LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
Personal Progress Status Check
Submitted to
In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the completion of
EDCO 725 D
By
Rhonda Lee Wright
October 27, 2025
This week's readings have given me a direction on how to approach the topic for my
dissertation. Due to the lack of resources available, such as having access to getting funding for
participants to have their brains scanned to compare and contrast brain activity for the research
required to accomplish my desired goal of learning about how neuroplasticity and prayer
restructure the human brain. In reading Dr. Williams' feedback, I have been made aware of
picking a specific focus, such as “trauma, depression, substance abuse, PTSD, or anxiety.” I am
choosing to focus on “trauma.” My goal is to understand how individuals who have had
traumatic experiences can learn how to gain wholeness through seeking and spending time
with the Lord Adonai. I originally thought using the 1 of N intervention would be appropriate for
this research study, and after listening to other PhD holders, I have concluded, as Dr. Williams
recommends, focusing on one intervention, such as the “qualitative study.” In this study, I will
be able to research and understand how trauma and other mood disorders affect individuals
and the effects on their daily lives. A qualitative study will allow me to understand and capture
the richness of the human experiences and perspectives. According to (Lim, 2025), “Qualitative
research does not derive from statistical validation but stems from its systematic methodology,
which includes the practice of reflexivity. Such as ongoing critical reflection by the researchers
on their own influence over the research process and outcomes” (p.201). Qualitative research
allows the researcher to use subjective data through observation and self-reported disclosure.
The reason for using qualitative research? “Qualitative research stands out for its unique ability
to capture the richness of social phenomena involving human experiences and perspectives” (p.
223).
According to (Carolina Campodonico, 2022), “Those who experience psychosis report high rates
of trauma and are often diagnosed with trauma-related conditions such as post-traumatic stress
disorder (PTSD). Repeated childhood trauma, which is particularly prevalent in people with
psychosis, has frequently been associated with the new diagnosis of complex PTSD” (p. 2).
Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is in its early stages. As part of my dissertation, I would
like to explore this further.
This week’s readings have provided valuable insight and direction for refining the focus of my
dissertation topic. Initially, my goal is to explore how neuroplasticity and prayer interact in
restructuring the human brain. However, I quickly recognized challenges associated with limited
resources, such as the lack of access to funding and neuroimaging technology necessary to
examine and compare brain activity. This realization, along with Dr. Williams’ thoughtful
feedback, encouraged me to narrow my focus and choose a specific area of study. Dr. Williams
suggested focusing on a particular population or concern, such as trauma, depression,
substance abuse, PTSD, or anxiety. After thoughtful consideration, I have decided to focus on
trauma. I intend to understand how individuals who have experienced trauma can find healing
and a sense of wholeness through seeking and spending time with the Lord Adonai. I
considered using the 1 of N intervention model for this research. However, after engaging with
other PhD scholars, doing additional research, and reflecting on Dr. Williams’
recommendations, I have concluded that a qualitative research design would be more suitable
for achieving my study’s goals. Qualitative research will allow me to capture the depth and
richness of human experiences and to understand how trauma and mood-related disorders
affect individuals’ daily lives and spiritual well-being.
According to Lim (2025), “Qualitative research does not derive from statistical validation but
stems from its systematic methodology, which includes the practice of reflexivity, such as
ongoing critical reflection by the researchers on their own influence over the research process
and outcomes” (p. 201). This aligns with my belief that understanding lived experiences
requires an approach that honors participants’ voices and perspectives. As Lim further notes,
“Qualitative research stands out for its unique ability to capture the richness of social
phenomena involving human experiences and perspectives” (p. 223). This perspective
resonates deeply with my purpose, as I seek to explore how spiritual engagement and faith
practices can foster restoration following trauma.
Furthermore, Campodonico (2022) emphasizes the connection between trauma and psychosis,
explaining that “those who experience psychosis report high rates of trauma and are often
diagnosed with trauma-related conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Repeated childhood trauma, which is particularly prevalent in people with psychosis, has
frequently been associated with the new diagnosis of complex PTSD” (p. 2). The evolving
understanding of Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) highlights the need for
further exploration, particularly from a holistic perspective that integrates faith and spirituality.
Overall, this week’s learning and feedback have helped me solidify the direction of my
dissertation. By adopting a qualitative approach focused on trauma and spiritual healing, I aim
to contribute meaningful insight into how faith-based practices—specifically prayer and time
spent with the Lord—can promote inner transformation, resilience, and restoration among
those affected by trauma.
References
Carolina Campodonico, F. V. (2022). Trauma and psychosis: a qualitative study exploring the
perspectives of people with psychosis on the influence of traumatic experiences on
psychotic symptoms and quality of life. Preston, Lancashire, UK: School of Psychology
and Computer Science, University of Central.
Lim, W. M. (2025). What Is Qualitative Research? An. Australasian Marketing Journal, 199229.
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