https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/135758 2026-05-02T06:42:28Z 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 https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/146009 Title: An in-depth study exploring local psychologists’ perspectives on couples' infidelity and pornography Abstract: This Dissertation explores how licensed psychologists in Malta perceive and address the intersection between infidelity and pornography within romantic relationships. In light of shifting cultural norms and the growing influence of digital media, the study investigates how professionals interpret and navigate evolving concepts of betrayal and trust in contemporary couple dynamics. A qualitative, phenomenological approach was adopted. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with four licensed mental health professionals experienced in couple therapy. Barun and Clarke’s (2021) reflexive thematic analysis method was used to analyse the data. Six key themes emerged: subjective definitions of infidelity, causes and triggers, emotional and psychological impacts, the influence of pornography on relationship boundaries, cultural and generational influences, and therapeutic interventions. Infidelity was described more in terms of secrecy and unmet emotional needs than specific behaviours. Pornography was not viewed as inherently harmful but was seen as context dependent. Perceived as either a threat or a resource depending on communication, intent, and transparency between partners. The findings underscore the need for culturally sensitive therapeutic practices that consider Malta’s conservative values alongside the realities of modern relational challenges. This study contributes to understanding of how psychologists support couples in redefining intimacy, boundaries, and trust in the digital age. Description: B.Psy.(Hons)(Melit.) 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z