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Undergraduate Studies ePortfolio

Kyle McNamaraBachelor of Arts in Psychology,

2001

Personal Statement

As I near the end of my undergraduate journey I have found myself reflecting on what I have accomplished in the past 3 years and where I see myself going. When I began college initially I entered into a business program at the University of Maine Orono with dreams of making big money. After two short years I realized I was miserable and couldn’t see myself doing something like that for the rest of my life. It was at this point I decided to take a break and reevaluate where I saw myself going and what would truly make me happy. I had taken a couple of psychology courses in my time there and found the field fascinating. My curiosity was piqued so much so that while out of school I began acquiring books on the subject and reading them for personal satisfaction. After a little over a year out of school I decided that it was time to go back and there was little question what it would be for. I didn’t know where I wanted my education to ultimately take me; I just knew that I wanted to study psychology.

Now as I stand on the precipice of graduating I’m still not positive I know where I want my studies to lead me, but I’m beginning to have a better idea. I know one thing for certain and that is I will continue my education by entering into graduate school. Ultimately I feel as though the most fulfilling line of work for me would be a career as a clinical social worker. The reason I feel this was is that I would be able to be in direct contact with people whose lives I was changing for the better. I can truthfully say that in my time as an undergraduate student the amount of knowledge I have gained has bettered my own life exponentially. My perspective on life and self-awareness has changed drastically, growing leaps and bounds in just a few short years. Aiding people in their own path of self-enhancement could prove to be a deeply rewarding experience. The idea of taking what I have learned and using it in a practical setting to diagnose and treat those with psychological problems is intriguing. While I personally enjoy research, working with others and making use of my critical thinking skills is the path I will likely follow.

Continued

As a result, upon graduation I will pursue entrance into a graduate program in clinical social work with the goal of gaining a master’s degree and obtaining a license. The ability to use my education to work in a hospital, school or community mental health center is an appealing prospect and one I believe I would excel in. I am skilled in interpersonal communication and possess strong critical thinking skills that I feel are necessary to treat people on a personal level. Being able to communicate and understand while extending unconditional positive regard are skills crucial to helping those suffering from mental illness and are areas I believe to be my strong point. After reflecting on the last few years of my life and what I have achieved, I can begin to see more clearly where my road will lead. While there is certainly a lot of time and progress left to be made before my career can begin, I am comfortable in the direction it is taking me.

Resume

47 Tamarack Dr., South Berwick, ME [email protected]

Kyle McNamara

Objective

To use my education in psychology to become a social worker.

Experience

June 2008-Present South Berwick, ME

Private Investor Self-employed I’ve spent the last 3 years traveling the United States, parts of Europe and Central America in order to experience different cultures and broaden my horizons. During this time I have lived off private investments I have made in a number of ventures on the internet. I feel I have gained valuable experiences and perspectives immersing myself into cultures that I was not familiar with. These experiences would prove to be very advantageous when working with patients of multicultural backgrounds.

2002-2005 Clay Hill Farm Restaurant York, ME

Waiter Waiting tables at fine dining restaurant Initially started as a bus boy when I was 16 years old in order to work a second job and save for college. Moved my way up to be one of the two highest earning waiters within 2 years of starting. I eventually stopped working here when I moved away for college but have gone back to fill in when on vacations as they have needed help. Retain a great relationship with the managers and owner.

2000-2004 Bob’s Clam Hut Kittery, ME

Food Server Food service Dining room organizer My first real job was working at a Ben and Jerry’s ice cream shop inside of a restaurant. Worked throughout high school while also working a second job at Clay Hill Farm. Eventually was earning too much at Clay Hill Farm to continue working here but left on great terms and had a wonderful experience for my first job.

Education

1/7/2007-10/26/2011

Argosy University Online South Berwick, ME

B.A. in Psychology 3.25 GPA References

Rachel Davenport – 207-361-1771

Jen Lewis – 207-361-2272

Theresa McDonnell – 603-312-0993

Reflection

During my time at Argosy I became proficient at numerous areas and theoretical foundations of psychology. I would say that my largest area of growth was critical thinking and understanding with regards to how research studies are performed and the statistical tools used to measure the results. Additionally I became proficient in using peer-reviewed journals and sources in order to increase the validity of my research papers. From the time I started to the time I finished learning APA style and correctly writing papers in this format was a critical skill I learned to master. I was always a natural public speaker and skilled in interpersonal communication but learned how to be more of an active listener and to pay more attention to nonverbal communication skills to increase my ability in communication.

I believe another of my largest areas of growth came from ethics and issues of diversity I studied in a number of courses here. One of my courses was the psychology of women and I was the only male in the class. Having to interact in that environment gave me a lot of perspective and a whole new understanding of the differences between the genders not only biologically, but psychologically. I also learned a lot about how that majority of psychological theories and foundations are strongly routed in western values and ideals. This makes understanding different cultural values and beliefs critical for anyone who wants to work in this field.

Table of Contents

Cognitive Abilities: Critical Thinking and Information Literacy

Research SkillsCommunication Skills: Oral and WrittenEthics and Diversity AwarenessFoundations of PsychologyApplied PsychologyInterpersonal Effectiveness

Professional Work Samples

Kyle McNamara

Argosy University

Argosy University


Cognitive Abilities

Kyle McNamara

Argosy University


Abstract

Whether undiagnosed ADHD poses developmental problems in childhood and adolescence. Young adults with ADHD

(N=400) were asked to consent to the release of academic, criminal, medical and school behavioral records. Those who had

not been diagnosed till post high school graduation (176) were the independent variable and compared to those subjects

diagnosed at early age and treated from an early age (224). . The subjects were each rated on a scale of points, starting at

zero, participants earned a point for every instance of poor academic achievement (failing a class), behavioral issues

(suspensions, expulsions, documented reprimands, criminal history or substance abuse history). Significant correlation was

found between undiagnosed subjects and developmental difficulties.


Undiagnosed ADHD and its Effects on Development

The purpose of this study is to research the ways in which ADHD, and particularly those with undiagnosed

ADHD affected normal healthy development throughout childhood and adolescence. In doing this I felt there were a number

of developmental areas that would be important to include in my research, as the type of ADHD (hyperactive, inattentive or

combined) could lead to a number of developmental issues in differing aspects of the subjects life. Research has been done

on the subject in the past, the results of which have historically shown a strong correlation between undiagnosed ADHD and

later comorbid disorders such as depression and substance abuse. One such study was done by Biederman, Mick and

Spencer (2007), “The ADHD adults had lower socioeconomic status, more work difficulties, and more frequent job

changes” (Biederman, Mick, Spencer, 2007). They also found, “The ADHD adults had fewer years of education and lower

rates of professional employment. Similarly, others have shown that among patients with substance use disorders, ADHD

predicts social maladjustment, immaturity, fewer social assets, lower occupational achievement, and high rates of separation

and divorce” (Biederman, Mick, Spencer, 2007).


These findings help to show that there is a significant connection between comorbid disorders and

individuals suffering from ADHD. I wanted to research further though into just how significant this difference was between

those suffering from diagnosed and treated ADHD, to those undiagnosed until reaching adulthood and just how substantially

this effected their development. Cumyn, French, Hechtman, (2009), found that Adults with ADHD were found to have both

more current and present Axis 1 and 2 disorders (Cumyn, French, Hechtman, 2009). The research found that Axis I

disorders such as specific and social phobias, panic disorder, depression and nicotine addiction were present for ADHD

adults at a rate of 49% as opposed to 33.6% for those without ADHD (Cumyn, French, Hechtman, 2009). Axis II disorders

were found at an even higher rate in those adults diagnosed with ADHD (27.585%) as to those without (8.04%). (Cumyn,

French, Hechtman, 2009). Again though this research was based on comparing those with ADHD to those without, as

opposed to those with ADHD that was diagnosed and treated with ADHD that was undiagnosed into adulthood. This would

lead to my research study design that used those with diagnosed and treated ADHD as the control group, which is different

from much of the current research literature on the subject.

When taking into consideration the substantial data supporting a correlation between developmental

problems such as low achievement and high rates of substance abuse problems, it becomes apparent that catching the

disorder at an early age is crucial towards developing normal and healthy functioning. Yet, according to Sternstein (2003),


“The people who make a career of treating this problem will tell you that only 20%of adults with ADHD know they have

it. (The disorder used to go by the shorthand ADD, but ADHD is now its official name.)” (Sternstein, 2003). Even more

troubling is her assertion that, “Misdiagnosis is common, as psychiatrists sometimes mistake ADHD's symptoms for

depression or anxiety. And ADHD adults, notoriously bad self-reporters, often don't see their shortfalls” (Sternstein, 2003).

When you consider the potential for the existence of comorbid disorders, identifying and accurately diagnosing these

individuals is critical in order to help in normal development, or to treat problems that have already arisen as a result of not

being diagnosed early on.

Method

Participants

400 subjects that were 19+ in years of age were drawn from a regional online survey asking for participants

with ADHD that were diagnosed at an early age or in adulthood. Of the responders, 176 were individuals who had been

diagnosed with ADHD in young adulthood and 224 were individuals diagnosed at an early age and treated though out

childhood and adolescence.


Materials

I employed a T-test for independent samples in order to establish whether or not the means of my two groups

were statistically different from each other. It was chosen because this form of test is one of the most simple and accurate

tests to perform in inferential statistics specifically when testing for a significance between two means. I will know if the

results are significant depending on whether or not my t-value, coupled with the degrees of freedom I will reach a

significance level to compare with a preset alpha level, necessary confidence level needed to conclude the difference

between means is statistically significant (Argosy, 2010).

Procedure

For this research study, the alpha level will be set at .05. After obtaining my sample of 176 young adults who

were diagnosed with ADHD after high school, and 224 young adults diagnosed and treated from an early age, I would begin

determining the mean or average number of participants in each group who showed significant academic, social and

emotional development problems. The figures used to determine this came from compiling data through educational

records, criminal history, behavioral incidents in school and substance abuse history.


The subjects were each rated on a scale of points, starting at zero, participants earned a point for every instance of poor

academic achievement (failing a class), behavioral issues (suspensions, expulsions, documented reprimands, criminal

history or substance abuse history such as drug arrests or drug treatment program participation. So as to not double up on

criminal history and drug offences, subjects received only one mark for such results instead of 2.

Results

The mean point total for participants who were undiagnosed throughout childhood and adolescent development was

18 with a standard deviation of 3, while the diagnosed and treated subjects had a mean score of 8 with a standard deviation

of 2. The resulting data after performing a t-test showed significant differences, t(398)= 39.88, p < .05. This resulted in an

actual confidence level of 100% meaning there was a significant difference between the two means at the selected

confidence level. This means that there is indeed a significant difference in healthy development for those who were

diagnosed and treated as opposed to those who were not.


Discussion

In terms of implications on the field I think given the extent to which there was a correlation that it would be

important to study and develop better ways in which to identify and treat ADHD from an early age. Much like with many

other learning disabilities, the manifestation of symptoms is generally ignored or attributed to other problems before finally

being discovered for what they truly are. With a disorder such as ADHD where the individuals afflicted with it can still be

relatively high functioning and not quite as obvious to the layman, more widespread and effective diagnostic criteria and

testing could prove beneficial. The amount of problems associated with ADHD and development lend itself to a more

intense look at how to deal with the issue, and potentially develop standardized tests to help identify potential signs of

learning disorders such as ADHD. It could be beneficial to mandate testing for elementary students that could help teachers

and parents notice the warning signs before it compounds on itself and becomes something far worse.


References

Argosy University, (2010). PSY302: online lecture. Retrieved on December 18, 2010 from

http://myeclassonline.com/re/DotNextLaunch.asp?

courseid=4592623&userid=4404775&sessionid=afda059086&tabid=BJpcw5JpjElmG0IrFXra6eFol7PYjLF5NIV7

WXr5nCgHB5HgKf53iBrFeTCuRNp1&macid=ZNPlvKlHHjEi3BaNX5FOZG5WublvMHlVfns6AyESNpeWXi3U

XyA5ph1LvDeN/

+ezehFOtPkJxOK2BYFNSpw4aTcBVWYf7tvVN3drUbJvLH26KfH83MooCQhUJJDauc9yvtTmwiFzlzZ6cvJFCF

PZGP/g9U1opvXiJr2nrUdjsdG8e6rNqcfXOZn9LdFZ6Jnk

Thomas J Spencer, Joseph Biederman, & Eric Mick. (2007). Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Diagnosis, Lifespan,

Comorbidities, and Neurobiology. Ambulatory Pediatrics: Measuring Outcomes in Attention Deficit

Hyperactivity..., 7(1), 73-81. Retrieved November 24, 2010, from Career and Technical Education. (Document

ID: 1224442731).


Cumyn, L., French, L., & Hechtman, L. (2009). Comorbidity in Adults With Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity

Disorder. Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, 54(10), 673-683. Retrieved from EBSCOhost.

Sternstein, A. (2003). Unquiet Minds. Forbes, 172(10), 106-108. Retrieved from EBSCOhost.


Research Skills

Kyle McNamara

Argosy University


Instrumentation:

In order to answer my research question of whether or not undiagnosed ADHD is detrimental to social, emotional and

intellectual development I will be employing a T-test for independent samples in order to establish whether or not the means

of my two groups are statistically different from each other. It was chosen because this form of test is one of the most simple

and accurate tests to perform in inferential statistics specifically when testing for a significance between two means. I will

know if the results are significant depending on whether or not my t-value, coupled with the degrees of freedom I will reach

a significance level to compare with a preset alpha level, necessary confidence level needed to conclude the difference

between means is statistically significant (Argosy, 2010). For this research study, the alpha level will be set at .05.

Results:

After obtaining my sample of 300 young adults who were diagnosed with ADHD after high school, and 300 young adults

diagnosed and treated from an early age, I would begin determining the mean or average number of participants in each

group who showed significant academic, social and emotional development problems. The figures used to determine this

came from compiling data through educational records, criminal history, behavioral incidents in school and substance abuse

history.


The subjects were each rated on a scale of points, starting at zero, participants earned a point for every instance of poor

academic achievement (failing a class), behavioral issues (suspensions, expulsions, documented reprimands, criminal

history or substance abuse history such as drug arrests or drug treatment program participation. So as to not double up on

criminal history and drug offences, subjects received only one mark for such results instead of 2. The mean point total for

participants who were undiagnosed throughout childhood and adolescent development was 18 with a standard deviation of

3, while the diagnosed and treated subjects had a mean score of 8 with a standard deviation of 2. After performing the

formula for t-score the resulting value was 48.0384, with 598 being the degrees of freedom. This resulted in an actual

confidence level of 100% meaning there was a significant difference between the two means at the selected confidence

level. This means that there is indeed a significant difference in healthy development for those who were diagnosed and

treated as opposed to those who were not.

Threats to Validity:

One of the biggest external threats to validity is the issue of selection bias, or issues in obtaining an accurate sample

(Argosy, 2010). Since there is a certain level of obtrusion needed to obtain the necessary information, the informed consent

process could end up turning away a substantial portion of respondents that could all share common characteristics. In terms

of internal threats to validity, subject selection effects may prove the most detrimental to the study.


This is the phenomenon of not randomly assigning subjects to groups. Given the fact that the subjects were placed into their

group according to their history, it’s possible the sample could be skewed in a way unaccounted for. Maybe there are an

inordinate number of subjects in the undiagnosed group who were raised in an environment where health care and

supervision were out of the question. It is possible that the sample would be heavily weighted towards the negative end

where subjects were coming from broken homes with little support systems in place, setting them back regardless of

whether or not they had ADHD. It is also possible that individuals of various cultures may respond differently to ADHD and

how to cope or treat it. Without being careful to include a proportionate level of ethnic diversity the data could potentially

have validity issues.

Implications:

In terms of implications on the field I think given the extent to which there was a correlation that it would be important to

study and develop better ways in which to identify and treat ADHD from an early age. Much like with many other learning

disabilities, the manifestation of symptoms is generally ignored or attributed to other problems before finally being

discovered for what they truly are. With a disorder such as ADHD where the individuals afflicted with it can still be

relatively high functioning and not quite as obvious to the layman, more widespread and effective diagnostic criteria and

testing could prove beneficial.


The amount of problems associated with ADHD and development lend itself to a more intense look at how to deal with the

issue, and potentially develop standardized tests to help identify potential signs of learning disorders such as ADHD. It

could be beneficial to mandate testing for elementary students that could help teachers and parents notice the warning signs

before it compounds on itself and becomes something far worse.


Argosy, (2010). PSY302: module 7: online lecture. Retrieved on December 15, 2010 from

http://myeclassonline.com/re/DotNextLaunch.asp?

courseid=4592623&userid=4404775&sessionid=9e7428ac19&tabid=ApleVBmuayvQ4fM3oY4xttni5Nd6m8mfBU

UE4cC2eSGobRYOrxeyHvuZjhomFr3Q&macid=KWayXTjLOzQfr60sdxIf/

xrgFekP31CJk0CDOJ1ry9LXNmJJFm+szDlUcJTzOqsU1q8ehyGffkev8DIYMxYMQ+yLdoHXt/EvB0e2s1Nk/

xI1ZdBxdbV39izHrgF95cSm/

8R7Mh1FH2SkApJzgUrmD9FcTTJReahHTQRODB85dwykQerC5tSKkHQOUxtNtJin


Communication Skills

Kyle McNamara

Argosy University


HYPOTHESIS: The lack of uniform and comprehensive drug testing in professional boxing poses troubling questions

which could potentially reveal the darkest and most tragic consequences of steroid use, unless legislative action forces

change.

EXPLANATION: Over the last decade no story has dominated the sporting media more than the seeming saturation of

professional sports with performance enhancing drugs, with congress even pressuring some of the biggest leagues in our

country. For one reason or another though, the issue has gone relatively unaddressed in professional boxing until very

recently as a result of contentious negotiations between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao. Although there are a

variety of reasons why boxing has been relatively impervious to the cloud cast by performance enhancing drugs, I think it

actually poses the most troubling and potential for tragedy of all sports. Due to the brutal nature of boxing, the actions of

cheaters aren’t merely an assault on the record books, they are an assault on another person’s life. With the precedent set by

congress to intercede with the other major sports that resisted change, I believe they are not only within their right to

address the issue in professional boxing, but should feel compelled. Unfortunately due to the lack of popularity boxing

currently has, it may take a tragedy before this happens.


SUBPOINTS:

1) The issue of steroids and performance enhancing drugs have dominated professional sports coverage for over a decade

now.

2) The unfair advantage gained through the use of performance enhancing drugs by means of increased speed, strength,

reflexes and stamina poses the potential for serious injury or even fatality in a sport where two individuals square off in

close combat with little protective gear.

3) With all of the evidence of boxers suffering from dementia or other mental illness, the use of performance enhancing

drugs in boxing could increase the rates of such illness amongst boxers.

4) Although the number of boxers linked to performance enhancing drugs is relatively low compared to other major sports,

this is more likely representative of the extremely outdated drug testing currently used.

5) There have been professional boxers linked to performance enhancing drugs, most notably the future hall of famer Shane

Mosley who was linked to the notorious PED lab BALCO.

6) Organic change is unlikely due to the lack of a dominant and recognized organization such as there is in other sports like

baseball with the MLB. There are so many competing organizations that it would be extremely unlikely for any

collaboration to occur.


7) The lack of broad jurisdictional power for state athletic commissions who license and regulate fights from state to state,

make it so that broad sweeping change would be extremely difficult.

8) Congress has already set a precedent for intervention in the other professional sports, so doing so when considering the

risks associated should seem warranted.

OBJECTIONS:

1) Congress should spending time and tax dollars on more pressing and universal issues such as health care.

2) Testing for Performance enhancing drugs is an almost futile enterprise because the users will always find a way around

the tests.

3) There is only so much change the government could hope to make since boxers and promoters may simply decide to

move their fights overseas.

RESPONSE TO OBJECTIONS:

1) This is an objection that was raised in response to congresses actions towards the MLB, and to a lesser extent the NFL.


Now this may be a valid issue to raise in response to a sport like baseball where there is minimal contact, but given the

brutal nature and inherent risks associated in boxing, the consequences of such illicit drug use could prove fatal for an

innocent person who entered the ring at a severe disadvantage. In addition, since congress has already set precedent for such

action, not doing so when the stakes are so much higher would be baffling to say the least.

2) While it is true that the drug manufacturers and users will always be finding new ways around testing and the creation of

new undetectable drugs, this amounts to little more than a straw man argument and would be analogous to not protecting

our borders because smugglers will always find new ways to bring things in. Just because you can’t totally eradicate a

problem doesn’t mean you should allow the criminals free reign to cheat without any fear of repercussion. If history is any

judge, even the cheaters who were ahead of the curve at the time have been exposed as time went on. The professional boxer

Shane Mosley is a perfect example of this, as he was exposed for using PED’s in a bout against Oscar De La Hoya three

years after the fact even though he had passed his drug tests at the time.


3) Although there has been precedent for promoters taking fights overseas for jurisdictional or political reasons, they are

generally for reasons the general boxing public could agree with. If a promoter began taking his fighters overseas in order to

circumvent comprehensive drug testing, those fighters would met with suspicion by a good number of people, and in the

end the fighters and promoters would feel it where it hurts most to them, their wallet.


Ethics and Diversity Awareness

Kyle McNamara

Argosy University


Identify the ethical code number and definition.

The ACA’s ethical code that has been violated with regards to multicultural counseling and respecting diversity is C.5.

Nondiscrimination (ACA, 2005). This code states, “Counselors do not condone or engage in discrimination based on age,

culture, disability, ethnicity, race, religion/spirituality, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status/partnership,

language preference, socioeconomic status, or any basis proscribed by law. Counselors do not discriminate against clients,

students, employees, supervisees, or research participants in a manner that has a negative impact on these persons.” (ACA,

2005).

Analyze how the counselor in the case study violated the specific code.

Joe violated this code in multiple ways throughout his treatment of Jill. The first breach came when Jill revealed her

sexual orientation to Joe and he in turn responded with shock and condemnation. By telling Jill her feelings were “immoral

and wrong” he was discriminating against her sexual orientation. This ethical breach is escalated further when he refuses to

discuss it anymore in their therapy. This behavior by Joe is unethical and likely very damaging to Jill, it is the therapist’s

duty to respect individual diversity but he is castigating hers.


Joe then goes on to breach ethical code C.5. again when Jill discloses her upbringing in a traditional Asian-American

home. She explains that she is having difficulty reconciling her individual wants with the cultural norms she wishes to

respect and uphold. Joe however acts unethically by expressing his inability to relate to her cultural values and furthermore

that he wasn’t required to research them because of his location. This is a clear violation of the ethical code as counselors

are expected to respect multicultural differences and adapt their therapeutic behavior to be in accordance with the client’s

value system. By refusing to put forth an effort in doing so and subsequently not trying to refer her to someone who could

help her Joe is acting even more unethically.

Examine the influence of your own personal values as it relates to the issue presented in the case.

When examining the case and the issues presented in it I don’t believe my own personal values would have any impact on

my ability to treat Jill effectively. Although I myself am a white heterosexual male who grew up in a more western values

household, I don’t hold any prejudices towards Jill’s upbringing or sexual orientation. So I don’t think my own personal

values would influence me to act in anyway unethical directly or intentionally, it would be important for me to study and

educate myself on the values held by not only Jill, but the values held in a macro sense by the culture or groups she

identifies with.


The reason this would be important is because without being able to understand and empathize to her world view, I may do

things unintentionally that could be misconstrued by Jill and deemed offensive or at least make her uncomfortable. An

example of this could be something as simple as revealing the soles of my shoes to a Muslim, which could be taken as a

sign of disrespect even though I may not even realize I was doing it. This is why it is important for counselors to be

educated thoroughly on matters of multiculturalism and diversity; even a good intentioned therapist could end up behaving

in a way detrimental to the patient.


American Counseling Association (2005). ACA Code of Ethics. Alexandria, VA: Author.


Knowledge of Foundations of the Field

Kyle McNamara

Argosy University


Ted likes to study different personality theories. He believes that his favorite theory best describes the way

human nature operates and the concept of behavioral change. In fact, most people are like Ted when they

study theories of personality. They find that one theory stands out as their favorite.

In this final exercise, analyze aspects of your self-assessment from the preceding Final Project assignments,

and apply them to the theory of your choice.

Working from the vantage point of that personality theory, address the following points:

Theory Chosen

I chose to analyze my personality from the vantage point of the humanistic perspective. The reason I chose this

theory of personality is because fundamentally humanist theory believes that people are good by nature, and

destructive thoughts or behaviors are simply a manifestation of false perceptions and individual holds (Argosy,

2009). Humanist theory is largely based around the idea that all humans possess some sort of inherent worth, and

that the fundamental goal in life is to maximize this personal worth and potential through growth and understanding

(Argosy, 2009). I chose this theory because I think a major detriment to my life and personality is a tendency to view

myself and my actions negatively and to not strive for my potential.


How will you describe your personality? What characteristics or traits best describe what you know yourself

to be?

I think that when describing my personality two of the most important traits which have a major effect on who I

know myself to be as a person are intense impulsivity and a lack of self-control coupled with negative self-worth. I

am an extremely impulsive person and it has a very destructive force in my life. I constantly engage in behaviors to

which I know I shouldn’t or regret later but give little to the consequences of which beforehand. Whether this

manifests itself socially and I do act in ways harmful to myself or others or personally where I neglect or avoid

responsibilities, my lack of self-control has disastrous consequences on my life. Humanist theory would likely see

this as being a trait caused by poor habits or anxieties to which I have become stuck and that are not congruent with

the person I am capable of becoming. Humanists believe that the present is the most important time because it is

where changes towards self-improvement are possible and that dwelling on the past will negatively impact a

person’s self-worth (Argosy, 2009). A good amount of the time I find myself in a state of self-loathing over prior

actions and behaviors and tend to succumb to my impulses as a way of comforting my anxieties. Humanist theory

would view this tendency to act impulsively as a means of defense to which I try and alleviate anxiety caused by

prior consequences of destructive behavior (Argosy, 2009).


The feelings of self-worth I have are a manifestation of my impulsive nature and lack of control over those impulses.

Although I generally feel as though I possess a good deal of potential, I am constantly focused on my faults and past

behaviors which affects my personality in very negative ways and makes me a somewhat miserable person to

interact with. Rogers would describe my personality as being incongruent with my potential for self-actualization

because I desire to strive towards reaching my potential, but allow my perceptions and past experiences to dictate

my behaviors and actions (Herganhahn, Olson, 2007).

What is the major force responsible for the origin and development of your personality, including the

biological, temperamental, environmental, and other aspects?

I believe according to the humanist theory the major force responsible for the development of my personality would

be the product of temperamental forces. Humanists viewed all humans as innately good, and tend to have a drive

towards fulfillment of potential (Argosy, 2009). Since temperament is a person’s genetic predisposition towards

certain mental and behavioral traits I think the development of my personality according to humanists would be

largely influenced by temperament (Dictionary, 2009). Since humanists viewed all humans as being innately good

and possessing a motivation towards self-fulfillment, the negative aspects of my personality could be described as a

form of defense against the anxiety caused by lack of fulfillment (Argosy, 2009).


Rogers would view my personality traits as being maladaptive and incongruent with my organismic valuing process

because I know they are incompatible with self-actualization but possess them regardless (Herganhahn, Olson,

2009). My tendency towards negative self-loathing would be attributable to my failure to perform to my full

potential which goes against my innate desire to do so. It is likely that by acting impulsively is a result of subceiving

an experience as not being compatible with my view of self-worth and therefore acting impulsively is a form of

defense to avoid anxiety (Herganhahn, Olson, 2007). This is likely because while growing up I was abused by my

father and always treated poorly and inhuman. Through the years I was never complimented for anything and

constantly made to feel as though I was a failure. Rogers would say that my impulsivity and low self-worth are a

manifestation of interjected conditions of worth derived from my father (Herganhahn, Olson, 2008). Since I view

myself as people of low self-worth which is not congruent with reality, I submit to my impulsive behavior as a form

of denial as to my true self and reality (Herganhahn, Olson, 2008).

Identify one behavior that you want to change in your life.

One behavior in my life that I want to change would be my tendency to neglect or avoid personal responsibilities

such as schoolwork or paying bills. I constantly have a hard time getting myself to sit down and focus on things to

which I know I need to get down and instead let my impulses take over and distract me until it is too late.


What does your chosen theory have to say about the types of behavior that you want to change?

Humanistic theory would say that this behavior would likely be caused by maladjustment between my innate desire

towards self-actualization and perceptions of self-worth inflicted by introjection of another’s values (Herganhahn,

Olson, 2008). This tendency towards this behavior would be considered a defense mechanism by which I avoided

reaching my full potential because of the anxiety that would cause my low feelings of self-worth (Herganhahn,

Olson, 2008).

Is it possible to change behavior? If so, how might this be accomplished?

According to humanistic theory it is possible to change behavior, and in doing so the individual must focus on the

present as this is where they are able to implement change (Argosy, 2009). In order to accomplish changing this

behavior it would be important for me to take full responsibility for myself, and in doing so rework my perceptions

of personal self-worth (Argosy, 2009). By taking responsibility for my own actions and realizing that I am capable of

achieving my goals, I would be able to pursue personal growth and a realistic understanding of my self-worth and

potential (Argosy, 2009). Realigning my subjective experiences closer to reality as opposed to those interjected by

my upbringing would be influential and changing my behavior (Argosy, 2009).


What have you learned about your personality due to this course?

I have learned a lot about my personality due to this course and especially humanistic theory. I have come to

understand that a lot of my behaviors were manifestations of interjected value of myself and potential as a result of

an abusive upbringing (Herganhahn, Olson, 2009). Through repeated abuse and constant criticism I came to view

myself as an individual who would likely amount to nothing. This caused great anxiety in my life and is truly an

obstacle for me to overcome if I would like to become a congruent person. I know I possess great potential and the

tools in which to be successful and happy but through the indoctrination of viewing myself as being worthless I have

developed a lot of maladaptive behaviors and negative personality traits. This has caused me to have little self-worth

and constantly be miserable and anxious about the future, I also constantly neglect things to which I truly desire

because I have this false belief that I am incapable of amounting to anything. Although this has caused great despair

in my life I think that at least going forward if I stay focused on the present and realizing my goal that I can work

towards self-actualization and eventually become a much more congruent and healthily developed person.


Argosy University, (2009). PSY 361: Module 7: Online Lecture. Retrieved on October 28, 2009 from

http://myeclassonline.com/ec/crs/default.learn?

CourseID=3638408&Survey=1&47=4404775&ClientNodeID=404511&coursenav=2&bhcp=1

Hergenhahn, B. R. & Olson, M. H. (2007). An Introduction to Theories of Personality. (7th Ed). Upper Saddler River, N.J.:

Pearson


Knowledge of Applied Psychology

Kyle McNamara

Argosy University


Although I temporarily no longer have access to the work I have done in the field of Applied Psychology, I believe the work

I did in completing the course at Argosy University, Industrial and Organizational Psychology gave me a solid foundation in

this field. One of the major things I took away from this course was the way in which psychological theories and research

studies could be applied to the workplace to encourage a more productive environment. Research done on how noise and

lighting can affect worker productivity would be very beneficial in running a business. Also communication and negotiation

strategies are beneficial for human resource officers in dealing with employee moral or conflict. Using psychological

theories or ideas is also something I regularly use in my own life to help better organize and navigate through conflicts in

my day to day life and interaction with other people. Using tools learned in interpersonal communication courses such as

active listening are also very important ways in which I have made use of applied psychology.


Interpersonal Effectiveness

Kyle McNamara

Argosy University


Comparing the Effectiveness of

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy to

Stimulant Medication for ADHD

What is ADHD?

• ADHD is a biological development disorder with three hallmark symptoms;

• Inattention

• Hyperactivity

• Impulsiveness (Lavoi, 2008).

Continued

• The DSM-IV classifies three separate subtypes in the diagnosis of ADHD;

• Predominately Inattentive• Predominately

Hyperactive• Combined

Inattentive/Hyperactive

Stimulant Medication

• One of the most common treatment options for ADHD is stimulant medication.

• The two main forms of medication used are Methylphenidate (MPH) and amphetamines (Findling, 2008).

Efficacy of Stimulant Medication

• Research studies have continually shown both immediate release and controlled release MPH to be effective and tolerable long-term.

• Studies have shown the use of stimulant medication to be extremely effective in combatting the symptoms of

ADHD.

Need for Individually Specific Dosage

• The type and intensity of ADHD and its symptoms varies greatly between individuals (Powell et al., 2011).

• Comorbid disorders may also develop such as depression, anxiety or substance abuse (Powell et al., 2011).

• These issues dictate a need to take each individual case separately in order to provide proper dosage and medication option (Powell, et al., 2011).

Need for Individually Specific Dosage

• The type and intensity of ADHD and its symptoms varies greatly between individuals (Powell et al., 2011).

• Comorbid disorders may also develop such as depression, anxiety or substance abuse (Powell et al., 2011).

• These issues dictate a need to take each individual case separately in order to provide proper dosage and medication option (Powell, et al., 2011).

Weaknesses of Stimulant Medication

• The major problem with stimulant medication is the potential for abuse or illegal distribution.

• There has long been a stigma associated with its use for children and questions

regarding its safety.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is another commonly used treatment

option for ADHD.• Advocates for CBT view ADHD

as a cognitive deficiency that

prevents a child from thinking

properly before acting on an

impulse (Miranda, Presentacion, 2000).

Continued

• CBT consists of teaching kids methods of self-control to alter behavior and cognitive functioning (Miranda, Presentacion, 2000).

• Modeling is a technique used to help teach children acceptable behavior (Miranda, Presentacion, 2000).

Efficacy of CBT for ADHD

• CBT was found to be effective in reducing aggression when paired with anger management (Miranda, Presentacion, 2000).

• Research on CBT for adolescents with ADHD showed significant reductions in problem areas specific to this age group (Sibley et al., 2010).

Combined medication and CBT

• Combining CBT with stimulant medication may be the most effective method of treatment

• Research on adults with ADHD showed tremendous improvement when combining CBT with stimulant medication (“Cognitive Behavioral,” 2010).

Conclusion

• Both stimulant medication and CBT are effective forms of treatment for ADHD.

• It is important for doctors or therapists to take into account all the extraneous variables and issues particular to each individual in determining effective treatment and dosage options.

• Further research needs to be conducted on the effectiveness of combined treatment especially with regards to children.

References

Chelonis, J. J., Johnson, T. A., Ferguson, S. A., Berry, K. J., Kubacak, B., Edwards, M. C., Paule, M. G., (2011).

Effect of methylphenidate on motivation in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

Experimental and clinical psychopharmacology, 19(2), 145-153. doi:10.1037/a0022794

Findling, R. L., (2008). Evolution of the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children: a

review. Clinical Therapeutics, 30(5), 942-957. doi:10.1016/j.clinthera.2008.05.006

Lavoie, T. (2008, Part 1: Introduction and overview to ADHD. The Exceptional Parent, 38(3), 74-74-75.

Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/223497621?accountid=34899

Continued

Miranda, A., & Presentacion, M. (2000). Efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy in the treatment of children

with adhd, with and without aggressiveness. Psychology in the Schools, 37(2), 169. Retrieved from EBSCOhost.

Powell, S. G., Thomsen, P. H., Frydenberg, M., & Rasmussen, H. (2011). Long-term treatment of ADHD with

stimulants: A large observational study of real-life patients. Journal of Attention Disorders, 15(6), 439-439-

451. doi:10.1177/1087054710368486

Sibley, M. H., Pelham, W. E., Evens, S. W., Gnagy, E. M., Ross, M. J., Greiner, R. A., (2010). An evaluation of

a summer treatment program for adolescents with adhd. Cognitive and Behavioral Practice, 18(4), 530-544.

doi:10.1016/j.cbpra.2010.09.002

My Future in Learning

In terms of lifelong learning, I see myself continuing on to graduate school in order to obtain a Masters degree. From there I foresee myself continuing onto higher education or at the very least continuing to take classes and courses to keep myself updated on the current trends in the field of psychology. Ever since I first became interested in psychology I have become obsessed with books on evolutionary psychology and anthropology, as well as cognition and theories of personality. Whenever I finish a book I inevitably go find another and haven’t spent much time reading anything but non-fiction psychology related books in the last 5 years. It is a topic and field I thoroughly enjoy and would spend time learning about it even if I didn’t plan to make a career out of it. I hope that choosing to make a career out of it actually boosts my thirst for knowledge in the field and I never cease to be fascinated by the subject.

Contact Me

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