Current Search: UWF Dissertations (x) » Pilcher, Janet K. (x)
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- Title
- MARIETTA JOHNSON AND THE ORGANIC SCHOOL EXPERIMENT.
- Author
- Crawford, Jonathan Cliff, Pilcher, Janet K., Nichols, Joyce C., White, Jill T., University of West Florida
- Abstract/Description
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In this historical research study, I examine Marietta Johnson and her organic teaching philosophy. I identify the role Marietta Johnson played in the Progressive Era educational reform movement. I identify organic education as a child-centered theory which addresses each student's mind, body, and spirit. I examine the ideological foundations that shaped Johnson's world view as well as the intellectual roots of organic educational theory. I outline the major pedagogical principles of organic...
Show moreIn this historical research study, I examine Marietta Johnson and her organic teaching philosophy. I identify the role Marietta Johnson played in the Progressive Era educational reform movement. I identify organic education as a child-centered theory which addresses each student's mind, body, and spirit. I examine the ideological foundations that shaped Johnson's world view as well as the intellectual roots of organic educational theory. I outline the major pedagogical principles of organic theory and describe its precise instructional practices. I also analyze the paradoxical role of gender and race in Johnson's life and at the organic school.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- WFE0000272, uwf:60905
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- MORAL DEVELOPMENT IN GAY MEN DURING THE COMING-OUT PROCESS.
- Author
- Jasek, Michael Dan, Pilcher, Janet K., Philen, Robert C., Walch, Susan E., University of West Florida
- Abstract/Description
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We live in a society where people are taught that homosexuality is immoral. For many men, an internal conflict develops as they begin the coming-out process. In order to proceed through this identity formation, they must resolve this internal conflict. This qualitative study explored the ways gay men resolve this issue so that they may adopt a positive gay identity for themselves. This study looked at moral development in gay men as they resolved the conflict between their moral beliefs and...
Show moreWe live in a society where people are taught that homosexuality is immoral. For many men, an internal conflict develops as they begin the coming-out process. In order to proceed through this identity formation, they must resolve this internal conflict. This qualitative study explored the ways gay men resolve this issue so that they may adopt a positive gay identity for themselves. This study looked at moral development in gay men as they resolved the conflict between their moral beliefs and their emerging gay identity, how this process related to Cass's gay identity model, and the external factors which played a role in the process. Triangulation of fictional novels with gay characters, books telling men's coming-out stories, and data collected from the interviews of three men who spoke about their experience with realizing their true sexual orientation was used to generate results. Some men were told at an early age that homosexuality is immoral and is not a life a "proper" man lives. Several institutions were discovered to construct and maintain this belief in these men. Some of these included family, peer, community, legal, education, and religion institutions. It was this repeating message that homosexuality is immoral which allowed the men to internalize this belief. Only later in their lives did this belief come into conflict. The introduction of new and often contradictory information to the "truth" the men had held throughout their lives until the point of conflict was key to resolution of conflict.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2009
- Identifier
- WFE0000187, uwf:60862
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- OUTCOME ENGINEERING: STATUS AND EFFECTIVENESS ACROSS PARISH NURSING ORGANIZATIONS.
- Author
- Gotshall, Lindsay Stead, Keeton, Kato B., Pearson, L. Carolyn, Pilcher, Janet K., Tankersley, William B., University of West Florida
- Abstract/Description
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Parish nursing organizations joined with Barry Kibel to acquire Outcome Engineering (OE) training. The OE accountability system uses 5 tools to facilitate organizational improvement. Within Kirkpatrick’s (1998a) 4-level framework, survey research methods provided data on the status and effectiveness of the application across 13 organizations. Findings were that, after training, application focused on establishing outcome challenges (tool 3) and mapping clients’ journeys online (tool 4)....
Show moreParish nursing organizations joined with Barry Kibel to acquire Outcome Engineering (OE) training. The OE accountability system uses 5 tools to facilitate organizational improvement. Within Kirkpatrick’s (1998a) 4-level framework, survey research methods provided data on the status and effectiveness of the application across 13 organizations. Findings were that, after training, application focused on establishing outcome challenges (tool 3) and mapping clients’ journeys online (tool 4). Administrators from 9 of the 13 organizations described plans to continue their application of OE training. Continuing organizations provided evidence that OE produced positive reactions, enhanced learning, and promoted desired behavioral changes in individuals. However, organization-wide results had barely begun in only 2 organizations. Recommendations for future application centered on enhancing individual and organizational preparation.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2005
- Identifier
- WFE0000054, uwf:60697
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- PREVALENCE OF OBESITY AMONG PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS IN ESCAMBIA COUNTY, FLORIDA, FOR THE PERIOD 2006-2011.
- Author
- Alvarez, Carlos Augusto, Pilcher, Janet K., Ryan, Stuart W., Sisskin, Enid E., University of West Florida
- Abstract/Description
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The prevalence of obesity in Escambia County students was studied using data provided by the Escambia County School District and the Escambia County Health Department for the period covering 2006 to 2011. Every year, the Escambia County Health Department collects Body Mass Index (BMI) information from students entering first, third, sixth, and ninth grade. The average percentage of students with above-normal weight (BMI . 85th percentile) for the period studied was 28% for first grade, 35%...
Show moreThe prevalence of obesity in Escambia County students was studied using data provided by the Escambia County School District and the Escambia County Health Department for the period covering 2006 to 2011. Every year, the Escambia County Health Department collects Body Mass Index (BMI) information from students entering first, third, sixth, and ninth grade. The average percentage of students with above-normal weight (BMI . 85th percentile) for the period studied was 28% for first grade, 35% for third grade, 43% for sixth grade, and 38% for ninth grade. Comparing these percentages with national statistics indicates that the prevalence of obesity in Escambia County is equal to or higher than national averages. In particular, the prevalence of obesity among local female students has exceeded national averages for the last 3 years. The data indicate a clear trend of rapidly increasing obesity in elementary school children. On the other hand, obesity decreased from sixth to ninth grade. Correlations between data for the first and third grades suggest that a major contributor to obesity comes from the community or school zone served by each school. Schools with low-obesity levels and schools with high-obesity levels both show about the same rate of increase in obesity from first to third grade. The levels of obesity in elementary schools appear to be related to the degree of obesity already present in students entering first grade. Finally, no relationship was found between obesity and ethnicity and only a weak relationship was found between obesity and socioeconomic status for all grades except first grade.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- WFE0000380, uwf:61027
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- REFLECTIVE PRACTICES AND RESULTS OF LEADER ROUNDING.
- Author
- Lipnick, Regina Ann, Pilcher, Janet K., Largue, Robin M., Owen, Karen S., Nichols, Joyce C., University of West Florida
- Abstract/Description
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The purpose of this study was to explore the outcomes of implementing the practice of leader rounding at Ferry Pass Middle School. Specifically, this study focused on how certain leader actions influenced staff's satisfaction with their work environment and parents' satisfaction with their child's education. The teachers' perceptions of principals applying leader rounding were also determined. In this study, the leader rounding process was implemented in the spring semester of 2010. Survey...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to explore the outcomes of implementing the practice of leader rounding at Ferry Pass Middle School. Specifically, this study focused on how certain leader actions influenced staff's satisfaction with their work environment and parents' satisfaction with their child's education. The teachers' perceptions of principals applying leader rounding were also determined. In this study, the leader rounding process was implemented in the spring semester of 2010. Survey instruments were administered to 887 families and 85 staff members at Ferry Pass Middle School to determine staff and parent satisfaction. In addition, two focus group sessions were conducted to gain teachers' perceptions about the leader rounding process. The findings indicate that the actions included in the leader rounding process positively influenced staff's perceptions about their work environment. Data from focus groups indicate that leader rounding made a positive impact on morale and opened up lines of communication. Ferry Pass Middle School is a better place to work for employees. Staff members see the benefits of leader rounding and would like the process to continue.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- WFE0000247, uwf:60927
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- ROSENWALD JUNIOR COLLEGE: PLACE MATTERS IN A SCHOOL COMMUNITY.
- Author
- Riggle, Allison Marie, Pilcher, Janet K., Harrell, Susan W., Largue, Robin M., Nichols, Joyce C., University of West Florida
- Abstract/Description
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In this dual case study, I build a place matters framework in order to understand the experiences of students and staff at Rosenwald Junior College. Rosenwald Junior College was one of Florida.s 12 Black community colleges in the mid-20th century. The dual case study has as its specific purpose to recognize, identify, and describe the interconnectedness of agency and social structure within a complex social phenomenon. My two cases include the staff and students of Rosenwald Junior College...
Show moreIn this dual case study, I build a place matters framework in order to understand the experiences of students and staff at Rosenwald Junior College. Rosenwald Junior College was one of Florida.s 12 Black community colleges in the mid-20th century. The dual case study has as its specific purpose to recognize, identify, and describe the interconnectedness of agency and social structure within a complex social phenomenon. My two cases include the staff and students of Rosenwald Junior College and the president of the college. I propose that the two cases are complementary and collaborative and can potentially illuminate the complex sociopolitical and historical connections between biography and social structure. My dual case study design is integral to my place matters framework. I define place by two perspectives "insider to outsider" and "insider to insider." The "insider to outsider" perspective relies on the concept of image and the "insider to insider" perspective on caring. In particular, I create a theoretical framework of place that interconnects image and caring. I use the participants. stories to determine how the major thematic identifiers, image and caring, develop a framework centered on the construct place. This study is phenomenological and influenced by Goffman's dramaturgy and a Black feminist ethic of care.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2009
- Identifier
- WFE0000191, uwf:60865
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- SIDELINE VOICES: EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCES OF LOW-INCOME BLACK MALE STUDENTS.
- Author
- Dallas, Joyce Ann, Pilcher, Janet K., Nichols, Joyce C., Wentz, Patricia J., University of West Florida
- Abstract/Description
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This study employed qualitative research methods to explore the educational experiences of low-income Black male students. All students were current or former participants in a precollege program located on a community college campus. Participants in the study were encouraged to share their experiences in the classroom. Educational equity components (access, instruction, materials, attitudes, interactions, language, and assessment) were used to extract students' perspectives about equity in...
Show moreThis study employed qualitative research methods to explore the educational experiences of low-income Black male students. All students were current or former participants in a precollege program located on a community college campus. Participants in the study were encouraged to share their experiences in the classroom. Educational equity components (access, instruction, materials, attitudes, interactions, language, and assessment) were used to extract students' perspectives about equity in the classroom. Students' responses were communicated through classroom observation surveys, semistructured individual interviews, and reflective journaling to capture the students' perspectives about equity as related to their educational opportunities. All educational experiences were associated with each of the equity components, placed in a quadrant chart, and further classified as inequitable or equitable with noted recommendations, thoughts, and observations. The findings indicated that students' educational experiences in the classroom may be categorized as equitable for positive experiences or inequitable for negative experiences.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2012
- Identifier
- WFE0000346, uwf:61067
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- SILENT VOICES: STUDENTS' PERCEPTIONS OF EFFECTIVE READING TEACHERS.
- Author
- Thomas, Kimberly Nicole, Pilcher, Janet K., Boling, Charlotte J., Heubach, Kathleen M., University of West Florida
- Abstract/Description
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Reading is one of the most important skills to master. Yet many students in American schools are failing to learn to read. This problem is creating discussions across the country; however, there is one voice that is often missing from the discussions: the students. The researcher sought to examine students' perceptions of effective teachers and the reading instruction they receive in 1 elementary school in Pensacola, Florida. To gain students' viewpoints, 3 research questions were explored:...
Show moreReading is one of the most important skills to master. Yet many students in American schools are failing to learn to read. This problem is creating discussions across the country; however, there is one voice that is often missing from the discussions: the students. The researcher sought to examine students' perceptions of effective teachers and the reading instruction they receive in 1 elementary school in Pensacola, Florida. To gain students' viewpoints, 3 research questions were explored: What are students' perceptions of an effective teacher? Are there differences in student perceptions of reading teachers and their instruction at various achievement levels? Are there differences in student perceptions of reading teachers and their instruction at various grade levels? A case study research approach employing semi structured interviews focused on 36 students from grade levels third, fourth, and fifth. Data gathered from interviews and drawings show that students are individuals with distinct and unique opinions and ideas. Their opinions and ideas play a significant role in the successes or failures they experience in the classroom. Thus, their perceptions must be considered in educational discussions and practices.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- WFE0000278, uwf:60879
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- SPIRITUAL HUNGER AND RECIPES FOR SPIRITUAL SATIETY (A SPIRITUAL NEEDS/MOTIVATION/VOLITION FRAMEWORK FOR EDUCATORS).
- Author
- Yocum, Russell Glen, Pilcher, Janet K., Arnold, Barry R., White, Jill T., University of West Florida
- Abstract/Description
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Because of the spiritual aspect of our nature, we all possess a spiritual hunger. This hunger does much to determine the questions we ask ourselves throughout life as well as the paths we take. It becomes part of our spiritual identity. Satiating this spiritual hunger becomes a driving force in our lives. With this research, I seek to explore the phenomenology of spirituality and focus on how students. spiritual expressiveness in the classroom increases their spiritual nourishment. The...
Show moreBecause of the spiritual aspect of our nature, we all possess a spiritual hunger. This hunger does much to determine the questions we ask ourselves throughout life as well as the paths we take. It becomes part of our spiritual identity. Satiating this spiritual hunger becomes a driving force in our lives. With this research, I seek to explore the phenomenology of spirituality and focus on how students. spiritual expressiveness in the classroom increases their spiritual nourishment. The research reveals the positive impact on academic success while presenting a Spiritual Needs/Motivation/Volition Framework to inform instructional strategies. Data gathered from a survey of 139 undergraduate students at the University of West Florida is presented to quantify the relationship that exists between students. spiritual motivation, volition (such as with acts of artistic expression, Figure 1) and spiritual self-actualization. Additional data about students. attitudes regarding spirituality, their own spiritual motivators and personal spiritual volition as well as their perception of their own spiritual self-actualization and success is garnered from one-on-one and focus group interviews.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2010
- Identifier
- WFE0000240, uwf:60926
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- SPIRITUAL LEADERS AS SERVANT-LEADERS: RESTORING THE HUMAN-EARTH RELATIONSHIP.
- Author
- Kalinoski, Sarah Jeanne Schindele, Pilcher, Janet K., Harrell, Susan W., Tankersley, William B., University of West Florida
- Abstract/Description
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Our human relationship with the Earth is seriously troubled. My research suggests that our primary problem is of a spiritual nature. As such, spiritual leaders can play a pivotal role in restoring the human-Earth relationship. Servant-leaders, as described by Greenleaf (1977), emerge consistently throughout the course of the human story to offer the wisdom required in each moment. In this qualitative study, I used the servant leadership construct as a framework for data collection and...
Show moreOur human relationship with the Earth is seriously troubled. My research suggests that our primary problem is of a spiritual nature. As such, spiritual leaders can play a pivotal role in restoring the human-Earth relationship. Servant-leaders, as described by Greenleaf (1977), emerge consistently throughout the course of the human story to offer the wisdom required in each moment. In this qualitative study, I used the servant leadership construct as a framework for data collection and analysis. I interviewed a cross-section of influential spiritual leaders in northwest Florida to discover whether they are acting as servant-leaders by responding to the call of their congregations, their own leaders, and/or their higher power regarding the human- Earth relationship. Interview data was then subject to a series of content analyses, with an emphasis on similarities among leaders and their traditions. The first analysis was inductive; I used a coding process (Schwandt, 2007) to reveal themes. Thematic analysis provided insight into the participants' understanding of the human-Earth relationship and helped to organize and appreciate likeness and difference among leaders. The second analysis was deductive; I applied the work of Sendjaya, Sarros, & Santora (2008) and Barbuto & Wheeler (2006) to examine the characteristics of servant leadership among study participants.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- WFE0000405, uwf:61148
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- TALKBACK: COLLEGIATE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS AT OKALOOSA-WALTON COLLEGE SHARE THEIR LIVED EXPERIENCES.
- Author
- Stein, Melinda Ann, Pilcher, Janet K., Largue, Robin M., White, Jill T., University of West Florida
- Abstract/Description
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This is a comparative case study of the lived experiences of students at the Collegiate High School located on the main campus of Okaloosa-Walton College in Niceville, Florida. This qualitative research study focused on the thoughts, feelings, and lived experiences of selected Collegiate High School students. The study also addressed the participants' relationships with the faculty, staff, and other students and their opinions about the Collegiate High School's environment and culture. The...
Show moreThis is a comparative case study of the lived experiences of students at the Collegiate High School located on the main campus of Okaloosa-Walton College in Niceville, Florida. This qualitative research study focused on the thoughts, feelings, and lived experiences of selected Collegiate High School students. The study also addressed the participants' relationships with the faculty, staff, and other students and their opinions about the Collegiate High School's environment and culture. The theoretical perspectives of dramaturgy and care theory framed the analysis of the study. Generated data indicated 3 themes that emerged. First, the students at the Collegiate High School feel cared for by the teachers and staff. Second, the students at the Collegiate High School enjoy the small number of students enrolled in the school and feel a sense of community because of the small size of the school. And third, the students at the Collegiate High School feel they have an identity at the school. In addition to that identity, the students feel they have freedom, independence, and choice.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2010
- Identifier
- WFE0000216, uwf:60918
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- THE COLLABORATION OF NURSE PRACTITIONERS AND PHYSICIANS IN LONG-TERM CARE USING A CASE-MANAGEMENT MODEL IN A MANAGED-CARE ENVIRONMENT.
- Author
- Kelly-Shelby, Angela Mastracchio, Evans, Ronald V., Irvin, Elvin C., Pilcher, Janet K., Wu, P. C., University of West Florida
- Abstract/Description
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The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of the collaboration of nurse practitioners and physicians in long-term care using a case-management model in a managed-care environment. The survey instrument was distributed to 500 long-termcare stakeholders with 364 participants completing the researcher-designed questionnaire for a return rate of 73%. From this general population of patients, family members, health care providers, nurse practitioners, physicians, and long-term...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of the collaboration of nurse practitioners and physicians in long-term care using a case-management model in a managed-care environment. The survey instrument was distributed to 500 long-termcare stakeholders with 364 participants completing the researcher-designed questionnaire for a return rate of 73%. From this general population of patients, family members, health care providers, nurse practitioners, physicians, and long-term-care administrators, quantitative and qualitative assessments of results demonstrated that nurse practitioners do make a positive difference in the elder clinical care outcomes, thereby rejecting the null hypothesis (i.e., There will be neither significant positive response, nor significant differences of respondents between, within, and among the populations responding to this study’s questionnaire). Application of this collaborative model in community-based settings is the next logical step in improving elder care.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2005
- Identifier
- WFE0000038, uwf:60761
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- THE WAL-MART CONSEQUENCE: THE ANTI-WAL-MART MOVEMENT.
- Author
- Miller, Sarah Nattier, Pilcher, Janet K., Prewitt, Terry J., Rasmussen, Karen L., University of West Florida
- Abstract/Description
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This qualitative study focuses on the anti-Wal-Mart social movement. This study examines this movement on both the national and local levels. Data obtained from document analysis and 844 Internet surveys served as the platform for this study. The first component involves the nationwide social movement through the examination of available electronic and print media. The second component focuses on community awareness of the local anti-Wal-Mart movement in Baldwin County, Alabama. An Internet...
Show moreThis qualitative study focuses on the anti-Wal-Mart social movement. This study examines this movement on both the national and local levels. Data obtained from document analysis and 844 Internet surveys served as the platform for this study. The first component involves the nationwide social movement through the examination of available electronic and print media. The second component focuses on community awareness of the local anti-Wal-Mart movement in Baldwin County, Alabama. An Internet survey gauged the thoughts and perceptions of local community members to determine their awareness of the anti-Wal-Mart movement. While roughly 10% of respondents agreed with the anti-Wal-Mart sentiments and ideals, they continue to shop at Wal-Mart for financial reasons. Therefore, I wanted to investigate Wal-Marts prices compared to other shopping choices. I chose as a comparison Winn Dixie and Dollar General due to their availability to all of Baldwin County. The total at Wal-Mart was $99.79. Winn Dixies grand total equaled $116.68. Surprisingly, Dollar General came in with the lowest bid of $81.00.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2009
- Identifier
- WFE0000168, uwf:60789
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- UNDERSTANDING THE COGNITIVE STYLE PREFERENCES OF SPECIAL OPERATORS BOTH PAST AND PRESENT.
- Author
- Poole, Kenneth Harvey, Pilcher, Janet K., Harris, Stephen, Tankersley, William B., University of West Florida
- Abstract/Description
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This project was a case study design with a thematic analysis that is meant to investigate the cognitive style preferences or problem-solving preferences of special operators both past and present. A historical lens looked at key leaders on Operation Thursday, Burma (1943); Son Tay Raid, Vietnam (1970); and Desert Storm, Iraq (1990). An examination of the problem-solving styles from participants in Operation Eagle Claw, Iran (1980), including present members assigned to the USSOCOM, was...
Show moreThis project was a case study design with a thematic analysis that is meant to investigate the cognitive style preferences or problem-solving preferences of special operators both past and present. A historical lens looked at key leaders on Operation Thursday, Burma (1943); Son Tay Raid, Vietnam (1970); and Desert Storm, Iraq (1990). An examination of the problem-solving styles from participants in Operation Eagle Claw, Iran (1980), including present members assigned to the USSOCOM, was conducted. The Kirton Adaption-Innovation Inventory (KAI) was used to determine individual problemsolving preferences on a continuum, reflecting adaption or innovation. The goal of this study was to add to the extant knowledge of the characteristics that make special operators special, and how special operators solve problems.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- WFE0000243, uwf:60925
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- VOICES OF ANOREXIA.
- Author
- Boles, Sheryl Whitman, Rogers, Mary F., Pilcher, Janet K., Nichols, Joyce C., University of West Florida
- Abstract/Description
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This qualitative research study explored the lived experiences of women struggling with anorexia nervosa. Three women diagnosed with anorexia (DSM-IVTR criteria) participated in three in-depth interviews, and five women participated in two focus groups to discuss the movie The Devil Wears Prada. One group included women who have eating disorders while the other included only women who do not. I also surveyed some of the broad trends in popular culture with reference to body sizes, shapes, and...
Show moreThis qualitative research study explored the lived experiences of women struggling with anorexia nervosa. Three women diagnosed with anorexia (DSM-IVTR criteria) participated in three in-depth interviews, and five women participated in two focus groups to discuss the movie The Devil Wears Prada. One group included women who have eating disorders while the other included only women who do not. I also surveyed some of the broad trends in popular culture with reference to body sizes, shapes, and appearance in general. The data generated during this study suggest that women of all ages are vulnerable to the development of eating disorders. This vulnerability may be tied to a woman?s lack of voice or her childhood experiences and perceptions, as well as to the push for perfection dramatized through various media and centered on one standard of beauty: thinness.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2008
- Identifier
- WFE0000133, uwf:60796
- Format
- Document (PDF)