually for LGBTQIA+ parents experiencing postpartum mood and anxiety disorders. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale was administered upon first session and last session...
Show moreA mixed methods research study involving an eight-week music therapy group was facilitated virtually for LGBTQIA+ parents experiencing postpartum mood and anxiety disorders. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale was administered upon first session and last session to capture potential impact of music therapy group on mental health over time. The Brief Mood Introspection Scale was administered at the beginning and end of each session to capture short term impact of group music therapy. A semi-structured focus group was facilitated to capture experiences of and feedback from participants, and interviews were scheduled with participants who did not attend the focus group. Interviews and the focus group were transcribed and analyzed and six themes were identified: community and solidarity built around shared experiences, music within and beyond the group, expansiveness and generativity in parenthood, response to experience, attendance and timing challenges, and accessibility. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale did not show statistically significant changes in mood over the course of the eight-week group but was limited by sample size and an outlier score. The Brief Mood Introspection Scale showed more significant trends in increased pleasant mood, decreased stress, and increased positivity after the session. When LGBTQIA+ parents were able to attend the session, they reported meaningful impacts despite attendance challenges. Findings may be useful in developing music therapy practice and research.
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Year Issued: 2023

Author: Nelson, Maryrose Nieman
Sub-title: a mixed methods study

Title: Exploring general education teachers' perceptions of children with disabilities in general education
Year Issued: 2023

Abstract: This research proposal aims to explore the perceptions of general education teachers towards children with disabilities who are integrated into general education classrooms. This qualitative study seeks to gain insights into how these teachers perceive the abilities ...
Show moreThis research proposal aims to explore the perceptions of general education teachers towards children with disabilities who are integrated into general education classrooms. This qualitative study seeks to gain insights into how these teachers perceive the abilities and challenges of these children and how they believe they can best support them in their learning. The research will survey responses with a sample of general education teachers to collect data on their experiences and perspectives. The findings of this study could contribute to a better understanding of the attitudes and beliefs that inform teachers' practice towards children with disabilities in general education and inform the development of strategies to enhance inclusive education for all students.
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Author: Komp, Erika

Title: The effects of music therapy on social skills in individuals with autism
Abstract: Over the past decades, the rate of autism has increased around the world (Ghasemtabar et al., 2015). A prolonged impairment in social skills and communication is a key feature of autism. According to Vaiouli and Schertz (2012) joint attention is an important developm...
Show moreOver the past decades, the rate of autism has increased around the world (Ghasemtabar et al., 2015). A prolonged impairment in social skills and communication is a key feature of autism. According to Vaiouli and Schertz (2012) joint attention is an important developmental milestone for developing higher levels of social engagement. The delay or absence of joint attention is typically seen in individuals with autism (Vaiouli & Schertz, 2012). Given that there is no known treatment or cure for autism, the focus in supporting individuals with autism is aimed toward implementing an intervention strategy that targets the symptoms of autism (Yum et al., 2020). The current investigation conducted a meta-analysis on the effects of music therapy on social skills in individuals with autism. The analysis for this study was based on data from four research studies providing 20 effect size estimates. The sample within the four studies included data from 117 participants. The sample size for the effect size analysis was based on a sample size of n = 596. The four articles included in this meta-analysis produced an overall large positive significant effect size of d = 0.572 with a 95% confidence interval of 0.37 to 0.78. The mean effect size suggests a large significant effect from music therapy across all studies. All studies included in this current investigation published and reported overall positive results. The Q-statistic tests revealed significant heterogeneity across all studies, with variability across the mean effect size estimates, ranging from d = - 0.14 to d = 1.28. Since the effect size estimates were all positive for the published studies, it is likely that publication bias existed in the studies used in this meta-analysis. According to Walker et al. (2008) high levels of heterogeneity can compromise the conclusion of a meta-analysis, therefore future research is also needed to help decrease the level of heterogeneity across studies.
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Year Issued: 2023

Author: Rux, Hannah
Sub-title: a meta-analysis

Title: Perceived levels of burnout in public school SLPs
Year Issued: 2023

Abstract: School-based speech-language pathologists (SLPs) experience high caseloads and increasing demands on their time. Simultaneously, levels of burnout are increasing across many fields, including education. As burnout rates are increasing, so are the numbers of workers l...
Show moreSchool-based speech-language pathologists (SLPs) experience high caseloads and increasing demands on their time. Simultaneously, levels of burnout are increasing across many fields, including education. As burnout rates are increasing, so are the numbers of workers leaving specific fields. As of now, there are no studies that explore the level of burnout that school SLPs are facing. Therefore, the aim of this study was do determine these levels, identify the factors contributing to these feelings, and how they impact the potential for SLPs to leave the field. A qualitative study was completed via surveys sent to eligible school-based SLPs. The SLPs were asked to complete an open-ended survey, which would provide a snapshot of the lived experiences of the participants. The results showed that the SLPs that participated are experiencing similar situations, with similar constraints put on their time during work hours. All of the participants report experiencing at least one symptom of burnout, with many experiencing these feelings multiple times per week. The SLPs identified similar factors contributing to their feelings, as well as specific ways administrators could work to fix these problems. The results showed that, while SLPs are experiencing burnout, most are unlikely to leave the school-based sector at this time.
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Author: DeCarlo, Christy Olexa

Title: Music therapists' experiences working in a setting that values censorship
Abstract: This qualitative study examined the experiences of music therapists that work in an environment that promotes censorship practices. There are several studies that discuss censorship practices across helping professions but few studies within music therapy literature....
Show moreThis qualitative study examined the experiences of music therapists that work in an environment that promotes censorship practices. There are several studies that discuss censorship practices across helping professions but few studies within music therapy literature. Music therapy code of ethics and education stress the importance of self-reflection and recognizing biases for the therapist, however there is minimal information on biases when applying censorship practices. As a helping profession nonmaleficence is emphasized, however there is a paucity of research that includes the relationship between harm and censorship. Additionally, music therapy research and education identifies the need for culturally responsive practices, however have not included censorship and its effects on the therapist and participants in this movement. In this study seven participants engaged in one semi-structured interview to describe their experiences and relationships with self, clients, coworkers and larger institutions when experiencing censorship practices. Results demonstrate three overarching themes of values and beliefs, responses and navigating power in relationships. Each theme had at least three levels which described the experience of the client, therapist, co-workers and institution. These narratives and results suggest the need for continued research and discussion in the music therapy community on harm that may occur through censoring songs and experiences and ethical implications.
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Year Issued: 2023

Author: Boyce, Emily
Sub-title: an interpretative phenomenological analysis

Title: Queer clients' experiences of harm in therapy
Year Issued: 2023

Abstract: This thesis aimed to explore how queer clients experience harm in music therapy and how that harm impacted the therapeutic relationship and process. Upon completing an initial interest and demographic survey, four participants were selected to participate in semi-str...
Show moreThis thesis aimed to explore how queer clients experience harm in music therapy and how that harm impacted the therapeutic relationship and process. Upon completing an initial interest and demographic survey, four participants were selected to participate in semi-structured Zoom interviews. Interviews were transcribed and coded, resulting in seven themes: 1) therapist responses, 2) client responses, 3) qualities of the therapeutic relationship, 4) client perceptions of therapist, 5) impact on client and the therapeutic process, 6) barriers to accessing therapy, and 7) what builds safety and trust. Findings are discussed in relation to the research questions, and implications for clinical practice and suggestions for future research are also provided.
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Author: Neumann, Jess

Title: School psychologists' perspectives
Abstract: Factors beyond legal regulations, ethical practice, and training influence the identification process conducted by school psychologists when labeling a child with a disability. Research has not sought to go to the source and directly question the process of identific...
Show moreFactors beyond legal regulations, ethical practice, and training influence the identification process conducted by school psychologists when labeling a child with a disability. Research has not sought to go to the source and directly question the process of identification from the perspective of school psychologists. This niche in the field of school psychology practice plays a larger role within special education, beckoning for an increased understanding of the cognitive dissonance and resolution processes experienced by school psychologists when labeling a child. Using a qualitative inquiry within a grounded theory, phenomenological framework, ten school psychologists from Berks County, Pennsylvania were interviewed. Interview transcript analysis was completed using manual, blending thematic coding, including inductive and deductive approaches. The research reveals insight into school psychologists’ thoughts, feelings, and perspectives of assigning a disability label to a child; salient factors influencing school psychologist disability labeling; and the cognitive dissonance and resolution processes experienced by school psychologists when assigning disability labels. Results indicate the presence of a vast array of thoughts and feelings experienced by school psychologists during the process of disability labeling. Salient factors during school psychologist decision-making to inform disability labeling, beyond federal and state identification criteria, are examined. Extending the present field of research, cognitive dissonance during decision-making and disability labeling was identified, with reflections upon the broader implications across special education considered. In totality, school psychologists feel the very real pressure to navigate the myriad of internal experiences and external factors to help students through disability identification and labeling.
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Year Issued: 2023

Author: Smyre, Danielle
Sub-title: a qualitative analysis of disability labeling and implications

Title: Special educators' perspectives and experiences with workplace bullying
Year Issued: 2023

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to determine K-12 special educators’ perceptions and experiences with workplace bullying. Specifically, this study focused on the experiences of educators in PSEA’s Midwestern Region. Their perceptions and experiences are presented seque...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to determine K-12 special educators’ perceptions and experiences with workplace bullying. Specifically, this study focused on the experiences of educators in PSEA’s Midwestern Region. Their perceptions and experiences are presented sequentially, through key cruces that evolved through the interview process. The participants in the study were five special educators, in various teaching positions, and at varying points in their careers. Each participant was interviewed for approximately 30 minutes via Zoom. This interview was a semi-structured format, discussing their experiences and perceptions of workplace bullying in their K-12 special education positions. The intention of this research was to gather perspectives of the participants about the growing phenomenon of workplace bullying, thus lending itself to a phenomenological research design. From each question in the interview the researcher extrapolated key cruces through multicyclic coding analysis. Creswell (2007) and Tracy (2013) suggest involving participants in the review process to ensure the accuracy and intentions of their interview responses. Therefore, following the interviews, each participant received an electronic copy of the transcribed interview and reviewed it for precision. This goal of this study is for participants’ voices to uncover potential connections or truths to help understand the phenomenon of workplace bullying. These findings may transfer to other occupations or fields also struggling with workplace bullying. The population sample is unique to my personal experience, but the overarching goal spreads further than K-12 special education departments. The combination of cruces revealed in Chapter IV, can be grouped into four key areas for the purpose of further discussion. These provide a solid foundation for understanding the participants responses concerning their experience and perceptions on workplace bullying. The four key areas are workplace environment and administrative applications, similarities and differences between special educators and general educators, experiences with workplace bullying and social structures in the workplace, and personal reflections participants wished to share. This study concludes that workplace bullying is occurring in all five participants districts in various formats. The participants are calling for administration to assist in creating a safe, productive, and positive work environment for all building members.
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Author: Pierson-Malenky, Kristin