Examples of Doctor of Health Science (DHSc) Dissertation Titles/Abstracts

Expand the blocks below to see each student's dissertation title and abstract information.

You may also view examples of our DHSc graduates' final dissertation manuscripts on the University of Indianapolis (UIndy) library's digital repository.

Title:

Unlearning Shame: How Migration Reshapes Sexual Health Beliefs Among Nigerian Immigrants in Indianapolis

Abstract: 

Background: Nigerian immigrants are among the fastest-growing foreign-born populations in Marion County (Indianapolis). Despite this growth, Nigerian immigrants are generally grouped with African American or African immigrant categories in health research, hiding the cultural differences that shape their health behaviors. Yet, little research has focused on how they understand sexual health or navigate related services in the United States. Purpose: This study examined how Nigerian immigrants' cultural beliefs and perceptions shaped their sexual health behaviors and service engagement.  Method: Using a basic interpretive qualitative design, the researcher conducted semi-structured interviews with 14 Nigerian immigrants residing in Indianapolis to explore their lived experiences and cultural norms related to sexual health. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Eight themes emerged from the data: (1) cultural taboo and sexual silence, (2) stigma as a structural barrier, (3) migration as a catalyst for openness, (4) generational divide, (5) gender inequality in sexual health, (6) barriers to healthcare access, (7) participants' sexual health knowledge, testing experiences, and communication patterns, and (8) interventions and culturally competent care. Discussion and Conclusion: Cultural taboo, stigma, and gender inequality operated as interconnected barriers, while migration, generational shifts, and positive healthcare experiences created pathways toward openness. Participants recommended community-based outreach through trusted messengers, faith-based partnerships, comprehensive school-based education, privacy-preserving digital platforms, and provider cultural competence training. This research contributes to health equity efforts and highlights the importance of disaggregated data and culturally specific interventions in addressing sexual health disparities among Nigerian immigrants in the United States.

Title:

The Association between Comprehensive WIC Benefits Utilization and Glycemic Control in Pregnant Women with Gestational Diabetes in Hendricks and Johnson County WIC

Abstract: 

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) affects approximately 5%–9% of pregnancies in the United States and is associated with significant maternal and infant health risks. Although the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) offers nutrition support, education, and referral services, its relationship with glycemic outcomes among pregnant women with gestational diabetes remains underexplored. Purpose: This quantitative study examined the association between WIC benefit utilization and glycemic control among pregnant women with gestational diabetes in Hendricks and Johnson Counties, Indiana. Method: Participants were recruited through flyers and posters displaying QR codes at local WIC clinics. They completed an anonymous online survey assessing demographics, participant characteristics, glycemic control, and WIC benefit utilization. Results: Descriptive statistics summarized participant characteristics, chi-square tests of independence, and binary logistic regression evaluated associations between WIC utilization and glycemic control. Results demonstrated a statistically significant association between higher WIC benefit utilization and glycemic control. Logistic regression findings indicated that participants utilizing 5 or 6 WIC benefits/services had greater odds of achieving glycemic control than those who did not. Conclusion: The findings suggest that greater engagement with multiple WIC services (nutrition education and referral components) may be associated with improved glycemic outcomes. Although causality cannot be established, this study provides preliminary evidence supporting the potential role of WIC engagement in maternal health promotion and identifies opportunities for future research on additional clinical and social determinants influencing glycemic control.

Title:

Family Matters: How Do Families Experience a Loved One’s Transition to Assisted Living? 

Abstract: 

Background: As the aging population continues to grow, transitions to assisted living are becoming increasingly common, impacting not only older adults but their families and loved ones as well. Purpose: This research explored the experiences of family members as they navigated the transition of an older loved one from home to assisted living. While extensive literature has examined the effects of this transition on older adults, limited attention has been given to the emotional, relational, and logistical challenges faced by families. Method: Using a qualitative approach, this study aimed to understand these experiences, with particular focus on perceived changes in family relationships, emotional responses during the initial transition weeks, and broader implications for family dynamics. Conclusion: Insights from this research were intended to inform the development of support systems and interventions designed to ease the transition for families and enhance overall well-being. Findings revealed that families experienced the transition as an ongoing and multifaceted process marked by emotional ambivalence, role disruption, and logistical burden. Participants described sustained responsibility even after placement, suggesting that assisted living represents a reconfiguration rather than an end to caregiving. These findings underscore the need to recognize families as continued stakeholders in long-term care policy and practice.

Title:

Reliability of Field-Based Lower Quarter Y Balance Testing in Youth Soccer

Abstract: 

The Lower Quarter Y Balance Test (LQ YBT) is a common field-based testing tool for injury screening and dynamic balance assessment in athletes. While reliable in selected cohorts, the reliability when administered by non-medical professionals, essential for widespread implementation in youth sports, remains unknown. This observational, cross-sectional study aimed to determine the within-session reliability of the LQ YBT among youth soccer players and evaluate interrater agreement between a physical therapist rater and three coaches without medical training. Thirty-seven youth athletes (21 female, 16 male; ages 10-14) were assessed. Within-session reliability was evaluated across three trials using Interclass correlations (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), and minimal detectable change (MDC) values. Interrater agreement was analyzed using percent agreement, Cohen’s kappa, and Krippendorff’s alpha. Within-session reliability was excellent (ICC = .87 to .94, 95% CI [.80, .97]), with an SEM range of 2.71 to 3.56 and an MDC range of 7.50 to 9.86. Interrater percent agreement ranged from 62-85%, but kappa (.07 to .45) and alpha (.09-.42) values indicated only slight to moderate agreement. While the LQ YBT is a stable measure between trials, poor interrater agreement between the coach raters and a medically trained rater suggests that formal medical training or more rigorous rater training is required for accurate assessment. Caution is advised when interpreting LQ YBT results for non-medical raters in field-based environments.

Title:

Dental Staff Waterline Infection Control Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice 

Abstract: 

Background: Dental unit waterlines (DUWLs) are susceptible to microbial biofilm contamination that can expose patients and dental staff to potentially harmful microorganisms. Guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasizes the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring of DUWLs, yet limited research has examined dental staff's knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding these procedures. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess dental staff’s knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding dental unit waterline maintenance and water quality monitoring. Method: A non-experimental, cross-sectional survey design was used to collect data from dental professionals using the Dental Waterline Staff Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Assessment Tool. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and nonparametric statistical tests to examine relationships between knowledge, attitudes, and practice variables. Results: Thirty-seven responses were analyzed, with most participants being dental hygienists (67%) and reporting moderate-to-high knowledge of waterline monitoring (M = 7.06/10) and maintenance (M = 7.37/10). Higher knowledge scores were significantly associated with infection control training (p < .05), use of professional resources such as the Association for Dental Safety (p = .010), and adherence to manufacturer instructions for use (p < .05). Discussion: Results suggest that engagement with professional resources, written policies, and structured infection control education is associated with stronger knowledge and improved DUWL maintenance practices. Increasing training opportunities and promoting adherence to manufacturer guidance may help improve dental water safety for patients and staff.

Title:

Changing Attitudes and Perceptions with Intraprofessional Education in Physical Therapy 

Abstract: 

Background: Since the first physical therapist assistants (PTAs) graduated in 1969, physical therapists (PTs) have been concerned about being replaced by PTAs and confused about how to utilize, supervise, and delegate patients to PTAs appropriately. Addressing attitudes and perceptions of SPTs and STPAs may help improve communication and subsequent appropriate direction and supervision of PTAs through physical therapy curricula. Purpose: This study sought to understand the attitudes and perceptions during an intraprofessional team-based PT/PTA collaborative learning event, and whether student characteristics impacted the study results. Method: This quantitative, non-experimental study employed a nonequivalent two-group pretest-posttest design, using the Physical Therapy Intraprofessional Assessment Tool (PTIAT) and the Interdisciplinary Education Perception (IEPS) Scale. A digital survey was conducted using Qualtrics, an online survey platform. The study started on April 1, 2025, with a pretest survey followed by a posttest survey five to seven days after the event on April 28, 2025, then a final survey six weeks later. Results: The survey data showed statistically significant differences for PT students when comparing the first and second surveys, with the sum of the PTIAT (p = .002) and IEPS Cooperation subscale (p = .007), and the combined data of PT and PTA students for the IEPS Cooperation subscale (p = .002). Conclusion: Intraprofessional education changes attitudes and perceptions among PT students and PTA students, particularly with cooperation, following a collaborative in-person event. A reliability analysis was completed on the PTIAT (α = .84) and the modified version of the IEPS (α = .91), validating its use in intraprofessional education.

Title:

Experiences of Physical Therapists with Physical Disabilities in the Performance of Essential Job Functions: A Qualitative Study

Abstract: 

Background: Disability represents a diverse minority status that is underrepresented in healthcare, including physical therapy. Although there are practicing PTs with physical disabilities, it is unknown how they perform the essential functions required to work as a PT. Method: This qualitative study used interviews of 11 practicing PTs with physical disabilities (PTWPDs) using a hermeneutic interpretive phenomenological analysis design to learn about their abilities, personal challenges, barriers, and facilitators for their work as a PT, as well as the benefits related to their disabled identity. Data analysis resulted in thirteen primary findings related to this phenomenon. Results: Findings were grouped into the following categories: professional competence with adaptive practices; navigation of personal challenges with strategic career decisions and self-management; discrimination as a primary barrier; personal strategies used to navigate barriers; external support systems; and benefits and contributions of the disability experience. Conclusion: As interpreted through the Enactive-Ecological model of disablement, PTWPDs should be accorded respect for their professional autonomy to use their self-knowledge of their strengths and challenges in their professional practice for safe, competent care. Additionally, ableist beliefs and practices that are pervasive within the physical therapy profession need to be challenged and dismantled for true inclusion of PTWPDs and allow them to share their rich experiences for the benefit of colleagues and patients alike.

Title:

Perceptions of Food and Dietary Supplement Claims Among CrossFit Participants: A Qualitative Study 

Abstract: 

Background: CrossFit is a high-intensity exercise regimen designed to enhance physical performance and necessitates a nutritionally balanced diet. However, research indicates that CrossFit participants often follow diets that do not meet the estimated nutritional requirements for this exercise modality. While nutrition labeling has been shown to influence dietary choices, limited information exists on CrossFit participants’ perceptions of food and dietary supplement packaging claims regarding purchasing decisions and physical performance goals. Purpose: The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore CrossFit participants’ perceptions of health, nutrient content, and structure-function claims related to purchasing decisions and physical performance goals. The specific focus was on purchasing decisions related to food and dietary supplements. Method: Grounded theory was used to develop a theory of how individuals who participate in CrossFit use nutrition packaging claims. Participants were recruited using convenience, snowball, and theoretical sampling. Semi-structured interviews were conducted via video recording until data saturation was reached. Data was analyzed using transcriptions, memos, and open, axial, and theoretical integration. An integrative diagram provided a visual representation of the data analysis and theory development. Results: Twenty-two participants were interviewed, from which three primary themes and several supporting codes emerged. The primary themes were development of beliefs, claims interpretation, and application and consequences. Conclusion: Through a systematic analysis of participant experiences, a core theory of nutrition claims skepticism and performance-based validation emerged. Ultimately, the physical “feeling” of the workout and the body’s perceived somatic feedback served as the final evaluation of nutrition truth.

Title:

LINC to Resilience: Student-Friendly Hub for When Disasters Strike 

Abstract: 

Background: Student support systems in higher education often lack cohesion during federally declared natural disasters. Historically, postsecondary institutions (PSIs) have prioritized operational continuity over student-centered access to academic, financial, and mental health resources, resulting in fragmented communication that can delay critical interventions and increase student vulnerability. Evidence suggests that effective communication and centralized resources improve student outcomes by enhancing engagement, retention, and support during crises. Purpose: This study examined the impact of a centralized digital resource platform (LINC) on student usability perceptions and task performance during simulated disaster scenarios. Method: A quantitative within-subjects design was used to compare decentralized and centralized resource systems. Eighty-five postsecondary students interacted with both formats during a simulated natural disaster. Usability and perceived accessibility were measured using the User Experience Lite (UX-Lite), and perceived task difficulty was measured using the Single Ease Question (SEQ). Results: Statistically significant differences were observed between conditions. UX-Lite scores indicated higher perceived usability of the centralized intervention than of the control condition (p = .015), reflecting greater perceived ease of use and usefulness. SEQ scores showed a significant improvement in perceived task ease for the intervention (p < .001), indicating a reduction in perceived task difficulty with the centralized resource hub. Conclusion: The centralized resource hub improved PSI students’ perceptions of usability and task ease in a simulated crisis context, suggesting centralized communication structures can enhance the student experience by improving access to critical resources during high-stress situations. The study showed a high level of reliability for UX-Lite (α = .89) and confirmed moderate reliability for the SEQ, with correlation coefficients ranging from .40 to .60.

Title:

Virtual Preparation to Reduce Anxiety in High-Fidelity Simulation for Practical Nursing Students 

Abstract: 

Background: High-fidelity simulation (HFS) has become an essential component of nursing education, fostering competence, critical thinking, and self-confidence. However, students frequently experience significant anxiety when participating in HFS, which can impair learning and performance. Sources of anxiety include lack of preparation, fear of the unknown, fear of mistakes, and evaluation pressure. Purpose: This study evaluated whether including virtual simulation (VS) in preparation for HFS decreases anxiety among practical nursing students in a community college program. Secondary outcomes included self-confidence and knowledge. Method: A quasi-experimental single-group pretest–posttest design was used. Participants completed the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory short form, the Self-Confidence in Learning Scale (SCLS), and a 10-question knowledge test before and after HFS. Each student participated in two HFS experiences: one following traditional preparation and another following preparation supplemented with VS. Results: Anxiety decreased significantly in the no-VS group but remained stable in the VS group, with between-group comparisons showing a greater reduction in anxiety for students without VS. Self-confidence scores did not differ significantly between groups. However, overall scores indicated that students perceived themselves as self-confident following HFS. Self-confidence outcomes may have been influenced by prior experiences and self-assessment biases. Knowledge scores improved significantly within the VS group but not in the no-VS group, although between-group differences were not statistically significant. Conclusion: Findings suggest that VS preparation for HFS may improve knowledge, but does not necessarily reduce anxiety. Future research should explore simulation-specific anxiety measures, larger samples, and strategies to balance preparatory demands with cognitive load.

Title:

Is Standing Balance Correlated with Self-Efficacy in Community-Dwelling Persons with Multiple Sclerosis?

Abstract: 

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable, progressive, chronic, inflammatory, and demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. Impairments associated with MS can challenge an individual's confidence in their stability during standing and performance of functional activities, which may lead to decreased self-efficacy and mobility. Methods: A quantitative, non-experimental study using a cross-sectional design was conducted to determine if a relationship existed between standing balance as measured by the Mini-Balance Evaluation System test (MiniBEST) and self-efficacy as measured with the Abilities Specific Balance Confidence Scale (ABC), Multiple Sclerosis Self-Efficacy Scale (MSSE), and Multiple Sclerosis Fatigue Self-Efficacy Scale (MS-FSE). Community-dwelling individuals with MS (N = 53, median age: 52.54±12.29) completed all outcome instruments.  Results: A significant inverse correlation was found between the Mini-BEST and age, years since MS diagnosis, number of symptoms, use of an assistive device, concern for falls, number of falls, and employment. A positive correlation was found between MiniBEST and the ABC. The regression model was statistically significant [F(10, 42) = 15.21, p < .001] and explained 83% of the variance. The model identified four significant predictors of balance: use of an assistive device (p = .003), moderate-to-severe concern for falls (p < .001), ABC (p < .001), and MS-FSE (p < .001). Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of clinicians using self-efficacy principles and measures, along with balance and fatigue measures, to assess motivation and to plan and implement treatment interventions for people with MS to enhance activity and participation. 

Title:

Perceptions of Health and Successful Aging in Community-Dwelling Adults Living with Diabetes Mellitus Type II 

Abstract: 

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) significantly affects older adults, influencing not only physical health but also emotional, psychological, social, and financial well-being. Although T2DM is highly prevalent in later life, limited research explores how older adults perceive successful aging while managing this chronic condition. The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological study was to examine the lived experiences of older adults with T2DM, focusing on their beliefs, attitudes, and perceptions of health management and successful aging. Specifically, this study explored participants’ initial responses to diagnosis, their decision-making processes regarding disease management, and how these experiences shaped their views of successful aging. A phenomenological research design guided the study. Participants completed in-depth, semi-structured interviews that described their personal experiences with T2DM. Data was analyzed using Colaizzi’s seven-step method, which included extracting significant statements, formulating meaning units, and developing thematic clusters to capture the essence of participants’ lived experiences. Seven themes emerged: (1) diabetes education, (2) medication management, (3) lifestyle changes, (4) emotional changes associated with T2DM, (5) adaptability, (6) physical changes with T2DM, and (7) perceptions of successful aging. Participants consistently described adaptability characterized by continuous learning, flexible self-management, and emotional resilience as fundamental to managing diabetes and maintaining a positive outlook on aging. Individualized education, supportive healthcare providers, and strong family networks further enhanced participants’ self-efficacy and quality of life. Findings suggest that integrating emotional, educational, and social elements into diabetes care can strengthen self-management, improve glycemic outcomes, and promote resilience in older adults. Healthcare providers are encouraged to adopt holistic, patient-centered approaches that cultivate adaptability and support successful aging among older adults living with T2DM.

Skip the page menu
Back to top ↑