https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/135758 2026-06-12T00:52:10Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/147099 Title: Exploring the impact of activism on the psychological wellbeing of LGBTIQ+ activists Abstract: This study explores how queer activists in Malta perceive the impact of their activism within LGBTIQ+ social movement organisations (SMOs) on their psychological wellbeing, and how these experiences influence their motivation to sustain engagement in activism. Employing a qualitative research design, seven semi-structured interviews were conducted with self-identifying queer activists involved in Maltese LGBTIQ+ SMOs. Reflexive thematic analysis (RTA) revealed complex psychosocial dynamics encompassing both positive and negative effects of queer activism. Activists in this study described cyclical processes through which they developed activist identities alongside queer and other identities, as well as becoming wounded healers. Other key themes included learning as an ongoing process, and confronting stigma, systemic oppression, and burnout. The findings underscore the dual nature of activism, in that it promotes psychological wellbeing through various dimensions, while causing psychological strain. Thus, this research highlights the importance of resilience, social support, and self-care practices in sustaining activists’ wellbeing and motivation within a context of hyper-personalised politics and strong communal ties. By addressing gaps in the literature, this dissertation advances understanding of the interplay between activism, psychological wellbeing, and motivation in queer communities, offering valuable insights for supporting activist health in small, interconnected social settings. Description: H.Dip.(Melit.) 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/146013 Title: Evaluating the effects of physical activity on the health and well-being of adults Abstract: This dissertation investigates how physical activity affects adults’ health and well-being. The study aims to assess the correlation between physical activity levels and several health-related factors, such as mental health, overall quality of life, and health perception. A cross-sectional, quantitative design was used on a random sample of participants aged 18 to 60. These latter participants complete an online questionnaire, which evaluates health views, well-being, goal setting, motivational factors, obstacles to physical activity, social support, and physical activity habits. The researcher analysed responses from 40 to 50 participants using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Science) software and applied descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, such as t-test and Pearson correlation. Description: B.Psy.(Hons)(Melit.) 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/146012 Title: The influence of social media on young adults’ perceptions of body image Abstract: This dissertation focuses on the effects of social media on young adults’ body image. This study underscores how most young adults are affected by comparing and internalising content seen on social media. Furthermore, it highlights how social media literacy and healthy coping mechanisms can be used as a tool to mitigate body image issues in young adults. A qualitative approach was employed to conduct this study. A total of six in-person interviews were carried out in December 2024, with participants aged 18-25. Furthermore, Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was used to interpret the participants’ verbal accounts and to gain a deeper understanding of their lived experiences. The findings of this study highlight that while all participants are aware of the unrealistic standards present on social media, several nonetheless report being negatively affected by them. Furthermore, this study also highlights how most participants dealt with greater body image issues when they were going through puberty, due to the drastic changes they experienced at the time. Description: B.Psy.(Hons)(Melit.) 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/146011 Title: Equine : assisted therapy for children and adolescents with mental health issues Abstract: This study examines the perceived efficacy of equine-assisted therapy (EAT) as an intervention for children and adolescents experiencing mental health challenges. Using qualitative semi-structured interviews, insights were gathered from qualified psychologists and equine specialists with at least one year of experience providing EAT. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, allowing participants to share in-depth insights into the therapeutic impact of EAT. A purposive and snowball sampling approach was used to recruit professionals from equine-assisted therapy centers and professional networks. The interviews, lasting between 45 minutes to one hour, were conducted in person or via video conferencing and transcribed verbatim for thematic analysis. The findings reveal that professionals perceive EAT as a useful therapeutic tool that fosters emotional growth, social skill development, anxiety reduction, and trauma healing. Participants emphasized that the non-verbal feedback from horses enhances emotional regulation and self-awareness, while the structured, experiential nature of EAT fosters resilience, confidence, and improved communication skills. The study highlights EAT’s role in reducing anxiety and promoting emotional stability through its calming, sensory-rich interactions, including grooming, riding, and leading horses. Additionally, the strong bond between the child and horse serves as a unique attachment experience, reinforcing feelings of safety and trust. Professionals noted that EAT is particularly beneficial for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and behavioral challenges, as it promotes structured engagement, enhances impulse control, and facilitates positive social interactions. Beyond individual benefits, EAT also supports social and psychological development, encouraging teamwork, empathy, and non-verbal communication skills. Despite these benefits, the study acknowledges safety risks, accessibility concerns, and the need for standardized protocols to ensure consistency in EAT practices. These findings support to the growing body of evidence supporting animal-assisted interventions and reinforce EAT as a valuable complementary approach within comprehensive mental health intervention plans for young people. Description: B.Psy.(Hons)(Melit.) 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z