Bachelor’s Of PsychologyFinal Capstone Project

Tamela M. McGhee

PSYC4900

Comprehensive Portfolio Presentation

Capella University

September, 2015

Welcome to the show

A Bachelor’s degree in the general science of Psychology, should endow an individual with an expanded understanding of human thinking and behaviors. Cultivated knowledge of research methods, statistical analysis, psychological codes of ethics, and cultural diversity should now prepare for a future in the helping professions and human service. In the slides which follow, many aspects of psychological understanding will be explored, including:

1. Spirituality and its positive impact on mental health2. The negative impacts of video gaming on pro-social behaviors3. The importance of cultural competency in the professional environment4. Approaching an ethical dilemma with critical thinking5. An action plan for implementing personal professional goals and career plans

By the end of this presentation, an understanding should be given as to my psychological knowledge, cultural competency abilities, critical thinking skills, and my professional values. Enjoy the show!

Spirituality and mental healtha statistical analysis and research summary

Life can be full of pop surprises which challenge even the most mentally resilient amongst us. All individuals within the developmental life-span spectrum, can encounter circumstances beyond their control,which can place their emotional and mental well-being into jeopardy. As spirituality continues to rise as a topic of interest within the psychological disciplines, more researchable attention is being drawn to the positivity which spirituality can hold on mental well-being. In the slides which follow, three research studies will be examined:

1. Spirituality as a predictor of positive mental health and psychosocial acclimation, as it pertains to adolescents struggling with alcoholic fathers.

2. A summarized review of research reports, examining the effects of religion and spirituality on mental and physical health.

3. A literature search, examining the effects of religion and spirituality on incarcerated individuals.

A conclusion slide will be included, discussing suggestions for further research in this rising topic of psychological interest. Considerations will be given to expanded research opportunities, as well as the importance of recognizing spirituality as a third and vital component of human well being. Let’s get started!

Positive Impacts of spirituality on adolescents of alcoholic fathersa statistical analysis

Psychosocial development during adolescence, lays forth personality and behavioral foundations that persist throughout life. Though research is limited, studies have revealed a positive connection between religion/spirituality and positive, psychosocial well-being in adolescents. Additional research exists, supporting the negative impacts of parental alcoholism on emotional, behavioral, and psychosocial issues in children. Despite this valid evidence, research has yet broached the effects of spirituality on adolescents while struggling with alcoholic parents (John & Sharma, 2014). The following study explores this concept.

Study details

Hypothesis: Spirituality is a pre-existing positive predictor of mental health, on adolescents struggling with alcoholic fathers.

Research sample: Purposive sample of 60 adolescent boys and girls—ages 16-19 yrs. 1. Inclusion Criteria: actively belong to any religious faith, have an alcohol dependent father for a ten-year

minimum and actively engaged in treatment, proficiency in English, of middle class socioeconomic status, and consensual to participation. 2. Exclusion Criteria: Fathers with co-occurring mental disorders or mothers who are also alcohol dependent (John & Sharma, 2014).

Three Study Objectives: (1) Assess mental health using the Mental Health Inventory (2) Assess spirituality using the Spiritual Involvement and Belief Scale (3) Use a statistical software analysis to assess combined spirituality and mental health (John & Sharma, 2014).

Summarizing and Interpreting the Statistical Data

Three Study Objective Outcomes

1. Assessment of Mental Health: the Mental Health Inventory (MHI) identified mental health status as average amongst the sample.

2. Assessment of Spirituality: the Spiritual Involvement and Belief Scale identified spirituality as average. Demographic variables were also assessed. Gender held no influence on spirituality. However, age and education level showed a significant mean score difference--notably on the internal component--where maturity of the older adolescent and college-attending subjects were concerned.

3. Combined assessment of spirituality and mental health: statistical software measured spirituality as a positive predictor on various mental health variables. Significant results included decreased depression, increased emotional/behavioral control, stronger emotional ties, and decreased psychological distress. No results were revealed for anxiety and life satisfaction (John & Sharma, 2014).

Study Implications

This study holds two implications. First, spirituality can serve as an intervention, by strengthening mentalhealth during times of crisis. Secondly, spirituality can aid adolescents as alcoholic parents begin their own treatment and recovery process, which tends to lend minimal supportive focus on family members (John & Sharma, 2014). Adolescents already face many age-related challenges psycho-socially. Spirituality can continue to lend strength while families are working to achieve a healthy bond once again.

A Systematic Study Review of

Spirituality and Mental Health

In 2012, Harold G. Koenig provided a summarized review of 454 original and peer-reviewed research reports, examining the effects of religion/spirituality on mental and physical health. Some researched aspects included positive emotions (happiness, hope, optimism, self-esteem, etc.), suicidal tendencies, anxiety, social problems, delinquency, and health behaviors. Each of these aspects were examined separately, and a final analysis concluded that active religion and spirituality held the following positive life impacts:

1. Increased ability to adapt more easily to health challenges. 2. Adolescents tend towards better academics and school attendance. 3. Relationships with others tend to be more loving and compassionate.4. The pitfalls of substance abuse are more likely to be avoided.5. Hope and self-esteem are bolstered through religious and spiritual support, decreasing anxiety and suicidal tendencies (Koenig,2012).

Spirituality lends a sense of control over one’s life circumstances, finding meaning amidst chaos, and gaining the ability to maintain a positive world-view. Belief in a higher power can also render security in an existing love that is responsive to personal needs, while lending answers as to the why’s and how’s which life can lay forth. In short, religion and spirituality offer a positive mental outlook on negative life circumstances,making life that much less stressful (Koenig, 2012).

Spirituality and the incarcerated

Like adolescents coping with alcoholic fathers, incarcerated individuals also find themselves coping with a stressful environment in which they cannot readily escape from. In 2011, Ariel Eytan performed a literature search to examine the effects of religion and spirituality on incarcerated individuals. Twelve peer-reviewed articles from 2010, contained primary data for spiritual impacts on mental health and behaviors of thecriminally detained. Religion and spirituality was shown to positively impact the following:

1. Improve coping ability while reducing depression and self-harming tendencies.2. Decrease disciplinary sanctions, as arguing and violence diminished. 3. Increased ability to focus on coping.4. Increased motivation and a positive self-image. (Eytan, 2011).

The incarcerated find themselves facing an array of emotional and psychosocial challenges. Some prisoners may initially join religious groups as a hopeful way to garner early parole release. However, themental alleviation which spirituality provides for the incarcerated is evident (Eytan, 2011). Research is consistently confirming the positive impacts which spirituality can hold on both mental health and behaviors during critical times of life.

In conclusion: suggestions for future research

From the research studies which have been presented, it is clear that spirituality holds positive impact on mental health and behaviors, though research remains limited. Because of this, I suggest that each of the psychological disciplines seek out further opportunities for research from all human perspectives including age, gender, sexual orientation, health conditions, socioeconomic status, and cultural/ethnicity. More situational contexts should also be explored, such as geriatric settings, battered women’s and homeless shelters, those suffering with PTSD, and so much more. The possibilities are nearly limitless!

In the future, the more research which is implemented, the more chance there will be that mental health care will consider recognizing spirituality as a vital component to human well-being. The ability to better cope with life at all stages, and through all circumstances, will become more clearly understood. Spirituality may become an aspect of counseling services offered to all clients who are interested in its great benefits.

It took years for Health psychology to become an established discipline, and the undeniable connection between the mind and body to be accepted. Perhaps more research will bring about the third undeniable connection of spirituality as well. Just as everything else, this will take time, but it will be well worth the effort.

Video Gaming and Pro-Social BehaviorsA critical thinking approach to

solving a social issue

In this modern day of technology which we live, many enticements are robbing us of our social skills. They hinder responsibilities, and take time away from our interpersonal relationships. While social media and television are well-known culprits, violent video-gaming is a rising psychological concern from a behavioraland social perspective. In the slides which follow, violent video gaming will be critically examined from the following three perspectives:

1. The main purpose for researching violent video gaming and pro-social behavior will be identified, and the significance of this issue clarified.2. Problems within the main research will be examined, and study conclusions discussed. 3. Research theoretical concepts will be broached, and the researcher's point of view examined for

both soundness and relevance.

Since societal issues are in need of continual problem solving, I will offer my own solution to addressing violent video gaming as a social issue. This solution will be approached through a SMART action plan, making the goal Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time Bound. Let’s talk gaming!

Can simulated violence decrease empathy?

Purpose of this Study

Video games are a rising concern for their negative impacts on behavior. While males are identified as prominent users, females are now comprising 37% of this population. College students are reportedly the largest consumers of video games, with upwards of 80% of popular games containing violent content (Fraser, et al., 2012).

With this issue in mind, the authors' main purpose is to expand research through a theoretical lens of desensitization and pro-social behavior. They hypothesize, that video game violence minimizes empathy via desensitization. In turn, pro-social behavior decreases, markedly towards strangers (Fraser, et al.,2012).

Significance of the Issue

Modern video game violence is highly graphic in nature. Violence is realistically portrayed, with reward points given for acts of violence. Games with teen-ratings encourage injurious actions, while 69% rewardacts of murder (Fraser, et al., 2012).

Though some researchers have denounced this concern as merely a moral crusade, research is showing that violent video gaming decreases SAT scores, increases drug and alcohol use, increases sexual activity, decreases relationship satisfaction, and lowers self-worth along with perception of social acceptance. Recent studies have revealed an increase in violent behavior, with decreases in empathy and pro-social behaviors (Fraser, et al., 2012).

Problems with this Study

Before addressing the problems with this study, two arguments against it should be acknowledged. First, Some video game violence research has revealed a decrease in aggression, with a significant decline in youth violence rates ensuing since 1993. Secondly, peer and environmental influences far outweigh gaming influence, thus requiring more empirical evidence to draw substantive conclusions. Since the gaming by-product of aggression still remains at odds with empathy and pro-social behaviors, the authors deem it imperative to further research this topical concern (Fraser, et al., 2012). Three Study Limitations

1.This study was limited to only college students. Young people who attend college, tend to come from higher socio- economic statuses (SES), prohibiting application to youth of all economic statuses. However, two-thirds of American youth do attend college within a year after high school, and those youth of lower SES tend towards a higher engagement rate in media content. For this reason, it remains possible that this study's research could find generalized applicability.

2. This study consisted largely of female subjects, limiting gender generalization. Though gender analyses were conducted separately, a more sound representation of males would have been valuable, since males engage in video gaming more than females.

3. This study lacked emphasis on cultural/ethnic diversity--hindering representation of all young, emerging adults. This diversity factor could weigh in to how media violence is initially perceived (Fraser, et al., 2012).

Drawing Conclusionsand

determining main concepts

Conclusions

This study set forth to measure the affects of video game violence on pro-social behavior, emphasizing loss of empathy towards family, friends, and strangers. Results were insignificant pertaining to family and friends, though moderate to strong results were shown in empathy loss towards strangers. Results measured higher for males,and males consistently reported more time spent on gaming (Fraser, et al., 2012).

According to the General Aggression Model, repetitive exposure to violent gaming can cognitively mold one’s views of aggressive behavior. This can result in a decreased concern for societal violence. This study's results lendssupport to this theory, showing that the emerging adulthood years may be particularly sensitive to media violence, and more vulnerable to cognitive pro-social influences (Fraser, et al., 2012).

Main Concepts

The authors approached their research through a theoretical foundation of desensitization and pro-social behavior.Repetitive exposure to video game violence can result in a desensitization of feelings towards real-life violence. Thishabitual conditioning can create an altered condition which diminishes arousal to related stimuli in social surroundings.

Pro-social behavior, defined as voluntary behavior initiated for the benefit of others, matures over time. With this, an identity should be established which focuses more on others than the self. Moral reasoning should increase, and a reduction in aggression and risk-taking behavior should occur (Fraser, 2012).

~ Point of view ~

The authors' point of view pertaining to video game violence, emphasized loss of empathy via desensitization. Loss of empathy was hypothesized to occur the most towards strangers, where greater empathy is needed to act in a pro-social manner (Fraser, 2012). This concern has been explored by other researchers as well, with similar test results.

In 2012, Bastian, Jetten, and Radke set out to explore the effects of violent gaming on humanity diminishment. Their studies revealed the following:

1. A dehumanization effect occurs when engaging in gaming with random acts of uncalled-for violence. 2. When two people are engaging as partners, a dehumanization effect is not present. 3. When another human player is the target of violence, they also experienced a dehumanizing effect (Bastian, Jetten, & Radke, 2012).

These effects were tested against mood, negative self-evaluation, gender, and video game quality/satisfaction. None of these were found to be contributors to the dehumanization experience. These results echoed the above view points, that through this dehumanizing process, a loss of empathy and sensitivity occurs, resulting in a consequential loss of humanity (Bastian, Jetten, & Radke, 2012).

Solving a Societal Issueand

Conclusion

Solving a Societal IssueConsidering a SMART plan of action, I would ask college students who enjoy violent gaming, to submit a 30-day

gaming log along with age, race, and gender information. I would challenge them to replace at least two thirds of their gaming time volunteering in the community for one semester. This time would be logged and confirmed by participating volunteer agencies. Participating students would receive a 10% discount card for the college book and apparel store.Afterwards, I would issue self-rated questionnaires, asking them to rate their experience, the likelihood of continuing in community service, and if they feel their empathy towards strangers increased/decreased--and how much. If successful, this program could be continued by other colleges.

Bill Drayton is a CEO, founder and chairman of Ashoke--a global association which promotes social entrepreneurship. He believes that sophisticated empathy is a core skill behind making changes. When young people are in an environment that promotes this empathy, they hold the capacity to harness this skill as well (Wagner, Cohen, & Docksai, 2008). My

simple plan utilizes this hands-on approach to initiating a change, while furthering research on this societal issue.

ConclusionIt has become clear that there is a link between violent video game desensitization, and loss of empathy. This can

impair pro-social behavior, especially towards strangers. Dehumanization may occur, hindering humanity at large, and places young emerging adults at greatest risk for this negative conditioning process. While much research still needs to be implemented, it is comforting to know that empathy is a skill which can be learned, when promoted in an empathy-sensitive environment. With a SMART plan of action, changes can be made, which will only provide more loving care in our society's future!

Take God to Work DayAccommodating Religious Diversity in the Work Place

In a cultural competency article, "Take God to Work Day", ongoing concerns and debates are broached pertaining to the Workplace Religious Freedom Act (WRFA ) of 2005. Over the past 30 years, work force discrimination based on religion, has been consistently violated under federal law, confirming need for the WRFA. Questions still arise as to what exactly qualifies as discrimination, and how this collision of views can affect work environments. (Ford, 2005). In the slides which follow, five points will be addressed:

1. Why the need for the WRFA , from a cultural diversity perspective.2. Where misunderstanding lies, and can diversity really be accommodated.3. Resolving the accommodation issue from a culturally sensitive perspective.4. The Competencies necessary for working in a culturally diverse environments. 5. My attitudes towards cultural diversity, and their impacts on my professional future.

The  WRFA potentially opens a Pandora's Box of religious accommodations that could breech respectful peace rather than establishing it. Given this, it becomes necessary to consider if we can find it harder to function with WRFA, or suffer more without it. Let’s move forward into religious diversity!

Why the need for WRFA, from a Cultural Perspective

In 1964, congress initiated the Title VII section of the Civil Rights Act. Employers were now unable to discriminate against applicants/employees based on religion, including expressions and actions affiliated with religious beliefs. In 1972, Title VII was amended to include all religious observance, practices, and beliefs unless these accommodations placed undue hardship on an employer (Morgan, 2005). Herein, a loophole was found.

In 1977, Trans World Airlines v. Hardison brought to light that "undue hardship" was a loose term. Hardison requested to participate in a Saturday Sabbath, and offered to assist in voluntary shift changes as well as other positions within the company. However, seniority regulations and the union prevented further negotiations. Hardison eventually was terminated. The Supreme Court upheld the decision based on Title VII's hardship clause, where TWA would bear more than a de minimis cost--that hardship cost being $450.00 (Morgan, 2005).

Was this a hardship for a multi-million dollar company, or corporate greed and regulation red-tape? Either way, related incidents over the years, continually bring attention to this ongoing issue. While defining and protecting against religious discrimination is opening a Pandora's box that is hard to function with--to not have it in our increasingly diverse society, is one we may unfairly suffer without.

Why the need for WRFA, Cont.

In today's United States, surveys are revealing that more than 90% of citizens have a belief in God or form of a higher power, with immigrant religions lending to a rise in diversity. This is not foreseen to diminish, but rather continues to find its way into employment environments, becoming a "last taboo in corporate America" (Morgan, 2005, p. 73).  For these reasons, the WRFA was initiated in 2005, adding three new revisions to the religious discrimination framework:

1.  Better defining who is covered by the WRFA

2. Better defining employer's obligations in reasonable accommodation provisions

3. Clarifying the boundaries of undue hardship exceptions

Examples of protected rights would be the ability to wear religious attire (such as head scarves, Kippahs, cross necklaces, etc.), the ability to conduct prayer during designated break times, and allowing shift changes for religious observations. Any accommodations could not unreasonably impair an employee's ability to perform job functions beyond that of a minor and temporary effect. (Morgan, 2005). This certainly seems reasonable, but is it enough?

Where Misunderstanding lies: Can We Really Accommodate Everyone?

In 2013, Peter Balint questioned multicultural theory, and the state's ability to enforce respect through multicultural policy. In Balint's views, this is neither a plausible nor necessary demand, as respectful behaviors and attitudes are the responsibility of individuals themselves. He further asks, how much capacity do we hold to respect each other's differences, and how much do we truly desire to do so? (Balint, 2013). Before questions concerning respect can be answered, a definition must be formed. Balint offers three definitions of respect:

1. Appraisal respect asks us to consider a point of view, while rendering respect based on acceptance.2. Recognition respect asks us to give respect to a recognized difference, despite our own personal opinions. 3. Recognition with respect for differences, initiates respect for the concept of differences itself, thus softening the inner judgment of personal opinions (Balint, 2013).

Here in lies a tail-chase. Respect in any form cannot be demanded, will be given only upon appraisal, and is subjective to change. Therefore, a degree of tolerance must be implemented to meet respectful demands for differences. This ability lies within the behaviors and attitudes of people themselves--not in the authoritative policies of governmental hands (Balint, 2013).

Resolving the Issue from a Culturally Sensitive Perspective

While Peter Balint's proposal of respect and tolerance is commendable, this may not be solely conducive outside of a Utopian society. People are inherently focused on the self, which can hamstring both respect and tolerance for others. Additionally, trust would have to be placed in employers, in that they are capable of unbiased leadership and free of personal self-interests. Given this, I propose the following culturally-sensitive solutions to help resolve this issue:

1. Continually encourage employee WRFA feedback via the human service department.2. All employees should be informed of their rights pertaining to religious discrimination, along with steps to handle conflicts if necessary. 3. Management should keep in touch with their employees regarding all aspects of discrimination, building trust through positive communication.

Most importantly, I would require all employees to engage in a seminar, teaching Balint's aspects of respect and toleration, as well as cultural competency. I would conduct this seminar in small, diverse groups of individuals. I would approach WRFA protocol, and encourage all individuals to exercise respectful reasonableness in their demands, while maintaining respect and toleration for one another. An open questions and answers forum would also be held to further communication between people, and generate positive understanding of diversity within the professional environment.

The Competencies Necessary for

Working in Culturally Diverse Environments

In 2005, Mitchell Rice approached cultural competency in public service and administration, through an examination of competency definitions. Some of these are as follows:

1. The ability to productively respond to both challenges and opportunities, brought by the presence of cultural diversity within a social system. 2. The development of professional skills, suitable for serving cultural diversity.3. The development of behaviors, attitudes, and policies which assures the ability to function within a culturally

diverse environment. 4. Learning new behaviors applicable to culturally diverse circumstances.5. Developing the ability to match messages and intervention strategies conducive with interacting, communicating, and problem solving within culturally diverse settings.6. Harnessing the ability to build on the strengths, perspectives, beliefs, and value systems of culturally diverse others.

From this invaluable information, it becomes clear that cultural competency requires conscientious efforts in reaching out to diverse others. We must respectfully build on diverse strengths and values, while continually cultivating competency skills necessary for culturally diverse environments. Most importantly, this must be implemented with sincere attitudes and behaviors, that are embracing and appreciative of all people within our culturally diverse world.

A Final Reflection: My Attitudes Towards Cultural Diversity and

Their Impacts on My Professional Future

My attitudes towards cultural diversity, is one of appreciation. I believe, and deeply revere, God's masterpiece of creation itself. Just as He did not make trees all the same, He also did not make human beings carbon copies of one another. He did this by choice, and I appreciate human beings for the unique, individual works of art which they truly are.

I have come to appreciate and understand the fact, that people hold their own unique beliefs and value systems. It would be arrogant of me to think that my own perspectives and world views are the superior one. This would short-change my opportunities to learn from others and appreciate the world at large, while disqualifying me from human service altogether.

In my professional future, I will be working with and serving richly diverse people. My attitude and respect for this fact will either make or break this beautiful opportunity. I foresee my experiences being enriching, and I hope that I am also enriching to others. No matter how diverse we are, we all need the same fundamental things from one another:

LOVE ~ SUPPORT~ COMPASSION ~ ACCEPTANCE

Honor Who To ProtectResolving an Ethical dilemma

Ethical dilemmas can come upon us when we least expect it. This is the case with Don Riles—an insurance claims adjuster--who is asked by his supervisor, to conduct an appraisal while enjoying a day off with his daughter. Agreeing to the request and taking his daughter along, Don discovers that the client is his daughter’s teacher, Miss Anderson. Proceeding with a brief interview on her front lawn, Don learns that Miss Anderson is being treated for a relapsed condition of paranoia and manic depression, resulting from the car accident.

Don faces a dilemma, as he becomes concerned for his daughter’s well-being under the care of a woman being treated for a mental condition. His wife is also a claims adjuster, and bound to the same codes of ethics and confidentiality that he is (Institute for Global ethics, n.d.). Should Don honor to protect his daughter, or the confidentiality of Miss Anderson, his business client? In the slides which follows, these topical aspects will be addressed:

1. Resolving the ethical dilemma, and justifying course of action.2. Proposing a course of action, and considering ramifications.3. Considering possible alternatives.

A final conclusion will be offered, summarizing this dilemma, and the best way to both avoid and problem-solve these situations in professional contexts. Let’s dive into ethics!

Resolving the Ethical dilemma and

Justifying course of action

Before addressing resolution and justification, it should be considered what can lead to a compromising of ethical decisions. Cognitive dissonance occurs when a situation transpires that places our beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors at odds with one another. This state of psychological duress, becomes a motivation to resolve the situation, to find relief from the internally stressful condition. This can lead to a state of ethical dissonance, where considering behavioral misconduct collides with personal values, leading to concerns for accountability and a marred reputation (Barkin, et al., 2012).

The Pot-Kettle Phenomenon is a tendency to harshly judge the actions of others, while glossing over one’s own actions and choices (Barkin, et al., 2012). Don may justify breeching confidentiality, by blaming his supervisor for placing him into this position to begin with. He may additionally overlook the fact that he should not have conducted the interview once he identified who Miss Anderson was.

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA), lays forth their own code ofethics, including maintaining client confidence and right to privacy, strict adherence to all professional regulations, and conducting business in a manner honorable to the NAIFA (NAIFA, 2012). Given this, Don is bound to place principles before personal concerns, in addressing this dilemma.

Proposing a Course of Actionand

Considering Ramifications

Ethical dilemmas within professional environments, often times involves a chain of people and poor decisions, and does not necessarily indicate “bad people” or “bad management”. In business professions, pressure can be present to perform duties against ethical guidelines for the sake of maintaining clientele base, or meeting numerous deadlines. For this reason, codes of ethics must be strongly present and adhered to within places of business, and by everyone involved. (Boatright, 2013).

There is rarely only one way to handle an ethical dilemma. Following, are two possible course of actions that Don could choose , to handle his professional situation. Potential ramifications to each course of action, will also be provided.

Course of action and ramification #1

It is possible that Don's manager by-passed ethics to get a claims appraisal job done efficiently, and had not foreseen an ethical dilemma occurring. For this reason, it is paramount for Don to talk with his manager, and inform him of the situation. Don should give his manager the benefit of the doubt, while clarifying the desire to be removed from the appraisal. He should confirm code of ethics, as the reason behind his request.

Course of actionand

Ramifications, cont.

At this point, Don cannot address the personal aspect of this issue with his neighbor. To do so, would breech code of ethics, and potentially damage his daughter's relationship with Miss Anderson. He will have to adhere to confidentiality--particularly since no harm or concerns were present prior to this incident. Unless Don's manager threatened his dismissal, it is less likely for other ramifications to occur if the dilemma were handled in this manner.

Course of action and ramification #2

Since Don is now concerned about his daughter’s well-being, he may opt to breech confidentiality to address his concerns. If he chooses to contact the school about Miss Anderson, he will destroy current relations. Most importantly, he will violate the NAIFA code of ethics which includes, “To help maintain my client’s confidence, and respect their right to privacy” (NAIFA, 2012).

Don additionally risks ramifications with his employer. Don chose to conduct the interview with Miss Anderson, after identifying who she was. To breech a code of ethics at this point, would put his competency and professionalism well into question, potentially resulting in termination and legal repercussions.

Considering Possible Alternatives

Now that this ethical dilemma is in motion, alternatives become limited. Besides asking to withdrawal from the appraisal, Don could seek advice from his supervisor and other experienced colleagues. He could utilize trusted resources to research similar ethical situations, and problem solve alternative solutions.

Since Don is bound to the NAIFA code of ethics, he cannot approach Miss Anderson, the school, or his wife about his concerns. He could seek alternatives to placing his daughter in a different educational environment. However, this may not be practical, possible, or even necessary. It would be wise to wait and first see if future concerns arise.

The best thing to do, is learn from this mistake and apply prevention. Business techniques can be utilized to safeguard against such dilemmas from occurring to begin with. For example, utilizing a client resume prior to interviewing, can assure that an interview is friendly, and well prepared for (Forbes, 2015). This would also alert an interviewer as to any red flags that could potentially threaten codes of ethics. In Don’s case, a resume would have revealed Miss Anderson as the client. He could have then declined the interview, while sabotaging an unethical situation.

Summary and

Conclusion

In this ethical dilemma, we have seen many mistakes that were made. More information, such as a client resume, could have prevented an unethical interview from occurring to begin with. Better decision making, and consideration to codes of ethics, should have been implemented by both Don and his supervisor. When Don did identify Miss Anderson, he should have stopped immediately, and requested to be removed from the appraisal.

This ethical dilemma emphasizes the need for ethical guidelines, and why it is necessary to adhere to them. Pressures from business should not persuade professionals to by-pass ethics, and risk a dilemma that could be harmful to all involved. When an ethical dilemma does arise, it is paramount to avoid cognitive and ethical dissonance, which can result in choosing actions to justify alleviating the psychological conflict of a stressful situation.

In life, ethical dilemmas are inevitable—whether personally or professionally. With a commitment to honesty and integrity, these situations can be handled for the greater good of everyone involved. Adhering to professional codes of ethics, can help set vital parameters for us. However, it is up to us to utilize these, as opposed to bypassing them for the sake of perceived convenience.

Acts 24:16 “In view of this, I also do my best to maintain always a blameless conscience both before God

and before men”

Looking to the FutureGoals, Values, and

Professional Philosophy

As we near the end of this slide show, it is time to look towards the future. There are many aspects to take into consideration, when orchestrating one’s educational and professional path. More than just looking towards the monetary

gain, it is looking towards the inner self, and identifying who we are, and how we can channel this into best serving humanity at large. In the final aspect of this presentation, the following will be addressed:

1. Work values and career skills inventory.2. Professional philosophy, goals, and career plans.3. Professional goals, career choices, and how these align with values and life interests.4. Psychological principles, motivation, and attitudes in overcoming professional goal obstacles.5. An action plan for implementing career goals.

By the end of this presentation, an over-view should be given, as to my solid sense of direction in my professional future. My abilities to set goals and achieve them should be clear, as well as my ability to self-explore my own values, skills, and interests. Most importantly, my professional philosophy will be presented, concerning serving humanity with loving

care, compassion, and dedication. Let’s now look towards the future!

Work values and

career skills inventory

My top five work values

1. Security: relatively assured of steady employment/income.2. Help Others & Society: help other people or contribute to the betterment of a larger community.3. Responsibility: have the power to make decisions on my own, and implement them.4. Ability Utilization: make full use of my abilities.5. Impact: my work results in a sense of accomplishment.

My top five career skills

1. Empathizing 3. Influencing others 5. Rapport Building2. Encouraging 4. Motivation

Work Values and

Career Skills Inventory, cont.

I approach work values and career skills from both a psychological and spiritual perspective. Abraham Maslow (1908-1970), presented his pyramid of hierarchal needs, addressing human needs and motivations. Self-actualization resides at the pyramid pinnacle, and is defined as the need for self-fulfillment, and becoming all that one is capable of (Hunt, 2007).

My values and skills, addresses many aspects of the hierarchal pyramid. They take into consideration physical-related needs through job security, as well as the psychological needs of accomplishment and motivation. The self-actualization needs of fully utilizing my abilities for serving humanity at large, are also identified.

I have discovered that there are many values which are important to me, and many skills that I possess. However, these are the ones of highest importance. This inventory process is of vital importance for everyone. By identifying what skills and values mean to each individual person, professional paths and goals can be chosen which fulfill the innate need of self-actualization within each of us.

Galatians 5:13“….only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh,

But through love, serve one another…”

Professional Philosophy, Goals, and

Career Plans

Professional Goals and Career Plans

I am moving forward into a Master's degree in mental health/social services, during which time I will seek professional employment that aligns with my Bachelor's degree in Psychology. I will also continue seeking volunteer opportunities within crisis intervention services. My future goal, is to have the education and hands-on experience required for obtaining positions of leadership within the helping professions in the future. These qualifications will additionally afford me a wide range of professional settings, any of which I will completely cherish being a part of.

My Professional Philosophy

I deeply believe in helping others to realize their unique, God-given potential. It is through the valleys that we most come to cultivate this. I want to be there to help others through those valleys--and via my own living testimony--guide by example as much as spoken word. I greatly appreciate human diversity, and believe that all human beings are equal in their potential, as well as their need for loving support and acceptance.

All that I do, I do with my utmost best. It should hold nothing short of God's own approved stamp upon it. Most importantly, I believe that integrity must be at the core of all functioning. Integrity, compassion, and a genuine love for others must be held deeply within the heart to serve with Christ-like dedication. This is both my professional and life philosophy.

Acts 20:35“…by working hard in this way, we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus,

‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’…”

Values, Life Interestsand

my Professional Future

My values largely encompass compassionately caring for others, while instilling positivity and hope within them. I

additionally seek to build harmony amongst people. Through my desire for rapport building, I hope to build positive

teamwork in a group of individuals, so that together we can optimally serve others on a spiritual foundation of sincere

love and compassion.

When I consider my work values and future professional service, I look towards the APA code of

conduct and Biblical scripture. In the APA code of conduct, five basic principles are laid forth:

A. Beneficence and Nonmaleficience: work for the benefit of others, while minimizing harm.

B. Fidelity and Responsibility: be aware of responsibilities, and built trusting relationships.

C. Integrity: uphold honesty and truthfulness, with awareness of breeched consequences.

D. Justice: uphold fairness and equality when rendering services to all others.

E. Respect for People's Rights and Dignity: equally respect and protect the dignity, privacy,

confidentiality, and autonomy of all others--including within the community (APA, 2002).

I believe in treating others as I would like to be treated. This is a universal law, applicable to all people, and should be the heart beat of both our interpersonal and professional lives. I will both serve and lead others based on nothing less.

Matthew 7:12“So in everything, do unto others what you would have them do unto you,

for this sums up the Laws and the Prophets."

Overcoming Obstaclesand

Reaching Goals

I utilize two initial concepts when overcoming obstacles and reaching goals:

1. Faithful perseverance: we must be consistently pro-active in reaching our goals, while having faith that they will be achieved in the end. 2. Detailed goal plans: breaking down our goals into small pieces--even daily goals--so that long-term goals do not become lost in an overwhelming shuffle.

A third vital concept, is nurturing the physical and mental self. A recent study of nurses in health care units, have found that implementing self-care significantly impacted nurse teamwork by decreasing stress, while increasing job satisfaction and productivity. This resulted in an increased retention of nursing staff (Nelson & Richards, 2011).

When self-care is neglected, compassion fatigue can occur, resulting in physical/emotional exhaustion, as well as loss of compassion. Some additional symptoms include apathy, hopelessness, anxiety, cynical/critical attitude, insomnia, memory issues, fatigue, loss of resiliency to illness, and much more (Nelson & Richards, 2011).

There are many self-care tips to combat this, such as: seek help before becoming overwhelmed, delegate work load, exercise & nutrition, journal, start day with prayer/positive affirmation, set boundaries, eliminate excess appointments, avoid negative people/self-talk, and so much more (Nelson & Richards, 2011). With self-care, we can care better for others, and more assuredly reach goals while clearing tougher obstacles.

Hebrews 11:1“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, and the evidence of things not seen.”

My Action Plan for

Implementing Career Goals

Utilizing a SMART goals plan of action, this is my immediate educational and career goals for September-December of 2015:

I. September: complete Bachelor's in Psychology ProgramII. October: final preparation for Master's Program/Acquire professional certifications

A. Finalize registration with next educational institution/address CPR and Mental Health First Aid certifications B. Request/purchase copy of final Bachelor's studies transcriptC. Order books for first semester of schooling

III. November-December: begin first semester of school/Prepare for professional employment

A. Begin first semester of Master's program E. Acquire interview and small professional wardrobeB. Finalize cover letter, resume, portfolio F. Register with select professional employment services C. Obtain necessary reference letters G. Conduct mock interviews with familyD. Set traveling radius for professional members/obtain feedback

employment/Research O*net Career Services

IV. Seek professionally-related volunteer opportunities (consider emergency rape crisis support/crisis hotline)

Philippians 4:13“I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.”

Final ThoughtsMany topics and concepts were touched base with, during this brief presentation. Let’s recap:

1. Research is showing the positive effects of spirituality on mental health and psychosocial well-being. Many research opportunities exist for the future. It is hopeful, that spirituality will come to be recognized as the third vital component to human well-being. 2. Research is revealing the negative impacts of violent gaming on pro-social behaviors, including dehumanization and loss of empathy towards strangers through desensitization. However, empathy is a skill which can be taught through SMART action plans, and can especially be valuable for the vulnerable young-adult sector of our society. 3. The WRFA was implemented in 2005, to clarify religious freedoms in the workplace. While the WRFA is needed to assure equality and fairness, people are also responsible for generating respect for one another through culturally competent behaviors and attitudes. No matter how diverse we are, we all need love, support, compassion, and acceptance. 4. Ethical dilemmas annunciate the vital need to adhere to ethical code of ethics. The need to avoid cognitive and ethical dissonance is also emphasized, as well as not by-passing ethics for the sake of appeasing the pressures of business.

Lastly, I touched based on my future career and educational goals, professional philosophy, and how I plan to overcome obstacles in the future. I hope you have enjoyed this presentation, and have learned a little more about my skills, knowledge, integrity, and compassionate love for serving diverse others in need. Thank you for taking the time to join me!

References

American Psychological Association (2002). APA Ethics Code, 2002. Retrieved from:http://www2.fapse.ulg.ac.be/documents/code2002.pdf

Barkan, R., Ayal, S., Gino, F., & Ariely, D. (2012). The pot calling the kettle black: Distancing response to ethical dissonance. Journal Of Experimental Psychology: General, 141(4), 757-773. doi:10.1037/a0027588

Bastian, B., Jetten, J., Radke, H. (2012). Cyber-dehumanization: violent video game play diminishes our humanity. Journal of Experimental Social Psychology, 48(2), 486-491. doi: 10.1016/j.jesp.2011.10.009

Balint, P. (2013). Against Respecting Each Others' Differences. Journal Of Applied Philosophy, 30(3), 254-267. doi:10.1111/japp.12016

Boatright, J. R. (2013). Confronting ethical dilemmas in the workplace. Financial Analysts Journal, 69(5), 6-9. Retrieved from: http://search.proquest.com.library.capella.edu/docview/1439081331?accountid=27965

Eytan, A. (2011). Religion and mental health during incarceration: A systematic literature review. Psychiatric Quarterly, 82(4), 287-95. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11126-011- 9170-6

Forbes. (2015). 9 Tips for Conducting an Interview. www.forbes.com Retrieved 25 August 2015.Ford, R. (2005). Take God to Work Day. Slate Magazine, p. 1 of 1. Retrieved from:

http://www.lexisnexis.com.library.capella.edu/hottopics/lnacademic/?verb=sr&csi=222770&sr=BYLINE%28Richard+Thompson+Ford%29+AND+HLEAD%28Take+God+to+Work+Day%29+AND+DATE+IS+June+13+2005

Fraser, A. M., Padilla-walker, L., Coyne, S. M., Nelson, L. J., & Stockdale, L. A. (2012). Associations between violent video gaming, empathic concern, and prosocial behavior toward strangers, friends, and family members. Journal of Youth and Adolescence, 41(5), 636-49. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10964-012-9742-2

Hunt, M. (2007). The Story of Psychology. New York, NY: Random House, Inc.

References, cont.

Institute for Global Ethics: Promoting Ethical Action in a Global Context. (n.d.). Institute for Global Ethics: Promoting Ethical Action in a Global Context. Retrieved January 5, 2011, from: http://www.globalethics.org/

John, L., & Sharma, D. (2014). Spirituality as a predictor of positive mental health among adolescents with alcoholic addicted fathers. Indian Journal of Positive Psychology, 5(2), 98-108. Retrieved from:http://search.proquest.com.library.capella.edu/docview/1614029755?accountid=27965

Koenig, H. G. (2012). Religion, spirituality, and health: The research and clinical implications. ISRN Psychiatry, doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.5402/2012/278730

Mental Health First Aid, USA (2013). Evidence base. Mental Health First Aid, USA. Retrieved from: http://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/cs/about/community-impact/

Morgan, J. F. (2005). IN DEFENSE OF THE WORKPLACE RELIGIOUS FREEDOM ACT: PROTECTING THE UNPROTECTED WITHOUT SANCTIFYING THE WORKPLACE. Labor Law Journal, 56(1), 68-81. Retrieved from: http://search.proquest.com.library.capella.edu/docview/195061313?accountid=27965

NAIFA (2012). Code of Ethics. National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors. Retrieved from: http://www.naifa.org/about-naifa/code-of-ethics

Nelson, J., Richards, K. (2011). Overcoming obstacles to create the optimal healing environment. Nurse Leader, Vol. 9 (2). pp. 37-39, 57. doi: 10.1016/j.mnl.2011.01.002

Rice, M. F. (2007). Promoting Cultural Competency in Public Administration and Public Service Delivery: Utilizing Self-assessment Tools and Performance Measures. Journal Of Public Affairs Education, 13(1), 41-57.

Wagner, C. G., Cohen, A. M., & Docksai, R. (2008). Seeing the future through new eyes. The Futurist, 42(6), 54-60. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com.library.capella.edu/docview/218610142?accountid=27965