Ariane Marchand B.U. 25’ Psychology Honours: “The relationship between mind-wandering, parenting style, and academic burnout”

Ariane Marchand chose to study at Bishop’s University due to her strong interest in Psychology, and the positive reviews she had received about the university and program. Bishop’s smaller university setting was particularly appealing, with B.U. offering stronger connections with professors, and more opportunities to gain research experience. This research project is being conducted for her psychology honours, under the supervision of Dr. Jonathan Carriere from the Department of Psychology at Bishop’s University and Emilie Caron from the Department of Psychology at the University of Waterloo. The research topic titled “The relationship between mind-wandering, parenting style, and academic burnout” was selected because it aligned with the shared interests of both herself and her supervisors. This topic is particularly focusing on inattention in academic settings, especially in young adults, which has been less explored compared to children.

While many studies have focused on ADHD and its impacts on children, fewer have examined how inattention affects young adults in higher education. Inattention tends to increase during adolescence and may become less apparent, leading to it being underreported or misidentified. This research aims to shed light on how mind-wandering and inattention, in both individuals with and without ADHD, can detrimentally affect academic performance and well-being. The project also aims to offer a more nuanced understanding of how parenting styles influence academic burnout in Canadian undergraduate students. If a connection between authoritarian parenting, inattention, and academic burnout is found, it could help reduce the risk of burnout by addressing inattention and encouraging parents to recognize the effects of their parenting styles. The most rewarding aspect of the studies has been the opportunity to explore a variety of topics of personal interest.

A major challenge faced during the research was narrowing the focus of the project. With a broad range of interests, she found it difficult to commit to a single topic without feeling the urge to explore others. Nonetheless, she is excited about the opportunity to continue researching and exploring a variety of topics in the future. At Bishop’s University, she has developed key skills, including conducting research, developing proposals, and writing a final thesis. Under the guidance of her professors, she has learned to apply academic knowledge in a practical context, which will be invaluable for her future academic pursuits. Completing an honours thesis allowed for the application of knowledge and skills, which will be beneficial for future academic pursuits.

Balancing academics, research, and personal life has been challenging. Alongside work and volunteering, managing her personal time has proven difficult. However, she has made efforts to exercise three to four times a week and meet with friends once a week. Despite the busy school year, summer offers a chance for a break, travel, and more time spent with loved ones.

Her honours project has reinforced her desire to pursue research in the future. She plans to continue her studies with either a D.Psy at UdeS or a Master of Research at Bishop’s University, focusing on topics such as mindfulness, eating disorders, body image, and learning disorders in children.

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Joannie St-Germain M.Sc. (she/her/elle)
RESEARCH OFFICER
OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND GRADUATE STUDIES
819-822-9600 x 2242